Bobby J. Garner

  Garner

Bobby J. “Bob” Garner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on November 11, 1929, in Oak Grove, Arkansas, to John Sherman and Florence Beatrice (Johnson) Garner. On October 21, 2024, at the age of 94, Bob passed peacefully at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas surrounded by the love of his family.

Bob was a proud Navy veteran who served his country during the Korean War. His volunteer work at the VA hospital was a reflection of his gratitude for those who served, and he gave selflessly to honor them.

After 32 years of service to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bob retired from his position as Beaver Lake Construction and Maintenance Superintendent for the Beaver Reservoir. He was a member of Southside Church of Christ in Rogers, Arkansas, and his involvement with the Elks Lodge showcased his commitment to community.

Bob found his truest joy in nature. He loved fishing and hunting, but was also an avid birdwatcher, able to identify birds by their songs and calls. He loved teaching family and friends to appreciate the wonders of the natural world, always sharing a story or two along the way.

His stories, told with heart and laughter, will live on as cherished memories for those who had the privilege of listening.

On December 8, 1954, Bob married the love of his life, Karen (Bunch) Garner, and together they built a legacy of love that spanned nearly 70 years. Karen survives him, holding close the memories of their journey together. His love for his family was boundless. He leaves behind a lasting imprint on the lives of his daughter, Sherma Clark and her husband Roger; his son, Joel Garner; his grandchildren, Katelyn Ball and her husband Chris, Sam Clark and his wife Heather Allison, and his great-grandchildren, Landon Clark Ball and Eli Garner Ball, all of whom brought immense joy to his heart.

He is also survived by his sister, Pauline Trigg; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless dear friends who will forever remember his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Sherman and Florence Garner. Their love and guidance were with him throughout his life, and now he is reunited with them in peace.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Charles M. Nelson Memorial Chapel in Berryville followed by a celebration of Bob’s life at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Paul Woodhouse officiating. He will be laid to rest at Hale Cemetery in Oak Grove, the place where his roots run deep.

Bob’s love for life, his family, and his community will forever live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

“Though he is gone from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.”

Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hugerston, MD 21741 or American Heart or Stroke Association Memorial & Tribute Proc CTR, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284, in Bob’s honor. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to nelsonfuneral.com