Thomas Heyward Obituary
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Thomas Heyward, Sr.
November 25, 1946 – November 6, 2025
Arkadelphia: Thomas Heyward, Sr., a proud Vietnam Army Veteran and beloved patriarch, peacefully departed this life on November 6, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was 78 years old.
Born on November 25, 1946, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Thomas was the cherished son of the late Thomas Isaac Heyward and Rosie Suedonia Heyward. He was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to his family and country. His service in the United States Army during the Vietnam War was marked by courage and honor-values he carried throughout his life.
Thomas was united in holy matrimony to Joyce Allen, and together they were blessed with four children. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend whose legacy lives on through the lives he touched.
He will be forever cherished by his children: Thomas Heyward, Jr. of Arkadelphia, AR; Baron Heyward (Elaine) of Fordyce, AR; Tasha Heyward of Arkadelphia, AR; and stepson Leon Johnson of Arkadelphia, AR. His memory is also held dear by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Isaac and Rosie Suedonia Heyward; his sisters, Annie Sue Mitchell and Gloria Givens; his uncles Z.Q., Johnny, and Andrew Wingfield; and his aunt Dora Gray.
His life was a testament to resilience, love, and service. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind-a legacy of strength, humility, and enduring love.
Kinchen Funeral Home Inc, 1011 North Saint Antoine Street, Lafayette LA 70501 is in charge of arrangements. Additionally, condolences to the family can be expressed on our website at www.kinchenfuneralhome.com.
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