Jerry Wayne Arrington

Jerry Wayne Arrington, born on January 5, 1945, in Converse, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, surrounded by family at his home in Little Rock.  His life was a rich tapestry of service, encouragement, kindness, and hard work.  Jerry spent his childhood and young adulthood growing up in the countryside near Stephens, AR, where he created many fond memories with his brothers and cousins.  A proud graduate of the Stephens Oilers Class of 1962, Jerry was also a devoted member of Pinnacle Church of Christ in Little Rock.  

Jerry dedicated 50 years of his life to the roofing industry. In the early years of his career, he traveled extensively throughout the Southeast, working with clients across Oklahoma, Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Louisiana. Despite the demanding schedule, he always made it a priority to return home on weekends to be with his family. In the mid-90s, he transitioned from selling roofing materials to large warehouse accounts to starting his own business, specializing in the application of roofing materials. He led crews throughout South Arkansas and North Louisiana, while also working on larger commercial projects in neighboring states. During this time, he earned the affectionate nickname 'Mr. A.' and passed on his legacy of hard work and dedication to a younger generation. Once both of his daughters were grown, his wife began accompanying him on out-of-state projects, where industry professionals would request his expertise following storms that ravaged parts of the Gulf Coast. They fell in love with the region and frequently returned for brief escapes, relishing the coastal beauty and local cuisine.

Jerry exemplified how to honor others, demonstrating the value of a strong work ethic, and inspired countless individuals to have faith and be present for those in need. He was a dreamer and always encouraged others to pursue their own dreams. A visit with Jerry often left people feeling empowered, as his words of faith and encouragement had a way of lifting the spirits of all who met him.  If you were fortunate enough to know him, he likely called you a winner. He lived a life that embodied the idea of never losing hope, no matter the challenges you encounter. 

The last years of his life were marked by incredible perseverance after a life-altering fall. Jerry rose up every day, even in the face of defeat, using his own struggles to uplift and encourage others. He never questioned God’s purpose. He humbly sought Jesus' strength each day, asking our Lord to show him how to overcome obstacles with grace.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Cobern Victor and Katherine Arrington; his brothers, C.V. and Garvis Arrington; his Aunt Ellen Bazemore; and his son-in-law, Benjamin Eiler.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda Arrington; his daughters, Melanie Eiler and Mary Chatelain; and his son-in-law, Austin Chatelain. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, who affectionately called him Papa Jerry: Isabel Eiler, Ethan Eiler, Ainslee Eiler, Lily Chatelain, August Chatelain, and Ellen Kate Chatelain.

Visitation will be held at Proctor’s Funeral Home in Camden, AR, on Friday, October 4th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service and burial will take place at Liberty Church of Christ in Troy, AR (county road 25), on Saturday, October 5th, at 11:00 a.m. A family and friends celebration will be held on Sunday, October 6th, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Pinnacle Church of Christ in Little Rock.

Pallbearers will include Austin Chatelain, Ethan Eiler, Eric Eiler, Gary Arrington, David Arrington, and Terry Howell. Honorary pallbearers will be August Chatelain and Robby Arrington.

His daughters and grandchildren would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to their mother and grandmother, affectionately known as Mama Lynn, for the sacrifices she made over the past six years as his full-time caregiver. His will to live, combined with her unwavering dedication to prioritizing his needs above her own, blessed us with many more years with him than his doctors thought possible. 

In his memory, pour out words of encouragement to everyone you meet, hold your family close in prayer, and let the light of God's love shine through all you do.  Here’s to honoring a life lived with purpose and grace—well done, good and faithful servant.