Leo Bartholomew Jr.

Leo Bartholomew, Jr., 80, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at NEA Baptist Hospital. Leo was born July 22, 1938 at Whitehall, Arkansas, to Leo, Sr. and Helen Pauline Willis Bartholomew.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Shirley Singleton Bartholomew, his son, Todd Allen Bartholomew (Jamie), and Shirley’s children, Selena Grace Barber (Brett), Dustin Clay Caplinger (Connie) and Khristopher Alan Caplinger. Leo is also survived by his grandchildren, Kenzie Bartholomew (fiance Ryan McGaughey), Evan Barber, Andrew Barber (Sarah), Kristin and Jake Vanaman, Clay and Tyler Caplinger Ball, Hannah Caplinger, Chase Whitaker, and Katy and Ryan Robson. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, including a loving grandmother, Irene Willis, wife Nadine Ball Bartholomew, brother Thomas Mayo Bartholomew, sister Glada Pauline Stafford, and brother-in-law C.P. Stafford.

Leo’s family moved to the Weona area when “Baby Leo” was a small child. He attended school in Weona, just one of the many schools where his mother, Mrs. B., taught during her long career. He also enjoyed school years at Marked Tree and Harrisburg and competed one year at Arkansas State Teacher’s College, now the University of Central Arkansas.

While living in Memphis, Leo and Nadine Ball were married. They moved to Weiner in 1963 where they farmed and raised their son,Todd. They were married for 22 years, until Nadine’s death in 1984.

Leo enjoyed farming for 32 years. His employment history also included working for Southern Airways in Memphis. While working there, he discovered the joy of flying and later owned planes for several years. He often said he should have pursued a career as a commercial pilot.

Some of Leo’s fondest memories included playing football, his favorite subject in high school and college, hunting at Stumpy Point Hunting Club with family and friends, and Lightning, the horse he raised from a colt. He also very much enjoyed deer hunting.

Later in life, he and Shirley spent many hours fishing at Mellwood and elsewhere. They also enjoyed traveling and attending many Arkansas State University football and basketball games as well as various other travel adventures.

Leo’s granddaughter Kenzie was a highlight in his life, especially during her school years at Weiner. He rarely missed a softball or basketball game. His grandsons Evan and Andrew also made him proud and happy.

Leo was a member of The Church of Christ. He loved God and has been longing to “go home” for many months. His wish has been granted. Thank you Lord!

Death leaves a heartache

No one can heal

Love leaves a memory

No one can steal.

- Anonymous

Visitation will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 1 at Emerson Funeral Home in Jonesboro. Funeral services will follow at 2:30 p.m. with Alvis Brown and David Gibson officiating and Emerson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Burial will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Weiner. Pallbearers include Andrew Barber, Evan Barber, Jeb Bass, Dustin Caplinger, Chaz Stafford, John David Stafford, Treyson Stafford, Jeff Mross and Gene Winters.

Lasting memorials can be made to St. Jude, stjude.org/donate , Oak Grove Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 295, Weiner, Arkansas, 72479 or Valley View church of Christ Building Fund, 4500 Southwest Drive, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72404. To sign an online guest book, go to emersonfuneralhome.com.