Vilas Hendrick Elder Jr.

Vilas Hendrick Elder, Jr

Vilas was welcomed into the arms of the Lord and reunited with his parents and his Hopey on Friday, March 8, 2024 at St Bernard’s Medical Center. Born to the late Vilas Hendrick Elder, Sr. and Marie Haywood Elder on October 17, 1945, Vilas grew up in Piggott, Arkansas. He attended Arkansas State University where he was a proud member and alumni of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commercial Art.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Hope Spragins.  He is survived by his wife Ginger Paulette Elder, of the home, sister Faith Hogan, daughters Tahnya Price, Melanie (Mike) Stitt, and Amanda (Justin) Waln, stepchildren Stacie Smith, Bart (Amy) White, and Greg (Amy) White, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Vilas was an exceptional Christian, he never met a stranger, and he would do anything to help his neighbors. He was a long-standing member of Trinity Church where he served as head usher for many years. Most recently, Vilas was in service to the Lord at The Rock of NEA. He loved everyone he met, and if you had any ties to Piggott, the conversation was a lesson in genealogy and all things Piggott, Arkansas. He served his community through the Exchange Club of Jonesboro, in every possible leadership role over his 50-year tenure.

Funeral services will be Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation from 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. in Emerson Funeral Home of Jonesboro’s Chapel with Bill Barber officiating.  Pall bearers will be Aaron Price, Blake Price, Caleb Price, Parker Waln, Mason Waln, and Justin Waln.  Honorary Pallbearers will be the members of The Exchange Club of Jonesboro.

He will be laid to rest in Piggott Memorial Gardens on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 12:00 noon.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Exchange Club of Jonesboro or The Rock of NEA.