Michael Fletcher

Michael Ray Fletcher, 70, passed away August 14, 2024. Michael was born September 25, 1953, to Otis and Nadine Lee Fletcher in Mexico, MO. His family returned to Arkansas when Michael was 14, settling in Onia, AR where both his parents were raised. Michael graduated from Timbo High School in 1971. He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1973 serving four years of active service, nine years in the Air National Guard, and over 8 years in the Air Force Reserve. Michael retired as a Senior Master Sergeant in various Civil Engineering fields but primarily heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. During these years, he also served the nation in a civilian capacity in the same technical positions.

Michael enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially following his retirement. He spent many fun-filled weekends with his good buddies at Lake Ouachita. His special fishing partner was Louis Goodwin who he loved like a big brother. Longtime friend, Michael Wilder, was an immeasurable part of his life; helping with moving items to helping park cars at Megan’s wedding. Michael loved to travel. He was able to see Alaska, Hawaii, Germany, and Spain during his military service. Since retiring, he and his family have traveled the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom. Of course, it was more about the local food than the scenery, but it was always fun.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, his older brother, Ricky Fletcher, and his nephew, Kenny Fletcher.

His wife, Jerri, and daughter and son-in-law, Megan and Jason Bell, of Pangburn, AR have years of memories to sustain them in the difficult times to follow. Michael and Jerri celebrated 50 wonderful years as husband and wife, July 1, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. As the second of eight children, he is survived by sisters, Pat (Dewayne) Steele of Fairland, OK and Lisa (Ronnie) Friddle of Onia, AR as well as brothers Otis Fletcher of Damascus, AR, Randy (Darlene) Fletcher of Lebanon, PA, Jeff (Carol) Fletcher of Conway, AR and Eric (Tess) Fletcher and sister-in-law Vicki Fletcher of Perryville, AR. Michael had several nieces and nephews and too many cousins to count in AR and MO.

Services for Michael will be Monday, August 19, 2024, at Beebe First Baptist Church. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. in the Gathering inside the Sanctuary entrance and the memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Bro Bob Hall, pastor of Beebe First Baptist Church, will officiate with Michael’s cousin, Bro Gary Fletcher, sharing the obituary.

In lieu of flowers, please support the charity organization closest to your heart. Michael loved children so those were closest to his. 

Cremation arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, Arkansas. To view the online obituary, please visit www.smithfamilycares.com