John Gordon King

John Gordon King was born October 18, 1946, in Russellville, Alabama, and died at the age of 79 on March 31, 2026, in Little Rock, AR. He graduated with honors from Ashworth College for Substance Abuse Counseling, and was an active member in AA, where he celebrated 46 years of sobriety.

John had his share of struggles, but ultimately, he turned his life around and helped many people do the same. He shared his wisdom, laughter, big smile, and had the attitude of, "You can't be focused on your problems and be counting your blessings at the same time." He loved hugs and loved to laugh. Most of all, he loved his family, including his daughters. One of his fondest memories was playing guitar with his father while his sister, Shirley, played the piano and they all sang songs. John had a natural ear for music. He never had a lesson, but could play both piano and guitar.

He was a kind, gentle, and generous man when he had money. He will always be remembered for his famous words. Any time someone asked how he was doing–no matter the amount of pain he was enduring–he always said, "Just short of wonderful.” He did always count his blessings.

John was preceded in death by his parents Johnnie W. King and Junius Lucille King, both from Russellville, AL.

He leaves behind his loving sister, Shirley F. Shell of Little Rock, AR. John is survived by his four daughters: Deb Davis-Kregar with son-in-law Simon Kregar, Brenda Michele Olvera with son-in-law, J.R. Olvera, Johnie Nicole Burnett with son-in-law John Burnett, and Clara Lee King; his grandchildren: Iris Rose, Emma Jensen, Zandra Rios, Desiree Delgado and husband Samuel, Evan Olvera, Victoria Burnett Ryan and husband Dylan Ryan, A.J. Schoellman, and Michael Heefner; and his great-grandchildren: Eliana Delgado, Elyse Delgado, Elias Delgado, Elyza Delgado, and many loving family and friends. Save us a spot on your cloud, Dad!

Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held:

May 23, 2026, at 2:00 pm at The Johnson Street Church Of Christ at 101 Johnson, St., Benton, AR 72015.