Roy Lamar Vinson

Roy Lamar Vinson, a well-known Searcy resident died Tuesday, December 14, 2010. He was 81 years of age. Lamar was born February 21, 1929 to Roy Vinson and Thelma Crosby Vinson in Hiram Bluff, Arkansas. He was a graduate of Pangburn High School and served in the United States Navy. He was a member of College Church of Christ. Lamar owned a variety of Searcy businesses through the years including Vinson's Esso Station, Rendevous Restaurant and the local U-Haul Dealership and Greyhound bus station that he affectionately referred to as "the Corner." Lamar is survived by his wife of 57 years Ann Harris Vinson; two daughters and four grandchildren, Kristie Vinson Sexton and husband Al, of Fayetteville, Ark. and Kim Vinson Maldonado of Richland, Washington. He loved the company of his four grandchildren; two granddaughters Bailey and Beth Sexton of Fayetteville, Ark. and two grandsons, Quinton and Cade Maldonado of Richland, Wash. In addition, Lamar is survived by a brother, Crosby "Sonnie" Bryant of Houston, Texas; a sister, Zella "Betty" Fowler, a sister and brother-in-law, Joy and George Oliver and a beloved brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Linda Harris, all of Searcy. He also leaves behind a sister-in-law, Emily Colby of Blythe, Calif. and numerous relatives and friends. Lamar loved to watch western movies and tend to his cattle and farm. He was known for his gruff exterior that hid a heart of gold. He was always ready with a helping hand for friends, as well as strangers. Services will be under the direction of Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. Visitation will be Friday, December 17 from 6-8 p.m. at Powell Funeral Home. The funeral services will be held at the funeral home Saturday, December 18 at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Henderson Cemetery in Pangburn. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Searcy Children's Home, 509 N. Main Street, Searcy, Ark. 72143, or charity of your choice.