Russell Fancher

Stillman Russell Fancher, a resident of Green Forest, AR, peacefully passed away on March 5, 2024, at Circle of Life in Bentonville, AR, at the age of 93.

He was born on August 18, 1930, in Connor, AR, to John Kenner and Mary (Hoppins) Fancher. Russell graduated from Green Forest High School in 1946. He served in the Army during the Korean War and was trained as a Morse code operator.

On March 14, 1957, he married Nita Faye (Sisco) Fancher. They enjoyed 67 years of marriage and raised their two daughters on a farm in Rule, just outside of Green Forest.

He had a deep love for the outdoors and was an active farmer on his family farm for many years, raising beef cattle and tobacco, one of only a few tobacco farmers in the state.

Prior to his retirement, Russell worked at Kraft Foods in Berryville for 30 years. Known for his ability to fix almost anything, Russell had the patience of a saint. Although he spoke few words, he possessed a caring heart and an immense sense of integrity - his word was his bond.  He was also an active Ham Radio operator for many years, going by the call sign K5UEI.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents John Kenner and Mary (Hoppins) Fancher, his brothers J.K. and Remmel Fancher, sisters-in-law Dee and Genevieve Fancher, brothers-in-law Keith Sisco, Dean Fultz, Pete Howerton, and Elvin Armer.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Nita of the home, his two daughters Lisa Fancher of Wynne, AR and Patricia Chavez (Jack) of Bella Vista, AR and grandson Treven (Tiffany) Chavez of Lowell, AR. He is survived by his brothers beloved children, Terry Fancher (Kathleen) of MA, Sheila Fancher Barnes (Bobby) of TX, and Kyle (Becky) Fancher of AR. In addition, he is survived by sisters-in-law Jean (Sisco) Howerton, Bonnie (Sisco) Fultz, and Linda (Sisco) Armer, all of Green Forest, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors.

Visitation will be Friday, March 8, 2024, from 5 - 7 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Green Forest, AR, with graveside services on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Rule Cemetery.  Online condolences can be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.

Memorial Donations can be made to Rule Cemetery, Rule, AR. 

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