Thomas J. Loftin, Jr.

Thomas Jefferson Loftin, Jr.
September 10, 1937 – January 18, 2026

Thomas Jefferson Loftin, Jr., 88, of Raytown, MO, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born on September 10, 1937, in Vista, MO, to Thomas J. and Rena Loftin, Tom’s gaze was always fixed upward. He discovered a lifelong passion for aviation early on, earning his private pilot’s license in 1955 at the age of 18. That love for flying defined much of his life, spanning an incredible 70 years in the cockpit.

After graduating from Clinton High School, Tom spent his professional life in the insurance industry, where he owned and operated his own insurance agencies until his retirement.

Tom was a man who loved to be “hands-on,” whether he was tinkering in his workshop, spending time in his hangar, or admiring a classic car. A man of quiet principles, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge for 67 years. He also possessed a natural musical ear and could remarkably play almost any instrument he picked up.

He was known best for his quick wit, his “one-liners,” and a contagious grin that reached his sparkling eyes. To his family, he was a pillar of strength and kindness—a devoted husband, father, and beloved “Papa.”

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Hellen; his sister, Judy Vickers; his children, Marc Loftin (Jessica) and Shelley Clow (David); and his grandchildren, Lauren Zaubi, Taylor Berman (Shane), Sydni Semple (Trenton), and Shane Clow (Victoria). He was the proud great-grandfather to ten: Kaius, Juno, Jemma, Layne, Clementine, Noah, Jolene, Finn, Teddy, and Arthur.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lori; his parents; and his other siblings.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Tom’s life on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Heartland Cremation & Burial Society (6113 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64133).
Visitation: 10:00 AM
Funeral Service: 11:00 AM
Interment: A graveside service will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Raytown, MO.

To view the memorial service, please click HERE.