Diamond State Cremation and Mortuary Service

05/19/2026

Robert Franklin Welch (Bob-The Jam Man)

Robert entered this life November 1, 1929, in Ninnekah, Oklahoma, departed for heaven on May 15, 2026, from Mountain Home, Arkansas. He was born to Claude Welch and Dace Schoolfield Welch.

In 1941, the family moved to Sacramento, California. Bob graduated from Grant High School with honors in 1947 from the ROTC program. For a short time, he worked for the railroad as a fireman until 1950 when he joined the USAF. His rotations took him to Korea, Vietnam, Libya, Iceland and many states before leaving for retirement in Mississippi.

Wanting to stay busy he began his second career of 17 years with Southwestern Bell Telephone. There he received several monetary awards for improvement recommendations. He served as a volunteer for Grant Parish Sheriff Es**rt department riding his Gold Wing bike. He had a love for motor vehicles, especially his black and white T-Bird.

In time, he developed a hobby of making jam and sharing his favorite strawberry-banana jam with friends and strangers. Thus, he became known as “The Jam Man”. He kept a record of first names and places they lived. If they returned his empty jars, he made a
note next to their name. Obviously, those from other states or countries could not return empty jars. Throughout the years he gave thousands of jars away.

He served as President of Dry Prong, Grant Parish water Board for several terms. Bob married Lucy Seastrunk Fields Welch and began a new hobby of completing honey do lists but his best decision in life was a profession of faith in Jesus Christ on March
22, 2024.

Proceeded in death was his parents Claude Welch, Dace Welch, wife Bobbie Chilcoat Welch, son Wayne, daughter Debra Futrell, brothers Claude Jr. Welch, Walter Welch, grandson Timothy Tong.

Survivors include his wife Lucy Welch of Mountain Home, Arkansas, daughter Nancy Paige, Louisiana, Melinda Tong (Ike) Arkansas, son Glenn Fields (Jeanne) Arkansas, sister-in-law Janet Welch, Arkansas, daughter-in-law Tammy Welch, Louisiana, , brother Don Welch, California, grandchildren Josh Lincecum, Louisiana, Jessica Cadis, Texas, Lance Harris, Texas, Blake Futrell, Louisiana, Benjamin Tong (Corry), Alaska, Jonathan Fields, Arkansas, Shannon Moeser (Josh) Alaska, special cousin, Alicia Henry, Oklahoma . Also, he leaves great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He will be interned at the Freeman Cemetery, in Alleene, Arkansas, with military honors later.

Memorials may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 520 W. Daughtery St. Ashdown Ar., 71822 or Hospice House of the Ozarks, 774 Long Street, Mountain Home, Ar. 72653.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be made at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

05/14/2026

Matthew William Catron, 25, of Peel, Arkansas passed away tragically in a car accident on May 7, 2026, in Reeds Spring, Missouri. He was born in Waterloo, Iowa, on January 27, 2001, the son of Billy and Susan (Nibbelink) Catron.

Matthew was a fun-loving kid, he enjoyed hanging out with his friends and just kicking back. When he was younger, he really liked playing soccer and the outdoors. Matthew grew up in Peel, Arkansas and attended school at Lead Hill.

He is survived by his parents, Billy and Susan, and his sister Abigail Catron, adoptive and biological family.

At this time, there is no service planned.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

Our Son – Mathew William Catron
Five years of shifting shadows, of searching for a place,
Then hope and healing blossomed when we first held your face.
From a world of broken promises, you and Abby found the way,
To Susan and to Bill, where love embraced you every day.
“We are Mom and Dad,” we whispered, a vow to hold you fast,
To wrap you in a shelter that would outshine all the past.

Oh, Matthew William Catron, with a laughter bright and free,
You brought a radiant sunshine to our joyful family.
A soul of pure devotion, with dreams so big and bold,
A heart that loved the mountain life, more precious far than gold.
Upon our Arkansas homestead, where the woods are deep and green,
You were our happy, gentle boy, amidst the peaceful scene.

With pigs and goats and turkeys, and the cows upon the hill,
Your tender love for animals is a warmth that lingers still.
A family of ten together, you were a cherished part,
And every living creature felt the kindness of your heart.
Yet early burdens whispered, though we held your hand so tight,
And shadows from your childhood days would chase you through the night.

