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Bill Gwatney Obituary
Gwatney was fatally shot by Timothy Dale Johnson, 50, of Searcy, police said. Police did not know of a motive, and they said there was no indication that Johnson and Gwatney were acquainted.
The shooting occurred only two blocks from the state Capitol, where Gwatney served in the state Senate from 1993-2002.
The owner of three Little Rock-area car dealerships, Gwatney had been planning to travel to the Democratic National Convention later this month as a superdelegate. He had backed Hillary Rodham Clinton, but endorsed Barack Obama after she dropped out of the race.
Clinton and her husband, former President and former Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton, issued a statement saying Gwatney was "not only a strong chairman of Arkansas' Democratic Party, but ... also a cherished friend and confidante."
The seriousness Gwatney brought to his political manuevering was absent as he advertised his three General Motors car dealerships. He hoisted a giant inflatable dragon atop a showroom in Jacksonville and dubbed it "Gwatzilla," and there was no doubt, in his mind, where buyers could make a good deal.
Gwatney became head of the state party in 2007, just after Mike Huckabee left office after 10 1/2 years as a popular Republican governor.
Gwatney had considered running against Huckabee in 2002, but later backed away from the idea, saying he liked "being a state senator, where I have a forum to criticize him." He also was mentioned as a possible U.S. Senate candidate.
"When you're down there at the Capitol every day and you're frustrated, sure, you think about it," Gwatney said at the time. "Now, I'm home with my wife and kids, and my frustration level isn't pegging out at 110 percent."
Although he didn't enter the 2002 race, he was still involved - playing Huckabee while helping Democratic nominee Jimmie Lou Fisher practice for debates.
"He did real well. He was able to put a different hat on," Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola said.
After Gwatney's death, Huckabee called the shooting a "senseless act of depraved violence that touches all of us."
"He was a very effective leader for his party and an event like this certainly makes all politics seem small and insignificant," Huckabee said.
Gwatney served as finance chairman for Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe's successful 2006 run and oversaw the party's sweep of all the state's top elected positions, drawing credit for bringing the party together and giving it energy not seen since Bill Clinton left the governor's mansion for the White House in 1992.
Gwatney and Beebe served together in the Senate and were close friends. Beebe visited with Gwatney's family at the hospital after the shooting.
"Arkansas has lost a great son, and I have lost a great friend," Beebe said. "There is deep pain in Arkansas tonight because of the sheer number of people who knew, respected and loved Bill Gwatney. Along with thousands of other Arkansans, Ginger and I are trying to come to terms with such a shocking and senseless attack."
As a legislator he sponsored a successful bill that required elected officials to report more specifically on the gifts they receive. He also once backed a bill that would have given legislators a raise, something he explained to voters by saying the money came to about 75 cents a day.
In recent weeks, Gwatney successfully urged the party to refuse to certify former Rep. Dwayne Dobbins as a candidate for a state House. Dobbins resigned his North Little Rock seat three years ago to settle a felony sexual assault and made a surprise filing to run again this year for the position.
Gwatney was born Aug. 26, 1959. His father, Harold Gwatney, was a lifelong Democrat who once served as the adjutant general of the Arkansas National Guard.
Gwatney is survived by his wife Rebecca; two daughters from a prior marriage, Christian and Chase; and two stepchildren, Zachary and Emily.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
81 Entries
Carson Loveless
July 31, 2024
Condolences to his family
ABRAHAM LINCOLN FOB
November 14, 2012
BILL IT'S BEEN FOUR YEAR'S I MISS YOU MY FRIEND NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT YOUR NOT IN MY HEART AND MY THOUGHT'S JUST WANTED TO SAY I LOVE YOU MAN .
July 28, 2009
You are in my heart.
June 29, 2009
i miss you everyday. i love you daddy.
How you can show support
Donna Roberts(Atwood)
March 31, 2009
I remember Bill from 3rd grade. Mrs. Rollins class. Bill was fun! I am so sorry for him and his family.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN
November 4, 2008
I MISS YOU BILL EVERY DAY THAT
GOES BY I THINK OF YOU AND THE
KIND WORDS THAT YOU SPOKE I WILL FOREVER MISS OUR TALKS YOU
MY FREIND MADE A DIFFERANCE IN MAY LIFE JUST AS YOU DID IN SO
MANY THAT KNEW YOU YOU WERE
MY HERO IN MY WORLD BILL AND YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN IN
MY HOME ARE MY HEART GOD ASK
FOR THE BEST IN HIS KINGDOM AND I KNOW YOU ARE HIS RIGHT HAND
MAN JUST WANTED TO TALK TO YOU
FOR A MINUTE I LOVE YOU MAN .
