Hasell Thomas Laborde, Jr.

Hasell Thomas LaBorde, Jr. or "Tommy" left this world on Friday, June 1, after being claimed by Multiple Sclerosis which ensued following a 1994 car accident. Born in Columbia, South Carolina on June 28, 1952, he was the son of the late Dr. Hasell T. and Dell LaBorde. After four fantastic years at his beloved American International School of Kabul in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tommy later graduated from Mt. de Sales High School in Macon, Georgia with the class of 1970 and then attended classes at the University of California, Santa Barbara. As a Conscientious Objector of the Viet Nam War he served instead in emergency rooms in Birmingham, Alabama and Santa Barbara, California. A carpenter by trade, his handiwork can be seen around town from churches to gas stations to private homes. His love of music, especially the guitar, was exemplified in the Brothers Brooks recording of his song, "No Cover Charge". He inherited his green thumb from his father and was proud of his membership in Ikebana International and the American Begonia Society. Some of the bonsais he started are still growing in friends‘ homes today. He was an active member in the local organization, Brain Injury Group, or BIG, and you can often see the t-shirts and hats he designed to raise money and awareness to help those with this diagnosis. As his physical abilities changed he still wanted to help others so he decided to grow his gorgeous locks and give them to Locks of Love to make wigs for those who had lost their hair from chemotherapy. He made his final contribution last month. Known for his peaceful nature, he was frequently found just stopping to "smell the roses". He taught many people the meaning of peace and contentment either directly or just by being in proximity of his gentle spirit. And his smile lit many hearts. Survivors include his sister, Caroline E. LaBorde, son, Dylan Thomas LaBorde, many beloved cousins, and countless cherished friends. Join us in the celebration of his life to be held on Monday, June 11 at 10:30 a.m. outside St. Francis Episcopal Church, located at 432 Forest Hill Rd. in Macon. Family and friends will gather in the church parish hall immediately following the service. Tommy would appreciate donations made to Haitian Hope which supports the education of children in the mountain village of Trouin, Haiti. Please send donations to Haitian Hope, St. Francis Episcopal Church, 432 Forest Hill Rd., Macon, GA 31210. Register online at www.hartsmort.com. Hart's Mortuary and Crematory at the Cupola has charge of arrangements.