When eighteen years brought freedom, you fought a heavy storm,
And sought a way to quiet thoughts, to keep your spirit warm.
You walked a long and difficult road, a path you didn’t crave,
While we held tight to hope and prayer, so desperate to save.
We longed for your sweet turning back, to days of peace and grace,
Enfolded in the comfort of your family’s embrace.

A phone call on a Thursday, that fateful May the seventh day,
Broke our shattered hearts in two and took our breath away.
Our precious son was taken in an accident so severe,
But nothing dims the beautiful light of one we hold so dear.
You just turned twenty-five in January, your milestone year so bright,
We loved you unconditionally through every day and night.

No matter what the struggles were, you were our son, our pride,
And love remains unbroken now, across the Great Divide.
Your laughter softly echoes where the mountain forest thrives,
Forever loved, forever missed, by the ones who truly loved you.

Poem by: Billy Catron

05/14/2026

Stephen Lee Mollenkof, 74, of Big Flat, Arkansas, passed away at Baxter Regional Medical Center in Mountain Home, Arkansas on May 9, 2026. He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on August 17, 1951, the son of Leonard and Elaine (Hoyt) Mollenkof.

Stephen was a landscaper and gardener by trade. He took great pride in the work he accomplished. He was a generous kindhearted man who raised a garden donating food to the food bank and Senior Center for Meals on Wheels. When driving by the Senior Center in Big Flat you could see Stephen’s work of art outside, he maintained and preserved a beautiful flower box for the community to enjoy. Stephen was also an artist; he painted barn quilts and donated them to the Fox Library for varies benefits. He didn’t stop there, he would do other things for the community, like buying local eggs from the neighbors and donating them to the Dorcas Food Bank.

Stepehen is proceeded in death by his parents, Leonard and Elaine. He is survived by his two brothers, Mark Mollenkof of Chattanooga, Tennessee and Peter Mollenkof of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Also, he leaves behind a significant person that was involved in his life, Marcia Griffin, she was his friend, caretaker and companion. He didn’t just have Marcia in his life, he also had her family, Francis, Jia, Caleb, Adam, Joshusa and Bryson. Stephen developed some great friendships while living in Big Flat, he is leaving behind David Crawford, Kathi and Roger Shaller and many others.

Stephen will be missed dearly by everyone that knew and loved him.

There is no service planned at this time.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be made at

Diamond State Cremation & Mortuary Service is a family owned and operated full-service funeral home committed to providing personal service that is compassionate, dignified, and affordable. The loss of a loved one is a difficult circumstance to experience, and we want to provide comforting assistanc...

05/07/2026

Joyce Clersie Chapman, 85, of Summit, Arkansas passed away at her home on May 6th, 2026, peacefully surrounded by loved ones. She was born on October 12, 1940, in Monkey Run, Arkansas, the daughter of Henry Edward Carson and Sallie Mae (Davis) Carson.

Joyce loved family gatherings, quilting, cross stitching, crocheting, reading
and puzzles, gardening and tending to her flowers, feeding birds and spending time with
her cat. After marrying Wayne on May 30, 1969, she worked on a dairy farm while raising 4
daughters. She was a devout Christian and wonderful mother. She made sure her
children were provided for even when time was limited. Later in life, she moved to Summit, Arkansas and started working as a cook at the Senior Center. She excelled at her job and was promoted to head cook. Joyce then retired to spend more time with her grandchildren.

Joyce is proceeded in death by her father and mother, Henry Edward and Sallie
Mae Carson. Two brothers, Paul David and Tommy Carson, a sister Maxine Conner,
her husband H. Wayne Chapman, stepson Coy Chapman, and daughter Georgia Lee
Chapman.

She is survived by her sister Geneva Caststeel, four daughters Darla and Johnny Cheek, Lisa and Jeff Bennet, Sherry and Leon Beck and Pamela and Allen Nelson. She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Ashley (Brandon) Schulz, Kaylee Cheek, Jonathon Cheek, Cody Rose, Alex Beck, Jacob Beck, Elijah Beck, Marley Berry, Makenzie Horton and Gabe Horton. Also, her great grandchildren, Josie Scholtz, Rayland Scholtz, Hunter Cheek, Brelee Cheek, Brayden Beck and Karlie Beck. In addition, Joyce leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Services are scheduled as follows: Visitation at Main Street Church of Christ on May 11,
2026, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. followed by a graveside service starting at 3 :00 p.m. at Nanny Cemetery in Yellville, Arkansas. Officiating the funeral will be Tad Ott.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Main Street Church of Christ in Yellville, Arkansas or the Marion County Nursing Home Auxiliary Thrift Store.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas.

