Bennie McClure

Bennie F. McClure "Grandpa", 90, of Bryant passed away Monday, January 8, 2018. He was born December 1, 1927 in Hazen, Arkansas to Eddie and Janice McClure. He served in the Army National Guard, and was a part of history by being one of the guards for the Little Rock Nine. Bennie was a hardworking man, he retired from Baptist Hospital and Children's Hospital; then went on to work at the Little Rock Airport. In his spare time he worked on his farm and was a mechanic for many.

He is survived by two sons, Clifton and Tommy; four daughters, Barbara, Sandra, Marilyn and Gail; grandchildren, Alton Hopkins (April Mendenhall), Charles Hopkins, Leicha Wilkerson; numerous other grandchildren; great-grandchildren including Caleb Hopkins, Brandon Hopkins, Gage Lester, Harlow Jerri Hopkins; and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jerri McClure and son, Charles Bridges.

A visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, January 14, 2018 at Smith - North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 15, 2018 at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow in Hazen Cemetery. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com .