Former Manila Mayor Veach dies

Clifford Ray Veach Sr., 80, of Manila, died Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at The Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. Clifford was born in Lost Cane, Ark., May 1, 1933. He was married to his high school sweetheart, the late Norma Jean (Hodges) Veach, for 58 years.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Raydo and Ruby (Lewis) Veach, and brother, Freddie Veach, all of Lost Cane.

Clifford had a wonderful childhood and teenage years as he enjoyed growing up in the Lost Cane community surrounded by cousins from both his dad's and mom's side of the family. He loved socializing and playing card games with relatives and friends. He also loved fishing and playing golf and was an avid country music fan. Clifford's early work experience was in the manufacturing field. Following that, he enjoyed a long successful career in sales. Clifford also holds the record for the longest serving mayor in the history of Manila, with five elected terms.

Survivors include his son, Clifford Ray Veach, Jr., and spouse, Debbie Avis Veach, of Maumelle; his daughter, Candace Ellen Seyler, and spouse, Dennis A. Seyler, of Jonesboro; grandchildren, Steven (Suzanne), Michael and Reid Veach, Kris (Whitney), Kenneth (Kristy), Klayton (Megan) Seyler, and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, June Visscher, of Holland Mich., sisters-in-law, Janice Veach and Ester Barker, brother-in-law, Daryl Hodges, and a special friend, Sandy Rice, of Rockwall, Texas.

A private family burial will be held at the Manila Cemetery on Friday, March 21. Visitation will be held after the burial at 3 p.m. at Howard Funeral Service in Manila, followed immediately by a memorial service at 4 p.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be his six grandsons. Honorary pallbearers are Loy Jackson, Donnie Wagner, Jerald Hudspeth and Buddy Knight.

The family wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Clifford's many caregivers and health care professionals that helped extend his life and help make him comfortable at the end.

Memorial donations can be made to Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House, 1148 E. Matthews Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401.

Howard Funeral Service of Manila was in charge of the service.

To sign the online guest register log onto. www.howardfuneralservice.com.