05/01/2026

Troy Allen Woelbing, 60, of Yellville passed away on Wednesday, April 29th of 2026 at his home. Troy was born to Allen and Delcie (Rhoads) Woelbing on August 29th, 1965.
After moving to Wisconsin, the family settled in the Henderson and Bull Shoals, Arkansas area.

Troy wore many hats throughout the years. He loved classic cars, especially Cadillacs. He also loved working at the North Central Arkansas Speedway and was affectionately called 'Backstretch Troy' by his racetrack friends and family. If you ever encountered Troy, you would remember him for his height, his jokes, and his hair.

Troy was preceded in death by his maternal and fraternal grandparents, his parents, and his longtime partner, Tammie Tomlinson.
He is survived by his three children, Savanna Woelbing of Yellville, Troy Allen Woelbing II (Vivian) of Summit, and Sarrah (Jordan) Wright of Carlisle, his granddaughters, Emersen Woelbing and Wrenley Wright and Tammie's daughter, Amber Baudro. He is also survived by his sister, Donna (Dan) Schmidt of Flippin and Chuck (Joy) Woelbing of Harrison along with a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

Cremation is under the direction of Diamond Cremation in Lead Hill.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at Bank Ozk under Woelbing Family c/o Savanna Woelbing.
Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

04/24/2026

Michael Clyde Watts, age 57, of St. Joe, Arkansas passed from this life on Saturday, April 11th, 2026, at his home in St. Joe, Arkansas. He was born in, Harrison Arkansas on September 18th, 1968, to Solomon Noah Watts and Georgia Elaine Arthur Watts Cranfill.

In Mike's early years he quickly took to his, self-appointed role as a protector. His sister, Linda Joe, was his first assumed responsibility. He watched over her like a parent. Even though still in school himself, he would “matter of fact-ly” set anyone straight he thought was mistreating her, even the teachers.

Mike enjoyed hobbies such as hunting, especially with Lady his Baby, and fishing for small mouth bass in the Arkansas waters.

Even still, there wasn't anything that could trump his undying loyalty to fulfill his presumed duty to serve any need whenever possible. His hobby, you could say, was learning and living via humility. Anyone within his scope, friend or foe in need, to them he owed his best. His pride would rest in his selfless service to not just his family, but his entire community. It is said that their logging crew would average 5 loads a day, two of them prepped each day before the sun arose by Mike alone.

He is preceded in death by his mother Elaine Arthur; two siblings, Vera Jo and Peter Brian Watts.

Survivors include his father, Solomon Watts; two sons Jorden and Cody Watts; two grandsons Isaiah and Garrett Watts; one sister Linda Joe Watts; and brothers Curtis Elliot and Ferrell Elliot; his friend Angie and many other family and friends who will mourn his passing.

Graveside services for Mike will be 3:00 PM Saturday April 25th, 2026 at Osborne Cemetery in St Joe, Arkansas with Bro. Walter Arthur officiating.

04/24/2026

Jerry Wayne Honaker, the son of Ken and Gerdi (Dietz) Honaker, was born December 2, 1960 in Pampa, Texas. Jerry was raised in Amarillo, Texas where he lived through his youth and graduated high school. Jerry loved boasting of his adventures with his sister and close friends on his Schwinn Stingray bicycle, mini bikes, his first car he bought and early working years. He developed an unparalleled work ethic from a young age that he carried with him for the rest of his life.

Jerry married Leigh Anne and had two children, his pride and joy, Tailer and Preston. Jerry loved to reminisce on the many camping trips and adventures that he shared with his kids. The passion for camping never left Jerry, nor did his love for cooking over and around a fire with family and friends. Jerry would light up when boasting about his children and grandchildren, the adventures shared and their many gifts and talents.

