John Bernard Breznai

John Bernard Breznai, 83, of Searcy departed this life Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at his home, where so many family memories were made. Born Sept. 30, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio – the first son, second child out of five children to the late John and Mary Breznai – later they moved to the Los Angeles, Calif., area where all the siblings were raised and lived for many years.

He enlisted in the Navy in 1959 and was honorably discharged in 1965. John moved to Arkansas permanently in 1977, where he enjoyed building his life but never forgot his California roots. Always willing to lend a hand if something was broken, needed built or fixed, he could do just about anything but it was going to be done his way. If you know, you know. His and Granny Vella's home was the place to be during the summer months – the pool water was clear (he had that down to a chemist science) and the grill was always hot. During the winter, he could be found in his shop with a blazing fire in the wood-burning stove. At other times, he could be found tinkering around outside or in his shop working on a number of projects or down at "the property" with his boys fishing or just talking. He liked to do both. He just enjoyed being outside and with family until his health failed and he was no longer able to do the activities he once so loved.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Vella Breznai.

Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his children, John E. Breznai Sr. of Searcy, Jeanette (Jason) Harwell of Bald Knob, Gary (Vicki) Wyatt of Searcy, Timmy (Tammy)Wyatt of Searcy, Randy (Rachelle) Wyatt of Searcy and Kim (Jimmy) Swain of Searcy; 15 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and a host of friends, much of those he called family.

A visitation and memorial service will be held was held Saturday, April 5, at 4 p.m. at Cole Funeral Home.