David Sevier
August 21, 2008
My sincere sympathies to the Gwatney family. Bill was a man I will never forget, or could possibly forget. The time that I was priviliged to work for Bill was an incredible experience. I think everyone that worked for him or with him understands what I am saying.
Karen & David Sevier
Andrea & John Ellis
August 19, 2008
It is obvious that Mr. Gwatney was very loved and respected; what a loss for those who knew him and those of us who missed out.
Best wishes to his family and friends; your pain is ours.
Glen Gwatney
August 19, 2008
It is with deep regret and sorrow for the parents and family of Bill Gwatney that I must make contact in this way, having not been able to personelly know Bill as an adult or a family member.
Never the less I am still very stuned, shocked and am experiencing a great loss these past days since Bills senseless Murder.
I was able to watch the funeral on the web cast and could feel the Love an compassion that Bill expressed through out his life. He appears to have been a man of great character and one with a even greater purpose. I can see that the world will miss his presence.
My familys love and prayers will be with your's always.
BILLY & CARRIE NAVARRE
August 18, 2008
CARRIE AND I WERE OUT OF THE
COUNTRY FOR THE FUNERAL
WE ARE SO SORRY AND WILL MISS BILL. WE WERE WITH BILL AT THIS
YEARS SUPER BOWL AND HAVE BEEN
IN OUR 20 GROUP WITH BILL FOR 6 YRS. BILL WE WILL MISS YOU!
LOVE BILLY AND CARRIE
OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!
Jay Elliott
August 18, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the gwatney family.We will miss a great man at gwatney pbg.
ricky gabriel
August 18, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Bill Wilson
August 18, 2008
I had the privelege to work for and with Bill Gwatney for the last three years. He was an irreplaceable human being. I admired and respected how he conducted business. He valued honesty and loyalty in the people he worked with and returned the same. He was an awesome boss and a good friend.
The only words of comfort I can impart is that for the last nine months he was truly happy in all areas of his life.
He had a great job.
An awesome business with great people running it.
And, best of all, family and friends that loved him and appreciated what a great person he really was.
He will be sorely missed.
Respectfully,
Bill Wilson, Krista and Makenna
Bobby and Deborah Musgrove
August 18, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to the Gwatney family. May God hold you in HIS arms and give you comfort.
Maj. William D. Bell
August 18, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
David K. and RoxAnne Voelker
August 17, 2008
Our sincere deepest sympathy to the Gwatney family. It was a pleasure to get to know Bill in the Chevrolet 20 Group over a period of 14 years. He was very passionate in helping others and was very engaging in discussions. We appreciated being involved in part of his life and will always remember him.
Our thoughts and prayers to all.
Larry & Beverly Hampton
August 16, 2008
We met Bill right out of college when he returned to work for his father at Citizen's Bank of Jacksonville. We have followed his meteoric rise in stature as a father, businessman, politician and favorite son of Arkansas. His legacy will not soon be equaled, and his smiling face will be sorely missed. May God give peace to his children, wife, parents and sibling.
David A. Burgoyne
August 16, 2008
The family of Bill Gwatney will be in my prayers.
Sally and George Rauch
August 16, 2008
Harold and Syble,
Our hearts go out to you and your family at this time. We at Christ Church hold you in our thoughts and prayers.
Ginger Russell Miller
August 16, 2008
Bill will be missed by all of his fellow automobile dealers. We enjoyed working with him and the Gwatney family through the years. Our hearts go out to you.
Rev. Dr. Ray & Pat Woody
August 16, 2008
We are distressed to learn of the passing of this fine man. You are
in our prayers.
Joe Caracciolo
August 16, 2008
REST IN PEACE BILL GWATNEY
Bev and Don Swanson
August 16, 2008
Harold and Syble,
Words cannot offer much in the way of comfort after a tragedy such as this. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you weather this terrible time in your lives.