Jerry worked many jobs ranging from making doors, roofing (just to know how to do it), construction, cabinetry, building fighter jets at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, and finally keeping lawn mowers and small engines running in the greater Omaha, Arkansas area! Jerry worked for Lockheed Martin from 1986 to 2016 where he worked his way up to an associate manager, supervising the production of the F-35 fighter jet! Jerry was a meticulous, detail oriented wealth of knowledge. He was skilled in countless areas, excelled in all things that he put his mind to, and loved his family fiercely!

In late 2011 Jerry met Sandy Kidder while he was living in Fort Worth, Texas. Sandy fell instantly for Jerry’s charm, charisma and style. Among all of Jerry’s talents, let’s add interior and exterior decorator to the list! He could literally do it all! Jerry and Sandy married on September 22, 2012 in Red River, New Mexico. A simple picturesque ceremony in Jerry’s favorite place on earth, where he spent his childhood summers and made a lifetime of memories! When Jerry and Sandy married, he added to his tribe, between her daughters Spring and Brandy, and the whole Kidder family.

In 2016 Jerry and Sandy moved to northwest Arkansas where his retirement picture came to fruition. A home in the “mountains” on top of his little hill which served as a canvas for his craftsmanship in which no piece was left untouched by his hands. His dream of building a strip wood canoe quickly came to life after getting settled into his woodworking shop where Mystic River Canoe came to life! The beauty of his strip wood canoe was a reflection of his work and craftsmanship. I challenge anyone to find a flaw. Each strip was cut and formed by the hands of Jerry, placed, glued, fastened and fiberglassed with care. His dream became a beautiful display of a lifetime of acquired skill.

Jerry’s extroverted personality and desire for fun aided in the creation of a network of friendships that spanned far and wide. From bonfires in the backyard, cookouts “just because”, “1000-mile Iron Butt” motorcycle challenge, trips to traders days and flea markets, and of we can’t forget the motorcycle roadtrips to New Mexico and Colorado with his best friends and colleagues on his prized Honda GL1800 Gold Wing; the most reliable and comfortable motorcycle there ever was. He would tolerate his friends on a Harley, and would keep them company when it inevitably broke down.

Jerry’s imprint on this Earth was bigger than that of Bigfoot himself. Jerry was a champion for “what is right”, a skeptic, and a self educated wealth of knowledge. He was a master of many crafts, a talented cook, a strip wood canoe builder and wood fired smoker of all things sweet and savory. To say that Jerry will be missed is the understatement of 1000 lifetimes.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Sandy; father Ken Honaker and wife Jean; daughter, Tailer Patman, her husband Caine and their two children Tinley and Ty; son, Preston Honaker, his wife Brittney and their three children Chance, Caroline and Carter; sister, Kathy Holt, brother, Gary Honaker, two bonus daughters, and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Gerdi and brother-in-law Juno.

Jerry’s faith and belief in Christ Jesus was strong and deep-rooted. On Wednesday morning April 22, 2026 the carpenters and craftsmen in heaven completed Jerry’s heavenly home. It will be the most tightly fitted, perfectly plumbed and squared log cabin ever constructed. Situated in a valley facing east, surrounded by mountains, a river filled with fish and a fire pit surrounded with chairs for his family and friends. Go rest high Jerry, your work here is done.

A Celebration of a life well lived will be held Friday, May 8, 2026 at 2pm in First Baptist Church in Lead Hill, Arkansas. A time of fellowship will be held immediately following the service for EVERYONE to come and share in stories, hugs and laughter to honor our beloved “J-Dub”

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Jerry’s name to First Baptist Church of Lead Hill, Lead Hill, AR 72644 to help support their men’s breakfast, the community outreach and missions work that is done through the church.

Arrangements by Diamond State Funerals in Lead Hill.

04/20/2026

"Michael John Walkerwicz, 70, of Lead Hill, Arkansas, passed away on April 12, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by conviction, humor, and an unmistakable presence that will not soon be forgotten.

Michael was born on May 1, 1955, in Callicoon, New York, and raised in Upstate New York as a proud second-generation American to his Polish immigrant parents, John Andrew Walkerwicz and Natalie Ulanska Walkerwicz. From an early age, he carried with him the grit, values, and determination that would come to define his life.

