James Davis Haney

He was a 1956 graduate of El Dorado High School and a veteran of the United States Army, serving 6 years in the Army Reserve. He worked as a forester with Deltic Timber and was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church.

James Davis was an outdoorsman who spent countless days hunting on family property as well as fishing in his favorite spot on Smackover Creek. He was also an avid NASCAR fan. He never wanted to miss a Sunday race, as he followed his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt.

His health deteriorated as he fought a 28 year uphill battle after surviving a massive stroke in 1993. He was cared for in his home by his wife, Willie, until his confinement to Hudson Memorial Nursing Home, where she continued to make unwavering twice daily visits for the next 10 years. Most recently, due to the pandemic, he could be found waiting patiently for her by the front door. The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses and staff who have lovingly cared for and treated him like family, as he was their “favorite” resident.

James Davis was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Evalena Davis Haney and brother-in-law, Henry Daniels. He is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 61 years, Willie Marie Smith Haney; his 2 sons, Keith Haney (Tina) of Hot Springs and Michael Haney (Sharon) of El Dorado; sister, Ginger Daniels of El Dorado; and six grandchildren, Dylan Haney, Brinkley Davidson (Colton), Holland Carroll (Pete), Jonah Haney, Micah Haney and Noah Haney.

Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 p.m., Friday, December 17, 2021, at Young’s Funeral Directors. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens, North Wyatt Drive, with Rev. Steve Pelz officiating. Military honors will be provided by a U.S. Army Honor Guard. Interment will follow under the direction of Young’s Funeral directors.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons Dylan Haney, Jonah Haney, Micah Haney, Noah Haney, Colton Davidson and Pete Carroll.

Memorials may be made to Hudson Memorial Nursing Home, 700 N. College Avenue, El Dorado, AR 71730.

Memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.youngsfuneralhome.com for the Haney family.