Franklin D. Dent

Franklin D. Dent, 91, of El Paso, Ark., peacefully entered his heavenly home on June 5, 2025. Born on September 30, 1933, in Beebe, Arkansas, he was the son of Emanuel Dent and Ruth (McCoy) Dent.

On January 14, 1952, Frank married the love of his life, Billie Joan (Hildebrand) Dent. Together, they built a strong and loving family, raising three sons and creating a home filled with laughter, devotion, and lasting memories.

Frank proudly served his country in both the United States Air Force and the United States Navy between 1953 and 1962. During his time in the Air Force (1953–1957), he worked to establish communication lines during the Korean War. Fluent in Japanese, he enjoyed sharing the language with his grandchildren. In 1958, he joined the Navy and served aboard the U.S.S. Saratoga, affectionately calling her “Sara.” His naval service took him across the world, including to Greece and Italy, and he often reminisced about life aboard the ship, which he fondly described as a “small town at sea.”

After returning home, Frank dedicated his career to the City of Stuttgart, where he served as Director of Public Works for the Street Department and also as Chief of the Volunteer Police Department. He retired with pride after years of public service and leadership.

In retirement, Frank and Joan enjoyed peaceful days at their beloved lake house on East Lake in Holly Grove, Arkansas. There, they spent their time fishing, relaxing, and creating joyful memories with their grandchildren.

Frank leaves behind a legacy of love and family. He is survived by his sons, James Michael “Mike” (Carolyn) Dent and Chris (Angie) Dent; daughter-in-law Rose Dent; grandchildren Heather (Robert) Spradlin, Zach Dent, Chris (Heather) Henry, Matt (Maggie) Dent, and Nicole McCullar; great-grandchildren Jacie Lindsey, Jackson Lindsey, Logan Spradlin, Autumn Dent, MaKenzie Marbray, MaKaidyn Marbray, Avah Dent, Christopher Henry, Jazmin Martin, Karlie May, and Mia May; and great-great-grandchildren Hannah, Paul, and Jason Hearn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather John Henry, his beloved wife Joan, his son Hal Dent, granddaughter Amber Dent, grandson Cody Dent, and granddaughter Kimberly Heffington.

Serving as pallbearers to honor Frank’s memory and military service are Chris Henry, Matt Dent, Jackson Lindsey, MaKaidyn Marbray, Robert Spradlin, and Logan Spradlin.

Honorary pallbearers include Zach Dent and Donnie Severe.

Frank will be remembered for his deep love of family, his faithful service to his country and community, and the strength, humor, and warmth he brought to every life he touched.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Monday, June 9, at Turpin Funeral Home with a funeral service following. Burial will be in Lone Tree Cemetery.