How is Mr. Link Deas heroic in TKAM

Mr. Deas puts himself on the line by speaking up for Tom Robinson;

"Mr. Link Deas rose from the audience and announced: 'I just want the whole lot of you to know one thing right now. That boy's worked for me eight years an' I ain't had a speck o'trouble outa him. Not a speck.""

He also goes out of his way to help Helen Robinson after her husband is killed. Deas hires Helen, even though he doesn't need the help. He doesn't offer charity, he offers self-respect. Mr. Deas also offers Helen protection from Ewell's threatening behavior.

As Mr. Link came out of his store he saw Mr. Ewell leaning on the fence. Mr. Ewell said, "Don't you look at me, Link Deas, like I was dirt. I ain't jumped your-"

"First thing you can do, Ewell, is get your stinkin' carcass off my property. You're leanin' on it an' I can't afford fresh paint for it. Second thing you can do is stay away from my cook or I'll have you up for assault-"

"I ain't touched her, Link Deas, and ain't about to go with no nigger!"

"You don't have to touch her, all you have to do is make her afraid, an' if assault ain't enough to keep you locked up awhile, I'll get you in on theLadies' Law, so get outa my sight! If you don't think I mean it, just bother that girl again!"

Mr. Ewell evidently thought he meant it, for Helen reported no further trouble.