Farrel Dee McGhee Sr., age 87, of Cabot, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2026.
He was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather who found his greatest joy in his family.
Farrel was born with a strong work ethic and carried it throughout his life. He worked for many years as an industrial carpenter with Ceco Steel of Chicago, Illinois, and Townsell-Hill of Little Rock, Arkansas. His dedication, craftsmanship, and reliability were traits that defined both his career and his character.
Above all else, Farrel cherished time spent with his family — his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world. He was known for his gentle spirit, warm sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to his wife, Saundra.
Music was one of Farrel’s greatest passions. He found joy in playing the guitar, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle, often filling his home with melodies that reflected his love of life and tradition.
He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Saundra McGhee; his children, Farrel Dee McGhee Jr. (Cindy) of Cabot, AR, Kris McGhee (Sara) of Smithville, TN, and Jamie Vidimos (Derek) of Cabot, AR; his grandchildren, Bryce McGhee (Raegan) of Conway, AR and their children Greyson and Parker, Ashley Schnier (Jimmy) of Chicago, IL and their children Henry and Donovan, Ryan McGhee of Benton, AR, Seth McGhee of Conway, AR, Kian McGhee of Gravelly, AR, Katie Vidimos of Cabot, AR, and Harley Vidimos of Cabot, AR.
He is also survived by his sister, Janice Higgins (John) of Tulsa, OK; his brother, Rex McGhee of Camden, AR; his niece, Amy Higgins of Tulsa, OK; and his beloved cousins, Bennie Robinson (Lana), Bobby Jack Robinson (June), Jean Henderson, and Virginia Buford (Skip), all of whom he loved so much.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harley R. McGhee; his mother, Viva M. McGhee; his brothers, Jr. McGhee and Danny McGhee; and his sister, Minnie McGhee.
Farrel will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet strength, his laughter, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the music that still echoes in the hearts of those who loved him.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com