Bud Porter

Bud was born to his parents, Glenn Harry and Velma Farquar Porter in Houston, TX. The family soon moved to El Dorado, AR where Bud graduated from high school before attending Louisiana Tech in Ruston, LA, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Chemistry. Bud then went to work for Witt Stephens building barns on Witt’s farm in Prattsville, AR. Through perseverance and commitment, he soon built a successful career at Stephens Production Company eventually becoming the vice president of drilling and production. Bud went on to fulfill his lifelong dream of owning and operating his own company, like his father before him, when he established Porter Oil and Gas Company in the mid-1990s, which he operated until he sold his business in 2024.

Known for his generosity, quick wit and unforgettable smile, Bud touched the lives of many through his kindness and genuine care for others. He loved loud, fast boats and spent many years on the lake hosting friends and teaching their children to ride mopeds. He was an avid tennis player and developed his most longtime friendships with his partners and competitors. Bud was an expert snow skier who taught many friends to love the sport as he did. Whether sharing a laugh, lending a helping hand, or spending time with loved ones, Bud left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Bud leaves to cherish his memory the love of his life, his wife of 36½ years, Cathie; his beloved son, Bryson; his brother, Jack, and his wife, Janet; his sister, Linda Trinca, and her husband, Sam; his mother-in-law, Diane Finnie; and his sisters-in-law, Samantha Moe Swingle, Marcy Snow, and Betsy Williams and her partner, Joni Campion. He also leaves many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Captain Glen Scott “Scotty” Porter; his sister, Wynelle Short and his parents, Harry and Velma Porter.

A Gathering in Remembrance will be held on Thursday, June 4th, from 5-7 pm at The Barn by Two Brothers (3720 South 87th St., Fort Smith). A funeral mass will be held on Friday, June 5th, at 10 am at St. Benedict’s Church at Subiaco Abbey (405 North Subiaco Ave.). Inurnment to follow in the Subiaco Abbey Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, Bud would love for you to make a donation to Saint Benedict’s Church at Subiaco Abbey (405 North Subiaco Ave.) for the care of the monks or for the jazz band, both of which he loved.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.edwardsfuneral home.com