of Batesville, AR
June 7, 1927 - February 11, 2026
James E. Street, age 98, of Batesville, Arkansas passed away peacefully, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of family, faith, and service. James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Nannie Laura McLendon Street, and his parents, Eagle Street and Hazel Meacham Street of Cave City, Arkansas. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Eugene Street and Marjorie Street Pettersen of Cave City, Arkansas. He is survived by one stepbrother, Jim Baxter of Smithville, Arkansas.
James was a U.S. Navy veteran as well as a member of Central Avenue United Methodist Church for 70 years. James served in numerous capacities at the church over the years and found great joy in working and growing in his faith. His commitment to his church and his community was unwavering and he cherished the relationships he built there.
James was known for his deep connection to his roots in Sharp County. He had a strong mind and loved to engage in conversations about family histories, particularly those of local families. His knowledge of the community and its' history made him a beloved figure among friends and acquaintances as he enjoyed connecting with people and sharing stories.
James and Nannie Laura operated Street Motors, Inc. in Batesville for over 37 years, building a successful business that became a cornerstone of the community. While in the auto business, James was the sponsor of the Street ''Scat Pack'' independent basketball team (Semi-pro) known throughout Arkansas. After retiring from the automotive business, James and Nannie Laura turned their attention to their passion for cattle farming, developing an outstanding cattle operation. Their dedication resulted in a national champion bull, and they earned numerous awards throughout the years for their contributions to the cattle industry. One of James' greatest joys was watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren show their cattle, both locally and nationally, taking immense pride in their accomplishments.
In addition to his business and farming ventures, James was deeply committed to serving his community. For many years, he was a Board Member of the Bank of Cave City, Bank of Evening Shade, and Sharp Bancshares, contributing his wisdom and leadership to the growth and success of these institutions. He was also a passionate supporter of politics, much like his father and grandfather before him. James was an active member of the Arkansas Democratic Party and even attended a couple of National Conventions as a delegate representing Arkansas. James was Chairman of the Independence County Election Commission for many years. James' additional community involvement included serving as a volunteer firefighter in Batesville, founding member of the Northside Fire Department, active in the Batesville Civitan Club, serving on the Independence County Fair Board, Batesville Booster Club, and numerous other organizations.
James was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his two sons, James Mack Street (Marcia) of Cave City and Steve Street (Cathy) of Hot Springs; five grandchildren, Marc Street (Sara) of Cave City, Jessica Street of Centerton, Timothy Street (Katie) of Taylorville, Georgia, Rachel Street (Austin) of Rogers, and Claire Street Cunningham (Patrick) of Conway; five great-grandkids Morgan, Evan, Jaxon, Scarlett, and Adi Grace. He is also survived by his niece, Jill Pettersen Carr (David) of Cave City with whom he shared a special bond and numerous other nephews and nieces.
James will be remembered for his integrity, his love for family, and his dedication to his community. His impact on the lives of those who knew him will be felt for generations to come. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Pallbearers will be Marc Street, Timothy Street, Patrick Cunningham, James Eagle McDaniel, Dennis Broadwater, Evan Street, Jaxon Street, and Charles Reynolds.
The family will celebrate his life Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Central Avenue United Methodist Church under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville. The family will have visitation from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM and a funeral service will begin at 3:00 PM. Immediately following the service, interment will be at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville.
In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions to International Christian Publishers, C/O First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 124, Cave City, Arkansas 72521 or Central Avenue United Methodist Church, 1205 North Central Avenue, Batesville, Arkansas 72501.
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17 Condolence(s)
Johnny & Mary Hodges
Monday, February 16, 2026
James and Family; Sorry to hear of your loss but we all will go through this experience but fortunately most will live to experience this in our lifetime. Fortunately i was able to know my parents and will forever cherish most of those memories... Think of you often as i go through Batesville and especially Cave City. I remember a lot of you young men of the Arkansas Jaycees some more than others but i truly enjoyed knowing you. Always Johnny & Mary Hodges , Bald knob.
Gary Perkey
Saturday, February 14, 2026
So sorry to learn of the passing of Mr James. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this sad time.
Franklin Shirrell
Saturday, February 14, 2026
What a wonderful tribute to a life well-lived and full of impact. James Mack and Steve, I am so thankful for parents such as yours that were such an important part of our formative years at Central Avenue UMC.
