James Marion Bird Sr

After graduation from the University of Arkansas in 1954, he returned to Fort Smith, accompanied by his wife Barbara and young son. He went to work with his father in the family business, R.M.B. Produce Company. He then took over the produce business after his father’s retirement. In 1976 he felt the Lord calling him to ministry. He and Barbara then purchased The Bible Book Store. In the early 80’s they added a more central location in a rock building and named the store, The Solid Rock Bookstore. In 2001 they moved the store to the current location next to Benefit Bank, at the corner of Massard and Phoenix. Jim and Barbara have ministered and served the community together for the past 38 years. Jim was a charter member of Central Christian Church and served as the first church treasurer.

Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Barbara Byars Bird; one son, Jim Bird Jr. and his wife Teresa of Greenwood; two daughters, Leslye Bird Loum and her husband Larry of Fort Smith, and Amy Bird Pennington and her husband Mike of Springdale, AR; grandchildren, Jerry Bird, Krissi Bird Beeks, Cara Bird Morland, Justin Loum, Aaron Loum, Lauren Loum, Brandon Pennington and Hayden Pennington, and seven great grandchildren.

A Life Celebration will be Monday October 20th, 2014 at 10:00 AM at Central Christian Church 400 North Waldron Road under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be his son and grandsons.

The family will greet friends at Edwards Funeral Home on Sunday from 4-6 PM

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested Memorial Contributions to Central Christian Church or Samaritans Purse.

To sign an online guestbook visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.