Brigadier General Joe L. Cheatham

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Visitation Schedule
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
Thursday, January 10, 2008
6:00 - 8:00 P.M.
Service Schedule
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
Friday, January 11, 2008
1:00 P.M.
Cemetery
Riverwood Memorial Gardens
301 Carnahan Drive
Maumelle, AR  72113
Brigadier General Joe L. Cheatham

of Little Rock, AR

August 15, 1928 - January 8, 2008

Brigadier General Joe L. Cheatham was born on August 15, 1928 and departed this life on January 8, 2008. He is the second of three children born to the late Joe and Katie Mae Cheatham of Malvern, Arkansas. He is also preceded in death by his brother, James ''Happy'' Cheatham.

He is survived by his wife of 57years, Pat, and daughters and sons-in-law Becky and Bobby Rice, Susan and Glenn Nutt, Sarah and Dr. Charles Davidson and Nancy and Buddy Green as well as grandchildren Josh and Tammy Robinson, Chris Robinson, Stacy and Zack Pitsch, Lacy and Rene McKale, Rachel Beasley, Phillip Davidson, Jenny Davidson and Austin Boone. Great grandchildren are Brooklyn Robinson and Brynn Pitsch. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law Roy and Ruby Cheatham of Benton, Arkansas and numerous nieces and nephews.

BG Cheatham received his early education at Malvern, Arkansas, graduating with honors. After serving in the U. S. Navy, he received a Bachelors of Science from Henderson State University in 1953 graduating with a perfect 4.0 average and was awarded a medal as the Outstanding ROTC Cadet at Henderson and at summer camp prior to his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U. S. Army Infantry and was placed on active duty as a Company Commander of basic training at Ft. Chaffee and in Germany as a Platoon Leader with the Fourth Infantry Division. In 1955 he entered Loyola University School of Dentistry in New Orleans and graduated Magna Cum Laude; only the second student ever to receive this honor. In 1961 he was commissioned a Captain in the Regular Army and assigned to Ft. Ritchie, Maryland where he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. His next duty assignment was as Chief of the Dental Services at Asmara, Ethiopia. He was decorated by the Ethiopian Emperor and, upon reassignment, awarded the Army Legion of Merit. He was recognized by the State Department for his active role in enhancing the prestige of the U.S.A. and the Army and Army Medical Department. While in Ethiopia he received an early promotion to Major. Major Cheatham's next duty was Ft. Bragg, North Carolina where he performed as Chief Clinician, Chief of Diagnosis and Chief of Oral Surgery at various facilities. He attended Advanced Medical Field Service School Officers course at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas; again, graduating with highest honors.

Major Cheatham completed a two-year residency at Darnell Army Hospital, Ft. Hood, Texas in 1966-68 and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and recognized as the Outstanding Resident. He was subsequently awarded Board Certification in 1974. His next assignment was as Commanding Officer of the 137th Medical Detachment in Dong Tam, South Vietnam. While in Vietnam he was awarded the Vietnamese Honor Medal First Class by the Government of South Vietnam; a second Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal with Four Battle Stars indicating his participation in four major campaigns. He also received a Bronze Star, a second Legion of Merit, Civic Action Medal, another Defense of America Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal and Combat Medics Badge. His assignment to Ft. Benning, Georgia was highlighted by his various duties as Deputy Commander, Chief Clinician and Chief of Diagnosis and Oral Surgery at various troop and dependent clinics and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and was made an Honorary Doughboy by the Commanding General.

In 1971 he was selected by the Chief of the Dental Services, Assistant to the Army Surgeon General, for a two-year residency at Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health where he received a Masters Degree in Health Sciences.

After completion of the residency in 1973 at Johns Hopkins, LTC Cheatham was selected for early promotion to Colonel. He held five different administrative positions at the Health Services Command, San Antonio, Texas before his selection for Flag Rank as a Brigadier General in 1977. He was Deputy for Dental Services at Health Services Command, San Antonio, Texas and was responsible for all health services in the 50 United States, Panama and Puerto Rico.

In 1978 BG Cheatham was awarded the coveted Surgeon General's ''A'' Specialty Prefix Dentistry Outstanding Achievements in his specialty.

Upon his retirement in 1979, BG Cheatham was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for 23 years of outstanding service.

BG Cheatham was the author and co-author of 52 professional articles and publications. He was a life-long lecturer, teacher, researcher, Practitioner as well as a recognized organizer for Health Services delivery. In addition to his administrative duties, BG Cheatham was a consultant to the Surgeon General and recognized for his teaching in Dental Specialties.

