Jerry Owen Poplin

Jerry Owen Poplin, age 81, passed away November 18, 2025 at his home, where he has been under Hospice Care. He is survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Martha Harris Poplin; daughter, Tracy Lynn Ashley (Jason) of Nelson BC, Canada; Sons Mark Poplin and Gary Poplin and families of Jacksonville, FL; sisters Theresa Allison and Gail Burchfield (Buddy) of Crossett, AR; stepsons Matt Hensley of Phoenix, AZ and Ryan Hensley (Teresa) of Jacksonville, AR, "Bonus daughter", Donna Suen (Kelly) and 13 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, JT and Leona Poplin of McGehee, AR ;brother Calvin Poplin of McGehee and sister Evelyn Hammond of Elsberry, MO.

Jerry was born May 7, 1944 in Dermott, AR. He grew up in McGehee, AR where he graduated from high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy where he served 20 years, retiring as a CPO. He was a proud plank owner aboard the USS America. After retiring, he was 100% disabled, service connected. While in the Navy, he earned an Associate's Degree, a Bachelor's Degree and a finally a Masters in Business with honors from the University of Arkansas. He did freelance consulting for several major corporations as a civilian, based in Atlanta before totally retiring.

Jerry had many good friends and he maintained lifelong friendships with, Butch Price of Cabot, Roy Hogue of McGehee, Dr. Brad Williams of Little Rock, Eddie Bass of LA and many others. He never turned his back. on his friends, sharing good times and bad. All who knew him will miss his sense of humor and ready smile that could light up a room.

Jerry had a kind heart and was deeply spiritual, knowing the love of God. His years with Martha were spent enjoying harmony, caring and love, which Jerry felt was a true gift from God. He was "Pop" to grandson, Drew Hensley, who followed his footsteps into the US Navy; of which Jerry was immensely proud. Jerry enjoyed traveling with Martha, fishing whenever he could and he was a certified scuba diver. He was an avid lifelong learner and had registered for PhD courses before he suffered a stroke and had to forgo that goal.

His wife, Martha, was his caregiver 24/7 with the tremendous help of Arkansas Hospice who were amazing in their care. Also, caring for him daily was Mindy Arnold, who tirelessly and patiently cared for him with Martha. His wonderful weekend aide was Debbie Powers. With the help of these angels as well as "bonus daughter", Donna Suen, Jerry could be at home with his loving wife, where he loved to be with good home cooking (especially pinto beans and cornbread!) and watching his westerns on tv. He will be greatly missed.

Pall Bearers: Grandsons, Kaleb Suen, Korban and Shalem Ashley; Nephews, Brian, Bryson and Brayden Allen.

Visitation will be Monday, November 24, 2025 from 12:30 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. at A Natural State Funeral Service. The graveside service will follow at 2:30 P.M. at Oak Grove Cemetery in Searcy, Arkansas.

Donations may be made to Arkansas Hospice (arkansashospice.org)

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com