LaVerne McClelland

Carter LaVerne McClelland, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, entered the gates of Heaven on Monday, September 14, 2026. He was born on December 10, 1942, in Monette and graduated from Oak Grove High School in 1960.

LaVerne was a devoted family man, having married his dearest love, Frances Loyd, on September 27, 1963. They shared a remarkable bond that lasted until her passing just three months prior, on June 3, 2026. Together, they cultivated a loving family environment that will be cherished by their daughters, Michelle (Keith) Morrow and Amanda (Michel) Beaird, as well as their grandchildren, Zachary Layton Crosskno, Stuart Ashton (Sydney) Crosskno, Briar Brookings (Hayley) Morrow, Alexandra Payton Crosskno, Callie (Zac) Beaird-Campbell, Michel (Jessica) Beaird, and Kyle Beaird; and great grandchildren, Scarlett Crosskno, Natalie (Ren) Beaird-Wilson, Imriel Beaird-Wilson, and Bonnie Georgia Beaird. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Odel "H.O." and Flora Bell Holland McClelland; bride of 62 years, Frances McClelland; granddaughter, Avery Lane Crosskno; brother, Harold McClelland; sister, Joyce Watkins; and in-laws, Hoyt and Berneva Loyd.

LaVerne devoted his career to the manufacturing industry. He was also a skilled welder, a hobby he took great pride in. He had a passion for welding and was known for building a large trailer that became a cherished community asset for parades.

Beyond his work, LaVerne was deeply passionate about gardening. He was particularly renowned for his tomatoes, along with an abundance of squash, zucchini, and watermelon, just to name a few. His generosity was unmatched; he loved to share the fruits of his labor, ensuring that friends and neighbors enjoyed his bountiful harvests.

An individual of unwavering faith, LaVerne was a dedicated member and ordained deacon at Brown's Chapel Baptist Church. In his later years, he found fellowship at Woods Chapel Baptist Church in Brookland, where his commitment to community and service continued to flourish.

LaVerne's legacy of kindness and selflessness will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Memorial contributions may be sent to Arkansas Children's Hospital in loving memory of his granddaughter, Avery Lane Crosskno, Brown's Chapel Cemetery, or Woods Chapel Baptist Church.

A visitation for family will be held at Woods Chapel Baptist Church in Brookland on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 AM until 12 PM. A funeral service will commence at noon with Bro. Royce Boling and Bro. Rick Hathcoat officiating. He will be laid to rest at Brown's Chapel Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Zachary Crosskno, Stuart Crosskno, Briar Morrow, Patrick Wheeley, Chris Chaney, and Michael Smith.

LaVerne McClelland will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will remain a guiding light in the lives of his family and friends.