Robert Lester Kirchman

Robert Lester Kirchman, 91, of Russellville, passed away Sunday, February 11, 2018 in Russellville with his loved ones by his side. Robert was born May 6, 1926 in Fort Smith, AR to Lester Herman. and Lorene (Wilson) Kirchman. Robert served our country in the U.S. Army (Air Force Division) during WWII. After the war Robert earned his undergraduate degree from Hendrix College and his graduate degree from the University of Missouri. He was the band director in Harrison for many years and in 1961 joined the faculty of Arkansas A&M College in the education department later serving as Academic Dean, Registrar and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. He was one of the faculty members who played a key role in moving Arkansas A&M College into the University of Arkansas system. "Dean" Kirchman was a member of Alpha Chi, Phi Delta Kappa, and served as Secretary and President of the Monticello Kiwanis Club as well as Lt Governor for District 21 of Kiwanis International. He served as Secretary and President of the Arkansas Academic Deans' Association. He was a member of Highland Valley United Methodist Church. Robert enjoyed woodworking, playing the trumpet, and working on his computer. He loved spending time with his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mary Margret Holmes, brothers: William and David Kirchman; one sister, Betty Jo Crites; one granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Taylor. Mr. Kirchman is survived by his children: Carrie Ann & Al Taylor of Russellville, Catherine Margaret & Phil Wanzer of Russellville, and Christopher Robert Kirchman of Little Rock; grandchildren: Maggie (Quint) Ashburn of Ward and Mollie (Will) Richey of Benton. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Patricia Hudson of Conway and Hazel Kirchman of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Visitation will be 6–7:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at the Second Baptist Church of Russellvile, 1100 N Frankfort. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice 2405 East Parkway Suite 3 Russellville. Mr. Kirchman's memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, February 19, 2018 at Pinecrest Cemetery in Alexander, Ark. with Brother Jonathan Whitlock officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Cox Funeral Home, online guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clarksville.