of Harrison, AR
June 2, 1923 - June 15, 2020
Claude "Bud" William Somers, age 97, of Harrison, entered his eternal home Monday, June 15, 2020. We imagine that he rejoiced and shouted at the sight of Heaven. He was reunited with his beautiful wife, Caroline Somers, embraced his three sons-Bobby, David and Tim Somers, and at long last held his granddaughter, Kristine Kuhlmann. A host of other family greeted him filling the air of Heaven with loud voices, tall tales, stories of the old home place, and who ate the most White Castles.
He was born June 2, 1923, in Martinsville, Indiana, the son of Claude W. and Elizabeth Cecilia (Beard) Somers. The oldest of twins, he led the family of six other siblings to antics and mayhem. He was drafted during World War II and served in Central Europe as a medical technician. After the war, Bud got busy living! He moved his family to Harrison in 1972 and ran several businesses and worked as a carpenter. He believed in hard work, many times forcing his five children to labor with him all the while teasing them that he could outwork them on any given day. All five children will confirm that he could. After retiring, Bud became known as the 'Clock Man'. He traveled far and wide fixing clocks for over fifteen years.
Bud was a Christian and served the Lord. He often spontaneously screamed out 'Hallelujah Amen' causing all of us around him to Praise the Lord in various ways. At the age of 96, he would visit the area nursing homes and 'pray with the old people'. He loved his family to a fault. He was selfless, always putting others before himself. He was dedicated to telling tacky jokes and loved to laugh out loud.
His spirit will live on in his children-Bryan (his best friend and roommate); 3 fabulous, talented, smart (just ask he will tell you) daughters-Nancy Kuhlmann, Melinda Bagley and husband Barry, and Rebecca Martin and husband Sam; his grandchildren, Dana Sudquist, John Kuhlmann, William Kuhlmann, John Somers, Tyler Somers, Matthew Somers, Josh Bagley, Erica Meese, Michael Bagley, Aubrey Madden, Amanda Lee, Maddison Whorton, and Kris Bush; a host of great-grandchildren; his loving brothers and sisters; his adoring nieces and nephews; and anyone that ever called him friend.
Visitation was Thursday, June 18, 2020, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Graveside service was Friday, June 19, 2020, at 10:00 am, at Maple Leaf Cemetery.
Pallbearers were William Kuhlmann, John Somers, Ty Somers, Seth Lee, Amanda Lee, and Kevin Somers.
Honorary pallbearers were Aubrey 'Holly Molly' Madden, Well Spring Church Members, and all the men seeking the Lord and recovery at Church 180.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in his honor to Well Spring Church, 1219 Maplewood Road, Harrison, AR 72601 or The Great Passion Play, 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, AR 72632.
Roller-Christeson Funeral Home is complying with the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines for COVID-19 and limiting indoor funeral and visitation attendance to 50 people at one time. All attendees must provide and wear their own masks before entering.
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. He was an awesome uncle and so much fun! Lots of wonderful childhood memories were made visiting him and going on adventuresâ¤ï¸ I miss the stories too. Oh, what a story teller he was!
We are truly honored to have met this awesome Gentleman, and call him our friend. He was a true patriot, follower of Christ and without a doubt, an outstanding Father. Becky and all of your family, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this time. God bless you.
My deepest condolences to the family. It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to those we love. However, victory happens when we meet them on the other side. Sending prayers for peace and comfort during this time and hugging you all.
Love always,
The Gatlin Family
I have fond memories of Uncle Bud spinning stories, playing a guitar, visiting us in Jennings County and his love for Jesus. He is now reunited with family who went before him and his savior. Prayers and love to his family.