Ira Neely Koonce, Sr.

Ira Neely Koonce, Sr., 86, of Blytheville, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at his home. Ira was born in Blytheville to William and Freddie Burks Koonce. He was a retired farmer and a member of New Liberty Baptist Church. He was a graduate of Blytheville High School and the University of Arkansas. Ira served his country with honor as a pilot and 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He was an active member of the Blytheville community, serving as a past president of the Blytheville Junior Babe Ruth League for two years, past president of Producers Gin, past president of the Dogwood Water Association and was a member of the Sons of the American Legion for 21 years. Ira was an avid hunter and fisherman, until his health started to decline.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Koonce; his parents; daughter, Laura Elizabeth Fulling; and a sister, Phe Marie Johnson.

Ira leaves his son, Ira Neely Koonce, Jr., and his wife Missy of Blytheville; four grandchildren, Tacie Fulling, Tessa Fulling, Trey Koonce and Sarah Koonce; and one great-grandchild, Lily Fulling.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, March 2, in the Cobb Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jeff Lammers and Dr. Tommy Joe Carney officiating. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until service time at Cobb Funeral Home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.