Tommy Ray Hefner
Tommy Ray Hefner
Tommy Ray Hefner, 77, went home to be with the Lord on March 20, 2020 surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Taylorsville on August 30, 1942 to the late Earl Lee and Nelda Smith Hefner.
Tommy learned at an early age the value of discipline and hard work. From the tender age of five, he worked on his family’s farm tending livestock and working in the fields. He remained committed to his family and their goal of keeping the farm productive. These values followed him into adulthood. He was always eager to help and support others throughout his life.
He loved his church and served there in many capacities ranging from elder, usher, building and grounds, security, and worked alongside church members serving the Lord.
Tommy began working in the furniture production industry and served as a spring-up assembler and later as an upholsterer. Following his retirement, he began a lawn care service and enjoyed being outdoors, at times working alongside his son, Chad, and nephews, Jake Frye and Craig Ikerd. Tommy was a man who loved to laugh and share a good story, but he will be remembered most for his servant’s heart.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Rodney Marcus Hefner, and a brother, Wayne Ervin Hefner.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Deborah Smith Hefner; his children, Robin Coulbourn and husband Brian, and Chad Hefner and wife Kerri; his grandchildren, Melanie Shoemaker and husband Justin, and Rebekah Hefner; brothers, Clifford and wife Ruby, and Randall; and sisters, Collene LaFone, Nancy Campbell and husband Steven, Judy Norton and husband Tommy, Earlene Cheung and husband Patrick, and Jearldine Childers.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 13, at 11:00 a.m., at Christ Lutheran Church. Rev. Richard Schwandt will officiate. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 324 2nd Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28602.
Condolences may be sent to the Hefner Family at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net.
The Hefner Family is in the care of Jenkins Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Newton.
