H.E. Jolly Jr.

H.E. Jolly Jr., 86, of Hot Springs Village, died Thursday, March 24, 2011 at an area hospital. He was born April 20, 1924 in Enders, Ark., to the late Hughey Emory Jolly and Doris Terry Jolly. H.E. served in the Army Air Corp and was a member of the 494th Bomb Group and flew missions from Okinawa during WWII. He had a wonderful sense of humor and often joked that his exploits as a soldier during World War II, had kept "America free." He attended the University of Arkansas and was also a member of the S.A.R. H.E. had a 35 year career with Kraft Foods, as an executive in marketing and sales. He was recognized with one of the company's highest awards, "The Jade Ring" for outstanding accomplishments. He was a true mentor to many people, especially to his children. He was a loving, caring father who loved his grandchildren, golf and gardening; he was a gourmet cook as well. H.E. was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Irene Mary Barron Jolly and brother, Carol Jolly. He is survived by son, Pat Jolly of Austin, Texas; daughter, Nancy Perez-Bowman of Chicago, Ill.; brothers, James Jolly of Plano, Texas, Robert Eugene Jolly of Hot Springs Village and Billy Ray Jolly of Montgomery, Ala.; grandchildren, Erin Rebecca Jolly, R. Joseph Perez Jr. and Emily Ryan Jolly; and his loving companion of 15 years, Mary Gunnell. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with Father Bill Elser as celebrant. Arrangements are under the care of Caruth Village Funeral Home; guests may register at http://www.caruth-hale.com.