Johnny Lane Rockett

Johnny Lane Rockett, 79, of Benton, Arkansas, died March 28, 2019 at his home. He was born January 20, 1940 in Bernice, Louisiana to parents, Borden and Ovia Marie Rockett. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ron Rockett. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia and sons, Jacob Higgins (Chelsie) of Sheridan, Jimmy Witherspoon of Hope, and Charlie Rockett of Camden; sisters, Mary Williamson of Minden, Louisiana, and Jean Allen of Tyler, Texas; brother, David Rockett of Benton, Louisiana. Other survivors include his granddaughter, Ellie Kate Higgins and a host of nieces and nephews. Johnny, an airborne Ranger, served as a captain in the Army during the Vietnam War. Among the numerous military awards he received, Johnny was most proud of the Bronze Star. In the citation for this honor, he was lauded for "his initiative, zeal, sound judgment, and devotion to duty". An avid outdoorsman, Johnny enjoyed boating, skiing, riding motorcycles, and flying planes. He and his best friend, James Stewart, spent countless hours in their parachute planes flying around Hope and Prescott. Additionally, Johnny taught generations of children to ski on Lake Greason by engineering a special set of small skis to increase their balance to facilitate their learning. Anyone who knew Johnny understands that he believed that happiness comes from giving of ourselves to others. He loved sharing stories of his past with family and friends and laughing along with them. Even when his health declined, his sweet, loving nature continued to shine. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 3 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of the First Methodist Church in Benton. Family and friends are invited to gather at the home immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the Dementia Society of American (P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, Pa. 18901) or Wounded Warrior Project (P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kan. 66675). On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.