William Jennings Driggers

With a life built on faith, family and service, William (Bill) Jennings Driggers, Sr., left an enduring legacy in the hearts of all who knew him. Born on a bitterly cold January morning near Caddo Gap, Arkansas, Bill’s unwavering spirit and unshakeable values guided him through an extraordinary life. In passing, Bill’s Faith is now Sight.

As a devoted husband to Fay for over 70 years, Bill cherished their love and partnership, raising five children; Billy, Michael, Shannon, Alice and John. His numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored their Papa. Bill’s bravery and selflessness stood out during his US Army service in the Korean War, earning the Bronze Star and Presidential Unit Citation as acting Sergeant Major of the 3 rd Infantry Medical Battalion.

After serving in the Army, Bill pursued engineering, graduating from the University of Arkansas in 1959 with a Degree in Civil Engineering. His remarkable 36-year career at Garver Engineers, culminated in leadership as Chairman and CEO, as well as many national offices and accolades through the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) and the Professional Engineers in Private Practice (PEPP).

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill served his Lord at Victory Baptist Church as a Deacon for over 60 years, Missions Committee Member and by serving on the School Board for Victory Baptist School. He served his community on the Sherwood City Council, as a Commissioner with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s office and through the Mid-Ark Utilities Board. He further served as a member of the Little Rock Air Force Base Community Council for many years. His passions for the outdoors, flying and cattle ranching brought great satisfaction. Those who knew Bill will remember his unwavering faith, unshakeable integrity, generous spirit and quick wit, all overshadowed by his unrelenting love for Family.

Preceded by his parents, George Franklin Driggers and Lora Alice Gladden Harbour Driggers, siblings Dillard Driggers, Hazel Cobb Owen, Flossie Gladden White, Lois Rabjohn, Doris Dearinger and Jerry Driggers, daughter, Dalena Darcell Driggers and Daughter-in-law Barbara Susan Driggers. Bill is survived by his wife, Fay June Jackson Driggers, children William J. Driggers, Jr. (Bunny), Michael F. Driggers (Linda), Shannon V. Driggers (Kelly), Alice Faye Ward (Tim) and John S. Driggers (Tammy), 15 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and Brother, Bob Harbour. While Bill also loved his extended family dearly, a special blessing in his later life was his great niece, Kristol Brock, who helped the family navigate the medical challenges during Bill’s final months.

His legacy of love, service, devotion and follow through after sound advice will endure. He took joy in helping others succeed and didn’t turn his back on anyone in need.

Funeral will be held at Victory Baptist Church, 10,000 Brockington Road, Sherwood, Arkansas on Friday, October 11, 2024. Visitation will be at 10:00 am and the service will be held at 11:00 am. Bill will be interred at the NLR Veterans Cemetery on Monday, October 14 th at 9:00 am. The outpouring of love and support to Fay and the family has been nothing short of amazing. In lieu of flowers, Fay requests that you make a donation in Bill’s memory to Victory Baptist, Sherwood or Arkansas Children’s Hospital.