Everett C. Kimbrell, Jr. was born on February 28, 1932, in Caraway, Arkansas, to Everett C. Kimbrell, Sr., and Elizabeth M. Byrd Kimbrell. He passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love, faith, and family.

Everett was a man of strong values, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to those he loved. He was known for his kindness, wisdom, and willingness to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. Throughout his life, he touched countless hearts with his gentle spirit and steadfast character.

Everett “Jr” was a passionate outdoorsman and sports enthusiast who found happiness in fishing, hunting, and following all types of sports, especially football, basketball, and baseball. Whether on a lake with a fishing pole in hand or enjoying the serenity of the woods, he found comfort in God’s creation and the tranquility of nature. His greatest joy came from sharing these experiences with family and friends, leaving behind treasured memories that will live on for generations.

Everett proudly served in the United States Army with the 58th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Radar Battalion. The night before he was scheduled to depart for Germany, he suffered a serious injury, breaking both arms while playing basketball. During the year he spent recovering at the Army hospital in El Paso, Texas, he worked delivering mail to fellow soldiers. Following his medical release, he served as a driver for several high-ranking military officers and accumulated many memorable stories from his time in service. Although he valued his military experience, he often shared that his one regret was never having the opportunity to serve in Germany or Korea.

After his military service, “Slim” devoted more than 40 years to Layne-Arkansas as an electrician. His work helped provide reliable water systems for communities and farmers throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Missouri. He took great pride in the important role he played in supporting both rural and urban areas across the region.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett C. Kimbrell, Sr., and Elizabeth M. Byrd Kimbrell; his beloved wife, Pearly Mae Walden Kimbrell; his sons, John “Big John” Rutherford and Clifford Kimbrell; his brothers, James M. Kimbrell and Arthur Kimbrell; and his sisters, Barbara Jackson, Claudean Bethell, Bettye Favor, and Ann Anderson.

He is survived by his daughter, Gwen Strabala (Roger) of Loganville, GA; his brother, Burl Kimbrell (Martha) of Humphrey; his sister, Karen Wilson (Ben) of Humnoke; and a beloved niece/caregiver, Annette Johnson (Buddy) of Stuttgart.

Everett was a very proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Racheal Strabala Milotte (Nick), Trey Kimbrell (Ashley), Roger Strabala III (Hannah), Fallon Rutherford Pagan, David Strabala (Beth), and Drew Kimbrell.

He was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren: Madyson Cowling, Gavin Strabala, Storm Funderburk, Braydon Cowling, Wyatt Strabala, Cayden Strabala, Jace Pagan, Marlee Kimbrell, Owen Milotte, and Kayleigh Strabala.

In addition, he leaves behind 45 nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, his cherished church family at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, and many wonderful friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

Everett’s greatest joys were found in his faith, his family, and the relationships he built throughout his life. His love, guidance, and steadfast example will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew him.

We would like to thank the amazing staff of the Palliative Care Unit at McCellan Veterans Hospital. Dr. Moore and Dr. Kahn, the entire nursing staff, Ma’ Ressa, Sarah, Rebecca, Lisa, Samantha, Laura, Angela, Tracy, Kim, Hope, Ramona, and Lynne, without their love and kindness, this journey would have been unbearable.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy of love and faith will endure generations to come.

The family requests memorials be made to Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 808 South Wood, Stuttgart, AR 72160, or St. Jude’s Children Hospital

At this time, a Celebration of Life service honoring both Everett “Slim” Kimbrell, Jr., and his son, John “Big John” Rutherford, will be held on August 29 at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Stuttgart. Visitation from 9:30 – 10:30; Service at 10:30.  Officiated by Rev. Lance Hollis

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7

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