Russell Loyd Cranford

Russell Loyd Cranford, of Malvern, passed away on March 31, 2018 at the age of 92. Russell was born on June 13, 1925, in Mount Holly, Ark., to William Curtis Cranford and Alva Scroggins Cranford. His family moved to the Glen Rose area while Russell was still a child. He attended Glen Rose Schools. He married his wife of 67 years, Marguerite Estelle French, on May 6, 1950. Russell served his country as a member of the United States Navy in WWII. He was assigned to the USS Half Moon and spent his tour of duty on that ship in the South Pacific. Upon returning to the States after the war, he went to work for Reynolds Metals Company where he retired after more than 40 years. During his tenure at Reynolds, he held the position of Union President for many years. A life-long Democrat, he was actively involved with local, state and national politics, both personally and through his position with the Steel Workers' Union. Because of his leadership, avid concern for his fellow workers, and his willingness to protect their interest, he was given the good-natured nickname "The Wheel" by his co-workers. Russell also served the Malvern community for many years as a Little League coach, with his teams taking home two state championships among other honors. He was instrumental in shaping not only the athletic ability but the moral character of many of the young men in the community through his years in coaching. Russell was also an avid hunter, belonging to the Malvern Hunting Club for many years. He passed on his love of hunting, not only to his sons but also to his grandsons and his great-grandsons, who still belong to the same club and hunt on the same land that he loved so dearly. He also enjoyed fishing and was a horse racing enthusiast. After many years as a spectator, he eventually became the co-owner of a thoroughbred and was present to see her coming down the stretch and winning a race. He remembered that as one of the most exciting things he had ever experienced. Russell was preceded in death by his parents, his son, James Richard Cranford; his brother, Howard Cranford; sister, Ruby Burlingston; and an infant brother. He is survived by his wife, Marguerite; his son, Dr. Russell L. Cranford, II (Kathy) of Little Rock; his daughter, Crystal Cranford (Randy Overton) of Malvern; grandsons Shawn R. Cranford (Tiffany) of Little Rock and Russell L. Cranford, III (Hitomi) of Euless, Texas; his great-grandchildren, Joshua Cranford, Emma Cranford, William Cranford, Celia Cranford and Lewis Cranford. He is also survived by two brothers, Noel Cranford and James Cranford (Vonda) of Malvern; and many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends. The family also wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to Russell's special caregivers whose dedicated 24-hour care for the past three years, allowing Russell to remain in his home until his passing. Also, special thanks are given to Kindred Hospice nurses and staff for their compassionate care. We will forever miss our husband, father, brother and Papaw, but our Christian faith comforts us with the knowledge that he is restored and at peace, at home with the Father. "For we know, that to be absent from the body, is to be at home with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8) Visitation will be on Tuesday evening, April 3, 2018, from 5-7 p.m., at J.A. Funk Funeral Home. Funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with Brother Teddy Frye officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Rockport Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.