James R. "Buzzy" Duckworth

James R. “Buzzy” Duckworth, age 89, of North Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on 13 October 2024. He was born on January 25, 1935 in Pettus, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Zana (Long) and Jesse Duckworth; his sister, Patricia Harris; and his first wife, Jeri (Price) Duckworth. He was one of four children and is survived by his brother, Kenneth (Lisa) Duckworth and sister, Doris (Harold) McFadin. Left behind to cherish his memories are his wife, Jeanette (Thomason) Duckworth; his two sons, Bobby (Lisa) and Dean Duckworth; two daughters-in-law, Roxanne and Brenda Woodworth.

Buzzy was blessed with eight grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends that will miss him.

He graduated from North Little Rock High School, class of 1954 where he was recognized as an All-State Football player. Upon graduating he joined the Arkansas Air National Guard. During his forty (40) years of service he worked within the 189th CAM Squadron and retired as the First Sargeant. Buzzy also worked full time with the Southwestern Bell Company for thirty-eight (38) years. 

Buzzy was a 32nd degree Mason, Past Master of Westwood Lodge #353, current member of Crescent Lodge #403, State DeMolay Dad, and State Rainbow Dad. He loved spending time with his family, especially during the holidays.

His other favorite past time was traveling in his RV with his co-pilot, Jeanette. He literally drove from coast to coast where he belonged to several camping clubs.

Celebration of Life will be held Friday, October 25, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at North Hills Baptist Church with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Graveside service with full military honors and Masonic rites will follow at Rest Hills Cemetery. Please visit www.smithfamilycares.com for the online guestbook. 

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.