SUE WERTMAN
August 16, 2008
DEAR SYBLE & HAROLD,
PLEASE ACCEPT MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF
YOUR SON, SUCH A SENSELESS
TRAGEDY. MAY ALL YOUR FOND
MEMORIES BE A SOURCE OF COMFORT TO YOU & YOUR FAMILY.
Lety Ramirez
August 16, 2008
I am very sorry.
God bless his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace
michael whitlock
August 15, 2008
russell, my heart is with you in your time of loss. im so sorry that this happend. my prayers are with you and your family. take comfort knowing you have an angel in heaven..........
L. S.
August 15, 2008
My sincere condolensces to the entire Gwatney Family. He will never be forgotten, and forever remain in History..
*A Place To Rest*
God looked down on your body,
So tired from hanging on,
From a life that was overwhelming you,
And wanted back His son.
So he took away the air you breathe,
And gave you what was best,
A place to be at peace,
A final place to rest.
May you find joy in your
next life, a life of no pain
and no sorrow...
Colleen Stephens
August 15, 2008
Harold, Sybil and Russell; I am so very sorry for your loss. I am still in shock. Bill was always so very nice to me when he came to the Germantown store. I just want you to know that I really enjoyed the years I spent at Saturn working with you. I love you and I am praying for you.
Randal Files
August 15, 2008
I worked for Bill at Gwatney Chevrolet for eight years. He was so much more than a boss. I truly thought of him as my friend. His faith in me helped me to become more than I ever was. When I left there to move to my wife's home state Bill took me aside and told me that I always had a job with him. I didn't need to ask, just walk in and go to work. Funny thing, I believe that he meant it. The world will miss you, boss. God Speed.
R. Maxwell
August 15, 2008
Mr. Gwatney was always a pleasure to be around. As a father and a husband, my heart goes out to the family. I will keep you in my prayers.
RICHARD V. LOWE
August 15, 2008
May the family find some comfort in knowing that their loved one is at peaceful rest, in GOD's loving arms.
Tricia Hodge
August 15, 2008
Sorry to hear about your loss. May the Lord be with you'll thought theses days to come. I didn't know him only thought the news. My thoughts and prayers be with you.
KEVIN EDMONDS
August 15, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived
okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here
is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you
every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up
and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were
gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for
me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's
chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life
on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not
be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But
one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a
time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will
give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day
was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the
way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick
him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in
your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember
you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Gary Trainor
August 15, 2008
So sorry for your loss
the family motorcycle ministry
August 15, 2008
God bless the family of sen. gwatney, he was a good man.
KC Murphy
August 15, 2008
May God Bless Your Family and Keep Them Safe. We don't know why but I am sure God knows. I am sure he's with God during his new assignment. With much expressions,with God Blessings.
Tiffany Ferguson-Kilzer
August 15, 2008
I was shocked to hear of the news of such a wonderful man in SO many ways! The state of Arkansas will never be the same! I am in constant prayer for the entire Gwatney Family and for our great state! God Bless You Bill Gwatney!
Burt & Sue Borgelt
August 15, 2008
Harold and Syble.
We are so sorry for you loss. Words fail to express our shock at such a senseless act. Be comforted by God's peace and love in the coming days.
SHEILA SMITH
August 15, 2008
Rest in Peace Bill.
Jay and Jackie Kimpel
August 15, 2008
Harold and Syble,
Words could never express the horror
and sorrow that comes from learning of such an unspeakable tragedy. Please know that your CCLBK family hurts with and for you, and that you will be in our prayers.
Ralph Hunter
August 14, 2008
Dear Harold and Syble,
Our hearts go out to you in your shocking and devastating loss. Our prayers to you and Rebecca, Christian, Chase, Zachary and Emily. Know that all of us at your Florida church are deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy. Ralph and Claire Hunter, Longboat Key, FL
PAT BOHANNON
August 14, 2008
HERE'S SENDING PRAYERS TO THE GWATNEY FAMILY, THIS IS TOO TRAGIC.
