Troy Thomas Hewlett, 59, of Poplar Bluff, MO, born December 16, 1965, in Benton, IL, died Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in Poplar Bluff, MO.
Troy was the ultimate “Sporting Man”, a great competitor, loyal teammate, dedicated coach, and #1 fan. His deeply rooted love for sports began at a very young age when his mom made a hoop out of a hanger, and Troy spent hours playing basketball against himself, all while keeping score. Some of his best years were spent when he was a Benton Ranger where he lettered in four varsity sports: football, basketball, baseball, and track. Shide, a nickname given by his teammates, believed in the spirit of teamwork and understood the value of unity. Later in life, Troy created a legacy committing years to coaching his younger siblings, having the ability to translate his own skills and experiences into teachable moments. As a fan, Troy was unparalleled in his devotion to the Kentucky Wildcats, Chicago Bulls, da Bears, the Cubs, Salukis, and his number one team, The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. His passion was evident, a force of energy that is a testament to how powerful and impactful support can be.
Family was the center of Troy’s universe. Troy’s proudest moment was becoming a father to his son, Tylan. A race in Nanny’s pool, a Lancer ball game, a round at Yorktown, a bench – in a park – waiting for his son, a Wilkinson reunion, a holiday free throw contest, a Saluki basketball game, and a Peters/Bennett impromptu concert were just a few of his favorite things. Troy had a great sense of humor and the best laugh. He constantly found the good in others, always lifting up those around him and magnifying every accomplishment with his enthusiasm, no matter how big or small.
Troy proudly served his country for six years in the United States Army. Troy’s favorite song was “Redeemed,” and we have peace and hope knowing that Jesus has carried him home.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Hewlett and his stepfather, Charlie Bennett.
Surviving are his son, Tylan Hewlett; his mother, Becky Bennett; four sisters and a brother, Heather Followell, Kim (Matt) Bullock, Lori Bennett, Natalie (Jason) Peters, and Bart (Shannon) Bennett; three stepchildren, Lundy Bills, Dante Thames, and Bria Isaiah; nine nieces and nephews, Jessica, Dylan, Noah, Susie, Ella, Zoe, Ruby, Charlie, and Lyra; a beloved uncle, Bobby; and many close first cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Stop Soldier Suicide, https://stopsoldiersuicide.org/donate. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit the family from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rik Maxedon officiating
Private burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
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