Donald Ralph Putman

Donald Ralph Putman, 77, of Van Buren, passed away Tuesday, February 2, 2016 in a local hospital. He was born September 2, 1938 in Fort Smith to the late Ralph and Odeen Putman. He was a member of Shibley Baptist Church where he served as an usher and assistant Treasurer. He practiced the JOY of living, Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last. He was retired from Rainbow Bakery and Bekaert Steel. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1962 and was stationed in Regensburg, Germany and received an honorable discharge in 1968. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Putman.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Donna Putman of the home; a daughter, Nikki Putman of Fort Smith; two sons, Rodney Putman and wife Johnia of Alma, and Jeffrey Putman and wife Anna of Van Buren; three grandchildren, Darren Putman, Courtney Putman, and Austin Putman.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 5, 2016 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Arthur Blevins officiating; interment to follow at Gill Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be Darren Putman, Austin Putman, Kenneth Reichert, Mike Deffenbaugh, Stanley Aldridge, Kim Simpson, and Danny Jones.

The family will visit with friends from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2016 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home, 10 Remington Drive, Little Rock, AR 72204.