Jerry Hal Bittinger, of Conway, AR, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023.

Jerry was born to David and Alta Bittinger on February 10, 1946.  After completing his education, he went on to join the Navy where he served until July 1969 with his last assignment being aboard the USS SHANGRI-LA.

During this time in the Navy, Jerry would meet and marry his wife of 52 years, Carroll.  They would go on to have four children, nine grandchildren, and one great grandson.

After the Navy Jerry would join the Arkansas Army National Guard in 1984 where he would eventually retire as Sargent First Class in 1995.

In between Military assignments you could find Jerry tending bar at the local watering hole and perfecting his trade skills as a carpenter, contractor, and all around “handy man”.
In his spare time, Jerry loved to hunt, fish, go camping, and entertain family and friends by hosting many a BBQ, Fish Fry, or just a simple “weenie roast”. He could also smoke a mean turkey! In his younger days you were sure to catch him setting a trotline at the crack of dawn on Lake Conway, often with his younger children along for the adventure.
He was known for cracking a joke, no matter how politically incorrect, usually at the most embarrassing times! He sure knew how to make a waitress, grocery store clerk, or even a nurse blush…

Jerry lived out his retirement enjoying time at home, being the best “Appy” to his grandchildren, and eventually with his second wife, Christine, who would keep him company until the end.

He is predeceased by his parents, David and Alta; wife, Carroll “Rusty”; siblings, Bill, Jonny, Danny, Larry, and Jean. He is survived by his wife, Christine; children, Peter, Lori, Pollyanna, and Tim; grandchildren, Kaelyn, Corissa, Emily, Zachary, Ethan, Trinity, Gavin, Adalyn, and Emerson; Great grandson, Caden; honorary granddaughter, Taylor; siblings, Betty Jo, and Carol. He is loved by many nieces and nephews as well as Christine’s children and grandchildren.

Services will be Friday, June 9th, 2023, at 1:00pm at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery – 1501 West Maryland Ave, North Little Rock, AR.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com