of Little Rock,
January 1, 2016
Dale L. Bumpers, former Governor and Senator from Arkansas, passed away on January 1st at his home in Little Rock, surrounded by his family. He was born on August 12, 1925 in Charleston, Arkansas to W.R. and Lattie (Jones) Bumpers. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty Flanagan Bumpers, his sons Brent Bumpers (Lea Ann), and Bill Bumpers (Heidi), his daughter Brooke Bumpers (Gordon Low), his grandchildren Braeden, Will and Linn Bumpers, Meg and Alex Bumpers, and Callan and Emily Low, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and by his brother, Carroll Bumpers, and his sister, Margaret Ware Kahliff.
After graduating from Charleston High School in 1943, he enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville for summer school, knowing that he would soon be drafted to serve in World War II. He served in the Marine Corps and was in Hawaii, about to be shipped out to the Pacific Theater when the atomic bombs were dropped and World War II ended. After discharge from the Marines as a staff sergeant, he returned to the University of Arkansas and, upon completion of his studies there, moved to Chicago and began law school at Northwestern University. Both parents were killed by a drunk driver in a car accident during his second year of law school. Soon thereafter he married his high school sweetheart, Betty Flanagan. They returned together to Chicago while he completed law school.
He and Betty returned to Charleston in 1951, at which time he purchased the Charleston Hardware and Furniture store from his deceased father's partner and set up a law practice in the back office of the store. He later purchased a small building across the street, where he practiced law until running for governor in 1970. In addition to practicing law for 20 years he was an aspiring entrepreneur during the '60's, having built the only nursing home in town, in partnership with the local doctor, and also acquired a 360-acre cattle farm, where he raised registered angus cattle for about six years. He sold the hardware store and cattle shortly before running for governor in 1970.
He was active in numerous church and civic leadership positions, and directed the choir at the First Methodist Church in Charleston. He continued to direct the choir on numerous occasions throughout his four years as governor. His proudest accomplishment prior to politics was his role in the peaceful integration of the Charleston schools in 1954, following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education. The Charleston School District later received recognition as a National Commemorative Site as the first school district in the former Confederate states to fully integrate.
His only political setback was a loss in 1962 for the state legislature. He lost to the county circuit clerk, who lived in the larger co-county seat of Ozark. He swore off elective politics, but later had a change of heart and decided to run for governor in 1970. In a crowded Democratic primary field of eight candidates, including former six-term governor, Orval E. Faubus, he joined the raced with only 1 percent name recognition. He and Betty and a host of friends and relatives hit the campaign trail with a vengeance. It was the waning age of retail politics and short campaigns and with only 90 days from entering the race until the Democratic primary he ultimately garnered enough votes to barely edge out Speaker of the House Hayes C. McClerkin and Attorney General Joe Purcell to get into a runoff with Orval Faubus, who led the ticket by a wide margin. Bumpers received virtually all the votes of the six other Democratic candidates and defeated Faubus handily in the runoff. He went on to defeat Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller in the general election and was sworn in as governor in January 1971. He was re-elected governor in 1972.
In 1974 he decided to run for the United States Senate. He defeated Sen. William Fulbright, and went on to serve in the United States Senate for 24 years, being re-elected in 1980, 1986 and 1992. He served on the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Energy and National Resources Committee, and was chair of the Small Business Committee. He was a staunch defender of the Constitution and was particularly proud of having opposed numerous efforts to amend the Constitution.
He grew weary of the increasing incivility of politics and decided not to run for re-election in 1998. After leaving the Senate he briefly served as the head of the Center for Defense Information and then joined the Washington law firm Arent Fox. Ironically, his most prominent speech in Congress came two months after retirement when he returned to the Senate Chamber to deliver the closing argument in President Bill Clinton's Impeachment trial, a case he felt was most unjust. Many commentators credited that speech in support of the President as pivotal in the President's case and just as many have called it perhaps the greatest political oration of the 20th century. His contribution to the full exoneration of President Clinton was perhaps his proudest moment in politics.
He and Betty had always maintained a residence in Arkansas, and 10 years after retirement from the Senate they moved back home to Little Rock where he continued to enjoy speaking throughout the state, lunching with old friends and spending time with his grandchildren, not to mention one of his favorite pastimes, grocery shopping.
The family wishes to thank his many friends and legions of former staff members who have continued to visit and provide support with a family-like love and devotion. We also are particularly appreciative of the devoted caregivers who have allowed him to remain at home during the past year, and Arkansas Hospice for helping to keep him comfortable in his final days. In lieu of flowers, we ask that memorials be made to Every Child By Two at 1233 20th street NW, Suite 403, Washington, DC 20036 or www.ECBT.org, or the Arkansas Nature Conservancy at 601 N. University Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, or the charity of your choice.
