1947-2025
Thomas “Tom” Lee Haynes, 78, of Arkansas City, KS, passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.
A come and go celebration of life will be held from 1-3 PM on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at the Parkerfield Community Center. Please dress casually. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project; donations may be left in the care of the Shelley Family Funeral Home.
Tom was born in Little River, KS to parents Marvin H. “Sonny” and Irene (Breitenstein) Carpenter. He graduated from Arkansas City High School in 1965, then attended Cowley Junior College before transferring to Arkansas State University to play football. While there, he volunteered for the Army and was enlisted from 67’-69’ and was a Vietnam veteran. While on leave, he married the love of his life, Sheila Hensley, on December 22, 1968. After his time in the Army, he returned to Arkansas City, where he started working for Haynes Concrete. He then started American Concrete with Pat Kelley, which he owned and operated for 17 years before starting Haynes Concrete Construction. He then worked for LG Pike before retiring. He was a member of the Ark City Tumbleweeds car club, the American Legion, and VFW, and was very active in helping other Vietnam veterans. Tom loved fishing, hunting, and anything outdoors. He was always doing something outside. He enjoyed Natty Lites, “Hot Toddy’s”, and cookouts, but most of all, he loved being with his grandkids.
Tom is survived by his wife, son Bryan Haynes (Judy), daughter Brynn Haynes, brother Ray Haynes, grandchildren Gracie Stewart (Hunter), Bo Musson, Maggie Teufel (Brady), Harper Haynes, Hayden Haynes, and Oaklee Graham, and one great-granddaughter on the way.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
