Remembering Dr. Thomas K. Hearn Jr.

Mrs. Hearn & Family, From Dr. Hearn's "Charge to the Graduates, Comencement 2001" in conclusion his words were "love is not a feeling, not an emotion, but a way of living. Feelings come and go but those who practice love know that its requirement is that we live in compassionate regard for every life we contact." Dr. Hearn came in contact with many and these words were evident from those who knew him best. We sincerely appreciate his service to WFU and will always remember. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

— Guy and Virginia Carswell
August 22, 2008 - 08:37 PM

To Dr. Hearn's son, Tom: James Brooks and I send our heartfelt sympathy in the passing of your father. Surely, you were a great blessing to him and will cherish many memories of your part in his wonderful life. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family during this difficult time. Joy Heath Thomas, Thomas & Brooks, PLLC

— Joy Heath Thomas
August 22, 2008 - 04:46 PM

Our prayers are with you.

Though I am one of many who were fortunate enough to cross paths with Dr Hearn, his vision and compassion for Wake Forest have continued to be a source of inspiration.

— Fran DeChurch
August 22, 2008 - 12:06 PM

To the Hearn and entire WFU family,

My thoughts and prayers are definitely with you. Dr. Hearn definitely had an impact on all who knew and had the pleasure of working with him.

Andrea M. Jones '07

— Andrea M. Jones
August 22, 2008 - 10:16 AM

Dr. Hearn was inspiring from the moment I first heard him speak on accepted students day in April 1999. His topic that day was "The Place of the Christian College in the 21st Century." Only years later would I learn that it was taken from the topic of a speech by a former president of Wake Forest in the early 20th century, a fact I'm sure that was lost on the thousands sitting in Wait Chapel on that beautiful spring day.

Dr. Hearn reflected deeply on matters of history, religion, and philosophy, and I never tired of hearing him speak. Even today I keep copies of his speeches and reread them whenever I'm searching for new insight. He was a wonderful president and it was a privilege to have been a student during his tenure. He will be truly missed.

— Will Clough '03
August 22, 2008 - 09:35 AM

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Dr. Hearn personally but the stature and reputation of Wake, in many areas, are proof of his achievement. My thoughts are with the Hearn family.

— Scott Tewell
August 22, 2008 - 09:08 AM

my husband,jack, and i graduated in 1984. dr. hearn came to wake our senior year and won our hearts immediately. he embodied everything that was good about wake forest and made us so proud to this day to be demon deacons. we became very involved in the school over the years and much was due to the leadership he provided. he was a dear friend and always made time to talk with you. he was so wise and over the years has given us through personal interaction and his writings such wonderful advice about life that we will carry with us always. he was truly larger than life and a gift to us all. we will never forget him and pray for his family everyday. god bless you tom hearn and your dedication to pro humanitate!

— heather maier
August 22, 2008 - 08:58 AM