James Rickey Kibler

James Rickey “Rick” Kibler of Kibler, was surrounded by family as he passed away on Monday, May 2, 2016. He courageously battled cancer and stayed positive throughout. Rick was born March 21, 1948 in Fort Smith and recently celebrated his 68th birthday with loved ones.

Rick served the community of Kibler during his time as mayor and was very involved as a lifelong member and Trustee of the Kibler United Methodist Church. He also served on the Gill Cemetery board of trustees. Rick enjoyed a career as a crop farmer and proudly sold flowers and produce at local farmers’ markets in recent years. Aside from spending time with his family and friends, he loved traveling, cooking, gardening, landscaping, photography, storytelling, reading, and watching Arkansas Razorback games. He touched many hearts and was a blessing to all who knew him. Rick was a beloved son, brother, husband, uncle, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend. He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Kibler, and a son, Douglas Kibler.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Susan Kibler of the home; three children, Caroline Brewer and husband Chaney of Van Buren, Chris Kibler and wife Kristin of New Orleans, and Cory Kibler of Van Buren; his mother, Mildred Kibler of Kibler, and three siblings, Janice Kibler and Mike Kibler, both of Kibler, and Bill Kibler of Fort Smith; two grandchildren, Wyatt and Luke Brewer; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 6, 2016 at Kibler United Methodist Church with interment to follow at Gill Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be Mike O’Bryan, Jimmy Lansdell, Joe Kibler, Ken Kibler, Chris Rogers, Kevin Bell, Blake Rogers, and Brook Kibler. Honorary pallbearers will be Roy Rogers, Alton Yates, Gary Autry, James McGhee, Dan Selby, Richard Rownak, Terry Fimple, and Clay Kibler.

The family will visit with friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2016 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kibler United Methodist Church at 19 E. Kibler Hwy, Alma, 72921.