Thomas “Tom” Heppner passed away peacefully Friday, October 2, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. He was born March 26, 1948 in Canton, Ohio to the late Ethel and Bernard Heppner. He was a 1966 graduate of Canton Central Catholic High School. Then, a 1971 graduate of Case Western Reserve University. Later, he earned his Master’s Degree from Ohio University. Tom was a respected high school math teacher for 21 years at Morgan Local School District. During his years teaching, he coached cheerleading and golf for several years. Later he became MLSD’s Technology Coordinator for 27 years. His career gave him the opportunity to use his gifts for numbers, logic and problem-solving. It was also during his years at Morgan Local Schools that he met and married his wife Mary Jo Heppner, affectionately known as MJ. Tom and MJ had a heart for Shi Tzus. Tom was a very attentive and loving owner for Muffie, Max, Buster and Mazee. In this free time, Tom was an avid golfer, a loyal Cleveland Browns and Notre Dame fan, an eager boater at “The Lake”, admirer of Ford Mustangs and Subarus and a sudoku puzzler. And he was never one to turn down a beer, a margarita, a Snickers, homemade Chex mix or Chocolate Delight. Ultimately, Tom’s grandchildren: Lindsey, Grant, Coral, Jade and Clay; and his great grandchildren: Jase, Aubree, Abe, Molly and Gordy, brought him the most joy. He loved knowing and learning more about their hobbies, milestones and everyday lives. Also, he enjoyed sharing their stories, photos and accomplishments with others. He was profoundly proud of each of them. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mary Jo Heppner, two siblings Larry (Janine) Heppner of Cincinnati, Ohio and Sue Heppner of North Canton, Ohio. Two children Toby (Kim) Foster of Forest, Virginia and Tracie (Greg) Huffman of McConnelsville, Ohio. Along with five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Dennis and Robert Heppner and a sister Diane DeGasperis. Honoring his wishes, he will be cremated, and no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Morgan County Ohio Dog Pound. Matheney Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.