of Hughes, AR
April 13, 1944 - April 26, 2025
Louis Patrick Bonds, 81, of Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, surrounded by his family.
Born in Memphis, TN on April 13, 1944, to Louis and Virginia Bonds, Pat lived a life devoted to faith, family, hard work, and service to his community. A lifelong resident of Horseshoe Lake, Pat spent many years farming the land he loved, building not only a livelihood but a legacy rooted in perseverance, stewardship, and deep respect for the land and people around him. Pat's dedication to farming led to his recognition as the 2014 Farm Family of the Year.
Pat was a devoted husband of 60 years to Nancy Pittman Bonds, who he loved dearly. Together they built a home filled with kindness, laughter, and countless cherished memories. He was a proud father to two daughters, Natalie Taylor (Terry) and Cheryl Kindervater (Richard). He was a beloved grandfather to Whitney Taylor, Audrey Harper (Matthew), and Carson Collins (Kaila). He was joyfully awaiting the arrival of his first great-grandchild, Brooks Harper, due in May. Pat is also survived by his sisters, Kay Bonds, Sue Bonds, and Gini Lou Bonds Bryson (Jay), his brother Joe Bonds (Barbara), and many treasured nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jim Bonds (Jacqie).
A member of Hughes United Methodist Church, Pat lived his faith daily through his actions and service. His dedication to his community was evident in his involvement with numerous organizations. He served on the boards of Planters National Bank, Fidelity National Bank, Hughes Lions Club, Hughes School Board, Hughes Community Water Association, Hughes Grain Board, and the MSCC Foundation Board. He was also an active member of Ducks Unlimited and Hughes Hunting and Fishing Club. His leadership, integrity, and willingness to serve left a lasting mark on his community of friends and neighbors.
As a lifelong hunter, fisherman, and farmer, Pat was extraordinarily passionate about conservation. His work with the Horseshoe Lake Drainage and Irrigation District and Horseshoe Lake Landowners and Leasees Association made a substantial impact to preserve his community. With his generous donation of land to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Nancy and Pat Bonds Access Area at Horseshoe Lake will continue to support fishermen and families for years to come.
Pat found joy in simple pleasures- time with family, friendships forged over a lifetime, and a love of the outdoors. His heritage is one of faith, love, service, and hard work- one that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m., at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis, with a memorial service to follow at 12:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to honor and remember his legacy. He is deeply missed, but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Hughes United Methodist Church, PO Box 326, Hughes, Arkansas 72348.