Dewey "Leland" Turbyfill

Dewey “Leland” Turbyfill, 91, of Paron, Arkansas, was born January 18, 1935, and passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026. Leland was a well-known and loved member of his community, and his kindness touched the lives of many.

Leland spent many years working as a machine operator at Alcoa Manufacturing before retiring. He enjoyed the friendships he made there and especially looked forward to his daily visits with the “Coffee Gang.” Those mornings spent drinking coffee, sharing stories, and laughing with friends were some of his favorite moments.

A man of deep faith, Leland was a longtime member of River Street Church of Christ. His love for the Lord showed in the way he lived his life—always serving others and looking for ways to help. Leland was rarely one to sit still. He loved driving around town and checking on people, always ready to lend a helping hand. Many knew him for his daily visits to local nursing homes, where he would bring small necessities and share communion with residents on Sundays. Caring for others simply came naturally to him.

Leland was also a devoted family man. He shared many years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nellie Joyce (Zuber) Turbyfill, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Nancy Turbyfill, and his brothers, Cledus Turbyfill, Xuryvan Turbyfill, and Tommy Turbyfill.

When he wasn’t helping someone, Leland could often be found working in his garden or tending to his goats. He enjoyed raising them, and many of the goats even served as therapy animals, bringing smiles and comfort to people who needed it.

Leland and his wife first held hands on their very first date and remained hand in hand throughout their lives together. When she passed, her hand was still in his. Now they are reunited, once again holding hands in heaven.

He leaves behind his daughters, Tammy Lea Bunt and husband Denver of Benton, Arkansas, and Angela Sue Murphey and husband Tim of Niceville, Florida. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Mark “Alan” Couch, John Paul Propst II, Kendall Murphey and wife Emily, Thomas Murphey, and Matthew Murphey and wife Carley. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Kenneth Zuber and wife Katherine, sister-in-law Dorothy Zuber Styles, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton. A graveside service will be held Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Pinecrest Cemetery in Alexander.

Leland will be remembered for his generous heart, his servant’s spirit, and the many lives he quietly blessed along the way. His presence will be deeply missed, but the kindness he shared will continue to live on in those who knew him.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com