Thomas Eugene Heflin

With profound sadness, the Heflin family of Roanoke, AL, announces the passing from this life of their beloved son, brother, uncle, and faithful friend, Thomas Eugene Heflin, 69.

Mr. Thomas Eugene Heflin transitioned from this earthly life to his eternal home on December 16, 2022 at Grandview Medical Center in Birmingham, AL.

Thomas was born June 2, 1953 to the parentage of the late Reverend Robert L. Heflin, Sr., and Mrs. Tavie Lee (Clark) Heflin.  Thomas had two younger brothers precede him in death: Stony Heflin, and Walter Louis Heflin.  Talented, articulate, undeniably brilliant, and driven to achieve are four words that could sum up Thomas' vibrant spirit. As a youngster, he always had a strident gait, like he had somewhere important to go.

He attended grade school and high school at the historic Randolph County Training School (R.C.T.S.) ultimately graduating from Handley High School with the Class of 1971. Thomas was very gifted in music, which could be seen in his early interest in piano. In keeping with his love for music, he became a member of the Handley High School Marching Band. He received his BA Degree from Alabama State University in Montgomery, AL where he was a member of the widely acclaimed ASU Marching Hornets.

Thomas served our grateful nation in the United States Army Reserve from March 6, 1985 to March 17, 1988. While enlisted, he was trained in Tactical Transport Helicopter Repair and stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.  During his enlistment, Thomas was decorated with the Good Conduct Medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Sharp-shooter Badge (M16 Rifle), Expert Badge Hand Grenade, Army Lapel Button, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Driver Badge, and finally the Army Commendation Medal. Having achieved the rank of Sergeant (E-5), he was honorably discharged on March 17, 1988.

Throughout life, Thomas continued to cultivate his deep love for music. He played at several churches in the area.  He served as musician at Mount Carrie Baptist Church (Franklin), where Reverend Ronnie Jones is pastor.  Thomas also enjoyed writing (composing) and playing music on his beloved keyboard.  We will never forget immense joy that he derived from playing at ASU, along with other members of his group.  He along with the other musicians and singers in his group were busy making plans to produce their CD; but before that could happen, God interrupted the plan, and summoned him to play with the Angelic Choir.

Holding fast to 69 years of vibrant — loving memories: his mother, who was his "child" — for whom he did everything! He was her primary — loving care giver, Mrs. Tavie L. Heflin of Roanoke, Alabama; one sister, Annette Thornton (Dr. Alvin Thornton) of Upper Marlboro, MD; one brother, Reverend Robert "Bill" Heflin (Jackie) of Edgefield, SC; a niece who was raised as a sister, Octavia Heflin Smith (Bert) of Hopewell, VA; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; classmates — Thomas had so many devoted friends — too many to name; you know who you are.  The family thanks you for sharing your lives with him.

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