James Everett Van Gordon, 70, of Piggott died Friday, July 18, 2008, at the Murphy Health and Rehabilitation Center in Piggott.

He was born June 19, 1938, at Crockett, the son of the late Clyde and Miriam "Sherrill" Van Gordon. He was of the Methodist faith, was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a master electrician by trade. Prior to his illness, he was employed at Aerial Bouquets in Piggott.

He was married to JoAnn Copeland on Sept. 9, 1961, in Tilden, Ill., and the couple had two daughters.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Curtis Van Gordon.

He will be truly missed, and is survived by his wife, JoAnn Van Gordon; two daughters, Judith Ann Murphy and husband Lee of Festus, Mo., and Barbara Jo Chappell and husband Ren of Corning; a brother, Thomas Leslie Van Gordon and wife Barbara of Holly, Mich.; five sisters, Mina Lou Tucker of St. Charles, Mo., Cathy Gott and husband Jack of McDougal, Linda Prince and husband Fred of Clinton, Ark., Barbara Dodd and husband Jerry of Lafe and Una V. Ervin and husband Glen of Corning; two grandchildren, Deta and Christian Chappell, and many other family members and friends.

Graveside services were held Monday, July 21, at Mars Hill Cemetery at Crockett with Brother John Sandise officiating. Irby Funeral Home of Piggott was charged with the arrangements, and those wishing to sign the online guest book may do so at irbyfuneralhome.com