Michael Rue "Mike" Masterson

Michael Rue "Mike" Masterson, 78, of Harrison, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 18, 2025, following a courageous battle with squamous cell cancer of the neck, at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center in Harrison.
He was born in Harrison, to Rue B. and Helen Elaine Hammerschmidt Masterson. Mike was raised in a military family and lived in many places throughout his youth, but always called Harrison "home." He graduated from what is now the University of Central Arkansas in 1971 and went on to build an extraordinary career as an investigative journalist, columnist, editor, and teacher that spanned more than five decades. A proud United States Coast Guard veteran who served during the Vietnam War, Mike lived a life filled with passion, purpose, and a relentless pursuit of truth.
From his earliest days in journalism, Mike was known for championing the underdog and uncovering injustice. His reporting for major publications including the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Sun-Times, and The Arizona Republic earned him numerous accolades, including being a two-time co-finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. He also served as editor of three Arkansas daily newspapers and headed the master's journalism program at Ohio State University.
Since 2001, Mike served as a beloved columnist at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, where his writing touched countless lives. His columns ranged from heartfelt reflections on faith - he coined the term "GodNods" for moments of divine intervention - to passionate advocacy on issues such as dangerous dog attacks, inspired by a traumatic incident involving his wife and their beloved dog, Benji. Throughout his career, Mike received more than two dozen national honors, including the Will Rogers Humanitarian Award, four Paul Tobenkin Memorial Awards, and four Robert F. Kennedy Awards. His work led to the release of three men wrongly convicted of crimes, one of whom was on death row.
Mike was not only respected but deeply loved. He was known for his wit, his karaoke performances with Tommy Tice (especially his favorite Buddy Holly song, Oh Boy!), his endless curiosity, and his childlike joy in magic tricks, animals, travel, fishing, and golf. Above all, he had a zest for life and a heart for others. Though his voice has fallen silent, Mike's words, his spirit, and his unwavering commitment to justice will continue to inspire. As he often concluded his columns: "Now go out into the world and treat everyone you meet exactly like you want them to treat you." He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Brandon Masterson.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanetta McCroskey, who stood by his side through every challenge and triumph; his cherished daughter, Anna Kathleen (Stacy Tise) Masterson of Memphis, Tennessee; his grandchildren, Keirston Masterson, Trenton Tise, and Elizabeth Masterson; brother, Grant Masterson of Denton, Texas; a sister, Gaye Masterson Lindberg of Hot Springs; a beloved nephew; two beloved nieces; his step-children, Kelley Lynn Foust of Joplin, Missouri, Franklin Patrick McCroskey of Harrison, Kenda Leigh McCroskey of Nixa, Missouri, and Kara LeNay Bortner of Republic, Missouri; numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; and many cherished friends, loyal readers, and a legacy of truth-telling, compassion, and integrity.
A family conducted celebration of Mike's life will be held at the Harrison Country Club, the date and time will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Holt Memorial Chapel.
Memorial donations may be made to a local animal shelter or a journalism scholarship fund in his honor.
The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.HoltChapel.com.