Burl Thomas House

Fort Smith, Arkansas—Burl Thomas House, affectionately known as Tom, passed away peacefully at his home on April 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on June 20, 1934, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Tom was a man of quiet strength, unwavering devotion, and a gentle spirit. His life was a testament to love, service, and community. Tom was the beloved son of Burl and Oleta House, who preceded him in death, along with his cherished wife of 64 years, Dixie Carol House, his brother Daniel Hugh House, and his brother-in-law Robert Keith Larson. He is survived by his two sons, Dr. Jeff House and his wife Dorlinda Varga MD, and Tracy House and his wife Kathrin. Tom's legacy continues through his eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Larson. Tom met the love of his life, Dixie Carol Stuettgen, in Charleston, Arkansas, and they married in 1955. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and family, raising their two sons with dedication and care. Tom's devotion to Dixie was evident in his daily visits to the nursing home during her health challenges, where he would share lunch and watch TV by her side. Educated in Fort Smith, Tom graduated high school and went on to earn two associate degrees from Westark Community College. His career was marked by versatility and commitment, beginning at ABF Freight, followed by a period with the Coca-Cola Company, and culminating in a 30-year tenure as a Computer System Analyst at Sparks Medical Center, from which he retired in 1996. Tom's service to his country was a source of pride; he was a dedicated member of the 188th Wing in Fort Smith, Arkansas, serving from April 9, 1953, until his retirement as a Master Sergeant on July 1, 1979. His love for aviation extended beyond his military service, as he was a rated pilot for single and multi-engine aircraft, a glider pilot, and a flight instructor. He was also an active member of the Fort Smith Area Amateur Radio Club as a Ham Radio Operator and participated in the Civil Air Patrol and the 188th Wing Old Guard. An enthusiast of the outdoors, Tom relished traveling in his RV with Dixie and their camping club friends. He was an ardent supporter of Razorback sports, a fan even in challenging seasons, and had a passion for BBQ, always favoring hearty, traditional meals. His weekly card games with the RV club ladies were a highlight of his social life, where his quiet, yet humorous nature shone. The service to celebrate Tom's life will be held on April 23, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Edwards Funeral Homes, located at 201 N 12th St, Fort Smith, AR, 72901. The House family extends heartfelt gratitude to Heart of Hospice for their exceptional care during Tom's final days, with special thanks to his dedicated hospice nurse, Cassie. In remembering Tom, we honor a man whose life was rich with love, loyalty, and laughter. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.