BG Cheatham at one time was a member of the American Dental Association, The Academy of General Dentistry Constitution and By-Laws Committee, Academy of General Dentistry, the Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas Dental Associations, Pierre Fauchard Society, Xi Psi Phi Fraternity where he served as Secretary for two years, Association of the U. S. Army, Association of Military Surgeons, Fellow of the American College of Dentistry, and Fellow of the International College of Dentists. His other honors include his election to Alpha Chi Scholastic Fraternity, Henderson College in 1952, Blue Key National Honor Fraternity, American Kappa Upsilon Honorary Dental Society, C. Victor Vignes Dental Honorary Dental Society. He was twice listed in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities and was the recipient in 1977 of the Distinguished Alumni Award, Henderson University. BG Cheatham presented lectures and classes at the National and International level. He was a Charter Member of the Mekong Delta Medical Society. BG Cheatham was honored by the United States Army Command for his support of Dental Activities and completed the Financial Management Workshop for Management Executives. He was recognized by the U. S. Army Europe and 7th Army for meritorious service as a distinguished lecturer in support of that theater's Dental Services. BG Cheatham was twice recognized for his contributions to the American Dental Associations' Scientific Program.

After retirement from the U. S. Army in 1979, Dr. Cheatham was Professor and Chairman of the Department of General Dentistry, the University of Texas School of Dentistry, Houston, Texas. In 1984 he joined a group of physicians and dentists to establish a joint medical/dental clinic, The Doctors at the Galleria, Houston, Texas and was Director of Dental Services until his retirement in 1991.

On May 15, 1959 the Student Council of Loyola University, New Orleans, presented Dr. Joe L. Cheatham with a citation for Distinguished Services to the University. The Officers and Airmen of Detachment ''8'' 1137th Special Activities Squadron, Ft. Ritchie Maryland, made then Capt. Cheatham an Honorary Member of Professional Services above and beyond the call of duty.

The family would like to thank Dr. Richard Johns, Dr. Scott Beau, Dr. Bruce Murphy and their staffs, Arkansas Heart Hospital Congestive Heart Failure Clinic and Arkansas Hospice for the care they provided.

The funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 11, 2008 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel (501)224-8300, with Reverend Dennis Baw officiating. Entombment will follow at Riverwood Memorial Gardens in Maumelle, Arkansas, with full Military Honors.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday.






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18 Condolence(s)
James Rowland
Burke,, VA
Liked
Sunday, December 29, 2013

To The Cheatham family.

I was a dependent while my father (Lt. Col. Robert B. Rowland, Dental Corps.) and family were assigned to the U.S. Army Hospital, Asmara, Eritrea, Ethiopia, 1960 - 1963. As a young teenager I got to know Captain Cheatham and his family. Captain Cheatham was one of those adults to whom children enjoyed talking. He was very sincere and made a lasting impression on me.

As a young officer going through Airborne//Ranger//Jumpmaster training at Fort Benning, GA I went on sick call just to say hello to, I believe then Major Cheatham. It was grand to see him again. A few years later I was at Fort Sam Houston, Texas and again paid a visit to BG Cheatham. General Cheatham introduced me as a "combat line officer" to his staff. He made me feel like I was on top of the world.

With the highest respect to the family and friends of Brigadier General Cheatham.
Most sincerely,
James R. Rowland
Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)

John Hinchliffe
Stafford Springs, CT
Liked
Wednesday, September 8, 2010

I do hope that this message reaches the family. I first met Dr. Cheatham in September of 1969 when I was assigned to Bernheim Dental Clinic. He trained me in my job as a dental assistant and epitomized my idea of what an officer, gentleman, and medical professional should be. The following August, at age 22, I married a local woman I met at a church function, an Army brat of course, and stopped by his quarters on Hallowe'en (Oct '70) with my wife--both of us dressed in appropriately absurd costumes. I was off to 'Nam shortly thereafter, and returned to Ft. Benning (intact) in Apr '72. I don't recall if he was still at Bernheim when I returned. I ETSed within a month, and moved back to Connecticut. Over the years, Kathy and I returned to visit her family, and I, my haunts at Ft. Benning. While the family dog always barked at me, he didn't--only giving me encouragement and fatherly advice quite helpful to a young man far away from his home and his family. It was he that suggested I not let that "Georgia Peach" get away from me. Thank you, sir, for being a part of my life, and to the family, I extend these thanks also, and extend my belated condolences.

James W. Drake
Clifton, TX
Liked
Saturday, January 26, 2008

Joe was my best friend when we attended Malvern Public School, and was the first person to give me a driving lesson one day after school classes. Heaven is blessed to have him back because I feel he has reached total perfection during his stay on Earth, which I believe is the ultimate goal for all of us.

