Family Funeral Service

03/08/2026

Good morning! ⏰
Daylight Saving Time started today.
Brighter evenings and warmer days are on the way.
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03/07/2026

Cecil Lewis Alexander

Cecil Lewis Alexander, a lifelong resident of Heber Springs, Arkansas, was born on August 2, 1935, to Cecil Henry “Slick” and Evelyn Clara Lewis Alexander. He passed away on March 5, 2026. He leaves behind his wife, Kathy Alexander , daughters: Tracy Hargrove, Brenda Alexander, Lesli and Darren Gowen and Christy Lock. Pop, as he was known by his grandchildren: Amy and Travis Julian , Daniel and Kayla Hargrove, Braydon and Susan Thomas, Amanda Thomas and Steve Gondek, Jackson and Mary Kathryn Thomas, Robert Lock and Katie Lock, and Chance Donaldson. He is also survived by his nine great grandchildren, Benny Hargrove and Brenda Carr along with other relatives and many friends.

Cecil graduated from Heber Springs High School in 1953. He served in the Blue Key Society and as president of his senior class before heading to Hendrix College in Conway, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business.

After college, he returned to Heber Springs High School where he coached football and girl’s basketball. By 1960, Cecil joined his father in operating Alexander’s Restaurant and Esso station. When his father passed away in 1963, Cecil and his brother, James Marvin took over the family business.

Cecil was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1962, launching a political career that would span decades. Cecil was responsible for passing the initial tourism legislation that became the cornerstone of the tourism industry in Arkansas. His colleagues recognized his steady leadership, electing him Speaker of the House in 1974 — the youngest in Arkansas history at that time.

In 1980, he began a 20-year tenure as Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Entergy, (formerly Arkansas Power and Light), retiring in 2000 after a career defined by commitment to his state and community.

Beyond politics and business, Cecil proudly served in the Arkansas National Guard from 1954 to 1962, attaining the rank of staff sergeant.

Cecil’s love for Heber Springs was evident in his tireless civic work. He served on First Arkansas Bank and Trust Board, led the Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce, and served as president of the Young Business Men’s Club, and helped sponsor the Cleburne County Fair. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where he served on the Board of Trustees. He was an active Mason with Sugar Loaf Lodge No. 414.

Equally notable was Cecil’s enduring impact on Arkansas’s horse racing industry. For 24 years, he served as Chairman of the Arkansas Racing Commission and also chaired the International Racing Commission. His advocacy for “games of skill” legislation revitalized racing in Arkansas, paving the way for the thriving industry enjoyed today.

Cecil Lewis Alexander’s life was one of service, leadership, and generosity — a legacy that endures in the countless lives he touched and the institutions he strengthened.

The family would like to extend thanks to Darnell, Tangle, Derrick, and H who helped care for Pop. Their kindness and compassion touched our hearts deeply.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Arkansas Race Track Chaplaincy. 173 Golf Links Road Hot Springs Arkansas 71901 or Renew Church Shoe Project/Youth Program, 1099 W. Pine St. Heber Springs, AR 72543.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 am on Saturday, March 14, 2026 followed by funeral service at 11:30 am at Renew Church, 1099 W Pine St. Heber Springs, AR. Interment will follow at Heber Springs Cemetery with a reception at Red Apple Inn.

https://www.familyfuneralservices.net/memorials/cecil--alexander/5693331

03/06/2026

Because your story deserves to be handled with care. Pre-planning keeps decisions in your hands.
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03/02/2026

Care doesn’t wait for tomorrow. Pre-plan now so your loved ones aren’t left guessing.
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03/01/2026

Hello, March — a fresh season of color and possibility.
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02/27/2026

Support you can rely on. Details handled with care. So families can focus on remembering and honoring their loved one.
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02/23/2026

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02/21/2026

Katherine Laverne (Lott) Johnson

Visitation:
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
11:00 to 12:00
Howard General Baptist Church
4900 Heber Springs Road West
Quitman, Arkansas

Funeral Service:
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
12:00
Howard General Baptist Church
4900 Heber Springs Road West
Quitman, Arkansas

Interment:
Goodloe Cemetery
Quitman, Arkansas

https://www.familyfuneralservices.net/memorials/katherine-johnson/5689231

02/20/2026

https://www.familyfuneralservices.net/memorials/katherine-dwyer/5688605

View Katherine Dwyer's complete obituary, share memories, and explore 6 tribute posts from the community.

02/20/2026

Helping families understand their choices — simply and clearly. Burial or cremation, the decision should feel right to you.
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02/16/2026

Today we honor the past and look forward to the future.
Strong communities are built by people who care, show up, and lead by example.
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02/14/2026

🌹 Happy Valentine’s Day!
Today is a beautiful reminder to hold loved ones close and treasure every moment together. Wishing you a day full of heart.