Jodie R. Bigness, 87, of Newark, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
He was born on January 15, 1939, in Meyers, Arkansas, to Raymond Joseph Bigness and Mildred Lorraine Birlew Bigness.
Jodie was a good Christian man of the Assembly of God faith, and his beliefs guided the way he lived each day. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force, an experience that reflected his sense of duty and responsibility.
Following his military service, Jodie built a long and respected career as a construction foreman for Southwest Bell Telephone, where he worked for 25 years. He was dependable, trustworthy, and a great provider for his family, and he took pride in his work and the example he set for others.
Above all else, Jodie was a family man through and through. His wife and children were his world, and he devoted himself to them with unwavering love and care. He found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life, and he especially loved fishing, camping, and traveling. Whether spending time outdoors or making memories with loved ones, he embraced life with gratitude and appreciation.
Survivors include his son, Chris (Victoria) Bigness of Zion; two daughters, Gloria (Stephen) Davis of Bethesda and Linda Smith of Newark; six grandchildren, Brandon (Katye) Bigness, Christy (Jonathan) Swartz, Brent (Tina) Davis, Jonathan Smith, Sara Smith, and Todd (Jessica) Smith; seventeen great-grandchildren; and fifteen great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Carolyn Whitecotton Bigness.
Pallbearers will be his grandchildren.
Graveside services will begin at 11:00 am on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Combs Cemetery with Bro. James Stone officiating under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Monday, July 6, 2026, in the community building at the cemetery.
The family would like to express special thanks to the Care Staff at Mountain Meadows.