A memorial service will be at 2:30 P.M. on Sunday, January 10, 2016 at First United Methodist Church, 723 Center St, Little Rock, AR 72201.
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65 Condolence(s)
yolanda van wright
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Rest in Peace, thank you for all you and your family contributed to John Gammon (Annual Dinner Marion Ar) and his cause. Mrs Yolanda Van Wright.
Mona Lou Neighbors
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Just received my Charleston paper with sad news of Dale's passing.I was not expecting this kind of news.I suppose I thought he would live forever, but that is not God's plan. Dale has left a wonderful legacy!!! I will be praying for you,Betty, and the rest of the family.
Mary Ann Campbell
Monday, January 11, 2016
What a gift to his family, friends, and society! I still hope they'll make a movie of his book, the Best Lawyer in a One-lawyer Town. When our son, John Campbell, interned in Washington in his office, John told us how fortunate he felt to work with a real statesman. We're grateful to Joan Baker for being a 2nd mother to John during that period.
I worked on many issues with the honorable Dale. First in fire and burn prevention raising the educational standards and available training for our firefighters. Later on educational issues, and finally on small business issues. Dale knew how to get things done that made life better for many people. Richard Arnold and John Ball were great allies in his office. Dale was a joy and will be missed.
Jim Piles
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Thanks for the memories Gov Bumpers! Thoughts & Prayers for family!
Tim Whisenhunt
Sunday, January 10, 2016
A great statesman. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
ted and alice conway
Sunday, January 10, 2016
We was sad to hear that gover bumpers passed away. Last week just know that he is with the lord God rip my friend love you
Nancy Thornton
Sunday, January 10, 2016
My sincere condolences to the family of the Honorable Dale Bumpers. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
sally armstrong
Sunday, January 10, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with all the family.
Senator Bumpers has made contributions to society that will be forever appreciated and remembered.
Sally Armstrong
Janett Piercy Nicholson
Sunday, January 10, 2016
My condolences to the family of Senator Dale Bumpers. I am from Lavaca, AR near Charleston, AR from where the Senator hails. The first guardianship action he handled as a young attorney was mine, when I was an infant child. Due in part to his efforts, I have had a wonderful life, and I am eternally greatful. He will be sorely missed. Janett Piercy Nicholson
Wm David Hardin
Sunday, January 10, 2016
I am saddened by the passing of Senator Bumpers. He and my father, PH "Hugh" Hardin, were college roommates, colleagues and terrific life-long friends, He helped me in many ways both personal and professional, and I am proud to call him friend. I am regretful that I am unable to attend his funeral. I offer my condolences to Betty, Brent, Bill and Brooke. and invite them to contact me if I ever can help in any way. David Hardin
Ginger Yates
Sunday, January 10, 2016
My heart is full of sadness for the Bumpers family. Please accept all my deepest sympathies in the loss of your dear loved one. I have many wonderful memories and am grateful for them. It was my honor and privilege to have worked for Senator Bumpers. He was a great man. I am fortunate to have known him. You are all in my prayers!
Ginger Yates
Cindy Young Townes
Saturday, January 9, 2016
Jodie and I extend our sincere sympathy to the Bumpers' family. I worked for the Senator for 12 years and he was a true inspiration to my family.
Barbara Sweet
Saturday, January 9, 2016
With great sadness, I send my condolences. The Senator was a wonderful employer, a great public servant and a true gentleman. It was a privilege to have known him.
Joe & Helen Guenter
Friday, January 8, 2016
We extend our sincere sympathy to the family.
The Senator will be greatly missed.
Joe & Helen Guenter
Judy Nichols
Friday, January 8, 2016
I was so saddened to hear of the death of Senator Bumpers. His service to Arkansas and to the nation will be recognized in the history books with the highest distinction. Such a kind and gentle soul and just plain nice to everybody. My condolences to the family. I was blessed to have known him. Peace to all.
Queen Drew
Friday, January 8, 2016
Our hearts go out to you and your family in your time of sorrow. Senator Bumpers was a great leader who always had a smile and a sense of humor.
Please accept my condolences,
Queen Drew
Corrine Booker
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Living in Marvell, Ar in the late 60's and 70's Dale Bumpers was a household name in this Community. I am thankful that we as a community had such a great and wonderful leader. I am deepen saddened of his passing. Memories lives on. He served this State Well.
From The Pike Family and the Marvell Community.
