Charles Edward Crockett

On August 18, 1946, Benjamin Napoleon and Mary Francis Newborn Crockett welcomed the birth of another son, Charles Edward Crockett, Sr. They raised him in a Christian environment teaching him the biblical principle that; A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold. The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the maker of them all. Proverbs 22:1 Charles was an active and lively child. He was a member of Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Arkadelphia and graduated from Peake High School on May 28, 1964. Equally balanced academically and athletically; he excelled as a student and showed tremendous talent in track and basketball. He busied himself building lasting friendships with other students, faculty and staff. By far he was one of the most popular students that walked the halls of Peake High School. On January 19, 1966, he enlisted into the United States Army and served his country for more than 35 years. During his tour of duty he received several medals and commendations; namely, the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ Device 60, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and on April 14, 1967 he received the Purple Heart. He was a proficient Rifle M-14 Marksman and Sharpshooter. He was known for his valor and commitment to the lives of fellow soldiers. Charles was promoted to Master Sergeant on September 10, 1983. After an extensive military career Charles returned to Arkadelphia and worked for Reynolds Metal Company for 19 years. When the plant closed he decided to transfer to Kansas City, Missouri. There he continued to pursue his education. He believed in education and the benefits of having one. In 1972, he earned a degree from DeVry Institute of Technology as a Computer Control Electrician. He attended both Dickinson Business School and Wright Business School earning certificates in accounting. He moved back to Arkadelphia and built a home for him and his sons to enjoy. He was very active in their lives and at one time coached his son Chucky’s baseball team. Charles was a member of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F. & A. M. Universal Lodge No. 229 of West Gum Springs and a member of the Royal Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star Holly Grove Chapter No. 387 in Okolona. He loved to play pool and spent countless hours with his son, friends and family playing in the rec room. He loved to fish and enjoyed taking his boat out on the lake. Charles was a fun-loving and a natural born “prankster”. His giving nature and his pursuit for the next best thing was a magnet for those who wanted his energy to rub off on them. At 69 years of age, on May 15, 2016 Charles was called upon by God’s Holy command to leave this temporary life and begin his Eternal Life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin N. and Mary F. Crockett. He is survived by his children: Charles E. Crockett, Jr. (Carolyn) of Anaheim, CA; Timothy Howell of Hot Springs, AR; three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; one sister, Mary Ella Summerville of Arkadelphia, AR; five brothers, Benjamin Napoleon Crockett, Jr., of Copperas Cove, TX, Isaac B. Crockett of Copperas Cove, TX, Austin W. Crockett (Jean) of Little Rock, AR, James T. Crockett of Arkadelphia, AR and David L. Crockett of Arkadelphia, AR. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Services to celebrate his life will he held Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. at Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Dr. Lewis A. Shepherd, Jr., officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full Military Honors. Public visitation will be on Friday, May 20, 2016 at the funeral home 12:00 noon – 7:00 p.m. The family will receive friends 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.