Smith Funeral Home website with picture Danny Walker Adcock passed away on October 7, 2025, at the age of 87, at his home in Bryant, Arkansas, surrounded by family. Born on December 19, 1937, in Russellville, Arkansas, to Arthur and Fannie Sue Adcock, his early years were spent in Dardanelle before the family moved to Little Rock.
At just 14, he chose to go to work with his Pop and Uncle Bo, traveling the state painting gas stations and businesses—a time that shaped his lifelong work ethic. Those early years helped instill in him a strong work ethic, and he cherished the time spent with them. Danny referred to Pop as his best friend for the rest of his life.
Danny met his true love, Helen, in junior high. They were married on June 15, 1956. His devotion to Helen was clear throughout their life together and even after her passing. Danny also shared a special bond with his mother-in-law, Trula Burton Jones. He often spoke of her with deep affection and respect, considering her his mother.
He joined the Little Rock Fire Department in 1961, rising to the rank of captain and earning the nickname “Alvin” for his playful nature. Like many firefighters, he worked two jobs to make ends meet. He retired from the Fire Department in 1984 but did not stop working—he continued painting well into his seventies. Though he still wanted to work, his wife Helen and daughter Debbie persuaded him to retire from painting after a fall from a ladder. After Helen’s passing, Danny remained devoted—visiting her grave almost daily, sitting and talking with her as if she were still by his side. They were married for 62 years.
Debbie had the privilege of caring for her father for ten years, and over time, they became true friends. They took road trips together to some of his favorite spots—Petit Jean, Mount Nebo, and Dardanelle, Arkansas. One of the highlights of those trips was taking powered parachute flights over Petit Jean Mountain, something he absolutely loved. They had long talks about his life, and he shared many memories.
As Alzheimer’s began to take hold, his grandson Steve and Steve’s wife, Andrea, lovingly moved in with him, providing daily support and comfort. Danny and the whole family were profoundly grateful for their devotion and sacrifice, which allowed him to remain in his own home and avoid moving to a nursing facility. Danny was a man of few complaints and much gratitude. In his later years, when asked how he was doing, two things his family heard him say many times were, “That’s just part of it,” and “I can’t complain. I had a good life.” That simple phrase captured his spirit—a life grounded in love, hard work, and devotion to family.
Danny was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen; his parents, Arthur and Fannie Sue Adcock; his mother-in-law, Trula Burton Jones; and other beloved family members.
He is survived by his four daughters: Karyn and Doug Wilson, Carol Sue and Kenny Camp, Debbie and Wayne Crow, Dana and Kelly Fugitt; and his sister, Sue Frueauff. His grandchildren: Steve and Andrea Williams, Samantha and Charles Grivotet, Alexandra and Jeremiah Norris, Drew and Amber Fugitt, Allison and Mike Lawson, Jamie and Amanda Fugitt, and Marlow and Mike Perkins. His great-grandchildren: Walker Jean Williams, Will Grady, Madeline Grivotet, Baylee and Riley Fugitt, Caroline and Elliot Norris, Peyton and Maddie Lawson, Ava, Porter, and Emery Fugitt, and Jake Simpson; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Joseph Morgan, Elite Hospice, Alzheimer’s Arkansas, and Pleasant Hills Senior Services. We would especially like to thank Christy Buchanan, RN, and Stacy, CNA, of Elite Hospice; Latonya Moore, CNA, of Pleasant Hills; and Tricia Kelley, CNA, who became part of his family.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, October 14, at 10:00 AM at Salem Cemetery in East End, 21101 Arch Street, Little Rock, AR 72206.
Donations may be made to the senior service organization of your choice in lieu of flowers.
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