John Gabriel left us on September 9, 2026, in his hometown of Jacksonville, AR. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he made lifelong friends. After the military, he continued in the field of dentistry, teaching dental hygiene at UAMS in Little Rock and later running his own dental business in Charlotte, NC.
John was always there to help anyone in need. He strove to help people pursue greatness and was strong in his beliefs, making it clear where his principles stood. He did not know what it was to be still—always chasing a goal. He spent many years coaching youth baseball and softball. He also logged millions of miles on road trips, enjoyed relaxing getaways in the mountains, golfing, working on cars, attending concerts, and watching college football. He was a bold spirit and was loved by many.
John was a loving son, brother, friend, father, and grandfather. Gone from our sight but never from our hearts, he leaves behind his mother, Bonnie Gabriel of Jacksonville, AR; son Michael (Shauna) Gabriel of Hartford, WI; daughter Reese Gabriel of Greenville, SC; brothers Greg Gabriel of Benton, AR, and Bill Hobson of White Hall, AR; sister JoAnn Butler of McRae, AR; and many other family members and friends who miss and love him.
Preceding John in death are his father, Glenn Gabriel; brothers Ricky and Steve Gabriel; and sisters Angie and Sandy Gabriel.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 10:00am with the funeral service at 11:00am in the chapel at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville. Burial to follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
11 Comments
To John’s family-my condolences. John was such a big part of my teenage youth. He made me laugh. He’s made me cry. He scared me to death when he took me for a ride on his motorcycle. lol. He will be greatly missed. Prayers for those left behind. May God ease your sorrow and pain.
Praying for John’s family and friends
John was a great guy and will be missed by many
I have Known John since I was in 7th grade I will miss him we have many fond memories! Rest in peace John Love you!
We are so sorry to read this sad news. We send our deepest condolences to the whole family.. We have many good memories of John back in SC. Our sons Michael and Brandon were such good friends growing up. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. May God help to bring you all peace and help to comfort each one of you. Sending Hugs and Prayers ♥️🙏♥️
We are so sorry to read this sad news. We send our deepest condolences to the whole family.. We have many good memories of John back in SC. Our sons Michael and Brandon were such good friends growing up. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. May God help to bring you all peace and help to comfort each one of you 🙏♥️🙏
Rest Easy Uncle John. I love and miss you.
All the fond memories in School.
One of many with a kind heart. You will be missed John Gabriel.. praying for the family.
My condolences! I’m shocked by his passing! My favorite memories of being in the Air Force was the crew I worked with at Elmendorf AFB. John was one of a kind and a great co-worker! He is gone too soon!
John you’ve been a Great Lifelong Friend and will be Truly missed…
My deepest Prayers to his Mother and family in this Time…
John was amazing! I always enjoyed his energy and sense of humor. I enjoyed watching him and his best friend Charles the most. They were like kids in. a candy shop when they were around each other. I remember them sending a video of them doing burnouts after the mustang was completed. Big kids at heart when they were together even at the end. I know they are finally together again in heaven! You’ll be missed greatly John! You fought a hard and challenging fight! We love you!
John is a wonderful man with an awesome sense of humor. I will forever miss that I didn’t get the chance to see you one more time. Hugs to his family and friends. Gone too soon!
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