James "Jim" Baxter

James “Jim” Baxter, 89, passed this life May 2, 2022 in Bentonville, Arkansas. Jim was born February 7, 1933 in Beckley, West Virginia to John and Essie Baxter. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandmother, Hattie Canterbury, a daughter, Terry Dedmon and his great grandson, Drew Crockett.

Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Pat Baxter. He leaves behind son, John Baxter and wife Melissa of Bentonville, AR, two daughters Lisa Roland, Jan Crockett and her husband Tony of Fort Smith, nine grandchildren; Joey Roland, April Roland, Tony Crockett Jr., Doug Dedmon, Justin Dedmon, Andrew Crockett, Allison Baxter, Alec Baxter, and Ashlee Baxter and thirteen great grandchildren. Jim is also survived by two brothers, Gerald Baxter of Ohio and Ronal Baxter of North Carolina.

After 40 years of dedicated service, Jim retired from JC Penneys. As fierce witness of faith, First Baptist Church of Fort Smith was his home church for over 50 years. An avid golfer and fisherman, Jim enjoyed swapping stories over coffee with his friends and sunny days spent gardening. “Papaw” was the anchor of solidarity for his family and there was only one thing more important to him than a phone call or a visit with his favorite people; His wife, “Nanny,” who he loved more than anything for 54 years.

Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 5, 2022, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM at Edwards funeral home Chapel.

Funeral Service will be a private family service.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com