Thomas Jefferson Hardcastle's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Thomas Jefferson Hardcastle
Thomas Jefferson Hardcastle, born on September 13, 1928, in Jacksonville, Arkansas, to Lee and Elzie Beatrice Hardcastle, peacefully passed away on January 12, 2024, at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Thomas was the youngest of nine children, six girls and three boys. He spent his early years cultivating a strong work ethic on a cotton farm near Jacksonville. Graduating from Jacksonville High School, he exemplified discipline, boldness, and determination, achieving every milestone in his life through his own unwavering efforts.
After a chance encounter, Thomas met Lillie Mae Evans while she worked as a secretary for a gasoline company in Little Rock, Arkansas. The rest was history. Thomas and Lillie were married on July 2, 1949, and their union endured for an incredible 68 years until Lillie's passing in 2017.
Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July of 1946 and was discharged in July of 1948. He was called back in July of 1950 and proudly served his country during the Korean War before being honorably discharged in November of 1951. Following his naval service, he pursued higher education at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. In 1953, Thomas earned his B.S. in Engineering. His dedication and continuous work ethic led to a successful career as a Mechanical Engineer with General Electric Company, where he worked until his retirement in 1996.
Thomas's legacy continues through his three sons: Don Hardcastle (born July 13, 1952), Keith Hardcastle (born December 10, 1957), and Kevin Hardcastle (born January 26, 1960). Thomas cherished family moments, sharing his love for travel, particularly to Durango, Colorado. An avid golfer and boating enthusiast, he always seemed to find solace in nature. One of his favorite activities was water-skiing on the lake with his family. Thomas always supported his three sons—Don, Keith, and Kevin—in all their endeavors as they were growing up. Due to the nature of his work, Thomas traveled extensively and visited many different countries throughout his years. However, even when Thomas traveled for work, the boys always remember their dad providing support and being there anytime they needed him.
Thomas’ passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. May he rest in eternal peace, as he is now reunited with the love of his life, his wife, Lillie Mae.
Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Lillie, and his grandson Collin Chase. He is survived by his three sons: Don and wife Debbie, Keith and wife Kristal, and Kevin, along with grandchildren: Hannah, Tymber, Thomas, Jocee, Zeplin, Chad, Josh, Joshua, Dillon, and Karissa. Moreover, he is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Atticus, Jadie, Collin, Jordan, Fuilie, Lucchese, Kissimmee, Jameson, Bentley, Gannon, Tucker, and Baylon, as well as many other extended relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.
A public visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, at Floral Haven Funeral Home: 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by ordering through our website or by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any other florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 18, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Thomas's visitation.
A memorial service to honor the life of Thomas will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Asbury Church, located at 6767 S Mingo Rd, Tulsa, OK 74133. The U.S. Navy Honor Guard will be in attendance at Asbury Church to render Military Honors. A reception and time of gathering will be held after conclusion of the service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, also at Asbury Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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