James "Bobby" Beal

James (Bobby) Robert Beal was a caring son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He passed away Sunday, December 5, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. Bobby was born to Leslie and Celia Beal on August 16, 1946 in Manila, Arkansas.  At the age of 17 he met the love of his life, Madeline Bridges. They married in 1963 and together had four daughters.

He spent most of his career in carpentry and contracting. He retired from the Cabot Public School System as a locksmith in 2007.

Bobby loved to camp, fish, visit his buddies at the local coffee shop, Dude’s Place, take drives, piddle in his shop and spend time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Madeline Bridges Beal, his four daughters, Karen (Terry) Norton Dana (Trey) Simmons, Kristen (Dwayne) Boswell and Monica (Jeremiah) Ring. He is also survived by grandsons, Chris Norton, Braxton Ring, Sutton Boswell and Caden Ring, two granddaughters, Hannah Norton and Kenzie Ring and a great grandson Cade Norton. He is also survived by a brother, Don Beal, a sister Patricia Rosenow and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and numerous friends.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, two brothers and two sisters.

A celebration of his life will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 11, 2021, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe (404 W. DeWitt Drive).  Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Covid 19 precautions will be implemented. Family has requested that masks be worn during visitation and the service.

The family would like to thank Arkansas Hospice for the care and support provided to Bobby and his family. Specifically, we would like to thank Erika, Kristina, Melissa and Ron. Memorials in his honor may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Cabot Animal Shelter.