August 27, 1956 - February 12, 2026
Arthur Walmsley lived a life that was steady, faithful, and deeply rooted in love - for the Lord, for his family and friends, and for the quiet beauty of the outdoors.
Born in Searcy, Arkansas, Arthur's family moved frequently, shaping in him an adaptability and resilience that would mark the rest of his life. It was as a high school student in Fredericktown, Missouri that Arthur made the most important decision of his life: he committed himself fully to Christ. That commitment became the foundation of everything he did.
His faith was never half-hearted. It was all-in, consistent, and gracious. In every town he later called home, Arthur found a church and found a way to serve - teaching Sunday School to both children and adults, driving the church bus, counseling at church camps, serving the singles ministry, and faithfully supporting ministry events. He didn't just attend church; he invested in it.
Arthur faced one of the defining trials of his life in 1983 when he was involved in a tragic car accident that affected him for the rest of his years. Yet even in hardship, his faith remained unwavering. Those who knew him best witnessed a remarkable perseverance. He leaned fully on the Lord he trusted and carried his challenges with grace, offering a living testimony that faith is proven not in ease, but in endurance.
An avid outdoorsman, Arthur loved to hunt and fish, and some of his family's most treasured memories are rooted in those shared adventures. Despite the lasting effects of his accident, he remained a devoted and engaged father - traveling, spending time outdoors, and creating meaningful experiences with his children and grandchildren. His love for his family was steadfast and unmistakable.
Arthur lived for many years in Starkville, Mississippi, where he worked for the National Forestry Service. Demonstrating both discipline and determination, he later earned a second degree in Computer Science, graduating with honors from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. In the early 2000s, he returned to Arkansas and continued his career at Riceland Foods, where he faithfully served for the remainder of his working years.
Family was central to Arthur's life. He shared a close and special bond with his siblings and children, a relationship marked by loyalty and affection. He is survived by two of his siblings, Winnie Walmsley and Dan Walmsley; his children, Amanda Devlin and her husband Steven Devlin, and Steve Walmsley and his wife Karlin Walmsley; and his eight cherished grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Dorothy Walmsley, and his siblings, Steve Walmsley and Sandra Stanley.
Arthur's legacy is one of faithfulness. He loved deeply, served consistently, and trusted God wholeheartedly. His life reminds us that strength can be gentle, perseverance can be gracious, and a life anchored in Christ leaves an eternal imprint.
He will be dearly missed by family and friends alike, but his example of unwavering faith and steadfast love will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral services will be on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 10:00am in the chapel of Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home in Benton.
Visitation will be on Thursday evening, February 19, 2026 from 5:00 until 7:00pm at the funeral home.
Interment will follow the service at 1:00PM at Kensett Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home in Benton.