James Arnold Platz

James Arnold Platz, 73, of Lake City, passed from this life Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. Born in Lake City, he was the son of the late Ivan W. and Eva Osborne Platz and had been a lifelong resident of Lake City. James had been a longtime over-the-road truck driver and had worked for United Suppliers in Manila, retiring in 2014. He enjoyed fishing, running trotlines, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. James was of the Baptist faith and attended Refuge General Baptist Church in Lake City. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Bob Platz and Garland Platz; and four sisters, Barbara Keiter, Ruby Nance, Dorothy Pearson and Marie Keiter.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Shirley Hill Platz of the home; two sons, James “Bub” Platz, Jr. (Niki) of Lunsford and James “Ivan” Platz (Kassie) of Walnut Ridge; two daughters, Eva Towles (Scott) of Monette and Kimberly Rakestraw (Ron) of Lake City; three stepdaughters, Belinda Hensley (Donnie) of Osceola, Paula Rayburn (Larry) of Jayess, Miss., and Carol Ford (PJ) of Manila; one brother, Billy Platz of Caraway. He also leaves 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Refuge General Baptist Church in Lake City with Pastor Steve Hinkle officiating. Burial will follow in Prairie Cemetery in the Lunsford Community. Serving as active pallbearers will be Beri Platz, Kenny Rowan, Jerry Platz, Mitchell Platz, Kevin Keiter, Roy Carmichael and Allen Carmichael. Honorary pallbearers will be Pat Bader and Gary Rowton. The family will receive visitors Wednesday from 10 a.m. until service time at the church. Online guest register: www.howardfuneralservice.com