of Marion, AR
October 6, 1935 - December 9, 2017
Irby Watkins Campbell Sr. passed away peacefully December 9, 2017 surrounded by his loving family at the age of 82. Irby was born in Earle, Arkansas to parents Hugh and Margarite Campbell. He lived throughout life in the area. There he met the love of his life, Linda and together they nourish their own family for over the next 54 years.
Irby was a member of the Earle First United Methodist Church where he also sang in the choir. He loved "his" gospel music. Irby was a local business owner of Campbell Welding and Machine Shop but really lived his life serving others in the community. Irby was dedicated to the firefighting industry. He currently served as the longest serving Fire Chief in the State of Arkansas for over 56 years with the Earle Fire Department with a total of over 62 years of service. Many of his accomplishments include being a member of the Arkansas Fire Fighter Hall of Fame, served as President of the Crowley"s Ridge Fire Chiefs Association, Instructor for the Arkansas Fire Academy, former Deputy Coroner for Crittenden County, former Crittenden County Sheriff's Deputy, Rotarian, Jaycee Member and 32nd degree Mason. But most of all, Irby was an amazing husband and father.
Family members say his priorities were God, Family and his Fire Department. Irby also leaves behind two sons; Irby "Watty" Watkins Campbell Jr. (Merikay) of Houston, Texas and Brad Campbell (Judith) of Marion, Arkansas. He will be missed by one daughter, Susan Hale (Matt) of Marion, Arkansas. Two brothers; Dr. Hugh Campbell (Judy) of Pittsburg, Kansas and Robert Campbell (Renate) of Earle, Arkansas. Two sisters; Mary Jo Fickle (Jim) of Chapel Hill, North Carolina and Teenie Sisk (Todd) of Wynne, Arkansas. Eight grandchildren; Brooke Ritter, Hayden Campbell, Grant Campbell, Mericlinen Campbell, Chase Campbell, Haley Hale, Julia Hale and Luke Campbell. Irby was preceded in death by his parents.
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13 Condolence(s)
Hap Hooper
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Susan & Watty-
I so sorry to hear of the passing of your Daddy Mr. Irby. He was a good man. My apologies for the delayed response.
Hap
steve goucher
Sunday, December 17, 2017
sending our condolences, earl ark. would not be, if not for Mr. Irby. He always made it a pleaser for me when every I worked on his machines.
Robby Parkman
Friday, December 15, 2017
It was an Honor and Privilege to know Mr. Irby..He will be missed!
Johnny organ
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Thank you Irby for all the great memories that you gave to everyone you came in contact with
Irby was one of a kind. Put his all in all in everything he did
Thank you for your love a dedication you gave to the City and community that you loved
I am thankful for the laughs you gave and shared
Prayers for the Campbell family during these difficult times
Thanks again
Johnny
Billy simon
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
So many memories I have of knowing Irby plus serving on the Earle fire dept with him time moves so fast but I know he is having a great time talking to friends of long ago although your shift has ended you still live on in hearts and minds that knee him one day we will see him again thank you Irby for getting me started on my journey of serving by letting this man become a part of the Earle fire dept where it all began
Carol Eden
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Campbell family at this time.
Delores Wheeless
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
I’m so sorry for your loss. I pray that GOD will comfort your family during this very sad time. I pray that y’all find peace and comfort knowing Mr. Campbell is in the Arms of Our Heavenly Father! May he Rest In Peace Forever In His Eternal Heavenly Home. ðŸ™ðŸ™ðŸ™
Greg Meadows, David Williams, Kay Miller, Volon Sexton
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
He was a delight to do business with and his visits to Machinery Sales Company will be missed.
Carolyn Kelley, Belinda Zinnecker and Beth Peddie
Monday, December 11, 2017
We are deeply sorry to hear that Irby has passed away. He was a good person, husband and father. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him. Our love goes to Linda Sue, Watty, Brad and Susan and we will be praying for God to comfort you at this time. Death is only bearable when we know that we will see each other again.
Ruben & Ginnie Pate
Monday, December 11, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this Irby was a good man. I got to know him from working at the Madbucher there in Earle and he was always very nice and friendly. My prayers go out to Brad and his family. He is in the hands of our creator. But will be missed.
Roger & Nelda Horn
Monday, December 11, 2017
Linda, so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers. I know you rest in the fact that there is a reunion day where we will all gather with our loved ones and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Teddy And Linda Moore
Sunday, December 10, 2017
Go rest high on the mountain Chief, your work on earth is done. Mrs.Campbell and family We love y'all and will be praying for y'all.
Mary Blansett
Sunday, December 10, 2017
We are so sorry to hear about Mr.
Irby. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you. God Bless.
Kenny, Mary, & Josh Blansett