Thomas Leroy Fairchild, born on September 7, 1949, in Lafe, Arkansas, passed away on July 8, 2026, at the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro, Arkansas. His life was a testament to kindness, strength, and love, leaving a legacy cherished by many.

Tom, the beloved son of the late Thomas Leon and Lavada Jean (Fox) Fairchild, grew up with a deep sense of duty and work ethic. He served as a Jet-Engine Mechanic in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era, embodying dedication and integrity throughout his career. These values continued to shine during his time as a mechanic at Jonesboro Bowling Center and Hijinx. He loved to fish, in fact he believed the worst day fishing was better than the best day at work, he also loved to work on cars. He was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

He is survived by the love of his life, Deborah (Arnold) Fairchild, wife of 49 years. Tom was a proud father to Thomas Anthony (Gina) Fairchild of Orlando, Florida; Wes (Lana) Fairchild of McCrory, Arkansas; Shannon (Dr. David) Fielder of Batesville, Arkansas; Melissa (Phil Horvath) Fairchild of Titusville, Florida; and Kristen Morgan of Harrisburg, Arkansas. He was also a proud Papa to his grandchildren Ashlee Pruitt, Hannah Dockery, Katie Blakely, Dylan Morgan, Maddalena Fairchild, Zachary Horvath, Tucker Fairchild, Josie Horvath, and 8 great grandchildren that he loved all so dearly.

Tom is also survived by his brothers James (Paulette) Fairchild of Pinson, Tennessee, and Ron (Lynn) Fairchild of Jackson, Tennessee; as well as his sisters Brenda Fairchild and Sandy (Jeff) Crane both of Paragould, Arkansas. Family was central to Tom’s life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, David Fairchild; granddaughter, McKenna Fairchild; special nephew Aaron Fairchild and nephew Brian Fairchild.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Ermert Funeral Home Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Elroy Tesch. Thomas will be laid to rest at Richwoods Cemetery in Corning, Arkansas, with military honors acknowledging his service.

As family and friends gather to remember Tom, they will carry forward his legacy of compassion, commitment, and love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.