George Sanborn

George Henry Sanborn, 82, of Russellville, Arkansas, stepped peacefully into eternity on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at UAMS Hospital in Little Rock.

Born May 8, 1943, in Old Town, Maine, to William and Rose Marie Roy Sanborn, George lived a life marked by patriotism, compassion, and a personal mission to make at least one person smile every single day.

A proud United States Navy Veteran of the Vietnam era, George served with honor as a member of the Navy Seabees, an experience that shaped his work ethic, his love of craftsmanship, and his deep respect for his fellow servicemen. After his military service, he continued to serve his country through a dedicated career in Civil Service with the U.S. Navy. George was a Lifetime Member of the VFW and the Disabled American Veterans and a committed member of the American Legion. His fellow VFW brothers and friends were like family to him, and he loved them dearly.

George was an extraordinary craftsman with a lifelong passion for carpentry and woodworking. Whether building, repairing, or creating something beautiful from raw lumber, he worked with the same precision, grit, and steady hands that defined every part of his life. He was a great friend to many – quick with a joke, full of stories, and always ready to brighten someone's day. He loved to fish and hunt, especially from his favorite spot, the "smoking lounge," where countless memories were made.

On May 8, 2019, George married the love of his life, Penny Lewallen Sanborn, and embraced his role as a devoted and loving husband. Guided by a deep and steady faith, he attended Home Church in Dardanelle, where he found encouragement, purpose, and community.

George was preceded in death by his parents; his former wife, Edna Sue; a daughter, Sandra Mitchell; and four siblings.

He is survived by a large, loving family who will forever carry his stories, his laughter, and the joy he spread wherever he went: his wife, Penny Sanborn, of Russellville; three daughters, Patty Lal, Kimber Sanborn, and Valita Besse; his son, Arthur Leon Sanborn Sr. (Dorie); three stepchildren, Doomer Crow (Angela), Harrel Crow (Peggy), and Anna Ward (Jamie); 19 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his brother, Donald Sanborn; and his wonderful caregiver and friend, Jennifer Tafft.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, November 28, 2025, at Humphrey Chapel with Bro. Zach Yates officiating. Burial will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Park in Russellville, Arkansas, under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service. Full military honors will be provided by the U.S. Navy and VFW Rogers-Rye Post 2283. Visitation will be held Friday from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online obituary and guestbook are available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.