Billy Russell Hutchens

Billy Russell Hutchens

Age 99, a resident of Springdale, Arkansas, passed away Monday, July 1, 2024 at Circle of Life Hospice House in Springdale, Arkansas. He was born February 22, 1925 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the son of Ira Boise and Ida Bertie (Huey) Hutchens.

Billy worked for the United States Postal Service from 1951-1987. He served in the United States Navy during World War II as a Petty Officer Second Class aboard the landing ship tank 537. He served primarily in the European theater of operations and participated in D-day landing supporting English, Canadian and Australian troops.

He played left field for the minor baseball league, Texarkana Bears. He was an avid gardener with a specialty in Hybrid Tea Roses. He would advise with the University of Arkansas, as well as the American Rose Society, in regards to roses and their propagation.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 72 years, Verna May Hutchens, one brother Veryl Hutchens, and two sisters Bobbie Jean Russell and Berlene Murphy.

Survivors include one son Russell Hutchens and his wife Kathy of Norfork, Arkansas; two daughters Lisa Martens and her husband Dave Martens of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Jeannie Miller of Springdale, Arkansas; one sister Betty Colburn of Cane Hill, Arkansas; ten grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

There will be a celebration of life held Monday, July 15, 2024 - 11:00 A.M. at the Viney Grove Community Building, 15209 W Battlefield Park Rd. Prairie Grove, Arkansas 72753.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Rd., Springdale, Arkansas 72762.