John Crenshaw

With faith in Jesus Christ and gratitude for a life devoted to service, family, and community, we remember Dr. John Crenshaw, who passed away on December 22, 2025.

Born in Memphis, John was raised on the family farm in Trenton, Tennessee, alongside his two brothers Jim and Tom. From an early age, his natural leadership and athleticism were evident. He was President of Peabody High School and Captain of the football team. During college, he served as Captain of the University of Tennessee at Martin men’s tennis team.

John attended the University of Tennessee Medical School, then proudly served as a Captain and physician in the United States Army. After his service, he settled in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where he practiced Internal Medicine and built a career marked by integrity and compassion, treating all patients with dignity, regardless of their ability to pay.

He served as President of the Arkansas Medical Society and the Arkansas Society of Internal Medicine, and as Chief of Staff at Jefferson Regional Medical Center. His faith in action was especially evident through his volunteer work, medical mission trips, and leadership as Chairman of the Board at the Charitable Christian Clinic in Hot Springs, Arkansas, John was an life-long member of the First United Methodist Church in Pine Bluff and in Hot Springs.

Known for his ever-present smile and jovial spirit, John made fast friends with everyone. He was a true social butterfly—always visiting, and hosting gatherings filled with laughter and friendship. He loved people deeply and gave freely of his time to both family and community. He lived his belief in Jesus not just with words, but through daily acts of kindness, generosity.

John was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Donna Johnston Crenshaw, who preceded him in death. He was a loving father to John Holt Crenshaw (Tracey) and Leanne Crenshaw Ince (Kamran), and a proud grandfather to Connor Bernhard (Kara), Meredith Bernhard Hernandez (David), Steve Crenshaw (Janie), Leah Crenshaw, Abby Bernhard, and Arin Ince. He took great joy in providing for his family and supporting them in every way he could.

John passed at home, surrounded by his cats, with his later life partner, Judy Mayes, and steadfast family friend and caregiver, Emma Ramirez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John B. Crenshaw and Mabel Harris Crenshaw Cooper, and by his brothers, James Harris Crenshaw and Thomas Malcolm Crenshaw.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Garland County Humane Society.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205.If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com