Eugene (Gene) Elbert Newton

Eugene (Gene) Elbert Newton (88), born September 9, 1935, in Miller County, Arkansas, entered the arms of his Savior on September 16, 2023.

Cherishing his memory is his daughter, Danelle Newton (Rodney Bloor) and great-granddaughter in love, Addisyn Nesbit of Hot Springs, Arkansas, family friend, Joan Childs, and numerous nephews and nieces.

Proceeded in death by his parents Lois and Nettie Newton, siblings: Ruby Ledbetter, Ethel Rayburn, Bernice Clark, Betty Cottle, Everette Newton, Opal Patty, Burl Newton and Bertha Newsome. His wife of 46 years, Frances Newton.

After serving in the Army during the Korean War, he was a foreman for American Fence Company, working in many states including Hawaii. He was the owner/operator of Gene’s Welding and Auto Body in Bakersfield, California. He loved the “Bakersfield Sound” and was involved with Toys for Tots which raised funds from concerts with local celebrities including Merle Haggard and Buck Owens. He and his wife, Frances and brother-in-law, Kenny Reynolds formed Bakersfield Three, a southern gospel band that performed in churches in south central California. He and his family moved to Mena and owned/operated Acorn Antiques for 15 years. Gene continued finding collectibles and opened a flea market at Duke’s Junktion, when he operated until his last day on this earth.

Gene was a man who devoted a long and vigorous life to his country, his family, and his friends. He enjoyed both playing and listening to country music and going dancing every week. His wish was to make people smile and laugh.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mena Polk County Senior Center, 401 Autumn Drive, Mena, AR 71953 or chosen charity.

Pallbearers are Loren Storni, Leon Page, Dale Moll, and Rodney Bloor.

Visitation will be Friday, September 22, 2023, 5:00-8:00 P.M. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home

Services will be held a Beasley Wood Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, September 23 at 10:00 A.M.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

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Ethan Nahté

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