Donald “Don” Garrison

Donald "Don" Leo Garrison, 87, of Bentonville passed away February 20, 2026, in Bentonville surrounded by his family. He was born on August 27, 1938, in LaRue, Arkansas, the son of Leo and Grace Cox Garrison.

Don's first job was with the Rogers Daily News at 19 years old. He spent the next two decades holding roles at several local Newspapers. He won the "Newspaper Man of the year" in 1964 and was the Editor for the Benton County Democrat Gazette from 1965-1975. His love for storytelling stayed with him until the very end, reading the paper daily and every square inch of it. He was a licensed private pilot with multi engine and IFR ratings and loved to fly. He served in the Army National Guard for 30 years and completed a call to duty during Desert Storm.

He then went on to own and operate Don Garrison Cars in Bentonville since 1979. His work ethic was undeniable and impressive, typically spending 6 days a week at his car lot up until last year. He was known for his intelligence and charm, his fiery passion and a fighter spirit. He lived a long and full life imprinted with lots of motion, bold strength and extreme resilience. Don enjoyed spending time with his family, all cars, boating and flying in his earlier years.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his companion Frances "Lois" Funderburk. He is survived by his children Richard Garrison and Debbie Garrison, Mark Garrison, Martin Garrison, April Clarke, and Roberta "Robbie" McFarlane and Scott McFarlane; His first wife and mother of his boys, Mary Jane Bowman, many friends, and his siblings Shirley Miller and Rick Garrison, 9 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Benton County Funeral Home, 306 N. 4th St., Rogers. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Funeral Home. Interment with full military honors will follow in the Bentonville Cemetery, Bentonville, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to either Circle of Life Hospice or Bradford House Nursing Home in Bentonville. Online condolences to www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com