Michael served in the U.S. Navy, went on to work as a locomotive engineer, and later became the owner of a small-town newspaper in Ellenville, New York. He spent most of his life working, building, and staying busy—always on his own terms. He was quick-witted, hardworking, hard-headed, generous, and deeply knowledgeable, rarely missing an opportunity to share his perspective—whether you asked for it or not.

Michael had a love for collecting things that told stories: coins, stamps, and fi****ms. But perhaps more than anything, he collected moments—especially those filled with spirited debate. Known as a “master debater” of politics, he thrived on disagreement for sport, especially around the holiday dinner table, where conversations were lively. His grandchildren will always remember him for his larger-than-life personality and for the scratch of his beard that could make even the bravest of them tear up.

Michael is survived by his wife, Karen Low Walkerwicz; his children, Natalie Walkerwicz; Kalyn Young (Jarodd); Ethan Walkerwicz (Shawna); Amelia Richardson (Joseph); and Rachel Walkerwicz (Aaron Joseph). He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Saveon, Josiah, Saviyah, Jakaih, Jaiceon, Jettalyn, Jovie, Ayva, Seth, Makayla, Mason, Mia, Matthew, and Cora; his sister-in-law, Hilda Gray; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Thomas and his wife Bettie Walkerwicz and William “Butch” Walkerwicz; and his nephew, Ronald Charles Walkerwicz, a U.S. Marine Corps Captain laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

Though time on earth is fleeting, Michael lived his life fully—on his own terms, with passion, humor, and an unshakable sense of self. He held a deep belief in Christ that brought him hope and contentment. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him. His voice, his laughter, and his spirit will echo on in the stories told around tables for generations to come.

Memorial contributions may be made to Victory Independent Baptist Church in Yellville, Arkansas.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be made at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

04/13/2026

It is with great sorrow that we announce that Gary Michiel Inness passed away on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, at Eaglecrest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ash Flat, Arkansas.

Gary was born on February 14th, 1952, in Pocohontas, Arkansas, to the late Billy Joe and Imogene Inness. He was a devout Christian and member of the Church of Christ, a loving father, and grandfather, and a man who gave every effort to help those
in need.

Gary was a machinist supervisor with Crane National Vendors for 30 years, tradesman, carpenter, and served as the Mayor of Ravenden Springs, Arkansas, until his eventual retirement in 2012.

He was a regular blood donor with the Red Cross, avid fan of Star Wars and Doctor Who, and won many awards in mathematics. He was also a leader of his local Boy Scouts troop.

Gary spent as much time outdoors as he could, especially with his children and grandchildren, and gave many, many summers of fond memories to those who remember him as Grandpa Gary.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, brother Hein Nguyen, and his son Shawn Anthony Inness.

He is survived by his four children: Mike Inness, Eric (Joanna) Inness, Leah (Daniel) Miller, and Ryan Inness. Four siblings: Rhonda (Timothy) Potter, Zenna (Tom) Inness, Kevin Inness, and Timothy (Gennifer) Inness. Six grandchildren: Mara Inness, Julian Davis, Zachary (Savannah) Walter, Elizabeth Bell, Joshua “JJ” Davis, Kacee Bell, Conner Davis. Along with many cherished relatives and friends.

A celebration of life service will be held at the Ravenden Springs Church of Christ Fellowship Hall on Saturday May 23rd, 2026.

Gary was a neighbor and a friend to all, beloved by many. He will be forever missed by those who knew him.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

04/13/2026

Rocky Arndt, aged 68, passed on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He spent his final days as he spent his life - deeply loved.

Rocky was born June 22, 1957, in Wisconsin, the first of five children. In his youth, he was a prankster and daredevil, keeping everyone on their toes. He grew to be a stoic man on the surface, private and reserved; but beneath that was a man of wit, humor, and - most of all - a warm and generous heart.

In his early years, he had the opportunity to travel abroad thanks to his time in the US Army, including most notably, his time stationed in Germany. He cherished that time due to his own German heritage, and gladly recounted stories and experiences from his time there at family gatherings.

