Herbert Troy Brogdon, lovingly known as “Herb,” and to many as “Pole Climber” or “Cowboy,” passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at the age of 97. Herb was a longtime resident of Glenwood, Arkansas.

Herb was born on December 21, 1928, in Walnut Grove, Arkansas, to Abbie Jane Cason Brogdon and Albert R. Brogdon. He grew up in Cave City, Arkansas. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Army during the closing period of World War II. He served with the 101st Infantry Division and the 1st Infantry Division, and was stationed in Nuremberg, Germany, where he served as a guard during the historic Nuremberg War Criminal Trials. After returning home, he continued serving his country through the Army National Guard.

Following his military service, Herb built a long and respected career with Arkansas Power and Light, where he worked as a lineman for 41 years before retiring. Many knew him by the nickname “Pole Climber,” a testament to his skill and dedication to his work. Herb was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers for more than 74 years.

Herb had a deep love for his community, especially the people of Glenwood. For over 68 years, he served in numerous ways, including as a volunteer firefighter and volunteer EMT. He also played a key role in helping establish the first ambulance service in the Glenwood area. Herb was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Glenwood, where he served faithfully as a deacon for many years. He was an active member of the Glenwood Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons #662 for more almost 70 years. He also was a member of The Glenwood Eastern Star for many years.

Herb loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting with his dear friends Joe Floyd Wright, Mike Wilson, and Mark Hudgins. For many years, he raised prize-winning Walker Hounds that were purchased by hunters from across the United States. Herb enjoyed hunting fox, deer, raccoons, and was even known to hunt wild hogs on horseback.

After retirement, Herb spent many years breaking horses and riding through the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, traveling to places that could only be reached on horseback. He continued this passion until the age of 80, creating cherished memories while attending horse camps with his wife and friends for trail rides, including occasional moonlight rides. Herb also traveled with his horses to Colorado to ride in the mountains. He was known as an incredible storyteller whose strong, warm voice touched many hearts.

Herb is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis Brogdon; his daughters, Carolyn Brogdon Kapp (John) and Pamela Brogdon; his granddaughters, Karen Antonacci and Marissa Hayes (Jonah); and his stepchildren, Kathy Ramsey (Bodie), David Doggett, Dee Dee Doggett, Leigh Green (Kyle) and Carrie Sanders. He is also survived by his step-grandchildren Whitney Bussell, Sara McClard, Isaac Doggett, Julian Doggett, Jay Doggett, Nate Doggett, Brady Green, Brenna Green, Deanna McHenry, and Alex Sanders, along with many great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly and who loved and adored him in return.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Abbie Jane Cason Brogdon and Albert R. Brogdon; his brother, Doyne Brogdon; and his sisters, Willene James and Laverne “Dude” Rose.

A celebration of Herb’s life will be held at the First Baptist Church of Glenwood with Pastor Erby Burgess officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13th, with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery with military honors.

Pallbearers will be Carle Hall, Jim Hicks, Jerry Mack, Dewayne Mack, Rodney Woodard, and Larry Mitchell.
Honorary pallbearers include Jim O’Neal, Mike Prince, Randall Campbell, Johnny Yarborough, Albert Coffman, and Jimmy Jackson.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of National Park Medical Center, Ellen Moreland, Charissa Cogburn, his nurse Angie York, with Hospice Home Care, and Lisa Hall for their compassionate care and support.

Herb lived a life defined by service—to his country, his community, his church, and his family. His legacy of strength, generosity, and faith will live on in the many lives he touched.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
— Joshua 1:9