Obituaries

Bobby Gene Stegall

Photo of Bobby Gene Stegall
We celebrate the life of Bobby Gene Stegall, 83, of Haskell, who completed his earthly service for Jesus Christ on November 7, 2014. Born November 6, 1931, in Newport, he was the oldest child of the late Nora Magdalene Honey Stegall. Growing up in Newport and Haskell, Bob worked multiple jobs to help support his mother, brothers, and sister. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1952, transferring in 1955 to the Army Reserve for five years. On August 2, 1955, Bob married the love of his life, Opal Fooks. In the 1960's and 70's, he served as a union arbitrator for the United Steelworkers and headed up several innovative safety and health programs while working at Reynolds Metals (Bryant). A licensed boiler house and water supply operator, he retired in 1986 after serving as superintendent of the power house. Intellectually curious, Bob read widely and actively engaged others to continue their education. Although a massive stroke in 1994 limited his ability to read and his passion for building and landscaping, this dedicated student listened to the complete Bible multiple times each year and continued to cultivate roses. Bob was member of the Benton Masonic Lodge #34. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Camilla White, and his brother, David Stegall. Bob is survived by his wife, his dearest friend and soul mate of nearly 60 years, Opal Fooks Stegall, whose family brought much joy to his life; son and daughter-in-law, Drs. Scott and MeriBeth Stegall, daughter and son-in-law, Tanya and Kelly Kennedy; four grandchildren, Jason Holiman (Jill), Josh Holiman (Stephanie), Chloe and Camilla Stegall; seven great-grandchildren, Austin, Katelyn, Cody, Bailey, Kimberly, Kaylee, and Jessica; and three brothers, Thomas Stegall of Rogers, Don Stegall of Hot Springs, and Jerry Walker of Meza, Arizona. Bob served God through his dedication to his family. He was quick with a grin, especially with smiling kids, straight talk, and his time. A force of nature, a super-hero, he worked tirelessly for the people and causes that stirred his concern. His family, especially Opal, will sorely miss his comforting presence but are thankful for the peace he now has with Jesus. Cremation arrangements are complete and memorial/celebration services begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2014 at Ashby Funeral Home, with his brother, Jerry Walker, officiating. Visitation begins at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be directed to a charitable organization of your choice such as for Bibles by the Gideons International (www.gideons.org/sendtheword). Bob's on-line guestbook is located at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

Published November 11, 2014

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