Clifford Ray Veach Sr.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Mr. Clifford Ray Veach Sr., 80, of Manila, died Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. Clifford was born in Lost Cane May 1, 1933. Clifford 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 a 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.

Clifford is survived by his son, Clifford Ray Veach Jr. and his spouse, Debbie Avis Veach, of Maumelle;

His daughter, Candace Ellen Seyler, and spouse, Dennis A. Seyler of Jonesboro;

His grandchildren, Steven (and Suzanne), Michael and Reid Veach, Kris (and Whitney), Kenneth (and Kristy), Klayton (and 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 is planned at the Manila Cemetery Friday, March 21, 2014. Visitation will be held 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 will be 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 who helped extend his life and help make him comfortable at the end. Memorial donations can be made to Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House, 1148 E. Matthews Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401. Howard Funeral Service of Manila is in charge of services. To sign the online guest register log onto www.howardfuneralservice.com