Jack Dennis Bunch
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Saline County Humane Society
7600 Bauxite Hwy.
Bauxite, AR  72011
I served in the Army.
Jack Dennis BunchI am a Veteran.

of Benton, AR

September 22, 1944 - April 6, 2020

On April 6, 2020, Jack Dennis Bunch succumbed to his battle with cancer. Jack was born on September 22, 1944 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late Oscar R. Bunch and Betty J. Goodman Bunch.

Jack grew up in Southwest Little Rock where he was trained by his father to become a skilled hunter and fisherman. Jack loved the outdoors and prepared his deer camp for hunting every year, even after his illness. The comradery with fellow officers and friends around the campfires was the highlight of deer season.

Jack graduated from Mabelvale High School in 1963 and joined the United States Army. He joined the Little Rock Police Department on April 17, 1967 and retired on April 27, 1987 with the rank of Sergeant. During his service as a Patrolman, Detective in Special Investigations, and Sergeant he received many honors and citations. Simultaneously, he continued his education in Criminal Justice at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. After retirement, he was not content to stop working, and hired on with Federal Express. Several years later, due to a hunting accident and permanent ankle injury, he would be forced take a disability retirement.

Through the years, Jack continued his close friendships with his fellow Brothers in Blue. One of his closest friends, Sgt. Rick Kinsey, would be responsible for introducing him to his wife, Officer Linda Mandrell. As he liked to say, "keeping it in the family".

Jack's sister, Melinda Valdez, stated she thinks her brother will be remembered by many officers as a mentor who taught them how to be a good police officer. Also, that he will be remembered for his intelligence, leadership, and his boisterous voice, laughter and personality. All of these qualities he contributed to their family. Among her many memories she recalled, one that stood out was that Jack loved to go to the casinos. He planned a trip to take the family, (mother and sisters) to Tunica, all expenses paid, where they received the VIP treatment. What fun they had! She stated that Linda and Jack went often, and it was wonderful to be included. The stories that Jack would tell of the trips in their motor home across country (Las Vegas, Wyoming, to name a few) and camping were so very entertaining to the family.

Jack's sister, Patti Leathers, wanted to share the fond memories of her big brother always protecting her and calling her "Pokey.'' She felt so special at six years old when he would take her fishing, and letting her boast to her friends when he was lifeguarding at Windy Beach and Willow Springs. She remembers being so scared when he left for the Army, and so excited when she and her sisters would receive letters and post cards from him overseas. When he became a police officer he gave her even more reasons to be proud of him. Memories of him dominating with his loud boisterous voice at family gatherings will always be precious to her.

Reviewing all of Jacks accomplishments and memories that have been shared make me realize even more of what a wonderful man he was. I was so blessed to have been married to him. We had a wonderful life touring the States in our motor home with our 3 dogs and 2 cats, and camping and fishing and just relaxing at home. He will be truly missed.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Betty Bunch; brother, Raymond Bunch; and sister Melissa Howard.

Jack is survived by his wife, Linda Mandrell-Bunch; step-son, Michael Emerson, of Benton; and three sisters, Melinda Valdez of Little Rock, Patti Leathers of Bryant, and Kathy Hightower of Thida, Arkansas. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews.

There will be no memorial services at this time. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please make memorials to the Saline County Humane Society at www.hssaline.org. Please sign and share condolences on our online guestbook at:www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/bryant.

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15 Condolence(s)
William and Sandra Ott
Lancaster, TX
Liked
Friday, April 10, 2020

Our deepest condolences to you and your family. May God keep you strong and in his prayers.

Joe Isom
Wake Forest, NC
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Friday, April 10, 2020

Jack was a super fine fella and the kind of sarge every young officer hoped for. He meant so much to so many people, and he will NEVER be forgotten. Rest In Peace, Jack.

Dawn Dutcher
Heber Springs, AR
Liked
Friday, April 10, 2020

Jack was an amazing person. He was a great Sgt. and friend to so many officers. I am proud to have know Jack for many years and to have been able to call him friend. You will be missed my friend. Thoughts and prayers to Linda and all of Jacks family.

Joe Leslie
Alexander, AR
Liked
Friday, April 10, 2020

You will be greatly missed, Jack. May God bless and comfort your family.

Rebecca Evans
Morrilton, AR
Liked
Friday, April 10, 2020

I'm so very sorry. I know you girls and your kids loved Jacky. I'm so sorry you didn't get to tell him goodbye. Please let his wife and Michael know I am sorry. I remember when I was a little kid I thought he was a giant. So I was surprised that he was only 4 years older than me. I will be praying for all of you. God Bless, Becca

Reginald Martin
Lee's Summit, MO
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Friday, April 10, 2020

As a rookie police officer you were my first supervisor, you judged me on my character, commitment and dedication to be a good police officer, you didn't play into the politics and for that I'm forever grateful. My sincerest condolences to your wife and extended family.

Reginald Martin
Lee's Summit, MO
Liked
Friday, April 10, 2020

As a rookie police officer you were my first supervisor, you judged me on my character, commitment and dedication to be a good police officer, you didn't play into the politics and for that I'm forever grateful. My sincerest condolences to your wife and extended family.

Robert Beasley
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

A great man with a great legacy.

Linda Howard
East End,Ar, AR
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Thursday, April 9, 2020

Linda,
I am so sorry that we can’t gather to honor uncle Jacky. I remember when I came into the family he was very welcoming and made feel like I belonged with Matt. I am praying for you and the entire family. Much love!!!

Stan Jackson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

Hate to hear this. He was a good man

Rebecca Schug
Benton, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are for you and your family at this time. God Bless and keep you all safe.
Rebecca

Heather Brewer
Benton, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

Everyone,

I am so sorry for your loss.

Heather

Michelle Ready
Avinger, TX
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

Linda, I am so sorry that we could not be with you at this time of loss. My memories of Randy and I camping with you and Jack are precious! I still have the bells he gave me to put on my fishing pole so I would know when I got a bite! We are sending love and prayers to you for all the family.

Brad and Judy Perkins
Lonoke, AR
Liked
Thursday, April 9, 2020

Linda, we are saddened for your loss and your are in our prayers. I always think back a few years ago when you and Jack spent Thanksgiving with us. It was a wonderful time and we enjoyed you both joining our family for a meal. God Bless you and your family. I know Jack will be missed, but we will see him again someday. Love you my friend.

Patsy price
Benton, AR
Liked
Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Linda, I will be praying for peace and comfort for your family
Patsy