Thomas Joseph Privett

Thomas Joseph Privett, 77, of Lonoke, Ark. died in his home on Saturday, July 11, 2015. Thomas is survived by his wife of 57 years, Linda Sweatman Privett and his daughter, Lisa Privett. He is preceded in death by his parents, T.E. and Mildred Privett; his son, Joey Privett; and his sister, Rosemary Moody. Thomas, a lifelong resident of Lonoke, he attended Ouachita Baptist University, University of Arkansas, and UALR. He became a Real Estate Broker and started Privett Real Estate Co. He owned and operated Lonoke Lumber Company for more than 50 years prior to semi-retirement. In the 1970's, he developed Privett Park Subdivision and built over 150 houses in the community. Devoted to the City of Lonoke, Thomas was Mayor for four years, from January 2003 to December 2006 and City Treasurer from January 1973 to December 2002. He was instrumental in bringing the Hwy 89/I-40 interchange and worked tirelessly to bring industry, businesses and progress to Lonoke. The Lonoke Area of Chamber of Commerce recognized this service with awarding "The Order of Oak Tree-Deeply Rooted in Community Investment" to Mayor Thomas Privett in 2005. His community involvement began early with membership in the local and state chapter of Jaycees serving as State Vice President in 1968 and State President in 1969. Recognized as one of the Outstanding Young Men in America in 1968 receiving that national honor in a ceremony in Memphis. That year he also received the M. Keith Upson Award and the Outstanding VP for Arkansas Jaycees. The Lonoke chapter of Jaycees recognized this with the Distinguished Service Award in 1974 and Boss of the Year in 1981. He is a lifetime member of Arkansas Jaycee Senators and JCI Senators. He was a member of Lonoke Baptist Church, but over the last few years found another church family in Lonoke Assembly of God. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with Services following at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15th at Lonoke Baptist Church in Lonoke, arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home Lonoke. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Thomas's life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Friends of Lonoke Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 384, Lonoke, Ark. 72086 or Open Arms Shelter, P.O. Box 161, Lonoke, Ark. 72086 The family would like to thank friends and family for the prayers, support, assistance and continued love. We would especially like to thank the Lonoke Police Department, Fire Chief Jimmy Wallace for their rapid response and Brent and Cheri Stevenson for all that they did to comfort us. www.boydfuneralhome.net.