John "JR" Rand

John “JR” Rand of Maumelle, Arkansas passed away on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at his home with his wife, Gloria by his side.

John was born September 30, 1947 in LaCrosse, Kansas to Charles and Helen Rand. He moved as a small child to Harmen, Arkansas. He attended Springdale Schools, attended the University of Arkansas, then joined the US Navy, Air Division, serving in Vietnam.

He founded JenCas Financial in Maumelle and was co-owner or Papa Murphy’s Pizza in Hot Springs.

John was the ultimate great guy. He never had a bad day. Always a smile on his face, he inspired others with his generosity, warmth, positive attitude and sincere caring.

John was a fun person to be with. John loved playing golf with his friends at Maumelle Country Club (achieving four holes in one), where he referred to all his friends “Pard”.

John loved to travel, loved the beach, enjoyed many cruises, trips to Cancun and Destin. He loved the lake, cruising Lake Hamilton, and most recently Lake Ouachita on his pontoon boat.

John loved attending Arkansas Razorback games and tailgating in Fayetteville and watching horseracing at Oaklawn. His friendliness and welcoming personality at those events drew many people to love him immediately.

John is survived by his wife of twenty-four years, Gloria; his daughter, Jennifer (Mark); granddaughter, Caroline Cate York; nephew, Jason (Denise) Peterson; and special furry daughter, Penny.

John was a unique, kind, genuine man loved by so many. His message was “Look for the highlight of your day, because there is one and you don’t want to miss it”.

John will be truly missed.

John fell in love with a little country church in Sylvania, Arkansas where Gloria attended as a child. He referred to the church as a “sweet church”.

Memorials may be made to Sylvania Presbyterian Church or Maumelle Friends of the Animals.

A private celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home , 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.--