of West Memphis, AR

December 23, 1936 - August 14, 2025

Alton Allen Appling, Sr., age 88, passed away on Thursday, August 14th after a short illness. He was born December 23, 1936 in Etowah, Arkansas to the late Lois F. and Carl S. Appling.

Al was preceded in death by his bride of 53 years, Judy, his daughter Debbie, his brother Aubrey Joe ''AJ'' Appling, his sister Joyce Burfield, and grandson David Ray.

Al grew up in Dyess, Arkansas. He and Judy began their married life in 1959 in Lepanto, AR, moving to West Memphis in 1966. Al was very active in his community and served in many leadership roles, including president of the Jaycees, JCI Senate, and the West Memphis Board of Realtors. He was the voice of Marion Patriots Football for two decades and coached multiple youth sports in West Memphis and Marion. He was a founding member and on the Board of the JW Rich Girls Club. Al was a founding member of the West Memphis Little Theatre, performing in plays and musicals for more than 30 years. He and Judy were famous for their dancing at events. Al was also famous for his birthday songs, reaching out to friends and family on their special day. We all cherish the messages he left on our birthdays.

Al was a lifelong salesman. He spent many years at Kimco Auto Parts and served as president of the Automotive Service Industry Association. He worked with his son-in-law Cliff at Wholesale Lighting, retiring at age 65. Al decided retirement wasn't for him and became a realtor with Crye-Leike in 2001, retiring in December 2024. He was named Realtor of the Year in 2007. Al also served in the National Guard/Army Reserve in his 20s and was a member of the American Legion.

Al was a man of strong faith. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in West Memphis for 40+ years, serving as Sunday School teacher and lay minister. In later years, he was a faithful member of Victory Church in Marion, serving as a greeter and on the prayer team. He was ordained in 2017 and found great joy in his ministry. He was known for his positive outlook and joyful approach to life. Al never met a stranger. He is often described as an encourager, mentor, motivator, father-figure, spiritual guide, fervent supporter, prayer warrior, friend and confidante. Al was a true inspiration to all who knew him. Whether you knew him as Al, Alton, Mr. Appling, Mr. Al, Big Al, or Big Daddy, you knew how special he was.

Al is survived by his son Allen, daughters Teresa (Garry) Montgomery and Susan (Kim) Appling; son- and daughter-in-law Cliff and Brenna Vest; grandchildren Joey (Karola) Montgomery, Jennifer Montgomery, Dan Vest, Haley (Brennan) Bryant, Kris (Scott) Grafton, Chris (Taylor) Appling, Anna Appling, and Noah Appling; great-grandchildren Grace Fuquay, Ethan, Kaleb and Carolina Montgomery, Georgia, Judah and Jack Bryant, Weslea, Sydney, and Emma Grafton, and Zander Appling; great-great-grandchildren Paxton and Meadow Fogerty; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family expresses special thanks to caregivers Kara Taylor and Helen Ross, who took wonderful care of Al, providing friendship, and compassionate and loving care.

Visitation will be held at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis, AR on Monday, August 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm and at noon on Tuesday, August 19th with his Celebration of Life service beginning at 1:00 pm at Victory Church, 897 Angel's Way Blvd, Marion, AR.

Memorial contributions may be made to Victory Church of the Midsouth in Marion, St. Jude Children's Hospital, or the charity of the donor's choice.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com