Gerald Allen Meacham

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Visitation Schedule
Fellowship Hall
First Baptist Church
610 E. Main Street
Batesville, AR  72501
Friday, April 18, 2014
2:00 pm Friday
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
First Baptist Church
610 E. Main Street
Batesville, AR  72501
Friday, April 18, 2014
2:00 p.m. Friday
Memorial Contributions
White River Medical Center Foundation
PO Box 2197
Batesville, AR  72503


First Baptist Church
610 E. Main Street
Batesville, AR  72501


Old Independence County Regional Museum
380 S. 9th Street
Batesville, AR  72501
Gerald Allen Meacham

of Batesville, AR

November 23, 1940 - April 14, 2014

Gerald Allen Meacham, 73, of Batesville died Monday, April 14, 2014 at White River Medical Center in Batesville.

Born November 23, 1940 in Batesville, he was the son of Homer Meacham and Mabel Morris Meacham.

He owned and operated Meacham Packing Company for over 50 years. Gerald was on the board at White River Medical Center, was a former Independence County Quorum Court Member, and served in the National Guard. He was an avid golfer and loved the Razorbacks.

He had a kind heart, was very generous and always wanted to help those in need. He loved and enjoyed spending time with his family and his dog, Benji. He was a member and former deacon of the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Beth Mays Meacham of Batesville; one son, Bart Meacham and his wife, Stephanie, of Tampa, Florida; one daughter, Betsy Meacham of Little Rock, Arkansas; one grandchild, Bryce Parker Meacham of Tampa, Florida; one brother, Morris Meacham of Maumelle, Arkansas, and eighteen nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Virginia Gardner and Barbara Atkinson.

The family wishes to express gratitude to the doctors and staff at the White River Medical Center especially Dr. Doug Bernard, his nurse Leann Tharp and the doctors and nurses in the Intensive Care Unit.

A memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 18, 2014, at the First Baptist Church in Batesville with Bro. Stacy Reed officiating. The family will welcome friends for visitation in the church fellowship hall immediately following. Interment is private.

Memorials may be made to the White River Medical Center Foundation, P.O. Box 2197, Batesville, AR 72503; First Baptist Church, 610 E. Main Street, Batesville, AR 72501; Old Independence County Regional Museum, 380 S. 9th Street, Batesville, AR 72501; Independence County Library, 368 E. Main Street, Batesville, AR 72501; and Lyon College, P.O. Box 2317, Batesville, AR 72503




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52 Condolence(s)
J D
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, May 9, 2014

Sorry for your loss, Gerald was a good man and will be missed. God Bless your family

Ella Shelton
Rogers, AR
Liked
Monday, April 21, 2014

Dear Beth and family,

We are so sorry for the loss of sweet Gerald. I always enjoyed him, he was so much fun. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Love,
Wes and Ella Shelton

Andrea Menard Cochran
O'Fallon, MO
Liked
Monday, April 21, 2014

Dearest Beth, Betsy and Bart:

I wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy with the passing of Gerald. My words seem merely inadequate expressing my true love and deep admiration for your family.
The year was 1970 - It was "Another Time and Another Place". My family and I were currently residing in Ft. Worth, TX. The decision came as surprise for relocating to Batesville, AR - my parent's hometown. I was just a young child when we moved and quite unaware the impact it would later create in my life.
My fondest childhood memories were created and formed in our new hometown. Happy and Special memories were soon created upon meeting Gerald Meachum (aka "Big Red") my Dad's close childhood friend. I equally had the honor meeting his beautiful wife Beth. His wonderful children, Betsy and Bart, quickly soon became friends with my sister and brother. Although time and distance may have quickly passed, it can never break the united bond and love we shared.
Some of my favorite childhood memories I can remember: Our families were blessed to be joint members of First Baptist Church. I was always so excited seeing him at church each and every day. We grew up calling him "Big Red" and he always shared his Big Red "chewing gum" ! That was truly a treat for us back then. Each Sunday night after church many families would go to Kelly's. The adults would share a table displaying their united friendship, sharing homemade pies and drinking coffee. The children were blessed to just sit by ourselves and share our joy. Later in my adult life I experienced an unexpected crisis in my life. Who came to my rescue? My incredible "Hero" and admirable friend-Gerald Meachum. Our families shared many other special times which will always remain in my heart forever.
Those were the "Happy Days" that too soon would quickly fade away. Honor, Integrity and Respect for "The Golden Rule" were valued and implanted in our hearts. First and above anything else was our true Love and Faith in Jesus Christ.
Death quickly leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal. The memory suddenly becomes a priceless treasure. Our life on earth will fade away and mortal bodies quickly decay. Our eternal soul remains and lives forever.
Gerald has left his temporary home on earth and now arrived to our Eternal Home in the Kingdom of Heaven. He joins the Legacy of the Batesville Hall of Fame united in Heaven with family and friends who passed before him.
Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, rather openings in Heaven where those we love radiantly shine through illuminating "GOD's"
Heavenly Kingdom and Love for the world to see.
May your hearts and souls find comfort and peace. May you gain courage and strength in the love and support of others around you. My thoughts and prayers are always with you. My Sincere Love and Heartfelt Condolences - Andrea Menard Cochran.

Jana Canady Bell
Jackson, MS
Liked
Sunday, April 20, 2014

Dear Betsy,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.

Much love,
Jana

Julia V Marable
Fayetteville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

Dearest Beth, Betsy and Bart: I am in shock!! I JUST now found out!! My heart is broken! I love each and every one of you and Gerald was a such a neat guy - he was always smiling and was ALWAYS so nice to me anytime I would see him. Beth - you are an exemplary wife and mother and I can't imagine losing your partner of 50 years - it just hurts to think about it and I have no words of comfort - because I have been in a similar situation and well - I will just tell you I love you and hold you dear to my heart and will pray for you. Bets - You daddy was a good man - and both you and Bart got a lot of great qualities from him - you were a friend to me when I needed it most and you inspire me to be better at whatever I need to tackle. My heart aches for your loss and you will be in my thoughts and prayers - and Bart - man - I can't image, for any of you but especially for your precious little boy. You have always been such a dear friend to me and I love you and send you all comfort and love - and again you all are in my thoughts and prayers - Gerald will be greatly missed! I am so sorry I am just now finding out or I would have come to Batesville to attend his life celebration - I know he approved :-) xoxo

Rebecca Milum Richman
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

Beth, Betsy, and Bart,
Today's service for Gerald was heart-warming. Especially tender was your grandson escorting his grandmother hand-in-hand into the sanctuary.
Tears filled my eyes and a beautiful memory was etched in my mind as the minister of music sang "On Eagles Wings". When I taught at Immaculate Conception School, I sang "On Eagles Wings" with my students to close each school day.
God now holds Gerald in the palm of His hand. My He bless and bring comfort to you, Betsy, and Bart.

Rebecca Milum Richman
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

Beth, Betsy, and Bart,
Today's service for Gerald was heart-warming. Especially tender was your grandson escorting his grandmother hand-in-hand into the sanctuary.
Tears filled my eyes and a beautiful memory was etched in my mind as the minister of music sang "On Eagles Wings". When I taught at Immaculate Conception School, I sang "On Eagles Wings" with my students to close each school day.
God now holds Gerald in the palm of His hand. My He bless and bring comfort to you, Betsy, and Bart.

Nancy Estes
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

My deepest condolences Beth, to you and your family. I am so very sorry for your loss .

