Gerald Dean Fulbright, age 80, passed away peacefully at home on March 18, 2026. He was born on August 30, 1945, at the Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas; he was the son of Harry and Pauline Fulbright. He lived a life marked by dedication, service, and commitment to his country, community, and faith, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A man of strong faith, Gerald was a faithful member of Locust Grove Missionary Baptist Church, where he found community and fellowship. He taught the adult Sunday school class and served in other capacities as needed. He attended Arkansas State University, where he was a member of the ROTC. He began a path of service that would define much of his life. Gerald proudly served in the Army National Guard and retired with the rank of Master Sergeant, a testament to his leadership, discipline, and years of faithful service. Gerald also served his community as Sheriff of Independence County, holding office for three terms from 1981 to 1986. During his time in law enforcement, he was known for his strong sense of duty, fairness, and dedication to protecting and serving others.
In addition to his military and law enforcement service, Gerald was deeply involved in civic and political life. He was an active Tusk Club member of the Republican Party of Arkansas and the Independence County Republican Party. He served as the county chairman for several years and was elected as the 1st District Chairman for the Republican Party of Arkansas, which was the first person from Independence County to do so. He served on the election commission for several years. He also attended the National Republican Convention as a delegate in 2008. Gerald was appointed Deputy Director of the Labor Department by Governor Mike Huckabee and later served as Assistant Director of the Plant Board until his retirement, continuing his lifelong dedication to public service. Aside from his public service, he was also a cattle farmer and spent his life on the family farm at the foot of Brock Mountain. It was not uncommon to see his daughters out feeding and counting cows, mending fences, or riding on the tractor with him while he was cutting hay. Throughout his life, Gerald was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and devotion to his family. He especially treasured time spent with his loved ones, and his legacy of service and faith will continue through them.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Nora Brooks, and his stepsister, Jean Carlon.
He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 58 years, Leota Sue (Duncan) Fulbright; his three daughters, Susan Buser (Bob) of Morrilton, Arkansas, Lisa Herrington (Ronney) of Conway, Arkansas, and Rebecca Elms (John) of Altus, Arkansas; and his stepsister, Helen Morrison (Jerry) of Maumelle, Arkansas. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Thomas Buser, Matthew Buser, Carter Herrington, Ayda Elms, John Avery Elms, Sawyer Elms, and Sadie Elms.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Locust Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 665 Loop Rd, Locust Grove, AR 72550, with Bro. Todd Self officiating and James Sturch is reading the obituary. Burial will follow in the Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the service time at the church.
Pallbearers are Thomas Buser, Matthew Buser, Carter Herrington, John Avery Elms, Sawyer Elms, and Shane Blevins. Honorary pallbearers are Ayda Elms, Sadie Elms, Bob Buser, Ronney Herrington, John Elms, James Sturch, Larry Duchanoy, and Keith Rutledge.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Legacy Hospice, as the care they provided was kind and compassionate.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Locust Grove Missionary Baptist Church or Old Independence Regional Museum.
Gerald’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Arrangements are by Qualls Funeral Homes.
