John Winchester

On Tuesday, June 15th at 2:00 pm the Winchester family lost their leader. John Thomas (Tommy) Winchester, the greatest husband, dad, granddaddy, and great granddaddy, went on to heaven. Tommy was born June 26, 1924 to John H. and Lela Thomas Winchester in Des Arc, Arkansas. He loved Des Arc and growing up on the White River. He never tired of going back, seeing old friends, and driving around Des Arc. Tommy served in the US Navy in World War II. Afterwards he joined the Arkansas Army National Guard and was employed by the Guard, serving for many years as Budget and Finance Officer. He retired with 32 years of service to his country. After retirement he decided he wanted to explore the real estate business, which led to a 7 year career working with Sherwood Reality. Tommy loved people and was loved greatly in return. He delivered Meals on Wheels for 10 plus years and hated giving it up when he just wasn't fit enough to continue. He was a 32nd degree Mason for 50 plus years and was a member of Sylvan Hills Lodge #754. Tommy was a lifelong Methodist and loved his church, Sylvan Hills United Methodist Church. He sang in the choir for many years and truly enjoyed the Wesleyan Sunday School class. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Chloe Stallings, and beloved Grandson Jared Tyler Bingham. He is survived by his wife of 57 and a half years Frances; one son Steve (Stephanie) Winchester; three daughters Lisa (Howard) Bingham, Julie (Todd) Kettlewell, and Laura (Bob) Endres; as well as five grandchildren, Lucas and Morgan Bingham, Mallory Kettlewell, Kelsey and Ethan Winchester; and one great grandson Ryder. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, June 18, 2010 at Sylvan Hills United Methodist Church at 9921 Hwy 107, in Sherwood, burial will immediately follow at Arkansas State Veteran' Cemetery at 1501 West Maryland Ave, in North Little Rock. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 17, 2010 at Huson Funeral Home on 7700 Hwy 107, in Sherwood. Sign an online guest book at www.husonfuneralhome.com