Jackie Lynn Altom

With heavy hearts but steadfast hope in the promises of Christ, we announce the passing of Jackie Lynn Altom, age 72, who was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on the morning of April 27, 2025, surrounded by the family who loved him so dearly.
Jack lived a life marked by unwavering faith, deep compassion, and a love that knew no bounds. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend-roles he carried with grace, strength, and humility. His heart was the cornerstone of our family, his life a living testimony of what it means to love like Jesus.
Born on November 16, 1952, Jack was first and foremost a Christian. He served faithfully as a Deacon at Lifeline Southern Baptist Church in Pleasant Plains, Arkansas, where he inspired others with his steady walk with the Lord, his servant's heart, and his love for worship. Music was his passion-he often led songs with his guitar and voice lifted in praise, a sound we know now graces God's Heavenly choir.
Jack's life was rich with meaningful work and simple joys. Over the years, he wore many hats-truck driver, dump-truck operator, and finally, cattle rancher before his retirement. Whether he was tending land, riding horseback, or driving a wagon led by the well-known "gray team" on trail rides, Jack carried a calm strength and gentle joy that made others feel at peace in his presence.
On November 26, 2021, Jackie married the love of his life, Paula Wadley Altom. Though their time together as husband and wife was brief in years, it was full to overflowing with the kind of love that some spend a lifetime searching for. From the moment they said "I do," Jackie and Paula were inseparable. They shared not only a deep and abiding love, but also a rare and beautiful friendship that grew stronger with each passing day.
Together, they built a life marked by laughter, prayer, and sweet companionship. Whether they were traveling hand in hand on new adventures or simply sitting together on the porch watching the sunset, they cherished every moment. Jack found immense joy in working side by side with Paula in the yard, planting flowers, trimming trees, and creating a peaceful space they both treasured. Even in the quietest of days, their love spoke volumes-through simple gestures, shared smiles, and the comfort of knowing they were exactly where God meant for them to be: together.
They made the most of every day, never missing a chance to show affection, to hold hands, and to express gratitude for the love they had found in one another. Their marriage was a blessing not only to them, but to all who witnessed the way they loved-with joy, with gentleness, and with a deep trust in the Lord. Jackie's heart found a true partner in Paula, and in their time together, they gave each other a forever kind of love.
Jack poured his life into his family, teaching his children and grandchildren not only practical wisdom, but most importantly, the boundless love of Jesus Christ. He led by example, teaching us to follow God's path, to forgive, to cherish each moment, and to love-always love-without hesitation.
He is survived by his loving wife, Paula Wadley Altom; his son and daughter-in-law, Timothy and Brandy Altom of Hickory Flat; his daughter, Mary Beth Altom of the home; his grandchildren: Brandon Altom and wife Terri of Floral, Timothy Caleb Altom and wife Emily of Bradford, and Daniel Altom of Hickory Flat; and great-grandchildren: Sadie Altom and Lyndy Altom of Floral, and Caelynn Altom of Bradford. He also leaves behind his brothers: Johnie Altom, Randy Altom and wife Carla, and Michael Altom and wife Rita, all of Hickory Flat; his sister: Lanell Kimbriel and husband Johnny of Judsonia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were blessed by his presence.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Max and Clara Altom; his first wife of 48 years and mother of his children, Margie Robbins Altom; and his beloved granddaughter, Kalista Shae-Lyn Altom.
Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing Jackie is now walking the streets of gold, reunited with loved ones gone before, and singing joyfully in God's eternal choir. His life was a beautiful reflection of God's love, and though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit, his lessons, and his legacy of love will remain forever.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Lifeline Southern Baptist Church, from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Funeral Service will be conducted on Friday, May 2, 2025 beginning at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at Olive Branch Cemetery in Hickory Flat.
Arrangements were entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Bradford.