T.C. Massey, 86, passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2026, following a life marked by adventure, hard work, an enduring love for his family and a determination to make the most of every opportunity.

 After years of courageously battling cancer, T.C. was called home to be with his Lord and Savior and reunited with his beloved wife of 55 years, Nancy. Born February 16, 1940, to George and August Colene Jackson Massey.

T.C. was a man of seemingly boundless curiosity and ambition, he was never one to shy away from a challenge, whether that meant embarking on a new career, exploring a distant corner of the hemisphere or simply trying something he had never done before.

 At the center of his life was Nancy, his wife, best friend and partner in nearly every adventure. Married for 55 years before her passing in 2018, the two shared a love that carried them across countless experiences. Together, they flew their own airplane, traveled extensively throughout Central America and the Caribbean and enjoyed adventures that included scuba diving and spearfishing. Their life together was one of exploration and shared ambition.

 T.C. was a graduate of Baylor University, where he earned a degree in zoology. His education reflected a lifelong fascination with the natural world, an interest that would eventually help shape his career in agriculture.

 Throughout his life, T.C. pursued a variety of professions. He was perhaps best known, however, for his years as a farmer after he and Nancy settled in Sevier County during the 1980s. Together, the couple raised poultry, cattle and rabbits, eventually building their rabbit farming operation into the largest of its kind in Arkansas. Their success was a testament to their willingness to work hard, take risks and pursue opportunities that others might have considered unlikely. Agriculture was more than a livelihood for T.C.; it was a passion that remained with him throughout his life.

 He also served as an inspector with the United States Department of Agriculture, a profession from which both he and Nancy eventually retired. Outside of work, T.C. enjoyed fishing, golfing and cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys. He enjoyed staying active, participating in the Dallas 5K in his youth, and had a particular fondness for Buc-ee's barbecue. Above all, T.C. loved his family and friends.

 Those who knew T.C. will remember a man with a quick wit, a great sense of humor and the ability to make friends with anyone. He was hardworking, resourceful and seldom discouraged by long odds.

His faith also became an important part of his later years. At the age of 74, T.C. gave his life to the Lord and went on to earn an associate degree through a Christian Bible college.

 He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Massey, and his parents, George and August Colene Jackson Massey.

 He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Shelly Massey of Midland, Michigan; one sister-in-law, Ann Barron of Mena; four grandchildren, Jayson Massey and wife Melanie of Franklin, Indiana, Patrick Massey and wife Caitlyn of De Queen, Jennifer Massey of De Queen and Tyler Massey and wife Allie of De Queen; and five great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Mariah, Miles, John and James.

 T.C. also leaves behind two families who came to hold an especially meaningful place in his life: Don and Kathy Parker and Tom and Brandi Henthorn and their families. They first entered T.C. and Nancy's lives approximately 13 years ago, following Nancy's diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease. What began as a caregiving relationship soon developed into something far greater. Over the years, they became trusted friends, constant companions and, in every way that mattered, an extension of the Massey family. Their love, friendship and devotion brought immeasurable comfort and companionship to T.C. during some of the most difficult years of his life. 

He also leaves behind many cherished friends, including longtime friend and mentor Rex Herring, a Sevier County Extension agent whose friendship and guidance meant much to him. 

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Friday, November 6, 2026, in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation will follow under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home in De Queen. You may leave an online condolence at www.chandlerfuneral.com, or you may visit Chandler Funeral Home on Facebook.