Harrel Ray Estes

Harrel Ray Estes, 84, of Salem, Arkansas, peacefully departed this life on July 19, 2022, in Bryant, Arkansas. Harrel was born to William Remmel Estes and Gertie Mae Hackworth on May 29, 1938, in Batesville, Arkansas.

Harrel spent his working years in Virginia as co-owner of Bud’s Heating and Air.  He was a master plumber, master electrician, HVAC worker, and served for eight years in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.  He loved his daughter Paige and was so proud of her and her accomplishments.  He enjoyed farming and spending time around his cattle, dogs, and cat.  He enjoyed Greyhound football and basketball games, the Dallas Cowboys, and going to Swingles and spending time with his coffee buddies and swapping stories.; He was happiest when working on equipment, family gatherings, helping others, and he enjoyed reading and sharing books. He never wanted to stop learning, except when it involved cellphones and computers.  He was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, friend, and was of the Church of Christ faith.

Harrel leaves to mourn his passing, daughter, Paige Ann Estes and Carolyn Estes Howard of Newport News, Virginia; brother, Jim Shelby Estes of Rock Falls, Illinois; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great great nieces, great great nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and 5 sisters (Freda, Argie, Eileen, Bernice, and Ella Faye) and his longtime companion Gay Williams.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, July 31, 2022, at 2 p.m. at the Salem Church of Christ in Salem, Arkansas, with Bro. Mike Yates officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, July 31, 2022, 1-2:00 PM at the church. Memorials may be made to the Agape Food Room in Salem, Arkansas or to a Humane Society of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.