Ernest R. Hooten

Ernest R. "Hoot" Hooten, 86, of North Little Rock, transitioned to his heavenly home on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Hoot was born on January 27, 1940, to Alice Gray Hooten and Fred Hooten of Little Rock. He grew up in an area known as "Hanger Hill" and attended Little Rock Technical High School, where he graduated as the salutatorian of his class.

Hoot retired from Chrysler Corporation, where he traveled throughout Arkansas working with automobile dealerships. Never one to slow down, he later attended information technology school and began a second career with the State of Arkansas's IT Department. Even after retiring a second time, Hoot still wasn't ready to stay home. In his late 70s and early 80s, he delivered medications for Medicine Man Pharmacy to patients at Baptist Springhill until the COVID-19 pandemic brought that chapter to an end. He cherished every opportunity to reconnect with old neighbors and friends while making new ones along the way.

Hoot was preceded in death by his parents, Alice Gray Hooten and Fred Hooten; his brothers, Allen Hooten and Elmer Hooten; and his sisters, Marguerite Bearden and Doris Morehart. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Gayla Hooten; his son, Ernie Hooten of Sherwood; his daughters, Jodi Logan (Mike) of Sheridan and Denise Thompson (Rocky) of Lonoke; and his bonus daughter, Shayna Ison of Little Rock. He also leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren: Stacey Thompson, Matt Thompson (Molly), Chase Davis (Morgan), Dylan Hooten, Alex Logan, Brooke Logan, and Jace Acre; and four treasured great-grandchildren: Meredith Thompson, Magnolia Thompson, Easton Davis, and Aurora Hooten. He is also survived by his sister, Freida Rigal; his brothers, Ben Hooten and Fred Hooten; along with many lifelong friends and extended family members who loved him dearly. 

His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the greatest joy of his life. Hoot also had a passion for dancing. He was an active member of a dance club in Little Rock and even taught line dancing during the 1980s, sharing his enthusiasm with countless others.

Hoot was known for being wonderfully stubborn and an extraordinary overachiever. His determination and strength of will carried him through life's challenges and allowed him to remain active and engaged for as long as possible. Those who knew him wouldn't have wanted him any other way.

Around the age of 60, Hoot accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. His faith became an important part of his life, and he would want everyone to know that it is never too late to give your life to Jesus.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Crown Point Assisted Living for helping Hoot live his best life following his car accident. They also sincerely thank the compassionate staff of Sheridan Healthcare & Rehab for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Hoot and his family during his final days. 

Hoot had a favorite farewell that perfectly reflected his caring spirit. We leave you with the same words he so often shared:

"Angels on Your Pillow."

A visitation celebrating Hoot's life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ernest's memory to Arkansas Children's Hospital or the March of Dimes.