J Thomas "Tom" Heflin Denney

J Thomas Heflin Denney, Col. US Army (Retired), 90, of Niceville, Florida passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, and soldier, Tom dedicated his life to service – to his country, his family, and his community. Born on 3 February 1936 in Milltown, Alabama, to James Lee and Lilla Mae Denney, he was the youngest of 19 children. Tom graduated from Auburn University in 1960, married his sweetheart and now his wife of 67 years, Sandra Farr Denney. He entered the US Army and began a distinguished 30+ year career. He served with honor throughout the world including four combat tours in Vietnam. He commanded at Battery, Battalion, Safety Center and Garrison for the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit (3), the Bronze Star, and 30 Air Medals among many other decorations and achievements. Tom was an Army Aviator and had almost 4000 hours in more than 15 aircraft including fixed and rotary wing. The Huey Cobra and the Caribou were his two favorites.

After retiring from the Army, he was a top salesman for 14 years in the automotive business followed by a successful career with Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Conroy, Marable, and Holleman in Clarksville, TN. He continued serving his community through the Rotary, and as a consultant for the National Center on Education and the Economy. He is survived by his wife Sandra of 67 years, his son Jay and wife Teresa; three married grandsons: JT (Charlie); Justin (Tasha); and Jake (Breanna).

Known for his incredible sense of humor, love of Auburn, and dedication to taking care of his people. A memorial and celebration of life will be held at Heritage Gardens in Niceville, Florida at 1400 on 8 June 2026. An internment ceremony with military honors will be held in Penton, AL; Penton Church of God, 5056 Co Road 114, Lafayette, AL 36862 on 24 June 2026 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars where he was a Life Member. War Eagle was his battle cry, friendship and compassion his guiding principles.

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