Thomas Joseph Harrod

Thomas Joseph (TJ) Harrod, 84, of Ward, after losing his battle with Parkinson's, joined our Lord Saturday, Feb. 26. Son of Wilbur and Lillian Harrod, TJ graduated Cabot High School and joined the Navy to serve in World War II. TJ is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris Walker Harrod, and parents. During his 20 years of service, TJ served as a Seabee on Guam and was among the crew who loaded the atomic weapons that ended the war. He served as an electrician's mate aboard the USS New Jersey during the Korean War. Entrepreneur, businessman and civic leader, TJ enjoyed family, friends, and construction projects. TJ was instrumental within the Rural Electric Association in bringing electricity to the Mountain Springs community. He implemented equipment purchases and raised safety standards for Cabot's Fire Department. TJ served on the Ward City Council and oversaw city improvements, promoting growth in Ward. TJ is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Lael Harrod of Cabot, his two granddaughters, Leighsan and Alexa Harrod of Cabot, and his brother, Casey Harrod of Ward. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children Way, Little Rock, Ark., 72202. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 1, 2011 from 5–7 p.m. at Westbrook Funeral Home. Graveside services will be at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Cabot, Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 2 p.m. with military honors. www.westbrookfuneralhome.com.