Tommy was my first team leader in Bco 70eng, Fort Riley. He was the kind of leader that made a soldier want to give his very best.  He would always take the time to make sure the squad had everything they needed. I can still hear his strong Texas accent making fun of my Boston accent. During OIF 1, on our downtime, all he talked about was Destinee, Kyle, and his prized Camaro, which he actually let me drive, and damn I wish I had a picture of his face when I had it going 120mph on I-70.  We had our arguments, but he was always there for me. I think the funniest memory I have of Tommy is the time he called me over to the vehicle, and then out of nowhere, he threw a kick right into my chest plate and sent me flying backwards! That was Tommy, full of surprises. He was and will remain one of the best soldiers that I have worked with. I know he’s in the sky, with a big pinch of dip, watching over all of us. Essayons brother! Rest In Peace.

I served with this amazing SGT. We would always joke and teach each other to prepare our soldiers. Always cared for everyone and had everyone's six. You will be missed and we all know he breached his way into heaven. He is marking and making way for all combat engineers!!! RIP my brother. 

I met Tommy in school.  He was the biggest flirt.  We were very close in school, not that we made it a known fact.  He had reached out to me late last year and reconnected, he will always be a great friend.  I will miss him deeply.

Dad, you were my protector, you taught me how to fish, how to shoot, and how to never be afraid. You were a man of your word. You always said I could do any and everything I ever wanted, my limits were only the ones I set for myself. You instilled discipline, respect, and pride in me. Every life lesson you ever taught me bounces around in my head constantly. You gave me your love of music, and the taste for all the finer things life has to offer. 

Fly high and free Daddy. Hug Nanny and Uncle Mike for me. 

Tommy, one of my oldest childhood friends. I remember running the streets of Sky Harbor with you, swimming at the big pool,and jumping on the trampoline in your mom and dad's back yard. You were strong willed and had a laugh and a smile to match! You were truly an inspiration to be around , you made me want to be a better person just being around you. I remember when you lost your mother Judy, you two were so close. I pray that you find the peace that you never found here in this life, and for your loved ones still here. A great man with a big heart and who feared very little. You will not be forgotten brother, your friend
Nathan Watson

I knew Tommy from school.  He was always friendly and a bit of a cut up.  I enjoyed knowing him and calling him a friend.  Though I lost touch with him after high school, I am extremely saddened by his death.  I pray peace over his family, both blood and beyond. 

I remember talking to Tommy several times to get him to WH. A lovely man who wanted help and to heal. I am saddened by his loss and hope and pray he’s found solice. Prayers for you and your family

I remember the first time I met Tommy, he was helping my mom and I move and sprained BOTH of his ankles chasing me around our backyard thinking he was a young buck and could catch me (he lost lol). Even though Tommy wasn’t blood, he was my dad. He always gave the best advice and never broke a promise to me. It saddens me that he won’t be here to walk me down the isle but I know he’s looking over my family and I forever. Despite his hard times recently, he was a beautiful soul. I will miss his contagious laugh and corny jokes the most! I will make sure Greyson knows all about his Papa and never forgets him. We will miss you, Tommy.  You and Uncle Charles better behave up there! Rest in paradise til we meet again. 

Tommy and I were brothers in law. We married sisters, and shared a father in law. We were both Army veterans and spent time at Ft. Hood. He welcomed us into his home on our annual Texas trips and taught us the lay of the land on the beach during our Corpus Christi visit. My son loved playing video games and shooting guns with him.  I know Tommy was troubled, and was glad to see him improving the last couple of years. We didn’t really see this coming, but I hope he’s finally at peace. Rest in paradise buddy. 

Tommy was my battle buddy. He brought me strength, hope and courage when I needed it the most. He always had my six. Tommy and I shared the love of the outdoors, we would grab our fishing poles and hit the back waters for those largemouth bass just like two kids. I so enjoyed that. We were Soldiers First! Tommy brought the best out of everyone, his laugh, his smile, his heart was always  pure.  I remember one night I was walking in my sleep and yelling commands and Tommy got me settled down , that's how he was, always looking out for others, looking out for me. Tommy I will see you on the High Ground I am going to miss you down here. Your Friend, 
Colonel Mike Brown 
United States Army Retired

OBITUARY

Tommy Ray Leavines

October 3, 1974 – May 6, 2019

Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services