John Richard Meade

John Richard Meade, 89, of Gravette, Arkansas died Wednesday, July 20, 2016 in Gravette. He was born on April 13, 1927 to Richard and Dot McAllister Meade. He was raised in Gravette and graduated from high school in April 1945. At that time he enlisted in the Navy and saw service in the Philippines and Okinawa. He was discharged in October 1946 at which time he enrolled in the University of Arkansas under the GI Bill and graduated in June 1950. In March 1951, he married Frances Tally, his wife of 61 years. John was then employed by Bank of Gravett as an officer trainee. He served in the bank until he retired August 2004 as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors after 54 years of service. He remained on the board until 2014. John was preceded in death by his wife Frances. He is survived by his children, Patricia Meade Waggoner and Rex of Rogers, Ark., and William (Bill) Meade and Brenda of Gravette, Ark.; grandchildren, Rex Waggoner and Casey of New York City, N.Y., Neal Waggoner and Amy of Little Rock, Bethany Meade Muir and Doug of Whitefish Mont., Adam Meade and Ashli of Cabot, Ark.; and great-granddaughters, Kate and Avery Waggoner of Little Rock, Ark. John has always been active in the affairs of Gravette having served as president of the Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, American Legion, Board of Gravette Medical Center and Gravette School Board. He also served on the Board of Narti in Springdale. John enjoyed tennis, fishing, Razorback sports and carrying chains for Gravette High School football team. He loved his community, The Methodist Church and most of all his friends and family. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. with the funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 25, 2016 at Heritage Baptist Church, 307 Fourth Ave. S.E., Gravette, Ark. 72736. Burial will be in the Hillcrest Cemetery in Gravette, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.