August 14, 2008
25 years ago, right out of college with a degree in journalism and just having moved to Jacksonville, I went to First National Bank to apply for a job. The receptionist directed me to a guy maybe a couple of years older than I was. He was wearing a cowboy hat (and I could tell it was all in fun) and had his feet propped up on a desk. He asked me what type of job I was looking for at the bank. I suggested a teller's position. He asked me whether I had a college degree. I replied in the affirmative and told him about my journalism degree. He then asked why I was looking for a job at the bank rather than at the local newspaper a few blocks down the street. I shrugged my shoulders. He picked up the receiver of the telephone and at the same time suggested that I apply for a job at the newspaper. When he hung up the telephone, he told me they were waiting for me at the newspaper office. Yes, the guy with the cowboy hat was Bill Gwatney. And, yes, I got the job as a newspaper reporter. Several months later, a group of foreign dignitaries were visiting Jacksonville and General Harold Gwatney and his wife were hosting a special reception in their home. My editor called me into his office and said the general specifically had requested that I cover the reception for the newspaper. God is good and He loves us. May God’s goodness and mercy embrace and comfort the entire Gwatney family and all who mourn in this tremendous loss. You are in my special prayers.
Bryant and Connie Hall
August 14, 2008
We can do no more than offer up our prayers for every one of you. God bless all those who serve their country. Parents and family of those who do should be proud of their teaching and sharing values. God bless every one of you and may his healing grace help sustain you during this time of grieving.
Bryant and Connie Hall
Christ Church of LBK
Jennifer Blatchford
August 14, 2008
Mr.Gwatney was one of the kindest people I have ever known,I have worked for/with him for around 4 yrs.He wasn't just a boss or the man who owned the car dealerships,he was just like anyone else,He always said we were all partners with him not his employees,I am very saddened by this meaningless act and with time we will all heal,we have to be strong for him and his family,to help see that his dreams and hopes are carried on.God Bless You and your family,R.I.P.....
Willie Chester
August 14, 2008
I met Bill four years ago and he told me about a mutual friend we had in Arizona,from then on he has always spoken to me by name,he was a great employer that made you feel like family and I will miss him,but I know that God has a special place for him doing what he does in comforting people,he was a good person and he will truly be missed here on earth. God Bless you and rest in peace. Willie Chester
Bobby Blatchford
August 14, 2008
You were a great, strong leader. You will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Gwatney family. God bless.
BOB GRISSOM
August 14, 2008
I WORKED FOR BILL FOR 4YEARS, WHAT A DIFFERENCE HE MADE IN MY LIFE,NOW AND FROM NOW ON. THE
MEMORY OF BILL GWATNEY WILL LIVE IN MY HEART AND MIND FOREVER!
THANK YOU FOR BEING MY FREIND.
Linda Williams
August 14, 2008
May God Bless this family, during your time of bereavement.
Glen Addie
August 14, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
corey clark
August 14, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Mark & Stephanie Keister
August 14, 2008
Our sincere condolensces to the entire Gwatney Family. He will never be forgotten.
Karen Burnett
August 14, 2008
Harold & Sybil, I feel that there are no words to comfort the family. I will keep all of you in my prayers. I remember when I was younger how much fun we had. I remember how much my dad respected you and your family. God Bless You All.
Karen Kegeles Burnett
Doug Tinnin
August 14, 2008
May god be with the Gwatney Family through this tragedy.
Lynn Evans
August 14, 2008
I have a memory to share...
I'm pretty sure Bill Gwatney lived next door to my family when he was about 10 years old, in Carlisle Barracks, Pa. Our fathers were both at the Army War College there. I was in college in Virginia at the time, so I can't say I got to know young Bill at all. But I remember saying something to him as he stood in his driveway. He stared at me and then said, in a very pronounced Arkansas accent, "You talk funny, Lynn." I was charmed.
Well, I see you grew up to be a fine man, Bill Gwatney. You did good things. I was so sorry to read the news, and I extend my condolences to your family and friends. Rest in peace.
JD Hardin
August 14, 2008
May God give you the peace and comfort you need in these trying times, helping your faith grow stronger knowing that Bill was a fantasitc person for so many people and truly held the best interest for our city, state, and nation each and every day. Everyone has lost a remarkable friend, business leader, social/political advocate, and family man. God Bless you Gwatney Family.
