Tom Haney

Born April 14, 1938, in El Reno, Oklahoma, to Floyd Laverne Haney and Alma Jo Short, Tom grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas, with his siblings Betty, Johnny, and Robert “Bit”. A gifted student and athlete, he became a top-ranked Texas tennis player and earned a full athletic scholarship to East Texas State University where he graduated in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Subsequently, he graduated with his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch in 1964.

Tom served as a Naval Officer and dentist before opening his dental practice in Houston, where he cared for patients for decades, often with remarkable generosity. He served on the board of several Houston-area hospitals and was active in church choirs throughout his life. A passionate competitor, he won the All-Navy Tennis Singles Championship in 1965 and continued playing tennis, pickleball, and table tennis well into his 80s.

Known for his quick wit, vibrant personality, and love for people, Tom never failed to bring energy and humor to any room. He loved his children and family deeply and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He is survived by his brothers Johnny (Suzanne) Haney and Robert “Bit” (Joanne) Haney; daughter Michelle Denise Haney Brown; sons Joseph Thomas “Kip” Haney Jr., William “Billy” Pratt Haney, Perry Brandon Haney, Jonathan Chase Haney, and Robert Drew Haney; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alma Jo Short and Floyd L Haney, and his sister, Bettye Laverne Haney Humphries.

He will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, world-class tennis player, an excellent dentist, and a one-of-a-kind personality who will be deeply missed.

Please join us to remember Tom and celebrate his life at Hampton Vaughan Crestview Funeral Home in Wichita Falls. Visitation will be Friday, August 15th, from 5 - 7 pm; and the funeral will be on Saturday, August 16th, beginning at 10 am. It will be immediately followed by a graveside service with military honors, and a reception.