Ethan Alexander Dietz

Ethan Alexander Dietz, 20, of Conway, Arkansas, passed away on November 25, 2025, doing what he loved — playing basketball. He was born on September 12, 2005, in Conway, Arkansas.

Ethan’s spirit was bright, full of love, laughter, and an energy that filled any room he entered. He had a superpower, a way of making everyone feel uniquely seen and valued.

At 6′8″, he was a gentle giant, the kind of person who wrapped you up in one of his legendary hugs and somehow made you feel stronger just for being in his presence. Kind, caring, unique - those words only scratch the surface of who he was. He brought joy, warmth, and belonging to everyone around him.

He graduated from Vilonia High School and was in his second year playing basketball for Connors State College, where he was a starting forward and a team captain for the Cowboys. He was a leader, a motivator, and a role model for both his peers and younger athletes who looked up to him. Ethan worked year-round on his physical strength and his game, reinventing himself each season and becoming a stronger, smarter, more dominant player. He dreamed of playing Division I basketball in the coming year and had already begun attracting attention from multiple universities early in the season. He was deeply loved by his community, his teammates, his friends, and his family.

Ethan was preceded in death by his grandparents Alex Dietz (“Papa Bear”), and Carol Hambrick (“Memee”). He is survived by his mother, Krystal Dietz (“Ma Dukes”); his two fathers, Chad Meins(“Pops”) and Bruce Johnson, and their loving families; his girlfriend Shelbee Clark (“Jean”) and her loving family; grandparents Bill Hambrick (“Pap”) and Lee Ann Dietz (“Hunny”); his chosen brother Bradi Groves, his uncle Donnie Dietz and cousin Trey Dietz; his aunt Lindsey Hambrick, his cousin Deuce Ackerson; many friends; and a loving community.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 28, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Friendship Baptist Church on 767 Rocky Point Rd, Conway, AR 72032. There will be a reception to follow from 4:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m.

Those who knew Ethan will always remember how he made them feel — seen, cared for, and part of something greater. His legacy lives on in the stories people tell, the love he gave, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, you can donate to Ethan Dietz Memorial fund by sending a check to 1122 Van Ronkle St

Conway, AR 72032 or any US Bank location near you. Checks should be made out to: Ethan Dietz Memorial. Donations are also available through Zelle using email address: krysmeins@gmail.com.