Emmett Slayton Jr. of Jonesboro, Arkansas, died on August 15, 2026, at age 89.

Born in Minturn, Arkansas, on August 6, 1937, to Emmett T. and Onie Slayton, he graduated from Hoxie High School and Arkansas State College. Commissioned as a U.S. Army Second Lieutenant through ROTC, he completed artillery, missile, paratrooper, and flight schools, logging over 2,200 pilot hours. He served in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star Medal, and resigned from active duty as a Major in 1968. He later rejoined the military via the Arkansas National Guard, where he eventually retired.

Following a brief sales career at Sears Roebuck, Emmett joined the Walnut Ridge School system in 1976. Over a 22-year career as a teacher and assistant principal, he taught over 5,000 students and earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Arkansas State.

In retirement, Emmett enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with loved ones. He faithfully served the Lord in the Senior’s Group at Central Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife of 34 years, Elke; his second wife of 19 years, Helen; brothers, Bobby and Billy Joe Slayton; and sisters, Agnes Coomes and Wanda Odell. He is survived by his son, Michael (Shonna) Slayton; grandchildren, Stephen (Carol) Slayton and Rebekah Slayton; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on August 24th at Calvin Crossing Cemetery near Alicia.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 AM on August 25th at Central Baptist Church in Jonesboro.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Central Baptist Church or Gideons International.