Thomas Wells Killough, Jr.

Thomas Wells Killough, Jr., native White Countian whose colorful career spanned several decades abroad, died Sunday, March 23, at a local hospital. Killough had retired several years ago from Tokyo, Japan to enjoy time with family and friends in Searcy. During those years, he contributed much to his church and the community, especially in the arts. Born in Bald Knob on January 11, 1932, to Thomas Wells and Voree Evans Killough, he was a 1949 honor graduate of Searcy High School. Along with other class members, Killough started the annual Junior Review, which was a tradition at SHS for several decades. His love of drama and the arts led to a degree from the University of Arkansas. After graduation, he taught at SHS where his excellent teaching skills and quick wit made him a favorite with students. Returning to the U of A, Killough received a Masters Degree in English and Theatre while teaching at the University. Killough continued his career in the U.S. Army, joining the staff at the University of Maryland where he taught English to U.S. Service men and women. Through the U of M he got the opportunity to teach in their Atlantic Division in Goosebay Labrador, Greenland, and Bermuda. Killough eventually landed in Toyko where he became immersed in the city, its people and its culture. While teaching at the University, he also hosted a noon TV show where he interviewed visitors to Tokyo and other interesting people. His love of theatre landed him roles in many productions with the Tokyo International Players, and he had parts in several movies filmed in the area. He dubbed Japanese movies into English, among other things. Killough enjoyed traveling and the camaraderie of fellow travelers as he visited most of the Orient and Europe. His love of collecting art objects filled many containers sent to family back home. He was happy to entertain friends and family who made their way to Tokyo! After retirement to Searcy, Killough was a faithful member of Searcy First United Methodist Church. Involved in the ministries of the church, he shared his theatrical talents for many programs, cantatas, and events. He was liturgist for many services, and his expressive voice was his trademark. Killough was active in the Searcy Arts Gallery located in the historic Black House on Race Street. During his presidency and time on the board, many improvements were made to the gallery and the grounds. New artists were shown on a rotation basis, and membership in the Arts Council increased. He supported the Searcy Theatre on the Square and seldom missed a production. Killough is survived by a large and loving family, the reason he returned to Searcy. He was predeceased by his parents, long time Searcy residents, and by his nephew, Larry R. Killough, Jr. and grand-nephew, James Webb Killough and his brother-in-law, Jim Burkett. Killough's survivors include his brother, Dr. Larry R. Killough and wife, Julie, of Searcy; his sister Mrs. Jim Burkett (Peggy) of Searcy; nieces and nephews: Dr. Tim Killough and wife Brenda of Searcy; Dr. Lynley Killough McAnalley and husband Dr. Ed McAnalley of Dallas, Texas; John Killough and wife Diane of Searcy; Ms. Robin Brown of Springhill, Tennessee; Pam Cowart and husband, Dr. Keith Cowart of Columbus, Georgia; Katie Killough Salmon and husband Steven of Dallas, Texas; Grace Killough of Dallas, Texas; McNiel Killough of Searcy; Tori Opalecky of Fayetteville; Mary Julia Killough and Luke Killough of Searcy; Rebekah McAnalley of Austin, Texas; John McAnalley, Christian McAnalley, and James McAnalley of Dallas, Texas; William Killough and Emma Killough of Searcy; Tucker Brown and McKinley Brown of Springhill, Tennessee; Andrew Cowart and Aaron Cowart of Columbus, Georgia; and grandniece and nephew, Stafford Salmon and Steven Salmon of Dallas, Texas. A host of other relatives and friends are left to celebrate the life of one who shared his talents with many. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, in the sanctuary of Searcy First United Methodist Church. The family will visit with friends at 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. A family burial will follow the service. Memorials may be given to a favorite charity or to the church at 304 North Main Street, Searcy, or to the Sunshine School on Airport Loop in Searcy.

Thomas Wells Killough, Jr.

January 11, 1932 - March 23, 2014