Amy Hodges
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

Please accept my condolences. Gerald sold me the first car I ever bought on my own. He treated me with respect and dignity, and made my experience a positive one. After the sale, and even after he no longer sold vehicles, he remembered my name and always made a point to go out of his way and say hello to me when he saw me in town, His kindness made a great impression on me, and I am honored to call him a friend.
With deepest sympathy,
Amy Hodges

Ross Mays
Houma, LA
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

I was so sorry to hear about Uncle Gerald. One of the only games of golf I ever played was with him in Batesville. I was passing through for work, and he took me to the golf course and was patient while I tried to hit golf balls. I remember he played a great game that day. Some of my favorite jokes to this day are ones I heard from Uncle Gerald. Hugs to everybody.

Lindy Hopper
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

Dear Ms Beth, Betsy, and Bart,
I am so sorry for your loss! Gerald brought a smile to my face each time I saw him. I am praying for all of you! If you need anything please let me know. Love you all!

Shane Sisk
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

I am so saddened for you Beth and family. Gerald was the most unique man I ever knew. So many days of golf that just would not have been the same without him. May God be with you and family.

Mike Watkins
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, April 18, 2014

So sad to learn of your loss. Gerald was a good man and I appreciate knowing him in school and in our adult years. With thoughts and prayers for the family.

Joline Riley Burrow
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

In our thoughts and prayers --The Olen Burrow Family

Jan Burrow Qualls
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

In my thoughts and prayers

Michele Holland
Greenville, SC
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

I love you all so very much. I am so very grateful that I got to see Gerald and have him tease me just like no time had passed. I have a beautiful memory of a lovely soul. It brings love to my heart and a smile to my face. I wish I was there for you now - know that I am in spirit and prayer.

Betty Burge Cockrill
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

Beth, Bart and Betsy My thoughts and Prayers are with each of you. I Pray that God will grant you a very special peace.

Mike Rybiski
Texarkana, TX
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

Beth....I was saddened to read of Gerald's passing today. Not only was he my pledge and fraternity brother while we were at ASTC but my very good friend. We shared many fun moments together and I have many fond memories of Gerald. Please accept my condolences and know I am thinking of you and your family. God bless.

Mike Rybiski

Bevin Terhune Mitchell
,
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

Dear Beth, Betsy, and Bart,

I was saddened to learn of Gerald's death. He was a good and a kind man - in my mind, he will be remembered with a twinkle in his eye and a smile upon his face. May your memories of the good times you shared sustain you as you move forward through these difficult days.

With love,
Bevin

Kaka Elgin
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

So sorry for your lossI am saddened by a great easy going bussiness man He will be missed

Ray Floyd
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

So sorry for your loss prayers and thoughts are with the family He was a great freien and boss . He will truely be missed

Janet Tosh
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

My prayers are with you. I was friends with Gerald for a very long time. I waited on him when I worked at the bank for several years. I think I was his favorite.. :)... He was a good man and always had to have a hug when I saw him. I have been blessed over the years to be friends with soo many people in our community and he will truly be missed.

Dick & Candy McLelland
Port Royal, SC
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers
Love
Dick & Candy

Brenda Waters Browning
Greenbrier,
Liked
Thursday, April 17, 2014

Betsy,
Prayers for you and your family.

Karen Beller
Batesville,
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Betsy, Bart and Mrs. Meacham, I'm so sorry for your loss of Mr. Meacham. May your wonderful memories and love for each other get you through these heartbreaking days.

Mary Cooke Boushelle
Fayetteville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth, Betsy, Bart... I've been so blessed to have you and Gerald in my life. I loved how he called me Mary Katherine and always greeted me with the best smile and biggest hug. You're in my thoughts and prayers with hopes for peace and comfort to surround you. I love you!

Susanne Ragsdale Harrelson
Perryville,
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Dear Beth, I was deeply saddened to learn of Gerald's passing. He was a great guy. Every time I saw him over the years he was always so friendly and seemed genuinely glad to see me as I was to see him. I will be praying for you and your family. Love Susanne

Mandy Willmuth Farquhar
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Dear Beth & family,

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. God bless and that prayers are coming your way.

