Carl E. Hampton, a lifelong Arkansan with a kind heart and a curious spirit, passed away in Benton, Arkansas. He was born in Fort Smith to Lester "Buddy" Hampton and Mary Elizabeth Hefner, who instilled in him a love of family, hard work, and simple joys.

Carl dedicated many years of service to his community, working as a dispatcher for the Forest City Police Department and later as an operator for Little Rock Water Supply. He was known for his steady presence, his reliability, and his quiet willingness to help wherever he was needed.

He was preceded in death by his beloved niece, Catherine Lynn Neinaber, and nephew, Nathan Thomas Vaughn.

Carl is lovingly remembered by his devoted sister, Gail Hampton Vaughn, and by her children: Mary Frances Friedl, Jennifer Louise Carr, and Edwin Noel Barron III. He also leaves behind a large and cherished extended family of fifty grand and great-nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Carl found great joy in the outdoors. He loved fishing and camping, and in later years, he took pleasure in writing stories about his life and memories. Those who knew him will remember his gentle nature, his quiet humor, and the thoughtful way he cared for others.

Among his many treasured memories was a rainy November camping trip to Devil's Den State Park, where, seeing his young niece cold and soaked, Carl selflessly shared his waterproof sleeping bag to keep her warm through the night. As a boy, he delighted in riding a go-cart his father built, with his loyal dog Smokey beside him, ears flapping in the wind. He also had a lifelong fascination with radios and electricity-once surprising his mother with a homemade alarm that sounded when she opened the door, groceries tumbling to the floor amid her startled laughter.

A faithful and devoted member of Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church, Carl lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and quiet generosity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A Visitation is planned from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 7th at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday April 8th at 12:00 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church in Little Rock. Burial immediatley following at Halstead Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church, 5025 Church Road, Little Rock, Arkansas