Russell Haynes Farr

Mr. Russell Haynes Farr, 90, passed from this life Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013, at St. Bernard's Hospital in Jonesboro. Russell was born to Russell Carter and Melba Haynes Farr in Blytheville, was a member of the First Baptist Church in Blytheville and served his country with honor in the U.S. Army during WWII. As an Army Lieutenant in WW II, Russell fought and served under General George Patton in The Battle of the Bulge.

His ability to lead individuals carried on after he left the Army and made his way back home. Russell was a local business owner (R.C. Farr and Sons -- gas distributorship) for many years, and also served in many civic leadership roles -- President of the Blytheville Chamber of Commerce, President of the Blytheville Country Club, appointed by Governor Clinton to the Water and Sewer Board and served for many years on the Board of Trustees for Mississippi County Community College (now Arkansas Northeastern College).

For Russell, a life-long membership with First Baptist Church was more than a seat in the pew. He was the outreach leader for his Sunday School Class for over two decades and served faithfully and responsibly on the deacon board. No matter the situation which would arise, Russell always seemed to possess the talent to overcome the challenges (usually with a smile).

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Sue Piercy, and a son, Gary Farr.

Russell is survived by a sister-in-law Hilda Farr;

Two nephews, Steve Farr and his wife, Mandy and Richard Farr and his wife, Janie;

A great-nephew Austin;

A great-niece, Emily Farr; and

A great-nephew Aaron Farr and niece, Margo Wood, in New Mexico.

In addition to his family he is survived by two special friends, Bill Sullivan and Peewee Ellis and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday in the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Steve Baillio officiating. Burial will be in Elmwood Cemetery and friends will be received Monday morning from 10 a.m. till service time, also at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Arkansas Northeastern College Foundation or the charity of choice. Condolences to the family may be expressed on the online register at www.cobbfuneralhome.com