Mandy & Maxine

Charlie & Renee Bell
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Gerald will be missed by all. He and Charlie drank a lot of coffee together and exchanged a lot of tales.

Doris Johnston James
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

I was so sorry to hear of Gerald’s passing. I had not seen Gerald for at least 20 years, but he was a good childhood friend. His family lived about a quarter mile from my grandparents, Felix and Rosie Johnston. Gerald would come down and play with my boy cousins, and I’ll never forget how they would sometimes let me toddle along behind them. His kindness and friendship to a little girl will never be forgotten. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family.

Nick & Katrina Fudge
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth and Family,
We just want you to know that we are praying for the family. Gerald was a great guy, always friendly and fun to talk with. He will be missed by many. God is our refuge and strength!

Nell Hall
Houston, TX
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth,

Bob and I are thinking of you. We are sorry about your husband.

Nell

Susan Waldrip Jeffery
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss of Gerald. He was a fine man and was so much fun. I will always remember the great times that we all had at the golf tournaments years ago. He will be missed. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Susan Waldrip Jeffery

Nikki Barnes
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am incredibly sorry for your loss. Gerald was such a kind, sweet and humorous man. He will be greatly missed.

Mary Beth and Tommy milligan
,
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth, my heart goes out to you and your family. I love you sister and I am so sorry for your great loss.

Beverly Meinzer
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Always enjoyed seeing him in the plant when I went to get meat. Always seemed glad to see me and asked how the family was. Will miss that. Thinking of your family during this difficult time.

Tippi McCullough
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take care. Love you.

Charles & Anne Allen
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Beth,
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May the peace that comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead.
Our Love,
Charles and Anne

blake duncan
El Dorado, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and
your family during this difficult time.
Blake and Jennifer Duncan

Ramona Jennings Beavers
Harrison, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Mary Beth I am so sorry to hear about your husband's death. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Ramona, Class of 59.

BRIAN WRIGHT
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Everybody in my family like Mr meachum. My grandpa really liked mr meachum and they have known each other for many many years. Mr. Meachum helped my grandpa with the start of mtn. view custom butchering. Rest in Peace my friend.

J.W. & Carolyn Wammack
Batesville,
Liked
Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers go to Gerald'sfamily. He was a great person and would always make a person laugh. May God be with you during the days ahead.

Linda Stewart
Benton,
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Betsy, we are sorry to hear of the loss of your father and our sincere condolences are with you and your family.

Linda, Magen and
Jay Stewart

Janie Weaver Prichard
Benton, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

To all the Meacham Family, Chuck and I send our love and prayers. I have known Gerald all my life and loved seeing him when I came home. We always talked about "old times". He will be missed by so many. God bless.
Janie and Chuck Prichard

Regina Bryant
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Tommy and I were so sorry to hear of your loss, Beth. Please know that you and your family are in our prayers.

April Bagwell
smithville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Gerald was one of a kind with a generous heart. He will be missed by so many. May God be with hiswife abd family in their time of grieve. All things are possible with God who strengthens me.

Shawn Ashley
BATESVILLE, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Dear Betsy
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad.

Love Shawn

barry lillard
batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

he will and is truly missed everyday at Hawgs Exxon. by customers and staff alike. we laughed alot

Margaret Critz
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Thinking of you all and sending much love.

Pat Danner
Cave City, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

I appreciated Gerald's concern about getting help at the Lakeside dealership when I needed it. He was nice and so friendly. I am so sorry for all of you all. May the Lord be with you during this very difficult time. Patsy White Danner

genia holland
anderson, SC
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Beth, Betsy, and Bart,
We are so sorry for all that you are going through. You are all in our thoughts and prayer. I so wish there was something that I could say to take the hurt away. Please know how much we care.
A warm hug, Genia and Ed Holland

Patrick Malone
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, April 15, 2014

He will be missed