Thomas “Tommy” Michael French passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home on August 10th, 2026. Tommy was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas to Ralph and Elizabeth French on February 1, 1947. On September 8th, 1967 he was united in marriage to Rita Collins to which two sons were born. Tommy continued to carry on his family’s farming legacy. Tommy was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church. He served in the National Guard, earned his pilots’ license, and was a certified Master Scuba Diver.

Tommy spent many years in scouting with troop 4, taking his sons and scouts on many adventures around the United States. He received the St. George emblem in recognition of outstanding service to the spiritual development of Catholic youth in the program of the Boy Scouts of America. Tommy enjoyed making memories at Norfork lake with his family and his diving friends. Each Halloween he could be counted on for some mischief and a lot of fun. Tommy had a playful and humorous side of telling jokes and handing out pieces of gum. Later on in life, he was often found with his brother Wayne working on woodworking projects.

Tommy is survived by his loving wife Rita of 59 years and his two sons, Michael (Melody) French and Mark French of Jonesboro. His cherished three granddaughters, Makayla French, Phoebe French, and Elizabeth French all of Jonesboro.

He is also survived by his brothers John (Della) French of Jonesboro, Howard French of Henderson, NV, Wayne (Lita) French of Jonesboro, Stephen French (Nona) of Jonesboro, and Phillip (Grace) French of Little Rock, AR. One sister, Dottie Smith of Jonesboro. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends that he loved dearly.

He was predeceased in death by his parents, two brothers: Bill French and Jerry French, two sisters: Catherine Scroggins and infant Helen. He was also predeceased by beloved niece and nephew Stacey Shelton, and Gary French.

Honorary pallbearers are Stacey Shelton, Gary French, and L.C. Tiner(all deceased), His diving buddies: Terry Sharp, Homer Thompson, Alan Bounds, Barry Eggers, Clay Inboden and the staff at J & T Dive Shop. Michael Johnson, Pam and Sue Tiner, Dr. Nathan Turney, and Dr. Allen Nixon. A special thank you to Elite Hospice & Health.

Pallbearers are: Josh Parnell, Jack French, Robert Smith, Brian French, Ryan Shelton, and David Jarrett.

Visitation will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m., with the rosary beginning at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday August 13, 2026 at 12 pm at the church with Monsignor Scott Friend officiating. Burial will follow at McDaniel Cemetery under the direction of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home.

Those wishing to honor Tommy’s memory may donate to a charity of their choice.