Teresa McMurry Jones
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Nancy, I am deeply saddened at the news of your father's passing. Our dad's play such an important part in our lives, and I know that you were very close to him. I still have such a vivid memory of him standing in the kitchen in Houston offering me this wonderful concoction called "Blue Bell Ice cream", (the greatest in all the world)!!! I always think of that when I dive into a bowl remembering the words, "you can never have enough BBIcecream" Isn't it funny the things that we remember about people. From reading the obituary, your father will be remembered by many people for many things. You are in my prayers. Teresa

Kathryn Abner Wallace
Malvern, AR
Liked
Saturday, January 12, 2008

Joe's family and the Abner family were friends for years and years. We express our deepest sympathy

Andy & Jerra Hollinger
, AR
Liked
Friday, January 11, 2008

Pat, Our deepest sympathies to you. "The General" will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. May the Lord sustain you and strengthen you during this time. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Andy & Jerra Hollinger

James & Bonda Crowder
Malvern, AR
Liked
Friday, January 11, 2008

Went to Henderson with Joe. He was an outstanding person.. Our prayers are with you.

Gerald and Loretta Brewer
Russellville,Ar., AR
Liked
Friday, January 11, 2008

We offer our condolences to the family,in this time of your loss. Roy and Ruby and all the family you will be in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you great comfort.

Marsha Voss Hankins
Malvern, AR
Liked
Friday, January 11, 2008

Dr. Cheatham was very good to me. I will always appreciate him and his family.

don colbert
little rock, AR
Liked
Friday, January 11, 2008

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. Joe was a truly fine man. Don &Donna Colbert

Nancy York
Dallas, TX
Liked
Thursday, January 10, 2008

Pat: I was so sorry to hear of Joe's death. We go back a long way (as you know, and so do you and I) I did not know of all his accomplishments however. Some, yes. I know you will miss him terribly. There is not much I can say --only time will be on your side. Ann told me that you said he was ready to go and if he was in bad shape I'm sure that was the way he felt. My deepest sympathy to you and your family Love, Nancy

Gary Scott Berry
Benton, AR
Liked
Thursday, January 10, 2008

I wanted to send my deepest sympathy during this sad, yet glorius union with God. It was recently my pleasure to meet one of Joe's school buddies (Bill Wright) and hear the stories in which he was held in such high regard and respect. From stories that have been passed from my grandfather "Happy" and my short time with him, he was very proud of his brother. I pray that God will ease each of your sorrows during this time. From a journey as an American Hero here on earth to a new journey with God in paradise, I believe he is smiling at each and everyone of you.

Donna Berry
Malvern, AR
Liked
Thursday, January 10, 2008

Patsy and family,Sorry to hear about Uncle Joe.Garry and I have you and your family in our prayers.My dad was so proud of him and loved him so.May God bless and give you strenght through this difficult time. Love, Donna and Garry

REV. DENNIS AND CINDY BAW
Fort Worth, TX
Liked
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

What a tremendous honor to know and have Joe in our family! He was always so warm and tender with our family and I cherished the times we got to visit with one another through the years. Joe was especially wonderful to the Baws during the loss of our Mom and we will be eternally grateful. We love you, Patsy and family and will be praying for God's wonderful Comforter to provide all you need in the days ahead. (1st Cousin) Dennis and Cindy Baw, Fort Worth, TX

Tom and Denise Garner
Spring, TX
Liked
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Dr. Cheatham will truly be missed. Joe once told me that I was like part of his family. He was one of the greatest men that I ever had the honor to call my friend md a true friend he was. I know that he is God's arms and was called home because God has other great plans for him. He helped so many on earth and will be with God to heal others. It is hard to let him go, but his long suffering on this earth has ended and now he is in a far better place with our Lord. I know Joe is watching over all of us now from high. Our prayers are with you Pat, the girls and all of the family. May God continue to bless and keep you. With Love, Tom Garner

Steve & Anna Mae Cooke
Lexa, AR
Liked
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Patsy, Just to let you know that we are thinking about you and all the family. I will talk to you soon. Love Mae

Sharron Raper
lonoke, AR
Liked
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Nancy & Family, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Deepest sympathy to you and your family with much love sent to you during this time of sorrow. Mr. Cheatham will surely be missed here on earth, but I'm sure he's a blessing in Heaven. Lots of love to your family! Skip and Sharron Raper

Mark,maria@Jess Jolly
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Nancy, we are all so sorry for your loss. Your dad was an impressive man.