Jimmy King

The family and friends of Jimmy King of Searcy, Arkansas, mourn the passing of a cherished husband, a beloved and respected father, a man of faith, of integrity and kindness. He was blessed by the love and companionship of a devoted wife and loving son, as well as a large extended family and many who called him friend. Jimmy departed this earth on November 8, 2017, in the peace and tranquility of a home he loved, created by his wife, Shirley Hays King and son, J. Stanley King. Even after a terminal diagnosis of cancer two and a half months ago, he found strength through his Lord. He was comforted knowing his soul was eternally satisfied and he in turn comforted those who loved him. Jimmy King, born May 5, 1935, was allowed 82 years on this earth. He was born of James Paul King and Blanche Ella Sims King at Roosevelt, Arkansas. He is survived by his twin sister, Joyce Gay of Van Buren, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Vondell King and Averil King Beaver. He completed his education at Searcy High School, attending his junior and senior year there. His classmates will remember a pleasant, unassuming young man with a quiet demeanor but a dry sense of humor. During this period, he was a member of the Army National Guard. Sixty-two years ago, Jimmy became the “Jimmy” of “Jimmy and Shirley”. He would maintain that he was the blessed one of a couple that was devoted to each other. They were married on December 20, 1954. Both were nineteen years old. Their Golden Anniversary was celebrated with friends and family, a gift provided by their son, J. Stanley. They worked, worshipped and parented side by side until their recent retirement. Despite health issues, they savored their time together. They were married sixty-two years. A strong work ethic served Jimmy well. He worked hard, was resilient, and practical - all characteristics necessary in business. Beginning in partnership with Dorothy and Coolidge Nier, they, along with Jimmy and Shirley, purchased Beebe Hardware, which later would become King Furniture, in Searcy, Arkansas. Upon the Nier’s retirement, Shirley joined Jimmy at “the store”. King Furniture was a respected business in the community and the friendliness, fairness and the welcoming smiles grew a business. Moreover, the Kings valued their customers and over the years that appreciation resulted in lifelong friendships. Jimmy was a contributing member to the business community, a member of the Kiwanis Club forty-five years. A humble man of faith, a man whose generosity went unannounced, a man who put others before himself, Jimmy lived his belief. He was a deacon of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, a faithful and dedicated member. He was an Honorary Trustee of the Budd Creek Youth Camp, an appointment in which he took great pride. Being remembered fondly, Jimmy King was a man of few words, those quietly spoken. But spoken, they were meaningful. The family wishes to thank the specially selected caregivers, Nanci Morrison and Phyllis Kurck, for their expertise, but above all, for their kindness and gentle tending. The life of Jimmy King will be remembered as a gentleman, with respect and with great affection. You are invited to continue the celebration of this life that mattered to many, at visitation at Powell Funeral Home, Searcy, Friday evening from six until eight o’clock. The funeral service will be at one o’clock Saturday, November 11, at Valley Baptist Church, 3328 Highway 36, Searcy, Arkansas. The remembrance and celebration will be conducted by Jimmy’s nephews, Brother Keith Lewis and Brother James Hays. Burial will follow at White County Memorial Gardens Obituary lovingly composed by Beverly Hogan. www.powellfuneralhome.net

Jimmy King

May 5, 1935 - November 8, 2017