William "Sonny" Whitmire

September 27, 1945 - June 15, 2018

William “Sonny” Whitmire of Trumann, moved to his heavenly home on Friday, June 15, 2018. He loved his Savior, his family, his friends, and his country at the age of 72 years, 8 months and 19 days.  He was born Thursday, September 27, 1945 in Strawberry, Arkansas and lived most of his life in Trumann and Jonesboro.

William was retired from Hytrol Conveyor and was also a retired Army veteran. He also served as a member of American Legion Post 42. William was an active member of Nettleton Baptist Church, serving in choir and sharing the story of Jesus during his many years teaching 5-year-olds in Sunday school. His loyal service to others was one of his most endearing traits.

He enjoyed learning and was fortunate to have opportunities to travel as well as explore his heritage through genealogical research. William was preceded in death by his parents, Maida Turner Whitmire and Grant Edward Whitmire, both of Trumann, and a sister, Glenda Whitmire Martinez, of Corpus Christi Texas.

He leaves behind a family who love him and will miss his laugh and comforting voice. William is survived by his wife, Sandra Cragg Whitmire, of the home. Son, Nathan (Allison) Whitmire, and daughter, Amy (Alan Cheshier) Whitmire, all of Jonesboro. Son, Seth (Mandy) Whitmire, of Trumann and daughter, Laura (Todd) Spires of Washington Illinois. Brother Edward “Pete” Whitmire of Bradenton Florida, and sister, Royce Thompson, of Machesney Park Illinois. William also leaves behind grandchildren Samuel, Mary-Emma, Larkin, and Will Whitmire, all of Jonesboro, and Henry and Rachel Spires of Washington Illinois. In addition, he will also be leaving behind many nieces and nephews who were very precious to him.

Funeral service will be Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. at Nettleton Baptist Church, 7001 E. Johnson Ave., Jonesboro, AR with Pastor Stan Ballard officiating. Burial will be private at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at Birdeye, AR.

Honorary pall bearers for the service will be the children of William’s Sunday school classes over his years of service at Nettleton Baptist Church.

Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 220 Viva Dr in Trumann.

In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to leave a lasting memorial may contribute to the children’s programs at Nettleton Baptist Church or may contribute to funding student school lunches for the underserved in their local community.

An online register can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net