Thomas M. Hess, Jr.

Thomas M. Hess, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully with his loving wife and family by his side on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at his home in Murrells Inlet, SC. He was born on June 18, 1949 in St. Louis, MO to the late Thomas M. Hess, Sr. & Betty L. Hays Hess.

Along with his parents, Tom is reunited in passing with his brother, Tymothy G. Hess, and his son, Michael A. Haley.

Tom was a hardworking man with a heart of gold and a true zest for life and adventure. He will forever be remembered for his distinct singing voice, quick wit, and outstanding sense of humor. He lovingly had a caring demeanor that made people feel instantly at ease. As a long-haul trucker by trade, Tom enjoyed traveling hundreds of miles on the road. During this time, he read countless books. Tom also shared his love of music by playing in several local bands–including singing with George Davis as well as the band, Latitude–or anytime the opportunity and microphone presented itself (even karaoke). Tom loved singing Jimmy Buffet alongside his Parrot Heads friends. Whether through his work as a cab driver for Creekside Cab in the Inlet, working with Pet Cremation Services of the Grand Strand for the Burroughs family, or through his many other endeavors, Tom genuinely loved people and found joy in connecting with others. Tom was proud of his Native American heritage as a member of the Potawatomi Tribe and carried that pride with quiet strength. Tom enjoyed having a good time and being the life of the party. He relished his IPAs and stouts, and he truly enjoyed sampling the distinct and complex flavors of his favorite libations. Above all else, Tom loved his family with his whole heart. He touched many hearts and impacted countless lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Left to cherish Tom’s memory are his adoring wife of over 34 years, Mrs. Vickie L. Hess; his children: Shannon Souza and her husband, Jesse, of New Hampshire & Adam Hess and wife, Michaela, of England; his children at heart: Jamie Combs and husband, Roy, of Missouri & Tiffany Haley of Murrells Inlet; his beloved grandchildren: Georgeina “Georgie Plumb” Souza, Odin, Olyias and Oaklin Hess, Hayden, Haley, & Jackson Cottrell, Hollyn Fischer, and Kaylee, Callaway, Camden & Shay Combs; sisters: Cynthia Sutton and her husband, Ron, of Hillsboro, MO, Christina Hess of Barnhart, MO, & Barbara Rush of Crystal City, MO; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins; a large, loving, extended family; and many supportive friends and neighbors.

A Celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date. Those service details will be announced when finalized...in the mean time have a beer, in memory of Tom. 

At the request of the family and in lieu of flowers, donations in Tom’s name may be made to Tunnels to Towers or directly to the family to offset any future expenses.

The family wishes to acknowledge, with heartfelt appreciation, the kind words, prayers, and acts of kindness shown to them during this difficult time. Thank you all.

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guest book, visit www.burroughsfh.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.