Russell “Walter” Rothenberger, 82 years old, went to be with the Lord on August 19, 2023. He was born in Arcola, Pennsylvania, to Martha and Harold Rothenberger. Walter was the youngest of eight children and could always entertain you with stories of his antics.
He was a man much loved by his community and family. He and his wife, Philomena, spent his last years in Greer’s Ferry, Arkansas. He earned himself the nickname of “The Mayor” in his neighborhood by always riding his side-by-side through the neighborhood to offer a “hello” or a helping hand. He never met a stranger.
In his younger years he worked as a truck driver then became owner/operator of his own trucking business. Even though he has lived in several places, Greer’s Ferry, Arkansas stole his heart the first time he saw it. Before retiring here, he spent several years in Shelby and Tipton Counties in Tennessee.
He was Preceded in Death by his parents, his brothers Charles and Ed and a sister Pearl.
He was survived by his wife of sixteen years, Philomena (Phi Phi to most) and their fur baby, Piper. His son Roy (Annitta) Rothenberger of Germantown, TN. Grandchildren Zac (Anna) Rothenberger of TN, Katie (Garrett) O’Brien of TN and Brittany (Matt) Hughes of WV. His great-grandchildren; Kaci, Ayla, Jade, Liam and Eli Russell.
Also, His stepdaughter Teresa Hair of Hernando, MS. His grandchildren Justin (Lindsey) Hughes, Colton Hair and McKenzie Hair all of MS. His great-grandchildren; Emma, Garrett, Everly, Delilah and Eli.
He is also survived by his sisters; Marie of Oregon, Nancy of Pennsylvania and Gloria (Chickie) of Maryland. A brother Harold (Junie) of WV.
Walter has other children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews throughout the country.
Walter was the kind of person you would not forget. He had a big personality that always shined through.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Walter’s online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
11 Comments
Such a sad loss to his family and friends. Walter had such a big heart and welcomed anyone who needed a helping hand. I (Shaun) was honored to work for Walter driving his trucks, he was my first boss after I moved here from the UK. So many funny stories I will never forget, this comment is the best though! “Pass me a Wrench Shaun, do you mean a spanner, no I mean a wrench!” I can’t say what happened after that but to say we laughed every time we remembered it is an understatement. He is in heaven right now driving people nuts with his energy for life, see you again someday Walter. RIP
RIP Uncle Walter with much love to the family
Our sweet and crazy little garden gnome. Walter had a heart of gold and loved playing kick ball with all the kids in my front yard and most of all was always there when you needed him. He was one of the finest men I’ve ever known. I hated to see yall leave tipton county. RIP our freind.
He will be missed by so many especially Philomena.May GOD give the family peace and comfort.
I am so glad that I had the chance to meet the two of you years ago. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers for you and the family as you move thru this time of sadness. May God give your hearts peace and comfort. Love to you all.
A warm smile that welcomed you and a great story that made you want to “sit a spell.”
Uncle Russell was definitely one of a kind and was loved by so many he will be missed very much.
Walter always made me laugh, I couldn’t wait for him to drive up and tell a story or 3, while we sipped on a beverage. . He will be missed and the world has lost a heck of a guy. Rest in love Walter, Miss you my friend
“Grief is the price we pay for love” Walter will be forever in our hearts! He was a Great Dad, Father and to me..a Great Friend! He will surely be missed!
He is one of kind Pop . Many memories are stored in my mind. I will miss him so much.
Well, for sure Greers Ferry will not be the same! We’re going to miss seeing Walter in his side by side pulling up in our driveway. He would tell my sister and I some story and keep us laughing. Sure going to miss you. RIP
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