John Leroy Vandergrift was born May 21, 1952, in Joplin, MO. He is the son of Ira and Mary Vandergrift. He departed this life on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the age of 71 at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, AR.

John was a member of Towering Oaks Church where he was a licensed minister and he served as assistant pastor for a period of time. He was good with his hands and worked as a carpenter for several years. He also worked for LaBarge in Berryville and Huntsville.

John served his country in U.S. Army in the technical department. He was stationed in Korea for 4 years.

After his time in the Army, John returned to Carterville, MO where he met and married Glenda Eagen who preceded him in death. They were the parents of Dustin Vandergrift who survives them, along with Michelle, Andrew, and Tucker of Georgia.

On May 31, 1997, John was married to Helen (Whitely) Vandergrift, who survives him of the home.

He is also survived by 1 sister, Virginia Modglin of Mt. Vernon, MO; 3 brothers, Marion Vandergrift of Carterville, MO, Dan Vandergrift of Carterville, MO, and Jim and his wife Kay Vandergrift of Russellville, AR; and several nieces and nephews along with a host of friends.

He was also preceded in death by his parents.

Celebration of Life service for John will be Saturday, October 21, 10:00 AM at Towering Oaks Church, 1159 Hwy. 62 W, Berryville, with Bro. Larry Montgomery and Pastor Dave McMellon officiating. Interment will follow at Dean Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, October 20, 5-7 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Green Forest. Online condolences can be made at smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.