Tommy Tyson Mann

Tommy Tyson Mann, a devoted member of the Lake City, Arkansas community, passed away on August 10, 2023, at the age of 71. He spent the majority of his life in Lake City, after coming from Lafe, Arkansas.

Tommy's faith was central to his life. For 13 years, he served as a Deacon at the Refuge General Baptist Church, embodying the values of service, compassion, and devotion.

For 12 years, Tommy's warm smile and caring demeanor were a constant presence on the Riverside school district's school buses, ensuring the safety and well-being of the students he transported.

Tommy's commitment to his community extended into his professional life, with 23 years of service to the city of Lake City. His dedication to safety and service was further exemplified by his 20 years of selfless contributions to the Lake City Volunteer Fire Department.

An enthusiast of many interests, Tommy spent 14 years working at Qualls Farm, nurturing a deep connection to the land. His affinity for the outdoors translated into a love for gardening, dogs, and tractors. A collector of tools, he was always eager to explore and tinker with various projects.

Family was Tommy's heart, and he cherished moments spent with his wife of 48 and a half years, Patricia Mann. His love extended to his daughters, Wendy (Morgan) Walling of Lake City and Crystal (Shawn) Hearn of Blytheville. His grandchildren, Canon Walling, Shelby Walling, Pearson Hearn, Easton Hearn, and Devin Riley, brought him immense joy and pride.

Tommy's community involvement was a testament to his dedication. He derived happiness from coaching girls' softball, participating in the Lake City Backtrackers, and enjoying dancing. His passion for his red motorcycle and Fourth of July celebrations, especially shooting off fireworks, reflected his spirited nature.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Willa Christine Mann, his stepfather, Charles Henley, and his siblings Ann Adams, Barbara Timms, Dean Shaver, Elaine Mann, Lynard Mann, Dewayne Mann, Billy Mann, Adolph Mann, and Charles Mann.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Mann, his daughters, grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

A visitation to honor Tommy's life will be held from 1-2 pm on Sunday, August 13, 2023, at Emerson Funeral Home. The funeral service, officiated by Bro. Larry Ward, will follow at 2 pm at Emerson Funeral Home. Tommy will be laid to rest at Lake City Cemetery. The active pallbearers, including Cameron Tate, Jon Milligan, Mark Mann, Chip Mann, Chris Snyder, and Collin Eaton, will carry him on his final journey. Honorary pallbearers, such as Dick Despain, Danny Qualls, Rick Varner (Dough Belly), AC Daniel, Danny McFarland, Jake Gilley, Darrell Thompson, and Larry Richey, will pay tribute to his memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the NEA Humane Society, a cause that resonates with Tommy's love for animals and his compassionate spirit.