Obituaries

John H. Huff, Sr., born on February 17, 1940 in Marvell Arkansas to Lewis and Hattie Huff, Sr., was one of nine children in a close-knit and hardworking family. From an early age, John demonstrated strength and responsibility. After the tragic passing of his father when he was just fourteen, John made the selfless decision to leave school in the 8^th grade. With unwavering resolve, he stepped into the role of provider and protector, working tirelessly to support his mother and care for his younger siblings.

In 1964, John met and married the love of his life, Hettie Williford. To their union, four children were added, and together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. John worked at several companies during his career, including: Riceland Foods and Mohawk Rubber Company. After the closure of Mohawk, he began his long and successful career with Union Pacific Railroad, where he worked until his early retirement in 2002. He retired early to care for Hettie, who faced health complications and later passed in 2010.

John confessed his belief in Jesus Christ at an early age at Fountain Head Missionary Baptist Church. However, in his early thirties, he rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized at Ashbury Missionary Baptist Church, where he later became a dedicated member. He served as a deacon, Sunday School Teacher and Sunday School Superintendent. He later became a member of First Baptist Poplar Grove. John had a deep love for spending time in prayer and Bible Study, seeking peace and guidance in his quiet time. He also gave himself by visiting the elderly at the Marvell and Helena nursing homes, offering comfort and companionship to those in need.

John was a proud mason and enjoyed spending time with his masonic brothers at the lodge. He also had a passion for singing, which led him to become a member of the Poplar Grove Male Chorus. His hobbies included: fishing, hunting, reading, gardening, and canning – activities that brought him joy and connected him to the land and his family.

Throughout his life, John loved to travel for work assignments, but even more he treasured taking his family on trips. One of his greatest memories was a trip to Mexico, which he often fondly spoke of.

In 2013, John found love again and married Algeria Gatson – Huff, with whom he spent the remainder of his life. Together, they enjoyed many happy years filled with fishing, traveling, and gardening – making beautiful memories that enriched their lives.

Known for his kindness, generosity, and wavering devotion to his family, John was a great husband, father, protector, and provider. His culinary skills were legendary – especially his chicken spaghetti, fluffy chocolate cake, canned pickles, and chow-chow, all of which will forever be cherished by those who had the pleasure of enjoying them.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He leaves behind his sons; John (Carolyn) Huff, Jr. of West Helena AR, Ronald O. Huff of McKinney TX, Alvin Huff, Sr. of Marvell AR, his daughter; Sharon Huff – Johnson of Jacksonville AR, eleven grandchildren; Soraya S. Johnson, Johnna A. Huff, Deidra Huff – Williams, JaRavien “JJ” Huff, Rosalyn Huff, Phantessia Huff, Richard “RJ” Johnson, II, John “J3” Huff, III, Alvin “AJ” Huff, Jr., Jasmine Scott, Alicia Trice, two great grandsons; Jayden Huff, Bryson Scaife, three bonus children; Jeffrey (Samella) Prowell, Elaine (Reverend Michael) Scaife, Ray Van (Shay Heyward) Gaston. He also leaves two bonus special granddaughters; Nivea Gatson, Kayla Gatson; a bonus great granddaughter; Leilani McNulty, his siblings; Evelyn Jones, Doris Jackson, Dorothy Rangel, James (Shirley) Huff, along with his sisters and brothers-in-law; Alice Washington, Ann Meeks, Reverend William (Bettie) Williford, Sr., Charles Ella Watson, Douglas Scott and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and many dear friends.

John leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. He was a man of deep faith, boundless love, and selfless service to his family and community. His memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. John will be deeply missed but never forgotten.