Michael Dwayne Eason

The Life and Legacy of Michael Dwayne Eason

Michael Dwayne Eason, affectionally known as “Wayne” was born on May 1, 1957, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas to Edward Emerson and Desarea House Eason.

Michael grew up in the Mt. Moriah community and at an early age, became a member of the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. He was outgoing, kind, thoughtful, and loved to talk. His personality was infectious, and he never met a stranger.

Michael was educated in Arkadelphia Public Schools and was very active in the sports of football and baseball. He did well academically while being involved in extra-curricular activities such as being Class President and a member of the Key Club. After graduating from Arkadelphia High School in 1975, he received a football scholarship to Texas Southern University in Houston Texas. He played tight end for the TSU Tigers. Michael attended TSU for three years before transferring back home to attend Ouachita Baptist University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration in 1981. While attending TSU, he was blessed to make life-long friendships which he cherished up until his death in Dwaine Boins and Clarence McMichaels.

During summer months, he enjoyed playing baseball and softball. He later developed a passion for the game of golf. Michael was an avid golfer and had many golfing “buddies”. He received numerous awards/trophies to include the State Long Drive Champion.

While on a summer break from college, Micheal met the love of his life, Vicki Bell and was married a year later on February 18, 1979. They were blessed to welcome a baby boy, Haven Michael Eason. Michael and Vicki were married for 46 years.

After graduating from OBU, he worked for Reynolds Metal for four years. Michael left Reynolds to work for Entergy (formerly AP&L) as an Engineer for 11 years. Because of his career change, Micheal moved his family to Hot Springs, Arkansas in May 1985. Due to organizational changes, Michael found a new career opportunity with The Weyerhaeuser Company as a Lumber Account Manager. After working several years at The Weyerhaeuser Company, he was called back to work at Entergy and because of medical reasons, Micheal chose to retire early.

God, faith, and family were the foundation instilled in him by his parents. Michael rededicated his life to Christ and became a member of Visitors Chapel A.M.E. Church. He served as a Trustee, Steward, and was a member of the Hospitality Committee and Choir. Michael participated in Sunday School, weekly bible study, and morning prayer.

Mike was kind, loving, thoughtful and had a heart of gold. He was always trying to look out for others to ensure they were okay. He was known by many family and friends as the “Weatherman” and would provide impending updates on the weather. Talking was never a problem for Mike as he would never EVER meet a stranger. If he got going, Michael could talk for hours. Gardening was a favorite hobby, and he would often have a conversation with his brother-in-law, Phillip and nephew, T.J. to share tips and brag about how his vegetables were growing. Cooking was a favorite pastime, and he was known for his delicious chicken salad. Mike would willingly share his cooking tips and secrets.

Family was very important, and he loved spending time with family, especially with his three grands. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and always made sure that his nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends…. young or old knew that he loved them. Mike was an encourager and would often provide life lessons and sound advice.

Mike passed from this earthly life into eternal rest on November 9, 2024, at Washington Regional Medical Center, Fayetteville, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, three siblings, Lillie Eason, Willie Eason, and Frances Nelson.

He leaves his legacy, and love of his life of 46 years, Vicki Renee Eason, son Haven Michael (VaShonda) Eason, three grandchildren, Hudson, Vance, and Vivienne Monroe; special fur baby, Roscoe; brother, Charles Eason, sister, Hazel (Jessie) Jefferson; father-in-law, Henry I. Bell, Jr; brothers-in-law, Terry Nelson and Phillip Giles; sisters-in-law, Jean Eason, Vikita Bell Hardwrick, and Vinita Giles; special sister/friend, Norma Eason and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless family and friends.