David R. Wilson

David Ragon Wilson (Dave), of Fayetteville, passed away January 6, 2018 after a courageous

battle with ALS. He was born April 8, 1953 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was the son of Patti

Casey-Wilson and Herbert Wilson.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents, Patti and Herbert Wilson and in-laws, Henry and Mary

Jane Cantrell.

Dave is survived by his wife Debra Wilson, a sister, Malinda Smith of Little Rock, one brother-in-law Doug Cantrell of West Fork, Arkansas, three sister-in-laws, Donna Cantrell of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Jeanie Johnston and husband Herbie of Norwood, Missouri, Denise Channel of Fayetteville, nieces; Robin Gilchrist and husband Michael, Cassie Ferguson and husband Tyler, Madison Cantrell, Kennedy Channel, nephews; Sean Smith, Jason Smith, Jonathan Smith, and Nathan Cantrell and wife Elisha, great-nephew Asher Cantrell, and great nieces Abigail Smith and Karleigh Smith.

Dave grew up in Little Rock and attended Catholic High School and Central High School.

After high school, Dave enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany at the

end of the Vietnam War. Upon completion of his service, he attended Fort Smith Junior

College, University of Central Arkansas, and the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. While

attending college he studied art, social work, and special education. It was during this time,

that Dave met his future wife, Debra Cantrell, and many others that would become lifelong

friends. While attending Morris School for Boys, Dave would meet Guy and Jeff who remain his

close friends. During college Dave, would also become friends with, Mike and Doug, who would

join that group of forever friends. Ever the adventurer, in 1975, Dave and Doug hitchhiked

across the United States forming an unforgettable bond of friendship.

David Wilson married Debra Cantrell of West Fork, on May 27, 1978. There were married for

over 39 years. Upon marrying Debra, Dave would join a family, The Cantrell Clan that would

leave forever a lasting effect on his life and he on theirs, as well. He did not realize even though

Debra was changing her name to Wilson that he was becoming a Cantrell, too.

Dave, a man of many talents, was a chef, restaurant and hotel manager, water color artist,

photographer, arrowhead collector, and music lover. He was also a beloved husband, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend.

Dave was very proud of his work that he did in the hospitality field, particularly at the Capital

Hotel in Little Rock and what is now the Chancellor Hotel in Fayetteville. He was a great cook

and loved to entertain his friends and family. He always loved a good “party”, and those held at

the cabin in Marshall were among his most significant memories.

Dave enjoyed hiking, camping, floating the Buffalo River, collecting rocks and arrowheads,

creating art with water colors, collecting and listening to a great variety of music, providing that

music for everyone to enjoy, and it goes without question, watching Razorback sports! He

loved horses and found joy in owning his own horses, Lance, Blaze and Sky.

Dave also enjoyed a large group of friends he met at work who also become extended family

and lifelong friends. The friends he met through school and work provided friendship, joy, and

comfort, especially during the last few years. He was also lucky to renew a friendship with Tony

who would make time to come and sit with him and listen to his music. He sincerely

appreciated Glenn, Claude, Earl, Sam and Hasley who would help him out whenever they could.

Dave was very thankful to the Veterans Administration for their support and assistance during

his illness. The family would like to thank all the caregivers, the college crew, co-workers and friends who provided comfort, support, and assistance during this time, in particular Deborah Sweatt and Mike O’Brien.

Family and Friends will gather to celebrate Dave’s life, January 20, 2018 from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M.

at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Arkansas.

If so inclined to honor Dave’s memory, donations may be made to: “Save the Buffalo Again”,

C/O Buffalo River Water Alliance, P.O. Box 101, Jasper, Arkansas 72641 or the ALS Association,

Arkansas Chapter, 1200 W. Walnut, Suite 2309, Rogers, Arkansas 72756, e-mail: Info@ALS-

Arkansas.org.