David Gerald Marlar

David Gerald Marlar, 84, of Jonesboro passed from this life Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at NEA Baptist. He was born to the late Floyd Howard and Ruth Lawson Marlar in Jonesboro on March 10, 1936.  Gerald was a member of Walnut Street Baptist Church for over 50 years where he also served as a Deacon for many years.

He was a graduate of Jonesboro High School and Arkansas State University where he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Gerald was also a veteran of the Army National Guard where he served for 7 years. He was a businessman and a home builder during his career and was a former president of the Jonesboro Builders Association.

Gerald loved people and never forgot a name. He was a treasure trove of Jonesboro and its history and old stories he told from his grandfather, uncles, and his coffee drinking friends. Throughout his last years of physical challenges of losing his hearing and vision, he remained positive and thankful for everyday. He would get asked how he was doing and he would always reply “Fine, this too shall pass.” He kept busy to the end because of his strong work ethic.

In addition to his parents, Gerald is preceded in death by his wife, Betty G. Marlar, son, David Michael Marlar, and brother, Donald F. Marlar.

He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Francis; son, Timothy (Dena) Marlar; sister, Janice (George) Osborn; granddaughter, Laura (Jon) Burroughs; great grandsons, Beau Connell and Drake Henson. He was known as “Uncle Bubba” to his nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many cousins and friends.

All services will be private.