William Kenneth “Ken” Hagerman, 82, of Austin, Arkansas, passed away on August 21, 2026. He was born June 29, 1944, in Renton, Washington.
Ken proudly served in the United States Air Force for 19 years, including a deployment to Vietnam. Following his military service, he built a long career at Falcon Jet in Little Rock. In his free time, he found joy in photography, genealogy, and gardening — he was a Master Gardener who took real pride in what he grew.
Fiercely independent, Ken lived life on his own terms. But above all, he was a family man. He was a doting grandfather and great-grandfather who showed up — for beauty pageants, taekwondo competitions, basketball games, and everything in between — because being there for the people he loved mattered more to him than almost anything else. He loved his great-grandchildren’s birthday parties and family gatherings, and there was nothing he enjoyed more than eating out with his family.
Ken was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Marilyn Hagerman; his sister, Barbara Anthony; and his parents, Herbert and Clara Hagerman.
He is survived by his two sons, Daniel Lee Hagerman of North Carolina and Dr. Thomas E. Hagerman of Illinois; three daughters, Cherie Lynn (Kelly) Ellerbee of Mississippi, Tammy Anne (Danny) Herekamp of Cabot, and Annette M. Hagerman of Beebe; six grandchildren, Jessie Ellerbee of Austin, Brandon (Allie) Herekamp of Searcy, Noah (Suzi) Hagerman of Georgia, Jacob (Amy) Ellerbee of Mississippi, Christian Hagerman of North Carolina, and Gabriel Hagerman of Georgia; five great-grandchildren, Blakeleigh, Abel, and Brynnleigh Herekamp of Searcy, and Rowan and River Ellerbee of Mississippi; his brother, Herb Hagerman of Alaska; his brother-in-law, Gary Anthony of Washington; and special nieces and nephews, Lisa, Jen, Todd, Aaron, and Matt.
In keeping with Ken’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service is planned. A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
7 Comments
Worked with Ken at DFJ. He was one of the best managers there. Always had a funny story to tell us as well. Prayers to his family.
What a lovely tribute to Ken. We are deeply saddened at his loss, and pray God’s presence is felt as you process this loss.
Worked with Ken over 20 years.. praying for his family and friends
I had the honor to work with and for Mr. Hagerman at DFJC. He was a people’s manager and he was a very fair individual. He left the interior department at Falcon in great shape, Rest well Big Boss!!
Ken was definitely a character- as a young inspector at DFJ, Ken was quick to show me the error of my ways…. what a great guy!
Cherie and family, so sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers
I worked with Ken many years at Falcon Jet. He was a great leader, friend, co-worker. I was blessed to know him. May God bless your family with peace and comfort.
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