Letroy Gathen

Letroy Gathen was born April 18, 1951, in Osceola, the son of Roosevelt and Essie Mae Spencer Gathen. Growing up in Luxora, Letroy’s parents stressed the importance of hard work and and the value of a good education. While a student at Luxora High School, Letroy broke racial barriers, becoming the first African American to play on the football team. He also excelled in basketball and track in high school. Following high school, he attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, graduating with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. In 1990 Letroy earned his Master of Science degree in Education and accepted his first job as principal of Stuttgart Junior High School in 1992. Remembering his dream to help his community, Letroy returned to Mississippi County, becoming the executive of Support Services for the Blytheville School District. He was active in his community serving as a deacon at First Missionary Baptist Church, a board member of Mississippi County Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission, a member of the Blytheville Lions Club, the Versatile-25 Social Club, Mississippi County representative for Mid-South Health Board, a retired member of the Arkansas Education Association, and a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

On Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021, he transitioned into eternal life at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro at the age of 69. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings, Roosevelt Gathen, Jr. and Bernadette Nickles.

A lifetime of love and memories will forever be cherished by his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Emma Gathen of the home; two brothers, Thomas Gathen of Pine Bluff and Frankie (Mable) Gathen of Osceola; two sisters, Patricia (Robert) Hooks of Luxora and Gail Smith of Gosnell; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

A walk-through visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 28, from 5-7 p.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church, 600 East McHaney Street, Blytheville, where Reverend Odale Jones is the pastor. Private funeral services will be conducted on Friday, Jan. 29, at 12:00 noon at First Missionary Baptist. Reverend Odale Jones will deliver the eulogy with burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Blytheville.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions seating is reserved for designated family and friends. Services will be streamed live on the McDonald-Horne Funeral Home Facebook site.

In accordance with the CDC, and the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines, all attending the walk-through visitation and funeral service are required to social distance, wear a mask and have their temperature taken.

McDonald-Horne Funeral Home is in charge of all services and arrangements.