
of Wideman, AR
September 19, 1942 - October 10, 2008
Dan Slayden age 66 of Wideman died Friday, October 10, 2008 at his home. He was born on Saturday, September 19, 1942 to Joseph Daniel and Helen Virginia (Randall) Slayden in Cord, Arkansas.
He served during the Vietnam War where he was a combat gunship helicopter pilot flying on many dangerous missions. He was in the service for 11 years and rose from a Private to a Captain. He was awarded one Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, one Purple Heart and many other distinguished metals. After returning home he began a career flying helicopters for Mobil Oil Company in the Gulf of Mexico off shore. Some of his hobbies included restoring and building planes, doing carpenter work and building with his hands and he loved Formula One Racing. He had a deep seated belief in God as a Christian.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife Joan Slayden of 46 years of the home; one son Scott Slayden of Sherwood, Arkansas; one daughter Kerri Lewis of Wideman; one sister Johnye Armistead of Bastrop, Louisiana; one grandchild Jessica Lewis and one great-grandchild Aedyn Lewis both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
A graveside service will be held Tuesday, October 14, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock with Chaplain Lee Hendrix and Dan Loy officiating.
No visitation is planned.

Family, I read about your loved one. Don't know if we are related or not. I lost my dad, Jimmy Slayden, on January 3, 2008. His parents were Ralph and Lona Slayden of England. Slayden is not a common name, that is why I wanted to send you this thought, that you are in my prayers, because I know what you are going through. Just remember all the times you had together, that helps some.

I wanted to pass my sincere condolences to Scott and his family on the loss of your dad. As much as you will miss him, may the memories and deeds he left behind serve as a legacy to all. A light in times of darkness and a source for comfort when things look bleak.

Scott,
Judy and I just wanted to let you know that we are very sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
"Our valleys may be filled with foes and tears; but we can lift our eyes to the hills to see God and the angels, heaven's spectators, who support us according to God's infinite wisdom as they prepare our welcome home."
Billy Graham
Please let us know if we can do anything at all for you and your family.
Kevin and Judy Hoggard

Scott and family I am so sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose a parent when they and you are young. Your family is in my prayers.

To Joan and Kerri and Scott.
Though time and circumstances seperated us, you have never been far from our thoughts. So many good memories, and during the war days, some anxious ones too. We think the world of you all, and Dan was
a true hero, though he would never admit to that. We think he is probably testing out those angel wings now. God bless you all. Bid and Jane Carroll

Dear Joan and family,
It saddens us to hear of Dan's passing. I don't know if you remember us, but Grady and Dan were best buddies in High School and joined the army at the same time.
We are praying for you and your family. We pray you will find strength and comfort in God's love.
We love you,
Grady and Peggy Nolan

My prayers are with you and your family.

Scott,
I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. You and your family are in our daily prayers.
Jim

Scott, we are thinking of you and your family. Please call on us if you need anything.
Love, Shawn, Shannon & Jackson

Scott, our prayers are with you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss and hope you can find comfort soon. Sincerely, Erin & family

My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time.

Scott, you, your mom and sister are much in our prayers.