Jerome "Joe" Joshua Little

Jerome “Joe” Little, 70 of Van Buren, entered into rest Friday, January 16, 2026. He was born on December 29, 1955, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to the late Eugene and Pansy (Miller) Little. Joe spent 3 years in active military and 2 years reserved. He was a Paratrooper and a Vietnam Era Veteran. Joe enjoyed jumping out of planes and being a Communication Specialist. He worked at Whirlpool for 29 years before retiring. His love of motorcycles from a young age encouraged him to open a leather and sewing shop in 2006. Joe became known as “Stitch” in the biker community. He enjoyed taking care of all the bikers and making lifelong friends.

Joe’s greatest joys came from riding motorcycles and being a grandpa, which gave him the nickname G-pa.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronnie, Perry, Carl, and Bruce; and sisters, Betty, Bonnie, Ruth, and Barbara.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Eileen (Redmond); son, Jerome Little II; daughter, Ashley Kangas and husband Scott; grandkids, Nevaeh, Zoey, and Xaron Kangas, and Jaysun Little; several bonus kids and grandkids; a sister, Nancy Bush, and a brother, Roger Little of Michigan.

Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

The family will visit with friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.

Procession to Fort Smith National Cemetery will leave Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home at 10:20 a.m. Motorcyclists and anyone who would like to escort the procession for his last ride will meet at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m.