Olen Ray Emery

Olen Ray Emery, 93, of Sturkie, Arkansas, passed away on July 13, 2026, in Salem, Arkansas.

Born on September 23, 1932, in the Moko community of Fulton County, Arkansas, Olen was the son of John Newton Emery and Ressie (Peterson) Emery. He lived a life defined by hard work, dedication to family, and a deep love for the land and rural way of life that he cherished so much.

While visiting California, Olen met LaVelle Huskey, the woman who would become the love of his life. The couple married in 1955 and shared many wonderful years together, building a family and a life centered around faith, perseverance, and devotion to one another.

Olen proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked as a diesel mechanic for West Plains Bridge for 17 years. Work was never just a job to Olen—it was something he truly enjoyed. Whether operating his dozer, running his sawmill, or cutting redwoods in California during his younger years, he took pride in an honest day's work and stayed busy throughout his life.

He had a special passion for raising five-gaited American Saddlebred horses and found great joy in caring for them. He loved being outdoors and was happiest when working with his hands, tending his equipment, or spending time around family. Above all, Olen loved his family dearly and treasured every opportunity to be with them. His example of hard work, determination, and love will remain with those who knew him.

Olen was a member of the Sturkie Church of Christ.

He is survived by his son, John Emery and wife Glenda of Sturkie, Arkansas; daughter, Sherron Emery of West Plains, Missouri; grandchildren, Colt Emery and wife Kass of Sturkie, Arkansas, and Krista Hoskinds and husband Adam of Melbourne, Arkansas; great-grandchildren, Jensyn Emery, Jack Emery, Sawyer Hoskinds, and Tucker Hoskinds; as well as many other relatives and friends who will miss him greatly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, LaVelle Emery; son, Jerrol Emery; his parents, John Newton and Ressie Emery; four brothers, Noel, Loyd, Max, and Obed Emery; and three sisters, Neva, Lillian, and Mildred.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Watkins Cemetery in Sturkie, Arkansas.

Memorials may be made to Watkins Cemetery through the Bank of Salem in Salem, Arkansas.

Serving as pallbearers will be John Emery, Colt Emery, Adam Hoskinds, Sawyer Hoskinds, Tucker Hoskinds, and Ken Schauffler.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.