Charlie & Sherry Lambert
August 14, 2008
Please know our thoughts and prayers are with the Gwatney family for their loss of Bill. He was truly a dynamic and inspiring individual. He will be sorely missed. We feel fortunate to have known him for the short time he was in our lives. Our deepest sympathies.
douglas tinnin
August 14, 2008
i will miss you my friend and brother
so very much you made adifferance
in
my life knowing you
Kathy Blaylock
August 14, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Courtney Cobb
August 14, 2008
My deepest condolences go out to Cathy, Rebecca, Christian, Chase, Mr. and Mrs. Gwatney and all the rest of his family, friends, co-workers and all those that, like me, got the pleasure of knowing such a wonderful man. I have known Mr. Gwatney since I was a baby, I could not have asked for a better mentor, rolemodel, boss, or best friend to my father and mother. I was lucky enough to not only know him on a professional level, but got to spend many a vacations with him and the girls. I pray for peace and understanding to all those hurting so deeply right now. I know, in time, we will make it through this together, as the Gwatney Family that Bill always told us to be. We will strive to make him proud and let the amazing legacy of such a strong, intelligent, honest, kind, caring, amazing man live on.
Joyce Thompson
August 14, 2008
Rebecca, I am so sorry for your loss. I have been thinking of you and my thoughts are with you and your family. May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish of Bill. Always know as you have been a true support for Kelly and me, we will always be here for you.
Dan Owens
August 14, 2008
I hadn't seen Bill since the Final Four in Charlotte years ago, but always enjoyed our lively conversations in Jacksonville, AR 25 years or so ago when I was editor of the newspaper there. Bill was bright, driven and dedicated to his beliefs and to the people in Arkansas. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to the Gwatney family.
Angie Umfleet
August 14, 2008
We have known the Gwatney family for years & my son Chance had just spoke to Bill about playing on the Jacksonville Gwatney baseball team ~ words can not express or sorrow. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May you feel Gods peace and love.
Christine Shoemaker McCullough
August 14, 2008
Harold, Sybil and Rusty, I cannot not truly express how wonderful of a person Bill was to me. The loss to your family, his numerous friends, Arkansas and the country is great. You are in my families prayers. May God's presence be felt at this difficult time.
PJ Melton
August 14, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Evelyn Adams
August 14, 2008
Harold & Syble, my friends for the past 60 years, I am still in total shock after the first news of this tragedy. You & all of Bill's family are in my prayers. God be with you.
SANDRA HIGGINBOTHAM
August 14, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Bill Gwatney's family.
Tammy Gunnels
August 14, 2008
Russell, I am so sorry. May you and your entire family feel the love and prayers being poured out for you from around the world. What a legacy Bill leaves behind. He will never be forgotten. I love you all. God bless.
Sarah Whitaker
August 14, 2008
The Kaufman County Democratic party extends our condolences to the entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
De Anna Jones
August 14, 2008
Uncle Harold, Aunt Syble & family... you all are in my heart and my prayers. No words can be spoken to relieve the heartache and loss. And they say, no bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Know too, the years lived and miles traveled were a precious journey with Bill.....given to us as a blessing so special we will remember always his presence in our lives.
Anonymous
August 14, 2008
My deepest sympathies to his family and to the ARKANSAS Democratic Party on the untimely passing of this gentleman.
He will be missed by all who knew him.
Thomas Widgeon
August 14, 2008
Jesus Loves Me!!!
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
August 14, 2008
Rest in peace.
Bonita Geary
August 13, 2008
To the family of Mr. Gwatney: I am so sorry for your loss. Please take comfort in the fact that there are many who share your grief.
Jerold & Rebecca Hover
August 13, 2008
Our heart felt sympathy and prayers go to the family and co-workers. Words can not express our shock and disbelief in this senseless lose.
Cindy Griffin Lee
August 13, 2008
Uncle Harold and family, we were so saddened at the precious loss of Bill. Our hearts go out to you all. May the Lord be with you all through this tragedy. With love and prayers. J.B.Griffin, James and Cindy Lee and family
August 13, 2008
May Bill's family be comforted in their fond memories of him and of a life well lived.
D. ZIMMERMAN
August 13, 2008
REST IN PEACE BILL GWATNEY
fredia pruitt
August 13, 2008
with love
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