of Mabelvale, AR
December 17, 1931 - January 28, 2026
Thomas Glenn Shemwell, of Benton, Arkansas, was born on December 17th, 1931, in Paducah KY, his joyful lived 94 full and meaningful years before being welcomed home by our Heavenly Father on January 28, 2026 in Benton AR. He passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of his three daughter's a fitting farewell for a man whose life was defined by family, faith, and service.
Known lovingly as Tom, Dad, Grandpa, and ''G-Pop,'' he was a devoted husband, proud girl dad, cherished uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life was firmly rooted in faith, and he shared that faith generously through kindness, creativity, and quiet acts of service.
Tom proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After his military service, he poured his talents into teaching and creativity. A gifted artist and craftsman, he spent more than 20 years at SAU Tech, where he taught lithography, printing, and commercial art, shaping not only careers but lives. His hand were rarely still whether woodworking, boating, or bringing an idea to life. One of his proudest accomplishments was building an 18-foot tugboat, exquisitely detailed and entirely his own creation.
Tom and his beloved wife, Dorothy, shared a deep love for their church family. Together, they faithfully prepared and served the Men's Breakfast for many years. Tom built Faith Chests to welcome new babies into the congregation and joined a group of dedicated men who collected and restored bicycles so children could experience the joy of Christmas morning.
He was preceded in death by his wife and love of his life for 65 years, Dorothy Jean Shemwell; his parents, Thomas Albin Shemwell and Vergie Velda Shemwell; his granddaughter, Christina Jean Renfro; and his sister, Linda Pennington.
He leaves behind a legacy of love through his daughters, Sharon Refro, Janet Kennedy, and Marilyn Doherty; five grandchildren Jillian, Brittany, Justin, Katlin and Haley; and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his values, creativity, and faith.
Tom lived a long, productive, and joyful life surrounded by family and friends. He was deeply loved by all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to bless generations. Though he will be missed, his life is one to be celebrated.