Obituary
Thomas Henry Heaton, known affectionately to friends and
family as “Tommy” or “Tommy Heat” passed away after a battle with cancer on
January 15, 2026.
A man of boundless energy, outrageous stories, and a heart
as big as his personality, Tommy left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Born in Boston in June of 1962, Tommy remained fiercely proud of his Boston
Irish heritage. His childhood was an international journey, taking him from the
landscapes of Surrey, England; Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland; and later to Tigard
and Portland, Oregon. His early travels helped fuel the endless well of stories
he would later use to entertain anyone within earshot.
Tommy dedicated four years of service to the U.S. Navy, serving with pride
aboard the USS Kitty Hawk. Upon leaving the Navy, he took an unconventional
path that perfectly captured his vibrant spirit: he became a professional
dancer. This chapter of his life was so impactful that it inspired him to
author and publish a book, Behind the G-String, in 2025 an achievement that
shared his unique perspective with the world.
For many years, Tommy worked as a carpenter. He was a true craftsman who found
a way to make creativity and athleticism converge, building and fixing things
in ways that benefited countless people. Whether he was holding a hammer,
holding court, or creating something new in the kitchen, Tommy did it with
flair. A day with Tommy usually involved good food, better company, and a story
so wild you weren’t sure if it was true but you were having too much fun to
care.
The world is undoubtedly a bit less colorful without him. Tommy was the
quintessential “life of the party,” who believed there was never a dull moment
worth having.
Tommy was preceded in death by his wife, Erika Heaton. He is survived by his
children, Brittany, Brandon, and Kelsea; his four grandchildren, Riley,
Harrison, Stella, and Phoenixx, who carry forward his heart; his mother, Susan
Burgess; and his sister, Laura Heaton.
For memorial information please Email Kelseaheaton@gmail.com