Kathryn Whaley Searcy
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Senator Bumpers was admired, loved, and respected by us all. One of my favorite memories is traveling to the Democratic National Convention with him and his family in 1975, and then playing baseball with his staff and that of Senator McClellan in D.C., with the promise of Judge Arnold to dance on the tables at Old Ebbitt Grill if we won. Judge Arnold didn't have many opportunities to dance! Senator Bumpers was a giant among men, a wonderful leader and friend. My prayers are with you all.
Cynthia Jackson Crumley
Thursday, January 7, 2016
WOW, our "Best Lawyer in a One-Lawyer Town" has left us. Senator Dale was one of the most graceful speakers I've ever had the pleasure of meeting, hearing and working(volunteer) for, ever. My sister Phyllis worked for him for 15 years. He signed my copy of his book "To my dear Cynthia with much love and affection", Dale Bumpers. He had no idea how much those words meant to me for years. Heaven truly has gained the ultimately angel.
Phyllis Johnson-Courtney
Thursday, January 7, 2016
My heart goes out to the entire family. Mr. Bumpers had an amazingly positive impact on all he came in contact with. During my years of working for the Senator he was always honest an fair to all. We have lost a Legend but Heaven has gained an Angel. Please remember to lean on each other, share the stories, and allow yourself to laugh as well as cry.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Phyllis Courtney & Family
TOMMY & TERRIE LAWRENCE
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Heartfelt condolences from the George Kell and Terrie Lawrence families.
Dale was a dear friend to George and Charlene Kell.
Your family is in our prayers.
k
Deborah Cheek Sparks
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
My heartfelt prayers are with all of the Bumpers Family as you celebrate the Life & Legacy of Sen. Dale Bumpers. The world needs more true men of vision, integrity and character that exemplified his life. I know he was loved by many and will be missed by all.
MaryCarol WEST
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Sorry for your family loss.
Brian Moran
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Dear Betty and Family,
My deepest condolences to you all.
DB's passing ("DB", that's how most of us in his Senate office addressed him) has brought back so many memories of the 8 best years of my professional life. I was so proud when he asked me to work for him. My first day in the job, a staffer from another office came in to introduce herself and said, "Brian, you should know how fortunate you are. Half the staffers in the Senate would kill for your job."
Next to my father, it was DB who taught me the most about honesty, integrity, and service to others. Just being around him was a constant schooling in civility. He treated everyone - rich or poor, Republican or Democrat, high official or Senate page, famous or not - with the same graciousness and friendliness. Whenever I jogged along with him from the office to the Senate floor for a vote or a speech, he always took time to trade a few words with the support staff. Even16 years after DB left the Senate, Senate employees still ask me "Have you seen Senator Bumpers? How is he? He was always so kind. Please tell him I said hallo..." He always made people feel important. (Though he did knock me down a peg shortly after I started working for him. We were walking to the Senate floor for him to give a speech, and he asked my age. "Forty-two", I said. "Forty-two?!, says DB. "When I was forty-two I was governor of Arkansas...." )
Every now and then, DB would stroll through the office saying, "Anyone want to come along to lunch? Everyone is welcome." What a thrill that was, especially for junior staff. It also led to some memorably comic moments. Often DB would be the "banker," using a scrap of paper to tote up the bill for each person to the penny. Once we unexpectedly ended up at La Colline, the expensive upscale French restaurant. After the meal, DB went around the table collecting cash for each person's portion of the bill. When he got to Matt, a poor intern, Matt's face went pale white. "Senator, I don't have any money with me." Without missing a beat, DB turns to the next person at the table, "Lend Matt $21.50, he can pay you back later."
Staffers in other offices told me about "Bumpers' alerts" whenever he gave a floor speech. People around the Senate would stop what they were doing and turn up the volume on CSPAN to listen. He never used a text, which made my life so much easier. Just give DB plenty of background information, and he would make notes on his yellow legal pad and then extemporize some of the finest speeches ever. I've met veterans who told me they cried during the floor speech DB gave for the 50th anniversary of the battle of Iwo Jima. I think some of his colleagues on the floor also shed tears that day. I don't know if it is true that at the beginning of each new Congress DB and Senator Robert Byrd would contemplate passing a rule that would forbid Senators from using written texts in floor speeches.
Working for DB was fun. I looked forward to every single day. It was also tremendously rewarding. As part of the Bumpers team I believe I made a real difference in public policy. We didn't aways win the battles we fought; as a matter of fact we lost a lot of them. But that is because DB didn't hesitate to fight the good fight regardless of the odds against him.
