Robert A. Ballentine

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Robert A. Ballentine, age 94, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, who passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026.

Born on February 2, 1932, in Louisiana, Robert was the son of Eunice Napoleon Ballentine and Katie Caroline Roberts. From an early start in the ROTC program, which paved the way for his military career, Robert embraced his service with pride and commitment. He went on to build a fulfilling career, serving as a mechanic in the United States Army and retiring as a Sergeant First Class in 1972. Following his military service, his mechanical ingenuity continued as a forklift mechanic at Stone Container in Jacksonville, Arkansas, until his retirement in 1997. His military career was one of his proudest accomplishments, a testament to his unwavering dedication and patriotism. Upon retiring, his deep passion for building and repairing things naturally transitioned into his daily life at home, where he spent decades dedicated to his hobbies, his home, and his loved ones.

On November 17, 1976, Robert married Rosemary (Sutton) Ballentine. Together, they shared 42 beautiful years of marriage and raised five children.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Rosemary (Sutton) Ballentine; his parents, Eunice Napoleon Ballentine and Katie Caroline Roberts; and his daughter, Jeanie Ballentine.

His legacy lives on through his family. Robert is survived by his children: Sharon Ballentine, Sandra Ritchie (Steve Ritchie), Justin Ballentine, Bryan Ballentine (Darielle D'Mello), Keith Ballentine, and Brandi Ballentine; his grandchildren: Grayson Jones, Noah Jones, Savannah Jones, Evelyn Bibbs, and Kaya Ballentine; as well as numerous other grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Robert will be remembered not only for his hard work but also for his spirit—always busy with new projects, never idle, and always creating. This hands-on approach to life was a hallmark of his character, quietly inspiring those around him.

Robert found deep satisfaction in working with his hands, a passion that remained with him throughout his life. He lived a life full of dedication, craftsmanship, and quiet joy. Audiobooks accompanied many of his quiet moments, filling his days with stories as rich and engaging as his own life's journey. Whether he was diving into a complex crossword puzzle, meticulously building models, or working on his latest woodworking and building projects, Robert approached life with unmatched patience, skill, and a subtle yet poignant sense of humor. His spirit, wit, and hands-on devotion will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In remembering Robert A. Ballentine, we celebrate a man whose hands built not only things but also a life full of love, honor, and quiet strength. His memory will forever be a precious part of the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Services to honor Robert’s life will be held at the Smith Family Funeral Home Sherwood, located at 7700 Hwy 107, Sherwood, Arkansas. Visitation is scheduled for June 15, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A graveside service will take place afterward at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, S. Pine St., Cabot, Arkansas, beginning at 3:30 PM.

Arrangements by Smith - North Little Rock Funeral Home, 501-758-1170.

Online obituary and guest registry at www.SmithFamilyCares.com