Charles Willett

Charles Willett, 69, formerly of Salem, AR entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 5, 2021, with his family by his side.  Charles was born February 12, 1952 to Kenny and Evelyn Willett in West Plains, Missouri.

Karen married her “Prince Charles” on January 11, 1974 in Salem, Arkansas and to this union two children were born. Charles worked various jobs throughout his career, but the two he was most proud of was serving as the Fulton County Judge followed by Hospital Administrator. He was fearless taking on any job or task and greatly cared about his community. Charles was full of laughter, smiles, always tried to see the best in everybody, and carried a servant's heart full of giving to those in need.  He loved sports, playing cards, being Chef Master for his family and friends, but his greatest pride was his five grandchildren.  After retirement he earned grandkid titles: “Bus driver,” “Concession Fund Me,” “Homework Tutor,” “Mister ATM,” “Toy Runner,” “Sonic Super-Star,” and “Candy King.”    

He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and was a member of the Salem First Baptist Church and most recently Potterville Baptist Church.  

Charles leaves to mourn his passing, wife, Karen Willett of the home; daughter, Kristi Kenslow and husband Mike of West Plains, Missouri; son, Michael Willett and wife Elana of Dacula, Georgia; five grandchildren, Kaylee Spradlin, Rylan Kenslow, Gavin Kenslow, Rees Willett, and Baylor Willett; sister, Sharon Carpenter and husband Mike of Salem, Arkansas, and many other relatives and friends.  

Charles is preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, 2:00 P.M., March 7, 2021 at Salem First Baptist Church in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. John Hodges and Bro. Josh Smithee officiating.  Visitation will be at 1:00 P.M. until time of the service on Sunday, March 7, 2021 at Salem First Baptist Church.  He will be laid to rest at the Salem Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the AWANA program at the Salem First Baptist Church in support of his special friend, Josh Smithee, program leader.  Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Pallbearers are Justin Branscum, Zach Branscum, Ralph Barton, Kole Carpenter, Larry Hall, Marvin Maguffee, Bubba Smith, Arlan West, and Thadnel Willett.

Honorary Pallbearers are Former County Judges (Larry Brown, Burl Simmons, and Kerry Tharpe), Gary Branscum, Tommy Brewer, Roger Brown, Jerry Bryson, Kevin Carpenter, Mike Carpenter, Russell Christopher, Kennard Guffey, and Jay Gonnella.