James Randall Maness

James Randall Maness, 61, of Alexander, Ark., passed away on July 30, 2016 at home with his wife by his side. He was born Sept. 7, 1954 in Selmer, Tenn. to the late James Maness and to Vivian Maness. Randy was raised in Selmer, Tenn. and graduated from McNairy Central High School in 1972. He then went on to obtain an engineering degree from Memphis State University and spent most of his career working as a Civil Engineer. Randy treasured his family, and loved sharing stories about each of their accomplishments. Especially if it was about one of his grandchildren. Randy, or "Papaw", rarely missed a ballgame, band performance, cheer competition, or dance recital. His grandchildren brought him great joy and he was proud of each and everyone of them. Randy also loved his church, The First Untied Church of Bryant, and was a very active member. He loved the many ministries he was involved in there including the Chancel Choir, the Trinity Handbells, his work with the Methodist Men, and the wonderful individuals of the Weslyn Sunday School Class. Randy always loved his music, and over the last several years, he enjoyed singing with a local quartet group. He was also a loyal Cardinals fan, and whether it was watching them in St. Louis on a father/son trip or laid back in his living room, he always loved to watch them play. Randy is survived by his wife of 32 years, Darla Maness; two daughters, Ginger Schrader and husband, Alan and Melissa Powell; one son, Nathan Maness and his wife, Kathy; one daughter-in-law, Sandy Drew; his mother, Vivian Maness; one Brother, Roger Maness; one sister, Janet Thomas; and 10 grandchildren: Colby Maness and fiance', Brantley Dorrell, Timothy, Jayme, and Brady Powell, Haley, Hayden, and Heidi Schrader, Annabelle and Alayna Maness, and Whitten Maness; and many nieces and nephews. Randy Maness was an amazing man who will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He lived and loved each day to its fullest, and we are grateful to have had him in our lives as a Husband, Son, Dad, Brother, Papaw, and Uncle. He taught us that if you are proud of someone, do not be afraid to let them know it. Always be loyal to your team, even if they are having a bad season. And always, always make it a great story. Visitation will be Monday, Aug. 1 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton from 6-8 p.m. with a memorial service at First United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Burial will be at Mount Gilead Cemetery in Selmer, Tenn. Memorials to be made to the Cole Halley Scholarship Fund at FUMC Bryant to the obituary please.