Lonnie Joel Daws, born December 31, 1959, In Camden, Arkansas, to Alfred Joel and Hazel Elizabeth Daws, went to be with his Lord on August 17, 2026. He lived a life centered on his love for the Lord, his family, and serving others.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Daws of Beebe, Arkansas; his twin brother, Donnie Daws and wife Tamy of Shreveport; his sister, Barbara Rosenthal of Frisco, Texas; his son, Thomas Hall; his stepdaughter, Samantha Hooper and husband Greg; his stepson, Hunter Collie and wife Leah; and his two grandsons, Samuel Hooper and Jakob Hooper, father-in-law Scott Johnson of Beebe, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved him dearly.
Lonnie dedicated much of his life to service at the Shreveport/Bossier Rescue Mission, where he served in many roles including Men’s Services Director, chaplain, and security. He had a deep heart for people experiencing homelessness, always seeing the person beyond the circumstance and giving freely of his time, compassion, and care.
He was a hardworking, selfless man who faithfully showed up wherever he was needed, whether in paid work or volunteer service. His greatest priorities were always his faith and his family, and he loved both deeply and without reservation.
Lonnie also brought joy wherever he went. Known for his humor and love of laughter, he never took himself too seriously and eagerly joined in the fun. From becoming “Lonnie Elf” at Christmas to wearing any costume at Halloween carnivals, he delighted in making others smile.
His life was defined not by possessions, but by service, love, laughter, and the people he touched along the way. Above all, he loved the Lord and his family with all his heart, and that love remains his lasting legacy.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to invite you to celebrate Lonnie’s life on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at First Baptist Church, 101 US-64, Beebe, AR 72012. The celebration service will begin at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Shreveport Bossier Rescue Mission at 901 McNeil Street, Shreveport, LA 71101. Lonnie had requested that his memorial would be a celebration and wanted people to wear bright colors, cartoon ties or something that will bring you joy because he is experiencing the greatest joy of all.
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
3 Comments
Oh my lands of all the stories I could tell on Lonnie! But I’ll keep it short! I have loved this best friend since high school.
I could always be for sure he was going to make me laugh by the time I walked into Devotional every school day! That was the best thing of the day having Devotional s before 1st period except for Choir! I love you Lonnie and will deeply miss you! I thank God for putting you and your family in my life! We’ll see you soon
I am so saddened bu this news. I have so many fond, loveable and funny memories of all our times in church youth group and school. All the shenanigans! It was so good to reconnect via fb. He always had a kind word. He was quite the character! And I mean that with love. Prayers for his family and friends. Big hugs to each of you.
Prayers for all the family and friends. I remember Lonnie walking with Donnie back in grade school days at Fairview, in Camden. Sad to hear of his passing, but I know that he is with Jesus now.
Add Comment