of West Helena, AR

December 1, 1942 - April 14, 2021

James Richard Brasel, age 78, of West Helena, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, April 14, 2021, in Helena, Arkansas. He was born on Campbell Plantation, located about a mile from Oneida, Arkansas on December 1, 1942, to the late Roy and Alta Brasel.

James better known as "Da" was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His sweet smile and kind spirit were felt by all those who knew him. He had a heart of gold always willing to give of himself to anyone that needed it. His door was always open and in giving to others, he found joy himself.

James attended Central High School and in 1964 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Arkansas State Teachers College currently known as the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. He continued his education at Louisiana State University and graduated in 1965 with a Master of Arts in Mathematics. His teaching career began at Monette High School then in 1968, he joined Phillips Community College as a mathematics instructor. He loved the college and recognized its value to the community therefore devoting his life to enrich others through teaching and administration. During his 42 years of faithful service, he worked in data processing, served as a faculty member, Dean of the Division of Business, Registrar, and Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration. Over the years, he was responsible for many of the College's construction and renovation projects on all three campuses. This included most of the buildings on the Helena campus, the renovation of the DeWitt campus, and the new construction of the Stuttgart campus. Through the years James also scouted cotton, sold crop insurance, and authored/reviewed college textbooks. Most recently, James published his own autobiography.

James was active in the community serving as a deacon at West Helena Baptist Church, Sunday School teacher, and a member of the West Helena Lions Club, Helena Rotary Club, DeSoto School Board, and DeSoto Booster Club. Teaching and education were his passion. He taught at both the high school and college level but he also wanted to teach you about life. Many people benefited from his teaching and giving spirit. The lasting impact of his life will live on through the lives of all those he touched.

James married the love of his life, Lynda Bailey Brasel, in 1963. He loved her unconditionally and selflessly devoted his life to caring for her in a way that cannot be matched. Together they built a lifetime of wonderful memories around friends and family. He was so proud of his family and was constantly bragging about their accomplishments, big or small. James loved spending time with his family but was especially proud of caring for his great granddaughter, Marlee Jo.

He is survived by his daughter, Monica Quattlebaum (Terry); grandchildren: Beth Quattlebaum of Conway, Arkansas, Michael Quattlebaum (Nikki), Christina Garner (Joe, Jr.), and Ben Quattlebaum; great grandchildren: Emily Beard, Braden Beard, and Marlee Jo Garner; extended family; and caregiver/family friend, Mozella Jones.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Lynda Bailey Brasel; his parents; his brothers: Lee Brasel; Dean Brasel; and Jerry Brasel.

Funeral services for Mr. James Richard Brasel will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 19, 2021 at Second Baptist Church in West Helena, Arkansas. Visitation will be held from 4-6:00 p.m., Sunday, April 18, 2021 at Roller-Citizens chapel. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park. Brother Joe Garner, Sr. will officiate.

Pallbearers are Michael Quattlebaum, Ben Quattlebaum, Joe Garner, Jr., Peyton Ward, Jack Stephens and Owen Bartlett.

Honorary pallbearers are Toney Dyce and Herschel Mooneyham.

Services will be directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571. Relatives and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena.

Roller-Citizens Funeral Home is observing guidelines regarding COVID-19. We ask that all attendees please observe social distancing. When indoors or when social distancing cannot be observed, please wear a mask.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
508 East Plaza Street
West Helena, AR  72390
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com