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Honoring his Legacy & Love
Thomas Arthur Dunn (December 24, 1948 – August 1, 2025) was a beloved husband, father, mentor, and respected figure in the Tyler, Texas community. His quiet strength, dedication to justice, and unwavering compassion made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Life & Career Highlights:
Born in Amarillo, TX; earned his B.A. from the University of Houston and his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 1975. Admitted to the Texas State Bar in 1976 and board-certified in both criminal and family law.
Began his legal career in private practice, served as Assistant District Attorney, and dedicated 18 years as Judge of Smith County Court‑at‑Law No. 1 until his retirement in December 2014
Known for his meticulous preparation and principled judgments, only six of his decisions were reversed—a testament to his integrity and legal rigor.
After retiring, he continued sharing his expertise as a mediator and visiting judge, deeply influencing younger attorneys across East Texas. His passion for legal education and mentorship never faded.
Personal Passions & Character:
A lover of nature and craftsmanship: he enjoyed fishing, hunting, archery, knife making, and modifying firearms.
A devoted family man and gentle soul: he found constant joy in family, laughter, and quiet guidance. His kindness, humor, and integrity remain cherished memories.
Survived By:
Loving wife of 55 years, Vicki Dunn
Children: Shawn Dunn and Cara Parker
Grandchildren: Landon Dunn, Haven Dunn, and Mason Parker
Mother: Dr. Charleta Dunn
Siblings: Roy Dunn, Sharleta Dunn, Mary & Bruce Baxter, Regina Dillon, Angie Dillon, and Tim Dillon.
Preceded in Death By:
His birth father T.R. Dillon, adopted father Roy Dunn Jr., grandparents Ruby Sisk, James Sisk, Gertrude Dillon, Thomas Martin Dillon, and siblings Thomas Dillon, Vicki Bryant, and Karen Zartorski.
In Lieu of Flowers:
Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Foundation for Heart Failure Research—a meaningful way to honor his memory.
Burial:
Thomas is interred at Forest Park East Funeral Home & Cemetery in Webster, TX, and services were handled by Hillard Funeral Home, with hospice care from Hospice of East Texas.
Gathering & Reflections
This event is an opportunity to gather in community, gratitude, and remembrance. Whether you knew Thomas as a legal mentor, a family man, or a friend who inspired through quiet strength, your presence and shared memories will help celebrate his life in full.
RSVP: You can indicate whether you’ll be attending, along with your relationship to Thomas, directly on the memorial page. https://everloved.com/life-of/thomas-dunn/ or on the Facebook event.
Share Your Thoughts: The memorial invites attendees to post photos, stories, or condolences—each memory helps weave the tapestry of Thomas’s legacy.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Liberty Hall, 103 E Erwin St,Tyler, Texas, United States
