Gabriel L. Mccrackin

Gabriel Lee (G.L.) McCrackin, 77, of rural Jonesboro, died Tuesday at NEA Baptist Hospital in Jonesboro.

Born in Lunsford, G.L. was a graduate of Arkansas State University where he earned a Bachelor degree and a Master degree in education. He taught school for several years at Grubbs, Bay and Gosnell schools and was high school principal at Lake City before changing careers. He served as a funeral director and mortician before he retired 8 years ago.

G.L. was a member of Fisher Street United Methodist Church and was a former member of Jonesboro Lions Club. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and along with Hershel “Plug” Eaton co-authored and published a book about mules. He was preceded in death by his parents: Jethro and Mattie Mills McCrackin, and by a sister, Susie Graham.

Survivors include 1 son, Lee McCrackin of Jonesboro;

2 brothers, Reuben McCrackin and Victor McCrackin, and 2 sisters, Jane Hamby and Katherine Bernhard, all of the St. Louis area; and

6 grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2:00 in Emerson Memorial Chapel with Paul Horner officiating. Burial will be private.

Grandchildren will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Visitation will be held Wednesday evening, 6-8, at Emerson Funeral Home.