of Bellefonte, AR

June 11, 1918 - March 26, 2017

On Sunday, March 26 (2017) a hero of the faith left earth for his heavenly home. Harley C. Thomason, 98, of Bellefonte, passed peacefully in his home. Harley was a hero to his family, his community and his country.

Harley was born June, 11, 1918, in Eros, and during his early childhood days, traveled to Oklahoma in a covered wagon with his parents, George Thomason and Eliza Elizabeth Casey Thomason, and five brothers, who preceded him in death. After being afflicted with typhoid fever in Oklahoma, his family moved back to Arkansas after the passing of his mother.

Upon reaching legal age, Harley was the first Boone County resident drafted into World War II. He served his country in the Pacific Theater, serving under General Douglas MacArthur. He received a Bronze Star along with a Purple Heart while serving in the Philippines near Lezon. At the conclusion of his service, he received a Good Conduct Medal, an Asia Pacific Theatre Ribbon with two Bronze Service Stars, and one Bronze Arrowhead. During his service during the war, he married his wife, Ruby Maybelle Gray Thomason. She survives him after 73 years of marriage.

Upon his retirement from the Arkansas Highway Department, Harley turned his attention to civic responsibilities. He served the city of Bellefonte for 32 years as a councilman. Harley had a competitive spirit. He had a desire to excel in any competition. He participated in the Senior Olympics and won more than 100 medals. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and gardening. He was a mall walker and part of the McDonald's Coffee Club.

Harley was a member of only one church in his lifetime - First Baptist Church of Bellefonte. He served as Sunday school superintendent, Sunday school teacher, and deacon. He inspired his family spiritually and academically.

He was preceded in death by one son-in-law, Bob Williams, and five brothers, Arthur, Albert, Donley, Alvin and Archie. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Thomason, of the home; one son, Jerry Thomason and wife Janet, of Valley Springs; five daughters, Freda Williams of Bellefonte, Virginia Hirayama and husband Gene of Fair Grove, Missouri, Kathy Martin and husband Johnny of Nail, Judy Sullins and husband Rodney of Valley Springs, and Rebecca Brasel and husband Jeff of Valley Springs; 14 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.


Services were Thursday, March 30, (2017), at First Baptist Church of Bellefonte, with Pastor Marvin Emmons officiating, under the direction of Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Visitation was Wednesday, March 29, 2017, at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Burial was at Maplewood Cemetery.

Grandchildren served as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers included members of First Baptist Church of Bellefonte.


Memorials can be made to Legacy Hospice, 702 N. Main Street, Harrison, AR 72601 or First Baptist Church of Bellefonte, 10 Garrett Street, Harrison, AR 72601.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Christeson Funeral Home
519 North Spring Street
Harrison, AR  72601
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com