Joel "Van" Burrough

Joel "Van" Burrough obituary, Fort Smith, AR

Joel "Van" Burrough

Joel Burrough Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by River Glenn Cremations & Funeral Services on Oct. 1, 2025.

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In Loving Memory Of
Joel 'Van' Burrough, 81, of Van Buren, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025. Born on June 23, 1943, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Van was the beloved son of Woodrow and Meribel Burrough. In September of 1966, he married the love of his life, Patricia Lorene Rose, in Fort Smith, and together they shared 57 wonderful years.
Van had a passion for radio broadcasting, working as a radio announcer in Texas and Arkansas with stations KWHN and KMAT. He played a key role in establishing a radio station at Fort Chaffee. An avid sports fan, he cheered for the Arkansas Razorback football and the Dallas Cowboys. He found joy in visiting Galveston, Texas, where he relished the beach and his favorite seafood. In his free time, Van enjoyed movies, television, traveling, and simply taking drives with his beloved wife. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted Baptist and lived his life with kindness and devotion to his family.
Van is survived by his loving wife, Patricia, along with numerous family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Joel Mark Burrough, and his brothers, Larry and Vincent Burrough. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, and friend. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will deeply miss his warmth, humor, and unwavering love for his family. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joel, please visit our Tree Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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