Leo Thomas "Tom" Durden, Jr.

Leo “Tom” Durden, Jr. passed away on April 18, 2022. He was born in Bruce, MS on July 31, 1942, to Louise and James Mullen. His Master Sergeant Air Force career spanned over 20 years taking him from various U.S. states to countries overseas including Thailand and the Philippines. His outstanding service earned him numerous decorations to include a bronze medal while serving in the Vietnam War. Tom was not only a highly decorated Vietnam Veteran, but a very proud father who in his last moments said, “my kids are everything.” Tom was a talented man in many areas. He was a professional bowler and pursued a bowling career on the side of serving his country. He bowled a Perfect 300 game in the Phillipines, where his name is still listed on the wall to this day. He was also a professional snowmobile racer. He raced on ice, snow, and grass for many years. He even landed himself on the cover of Snow Week magazine in the 90’s. He was also a very proud father. He showed up to every single event any of his children had and would videotape them all, from TJ’s motocross and t-ball games, Crystal’s gymnastics and track meets, Daphne’s cheerleading, and basketball games, to Sandy’s bowling tournaments, and helping with kids for everything. He was an amazing father. Tom is survived by his son, Leo Thomas Durden III; daughters, Sandra Kaleva, Daphne Robinson, and Crystal Trueluck; brothers, Ronnie Mullen and Jimmie Mullen; grandchildren, Amira Dessaso, Jamison Trueluck, Josiah Trueluck, Aniya Robinson, Deion Robinson, Adrian Durden, and Tazia Kaleva. He was preceded in death by his parents.