Donald Wayne Devazier

Donald Wayne Devazier, departed this life on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, surrounded by loved ones following a brief illness. Donald was born to Lenard “Shorty” Devazier and Edna Earl Burns Devazier on June 30, 1947. He was the second of four boys and grew up in the Caldwell community. Donald graduated from Forrest City High School in 1965 just before shipping off to basic camp as a member of the National Guard. After a brief stent in Fort Polk, La., he returned home to marry the love of his life, Carolyn Ann Davis Devazier on October 21, 1966. After marriage, Donald worked most of his life in the trucking business. From long hauls to dump trucks and eventually trailer sales, he was always inclined to run trucks. Donald was a member of the First Baptist Church of Caldwell for 64 years, where he was known to many as the “Bubble Gum Man.” Wherever Donald was, he was sure to have a pocket of Double Bubble and was quick to share some with the kids. Although he was frequently referred to as the 'Bubble Gum Man,” he was also known as “Uncle Duck,” “Daddy,” and his personal favorite, “Papa.” Donald was an avid reader and sports enthusiast. He spent many hours on the baseball field, in a deer stand, and in a bass boat. Later in life, Donald mastered the game of golf where he went on to win the Ridgecrest Country Club Championship three times. He was eventually afforded the opportunity to play on the Augusta National Golf Course with his closest friends. Papa enjoyed spending Thanksgiving at deer camp with his son and grandsons, family trips, and keeping up with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially loved playing Santa to his grandkids by hiding money in the Christmas tree. Some of the families' favorite memories were made at Greers Ferry Lake with him. Donald will be remembered for his witty sense of humor, sweet personality, and generosity. He was always willing to help a friend in need, and was the true definition of a family man. Donald is survived by his wife, Carolyn Ann Devazier of the home; his son, Mike Devazier and his wife Kelly of Wynne, his daughter, Michelle Bennett and husband Chris of Wynne, six grandchildren; Brooklyn Devazier Wheeler (Kyle), Reeves Bennett (Courtney), Haven Bennett McCoy, (Luke), Brady Devazier (Addie), Hunter Bennett (Lindsey), and Hensley Bennett; seven great-grandchildren; John Luke and Libby Claire McCoy, Lawson and Landry Kate Wheeler, Blake and Jett Bennett, and Banks Bennett. Donald is also survived by two brothers; Leonard Earl Devazier (Stephanie) of Caldwell, Jerry Devazier of Wynne, and one sister-in-law, Linda Devazier of Forrest City. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, W. L. Devazier, and one sister-in-law, Bonnie Ratliff Devazier. In remembrance of Donald Wayne, the family asks that you play a round of golf, take your family fishing, chew a piece of Double Bubble gum, and hug your family tight one more time. Services for Mr. Devazier will be held at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel, 2:00 P.M., Friday, with burial in Lindsey Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, 1:00 P.M., until the time of the service. Stevens Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Caldwell, P.O. Box 251, Caldwell, Arkansas, 72322. You may log on to stevensfuneralhome.net for the online registry.

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Donald Wayne Devazier

June 30, 1947 - September 19, 2023