Thomas Edward Breeden

Thomas Edward Breeden, 74, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at his home with his beloved wife by his side.

Tom was born on June 7, 1952, in Sikeston, Missouri, to Lester and Marie (Cancienne) Breeden. He graduated from Poplar Bluff High School with the Class of 1970. He married the love of his life, Rebekah “Becky” Longbottom, on April 7, 1984, in Gramercy, Louisiana.

Tom dedicated his career to bridge construction, spending decades helping build large-scale bridges spanning major waterways throughout the United States. His career carried him and Becky across several states, beginning with a move to Louisiana in the early 1980s for a bridge project. Though they made many places home throughout the years, Louisiana always held a special place in their hearts. In 1999, they returned to Poplar Bluff, where they enjoyed being close to family and lifelong friends.

Throughout his career, Tom took great pride in building bridges that would serve communities for generations—a legacy of hard work, craftsmanship, and dedication that will endure for years to come.

Away from work, Tom was happiest surrounded by family and friends. He loved taking motorcycle rides, spending days at the river, and cooking for those he loved. Whether hosting a fish fry or a crawfish boil, Tom never missed an opportunity to bring people together around a good meal. Throughout his life he loved dogs, but none captured his heart quite like his faithful companion, Roux, who was never far from his side.

Above all, Tom treasured his family. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 42 years, Becky Breeden; his daughter, Mallory Stith and her husband, Nicholas, of Poplar Bluff; his cherished granddaughters, Piper and Quinn, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy; his sister-in-law, Lori Martin and her husband, Doug; and cherished extended family in Louisiana, where he and Becky built lifelong friendships and countless memories, as well as numerous dear friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Marie Breeden.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hummingbird Estate, 979 County Road 450, Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri in honor of Tom’s lifelong love of dogs and his beloved companion, Roux.