James Darryl Whitten

James (Jim) Darryl Whitten of Gentry, age 82, passed away on Thursday, April 9th , 2026 at his home. He was born Thursday, August 19th , 1943 in Miami, Oklahoma to John Lindsey and Elma Jean Whitten (Smalley).

Jim grew up in Gravette and graduated from Gravette High School. He went on to become a trim carpenter by trade and made beautiful furniture which not only filled his home but those of his family and friends. He was a life time member of the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed fishing and his grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elma; two brothers, John David and Gary Whitten; and one grandson, Tristen Whitten.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Virginia Whitten; three children, Brandy Kavanaugh of Bella Vista, Aaron Whitten (Desireen) of Gravette, Jacob Whitten (Courtney) of Centerton; two sisters, Cheryl Emery (Brian) of Maumelle, and Nancy Hardman (John) of Arkadelphia; seven grandchildren, Keghan Kavanaugh, Legend Kavanaugh, Brendan Whitten, Tyler Loless, Hayden Loless, Jaxon Whitten, and Skyla Whitten; and three great-grandchildren.

Jim will be laid to rest at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Gravette, Arkansas Saturday, April 25th at 3:30pm with A Celebration of Life to be held following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Masonic Lodge in his honor, to fund scholarships - you can Venmo @Michael-Lewis-1103