Robert Jefferson Denniston

Robert Jefferson Denniston, lovingly known as "Coach D" or "Bobby" passed away on Jan. 10 at the age of 88 years. A graduate of Alma High School and College of the Ozarks, a U.S. Naval Veteran of World War II, a U.S. Army Veteran of Korea, a State Championship Basketball coach and teacher of 50 years, a member of the Arkansas Athletics Hall of Fame. Bob was loved and admired by generations of players and students. He was a loving husband to Phyllis Price Denniston his wife of 66 years; a wonderful father to son, Robert Terry Denniston and wife Kendell of Woodland, Wash.; daughter, Cynthia Ann McKuin and husband Glen of Boise, Idaho; son, Richard David Denniston and wife Debra of Deer, Ark.; daughter, Patti Jo Shock and husband Randy of Fort Smith, Ark.; and adopted son, Gerald Clark Hudspeth and wife Linda of Cave Springs, Ark. Bob was preceded in death by father and mother, Richard and Mildred Denniston; brother, Toby Denniston; sister, Leta Denniston; and grandson, Colby Jefferson Farris. He is survived by his wife Phyllis; brother, Jim Denniston of Houston; sister, Betty Lou Bradley of Alma; four children; 17 grandchildren; and 41 great grandchildren. Private family graveside service with military honors will be Monday, Jan. 13, 2014 under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home of Alma. Honorary Pallbearers will be John Parish, Doug McKinney, Gerald Hudspeth, Jackie Dale Pritchard, Kenneth McFarrin, Floyd Cagle. In Lieu of Flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Mountainburg Public Schools. To place an online tribute please visit www.ockerfuneralhome.com.