Prayers for strength, comfort, and peace in this time of loss.
In the meantime, no words ring more true- “Well done, good and faithful servant”.
Ronald Ford
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Dear James Mack and Steven,
Deepest condolences and sympathy on the loss of your father on behalf of my father (Robert Ford, Jr. of Fayetteville, AR), my sister (Rebecca Doster and her husband Daniel of Tucker, GA) , and myself and my wife Mary of Fayetteville, AR.
The close relationship between our families through many years of business dealings and personal friendship is a blessing.
After my mother died and my father moved to Tucker, GA, my dad always eagerly anticipated visiting with James and Nannie Laura upon returns to Batesville.
Thank you and your family for many years of friendship and kindness.
Sincerely,
Ronald Ford and wife Mary
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace" Numbers 6: 24-26
Scott and Jacqui McSpadden
Friday, February 13, 2026
Scott and I are so sorry to hear of Mr. Street’s passing. He was a neighbor to Scott’s parents and to our youngest son. He was always so nice and helpful to my son and his wife allowing them to keep their horses in his field and barn. Our son was very fond of him. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family.
Alan Vickery
Friday, February 13, 2026
In our thoughts and prayers,
Phyllis, Alan, Paige, & Andrew Vickery
Eddie Stewart
Friday, February 13, 2026
James Mack so sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing.
Prayers for you and the families.
Dennis Ford
Friday, February 13, 2026
Steve and James Mack, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. When mom was at Woodcrest Assisted Living, I loved visiting with him. He was always so sharp and recalled everything. I believe I knew him my entire life. Your mom and dad were very special people and made everyone better with their encouragement. Our heartfelt condolences. Dennis & Nola Ford
Donna McSpadden
Friday, February 13, 2026
I am sure he is hearing,”Well done, good and faithful servant.” Mr. and Mrs. Street were lifelong friends of our Mother and he remained a good friend to Mom through retirement, the loss of their spouses, and challenges of moving into assisted living. He called faithfully to be sure Mom adjusted her clock to Daylight Savings and knew the Razorbacks were playing. We will remember his kindness.
Donna McSpadden
Friday, February 13, 2026
I am sure he is hearing,”Well done, good and faithful servant.” Mr. and Mrs. Street were lifelong friends of our Mother and he remained a good friend to Mom through retirement, the loss of their spouses, and challenges of moving into assisted living. He called faithfully to be sure Mom adjusted her clock to Daylight Savings and knew the Razorbacks were playing. We will remember his kindness.
Rylee Gould
Friday, February 13, 2026
I’m really going to miss him. He was a very nice gentleman and I will really miss you James! Love you so very much
Clara Nell Crews
Friday, February 13, 2026
He was such a good man. I am lifting up this family up in my prayers.
Jimmy and Ladene Bray Bray
Friday, February 13, 2026
Jimmy and I are so sorry for your loss. Your dad was a very kind and humble man. Prayers for comfort and peace for all his family.
Wilsene Moody Kwok
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Jack and I are praying for the Street family. We have many wonderful memories of our parents being good friends and devoted long time members of Central Avenue Methodist Church. After my own father’s death, I will always remember how Mr. Street always encouraged me to keep riding our horses especially when I was missing my own father.
We will be will be praying for the Street Family. Dr. Jack and Wilsene Moody Kwok
Larry Allgood
Thursday, February 12, 2026
I was saddened to read of James Street's passing. He lived a long, eventful life that had an influence on those of us that knew him. I knew James and his wife most of my early life growing up in Batesville. It's my prayer that James Mack and Steve and the extended family find peace knowing the James was a great Christian man that showed integrity in his personal and business life.
Ramona Davis
Thursday, February 12, 2026
A sweet man I got to know while working at Woodcrest Assisted Living love to here his stories about life! Someone who was loved by so many! Your going to be missed!
Beverly (Davis) Meinzer
Thursday, February 12, 2026
I bought my first new car from James and Nannie Laura. They and their staff treated me (and my parents lol) with the utmost integrity. Their service and the service of their staff was much appreciated by me as young car owner. He will be greatly missed. Prayers for comfort in the coming weeks as you go through life without James.