Rocky was a man of many interests and talents, with a quick and curious mind. If there was something he was keen to learn, he was relentless in the pursuit of that knowledge, and he loved to share it. His passions were numerous and varied, from riding his gorgeous blue Harley Davidson motorcycle and playing golf with his brother, to collecting and carefully preserving NASCAR model cars, to making the spiciest chili and the best Kringle (but only at Christmas time). His greatest passion in recent years was his orchard where he spent time lovingly cultivating many fruit trees and then crafting delicious jams and jellies from the fruit he grew - a passion he carried on from his mother.

Woodworking came naturally to Rocky. He showed a love for craftsmanship at an early age and brought that passion forward into a career: Rocky was the proud owner and operator of Rocky's Custom Carpentry. Through this business, he built beautiful homes all over the Ozark area with care and incredible craftsmanship. In addition to his work, he leaves behind a legacy of masterpieces he has gifted to family and friends over the years.

Rocky's generous spirit was unmatched. He found joy in giving gifts - most memorably hand-crafted items like candles, jams, and Rocky’s Famous Best Ever Hot Cocoa Mix, and a stuffed animal for every child at every Christmas (usually the most gigantic ones he could find). Beyond tangible items, he gave the gift of experiences. He is known for incredible fireworks shows, beautiful holiday displays, and evenings spent laughing squishy-footed around a bonfire or on a pontoon.

Rocky was lovingly known as Dad, Grandpa, son, brother, and Uncle Boo. He is survived by his life partner, Tammie Ritz; his children, Chastity (Arndt) & Daniel Beaver, and Chirsty Arndt & David Lhotka; his parents Betty & James Arndt; his grandchildren, Daniel Jr and Kylie Beaver; his siblings, Julie (Arndt) & Rick Risberg, Greg Arndt, Lisa (Arndt) & Daryl Wilken, Lola (Arndt) & Edward Jaeger; his beloved cats, Monkey and George (who will miss him greatly on their morning walks); and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. A person full of life and love, he will be missed dearly by those who knew him.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

04/10/2026

Charles Stewart, 89, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on April 8th, 2026.

Born in 1936 in Piggott, Arkansas, Charles was raised by his parents, Everett and Floy Stewart, alongside his identical twin brother, Robert Stewart, with whom he shared a lifelong bond that remained one of the most meaningful relationships of his life. The two were inseparable growing up, playing football together as inside and outside linebackers and forming a connection that endured across decades, distance, and life’s many chapters.

Charles graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in chemical engineering, beginning a distinguished career that would take him and his family across the country and around the world. He spent much of his professional life with Ball Corporation, ultimately serving as CEO of Latapack-Ball, a joint venture between Ball and a Brazilian company. In this role, Charles was instrumental in building the venture from the ground up overseeing all aspects of its development and expansion in Brazil. The success of Latapack-Ball would later be recognized by Ball Corporation as one of the most successful joint ventures in the company’s history.

Following his retirement in 2000, Charles and his beloved wife, Suzanne, settled in Fort Myers, Florida where they enjoyed many years together before relocating to Mountain Home, Arkansas in 2016 to be closer to family, especially his brother Robert.

Charles shared a 67-year marriage with his high school sweetheart, Suzanne Ballard Stewart, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Floy Stewart, and his sister, Sue Stewart Grasso.

Together, Charles and Suzanne built a life centered on family, faith, and shared passions. They especially loved golfing together and spent countless hours on the course, enjoying both the game and the friendships it brought.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Charles was actively involved in his church communities wherever he lived. He served as a deacon while in Colorado, an elder during his time in Florida, and was a devoted Sunday school teacher for many years. His commitment to his faith was not only evident in his service, but in the way he lived his life with integrity and care for others.

Charles is survived by his daughter, Tracy McKendry, and his son, Darren Stewart. He has 6 grandchildren: Emily Benton, Zachary McKendry, Jonathan McKendry, Elizabeth Stone, Hailey Stewart, and Ryan Stewart.
He was proud of the ten great-grandchildren that survived him:
Corey and Aubrey Benton (children of Emily)
Ayla and Jorel McKendry (children of Zachary)
Christian, Caleb and Hayden McKendry (children of Jonathan)
Joshua, Samuel, and Hazel Stone (children of Elizabeth)

Charles will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a respected leader in his profession and a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and enduring loyalty to those he loved.

A memorial service honoring Charles’s life will be held at First Baptist Church of Mountain Home on Monday April 13th at 3 PM. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate a life well lived.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com