James E. Alberson

James Elroy Alberson, age 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 21, 2025, in Maumelle, Arkansas. He was born on February 6, 1937, in Wattensaw, Arkansas, to James Carroll Alberson and Laura Elroy Langford.

James spent his childhood surrounded by the quiet beauty of rural Arkansas, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and the sweet scent of pine trees. In 1956, he graduated from Lonoke High School, where he proudly starred in both basketball and football, demonstrating the discipline, teamwork, and leadership that would define his life.

Following high school, James answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, and served honorably for eight years. In 1964, he continued his military career with the Arkansas Army National Guard, serving with the 39th Artillery Division at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock. Eleven years later, James was promoted to lead officer at the Arkansas Military Academy at Camp Robinson, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s next generation of commissioned officers. After 42 years of devoted service to his country and state, James retired in 1997.

Retirement did not slow James’ dedication to those who served. In the early 2000s, he led a heartfelt and determined effort to establish a Veterans Memorial at Lake Willastein in Maumelle, which was dedicated on April 8, 2006. This lasting tribute stands as a testament to his deep respect for veterans and his unwavering sense of service.

James made his home in Maumelle with his beloved wife of 27 years, Beverly. There, he found joy in simple pleasures of viewing the lake, keeping his bird feeders full, and tending to the occasional squirrel that tested his patience. He was a man who appreciated quiet moments, steady routines, and the company of family.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Laura Langford and James C. Alberson; his sisters, Roxie Alberson Goodwin, Mary Nadine Alberson Kendall, Joy Alberson Braden, and Carroll Ruth Alberson Fenton; his first wife, Marjorie Alberson; his daughter, Tania Alberson Landers; his son, Jeffrey Alberson; and his stepdaughter, Christine Wujek Flores.

He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Damon Wujek Alberson; his grandchildren, David Landers, Joshua Landers, and Laura Landers; his step-granddaughter, Rachel Flores; his stepdaughter, Kari Auld (Todd) and their children Kate, Margie, Grace, and Emily; his stepson, Steve Wujek (Camille) and their children Evan and Damon; and his stepson, Brett Wujek (Nancy) and their children Madeline, Joseph, and Thomas. James’ legacy lives on through the many lives he touched with his guidance, service, and quiet strength.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel – North Little Rock, located at 1921 Main Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114. A funeral service will follow immediately from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the same location. Graveside burial services will take place at 2:00 p.m. the same day at New Hope Baptist Cemetery, 557 New Hope Road, Carlisle, Arkansas 72024.

James Elroy Alberson will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud serviceman, a steadfast leader, and a man whose life was marked by honor, service, and love for family and country.

Services entrusted to Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home (1921 Main Street, NLR, AR, 72114).