William "Bill" Arthur Thomas

William “Bill” Arthur Thomas, 81, of Stuttgart, AR passed away peacefully Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at Baptist Health-Springhill in North Little Rock surrounded by his immediate family.

Bill was born June 25, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan to West Smeadley Thomas and Edna Maye Jernigan Thomas. Besides his parents, he was proceeded in death by his wife, Eleanor Faye Morris Thomas; and sisters, Barbara Anne Dill and Elizabeth Thomas. 

Survivors are his daughter, Laura Ellen Saranie and husband Stephen of Stuttgart; son, William Russell Thomas and wife Teressia of Cabot; and his three grandchildren, Cody Dylan Mashburn and Kelsi Dru Mashburn of Stuttgart, and William Noah Thomas of Cabot. He also had three other grandchildren he called his own and loved so dearly, Tiffani Burns of DeWitt, Lauren Reynolds of Ulm, and Hannah Addison of Stuttgart. 

Bill was a cherished son, sibling, father, and friend whose sense of duty and service to others defined his life. At the early age of 16, Bill enlisted to proudly serve his country in the United States Army, where he was known for bravery, resilience, and camaraderie. Bill served his country for four years stationed in Germany. 

After leaving the military, Bill worked for Arkla Gas in Stuttgart, AR where he retired after his 43 years of work. His absolute favorite part of his job was getting to meet and talk to so many people. He was a member of Southside Baptist Church in Stuttgart. 

Bill was a man of integrity, kindness, and strength. Known for his warm smile, he was a guiding light to those around him. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who cherish his stories, humor, and endless love. One of Bill’s greatest passions was fishing. From peaceful mornings by the pond to afternoons spent in tournaments with friends, he found joy in the beauty of the water. To him it wasn’t just fishing. His family and friends will fondly remember the countless fishing trips and the stories he brought back with each one, often along with a big catch — or an even bigger tale. 

Funeral services, officiated by Bro. Gregg Greenway, will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15, at Turpin Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery, 580 E. Columbia Rd. 60, in Waldo, AR. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at Turpin Funeral Home.

Please go to www.turpin-co.com to sign the online guestbook.