Walter Dean Karnes

Walter Dean Karnes of Berryville, passed from this life on September 5, 2021, at the age of 86. He was born October 4, 1934, in Grandview, the son of Austin and Lily Thompson Karnes. He was the last surviving member of his family.

Walter was united in marriage with Helen Bradford on June 10, 1959. They were married for 61 years until her death in 2020. He operated a dairy farm for 55 years, no stranger to hard work. He was well known in the community, first as a mail carrier, then as a leader in the Cattleman’s Association and Associated Milk Producers Inc.

Walter was known as a good, helpful neighbor who rarely had anything bad to say about anyone.  He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1957-59. In his rare spare time, he enjoyed reading western novels and drinking coffee at the Outpost “wisdom table” with his friends. He was a member of Grandview Baptist Church.

Walter is survived by his four children, Natalia Karnes (Sean Coleman) of Springdale; Leah Karnes (Freddie Norman) of Berryville; Rachel Karnes (Loren Teague) of Berryville; Brad Karnes (Vicki) of Berryville; honorary sons David Wade (Julie) of Ozark, MO; and Bruce Karnes (Sharon) of Austin, TX, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A private family graveside memorial will be held at Grandview Cemetery. A memorial service for friends and family is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, also at Grandview Cemetery with Rev. Billy McCall officiating. The family encourages everyone to bring a chair. Masks and social distancing are strongly recommended.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Cattleman’s Association Scholarships or to Arkansas Hospice would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be made at smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.

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