Michael Edward Varvil

Michael Edward Varvil obituary

Michael Edward Varvil

Michael Varvil Obituary

Visit the Phillips Funeral Home - Paragould website to view the full obituary.
Mike Varvil, 75, of Goobertown, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025.

Born on November 17, 1949, Mike dedicated over 30 years of his life as a land surveyor for the state of California. His work took him across the diverse landscapes of the Golden State-from sun-drenched deserts and rugged mountains to serene beaches and dense forests. His deep appreciation for the outdoors was evident not only in his professional life but also in his personal passions.

In addition to his surveying career, Mike was a successful entrepreneur, owning billboard businesses in both California and Arkansas. After retiring, he chose to settle in Goobertown to be closer to family, where he continued to live life to the fullest.

A man of strong faith, Mike was a graduate of Faith Bible Institute and spent many years teaching Sunday School at the various churches he attended. His love for the Lord and dedication to sharing the Word touched the lives of many, and his quiet leadership left a lasting impact on those around him.

A true outdoorsman, Mike found great joy in nature. He especially cherished his hunting trips, with highlights including several memorable journeys to Montana and the Arctic in pursuit of caribou and deer-many of which now proudly hang in his beloved man cave. He was also an avid fisherman, spending countless hours at his large pond in Goobertown, which was known for its impressive largemouth bass.

Mike's creativity and craftsmanship were on full display in his woodworking shop, where he built furniture and meticulously crafted replicas of gas stations and general stores inspired by the many places he lived and worked.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sherry Varvil, of the home; two sons, Brad (Melissa) Varvil of Glasgow, Montana, and Brent (Carrie) Varvil of Farmersville, Texas; two step-sons, Carl (Sonya) Nelson and Charles (Whitney) Nelson, both of Paragould, Arkansas; and a legacy of grandchildren: Jessica (Daniel) Cofield, Hannah (Chris Kearney) Varvil, Justin (Chelsea) Perez, Jake Perez, Tanner (Tanya) Varvil, Tristan (Mikayla) Varvil, Chuck (Caleob) Taramona, Logan (Anna) Varvil, Joshua Nelson, Hailey Nelson, Sydney Nelson, Cade Nelson, and Neely Nelson.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mike's life on Friday, September 12, 2025, at New Antioch Baptist Church in Goobertown, Arkansas. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 PM.

Mike will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his craftsmanship, his deep love for the outdoors, his faith in God, and the enduring legacy he leaves in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.

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

Phillips Funeral Home - Paragould

4904 West Kingshighway, Paragould, AR 72450

Make a Donation
in Michael Varvil's name

How to support Michael's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Varvil's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more