Donald Ray McCleland, 86, of Hensley, Arkansas, passed away on December 27, 2025, at the Little Rock VA Hospital with his family by his side.
Donald was born on November 17, 1939, in Montrose, Arkansas, to the late James Murphy McCleland and Erma B. Breedlove. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Donald spent many years as a truck driver before retiring, after which he became an avid gardener and a true jack-of-all-trades, known for his ability to fix just about anything. He was a devout Christion surrendering to his Lord and Savior in 1966.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Nina Mae McCleland; his brothers, Darrell and Ricky McCleland; his sons, James Don, Don Jr., and Bobby; and his granddaughter, Heather.
Donald is survived by his son Ricky (Denise) McCleland of Sierra Vista, Arizona; Ermae (Parmley) Aud of Hensley, Arkansas; Christy (Maverick) Varnadore of Hensley, Arkansas; and his brother Bill (Dot) McCleland of Sheridan, Arkansas.
He is also survived by his grandchildren Brandon McCleland, Anthony McCleland, Stephanie (Gage) Garrett, Brandon and Brett Faulkner; as well as four great-grandchildren, Brandon Jr., Kerah, Wyatt, and Kohdi. Donald dearly loved his step great-grandchildren as well.
Visitation will be held on January 8, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service.
Funeral services will be held on January 9 at 10:00 a.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service.
Burial will follow at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Donald will be remembered for his love for Jesus, hard work, love of family, and the pride he took in helping others.
A special thanks to the VA System for their help in caring for Dad, and to Crystal Jacobsen the home health nurse.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
5 Comments
My deepest condolences. My heart goes out to all the family and loved ones during this time. 🕯
I worked with Mr. Don in his last days , what a blessing to have known this family ❤️ My prayers are with you all these days for comfort and peace, knowing that Mr. Don is” Mo betta” 💕
Brother Don was such a joy to all of us here At Floyd Assembly. May our lord comfort you as you celebrate his life. He always greeted me with a handshake and smile. We miss him but we know we will meet again in glory.
Brother Don was a man of God. We miss him at Floyd Assembly. In my heart, I know he is with Jesus.
So sorry for the loss of your Dad.
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