Marvin McCallister

Marvin Franklin McCallister, 87, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 10, 2020.  He was born April 7, 1933 in Jefferson County, Arkansas (near Coy and Tomberlin) to the late William Sylvester and Eula Marie (Dardene) McCallister.

Marvin loved the Lord and read his Bible every day.  He was a member of Forest Hills Missionary Baptist Church.  Marvin created great memories with each of his family members and all who knew him.  He was the owner of Mc’s Garden Center from 1962-1978.  Marvin was an incredible landscaper, who designed many gardens throughout Benton including the Courthouse, Benton High School, and First United Methodist Church.  His work was featured on “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” for the gorgeous gardens he created for Jerry Van Dyke.  Marvin was a Dallas Cowboy fan, and loved sports of all kinds.

Preceding Marvin in death are his wife, Sue Hendrix McCallister; son, Marvin Darrell McCallister; parents; and six siblings.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory:  son, Bobby McCallister of Little Rock, Arkansas; two daughters:  Judy Cotton and husband Bill of Clinton, Arkansas and Brenda Finley and husband Greg of Benton, Arkansas; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Sue Buggar of Benton, Arkansas; and a host of family members and friends who love Marvin and will miss him always.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, August 13, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas.  Funeral service, officiated by Bro. Mark Blakely and Bro. Carl Ritchie, will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, August 14 at the funeral home with burial following at Lee Cemetery.  State of Arkansas COVID-19 directives following:  Masks are required (not provided) and social distancing maintained.

In lieu of flowers, family greatly appreciates memorials to be made to the Gideons or American Diabetes Association.

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