Donald Ray McCleland

Donald Ray McCleland obituary, Hensley, AR

Donald Ray McCleland

Donald McCleland Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory on Dec. 31, 2025.
Donald Ray McCleland, 86, of Hensley, Arkansas, passed away on December 27, 2025, at the Little Rock VA Hospital with his family by his side.

Donald was born on November 17, 1939, in Montrose, Arkansas, to the late James Murphy McCleland and Erma B. Breedlove. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Donald spent many years as a truck driver before retiring, after which he became an avid gardener and a true jack-of-all-trades, known for his ability to fix just about anything. He was a devout Christion surrendering to his Lord and Savior in 1966.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Nina Mae McCleland; his brothers, Darrell and Ricky McCleland; his sons, James Don, Don Jr., and Bobby; and his granddaughter, Heather.

Donald is survived by his son Ricky (Denise) McCleland of Sierra Vista, Arizona; Ermae (Parmley) Aud of Hensley, Arkansas; Christy (Maverick) Varnadore of Hensley, Arkansas; and his brother Bill (Dot) McCleland of Sheridan, Arkansas.

He is also survived by his grandchildren Brandon McCleland, Anthony McCleland, Stephanie (Gage) Garrett, Brandon and Brett Faulkner; as well as four great-grandchildren, Brandon Jr., Kerah, Wyatt, and Kohdi. Donald dearly loved his step great-grandchildren as well.

Visitation will be held on January 8, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service.

Funeral services will be held on January 9 at 10:00 a.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service.

Burial will follow at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Donald will be remembered for his love for Jesus, hard work, love of family, and the pride he took in helping others.

A special thanks to the VA System for their help in caring for Dad, and to Crystal Jacobsen the home health nurse.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Donald's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Donald McCleland's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Donald McCleland's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?