Remembering Dr. Thomas K. Hearn Jr.

Tom and I were fraternity brothers at BSC. Even at that early stage one could tell that he was destined to accomplish great things. I followed his career with keen interest and was proud to have kown him. Deepest condolences to his family.

— james donahoo
August 22, 2008 - 08:21 AM

This is a message for Lindsay. I am thinking of you with fond memories of our wonderful time in France more than 25 years ago. I have wondered many times where you are and how you are, hoping our paths might cross again one day. With love and sympathy to you and all the family, Kitty

— Kitty Scott Urquhart
August 21, 2008 - 08:03 PM

Our son, Hayes, was on the Wake Forest Tennis team and Dr. Hearn was always supported and at the home matches. He loved tennis matches and we often compared his skills with those of the team. No one would have ever known Dr. Hearn was the President of Wake because he was always just part of the crowd and never needed any added attention. We will miss him in Winston Salem and all the fine contributions he made to our great city. God gave us a great gift in getting a chance to know this wonderful and caring man. Thanks for the good memories that will never be forgotten. Lida Hayes Calvert

— lida hayes calvert
August 21, 2008 - 07:19 PM

Our son, Joshua, was accepted into WFU back in 2005. We were delighted. Joshua had just finished all requirements for his Eagle Scout Badge and we were busy preparing for his Court of Honor. We requested letters of congratulations from different dignitaries and wondered if the current president of WFU would spare a minute to jot him a note. Dr. Hearn did not hesitate. His letter to Josh was heartfelt, sincere and after reading it, we felt assured that Josh would be attending a college that was led by a very caring and genuine man. We were saddened to hear he was retiring but were grateful we had his words of congratulations before he did. Although we didn't get to know him or experience him in his presidency, he made a sincere impact on the generosity one person can give to another. Our prayers go out to Dr. Hearn and his family. Our loss, is heavens gain. God Bless.

— Al and Laureen DeBenedetto
August 21, 2008 - 06:03 PM

I am very sorry and deeply moved to hear about Dr. Hearn's passing. When Dr. Hearn learned that our daughter would be the first person from his county in Alabama to enroll at Wake Forest, he called to speak to her. He ended up talking to her mother who asked "and what do you teach?" Dr. Hearn said he was the president and was from Albertville. He later called Taylor, and finding where her interests lay, sent her a book of poetry.
Dr. Hearn truly loved Sand Mountain and Alabama. He never forgot who he was or where he came from. Our sincere condolences to the Hearn family.

Hal Kennamer, Guntersville, Al.

— Hal Kennamer
August 21, 2008 - 05:27 PM

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hearn family. I first met Dr. Hearn as a student lifeguard when he would come to the pool in Reynolds Gym for lap swim, and later I got to know him through his involvement in the community. Dr. Hearn was a wonderful person who cared deeply for Wake Forest and Winston-Salem, and both are much better places because of his tireless efforts. He will be greatly missed.

— Chuck Greene (BA 1992)
August 21, 2008 - 03:58 PM

My heart and prayers go out to the Hearn family. I'll always remember Dr. Hearn as a kind man and able-bodied president - and, of course, someone who would always say "hi" on the quad. He'll be sorely missed.

— Danielle Altieri
August 21, 2008 - 03:22 PM