Thanks to working for DB, I got to know Betty, especially her work with Peace Links and the US Institute for Peace. ("My wife is a certified peacenik," is a line in more than one of DB's floor speeches about Defense spending.) What a team they made. DB was the first to admit that her accomplishments in efforts such as childhood immunization and international women's issues were just as important as his legislative successes. During a congressional staff trip to Japan (DB called it a "boondoggle"), I met a professor from Howard University on a train platform. As we chatted he asked who I worked for. "Senator Dale Bumpers." The professor responds, "Dale Bumpers?, Hmm, Dale Bumpers?...."He must be Betty Bumpers husband, isn't he?"
Dale Bumpers, thanks for the opportunity to know you and Betty. Yours is a life to be celebrated.
Rosalia Monroe
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
On behalf of me and Cafe Bossa Nova crew. We will miss him dearly.
Howard Wells
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
My wife and I are praying for you.
MARY PARKER
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
BETTY AND FAMILY, MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. DALE WAS A GREAT MAN. WILL BE PRAYING FOR ALL OF YOU.
Keith Holleman
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Dear Bumpers Family:
What a wonderful legacy he has bequeathed to each of you. In 1987 Senator Bumpers came to Parks, AR in Scott County to deliver the re-dedicatory address for the Parks Methodist Church's 150th year anniversary. I was serving as "lay pastor" at the time of this observance. Working through Martha Perry we were able to schedule his appearance at our very special day. His address, his manner and comportment would have befitted a cathedral or a mega-church, yet a small country house of worship was given some of the best of Bumpers' oratory. We will always remember fondly his remarks and the honor he afforded us by his presence.
Years later, after he had retired I saw him at a state Democratic Committee meeting where he and David Pryor gave the program. When I approached him afterwards I was astonished that he remembered me and recalled warmly his day at Parks.
The town of Charleston, the state of Arkansas, and indeed the nation have been made better by the life of this intelligent and giving man.
On a personal note, my mother is a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. I'm the primary caregiver for both of my parents, so I know very well what you've been through. Thanks to each one of you for sharing the Senator with the rest of us. Truly, he made all our lives better. God bless you.
Don Ernst
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
To all of the Senators' Family,
I loved Senator Bumpers for so many reasons. I was blessed to have as in-laws--the late Don Perkey and Loree Perkey still of Paragould. They were long-time friends from their early days in Charleston together. I benefitted from their friendship. Mr. Perk welcomed the Senator to NE Arkansas during his first run for Governor. Mr. Perk never stopped supporting him and connecting him to many of his future long-time supporters. I heard the Senator say that Don Perkey singled handed helped him win the day in Greene County and all over the connected counties. I know they loved each other very much. I admired the Senator for his political and civic courage, his deep devotion to the Constitution of the U.S. and to the larger ongoing quest for democracy. He as a teacher---always asking great questions, carefully reading to gain insight, listening carefully, and sharing his wisdom with such eloquence. I remember him telling me that after reading David McCullogh's book Path Between the Seas it would be impossible to vote any other way on the Panama Canal Treaty. Such courage, such wisdom I remember driving him around with Mr. Perk for the July 4 picnics in NE Arkansas one summer. I pulled out in front of a car---without incident-- but perhaps a bit too close...and he asked me..."Don you don't want to be responsible for the death of a U.S. Senator do you?" His humor was always right on and honest! He welcomed us (my wife Patti and our dear Ft. Smith friends Rick and Dan Goins) into the Senate Dining Room one summer. It was the highlight of my young career as a social studies teacher at Ft. Smith Southside. He always responded to my students with care He was kind, responsive, smart, caring, and his heart was full of love and commitment to our democracy. He deeply cared about young people. He was a kind and decent man who never stopped trying to improve our incomplete democracy. Even over the last few years I felt his presence in all of our public discourse on issues that matter. We don't have that anymore, so our efforts must be re-doubled to model his example and nurture our troubled democracy. My wife Patti grew up knowing, loving, and supporting him---she loved him like her Mom and Dad loved him. I was honored to have such a loving connection with him--thanks to my amazing wife. I don't have enough words to fully express my respect, love and appreciation for The Senator. So, I simply commit to honor his legacy by never giving up on our ongoing quest for "a more perfect union." Mrs. Bumpers, you were always an inspiration to me and Patti and Loree and we offer our love to you. To Brooke, Brent, and Bill---and all of the grandchildren---prayers skyward for you all.
Godspeed Senator,
Don and Patti Ernst and Loree Perkey...and also for the shared memories of The Senator and Don Perkey!
Robert Schiffer
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Since meeting Senator Bumpers in 19983 his beliefs vision and humanity has always given me so mich hope and farther. He and his iwife Betty did so much for our country, save so many children's lives and worked hard to end the.madness of the use of nuclear weapons. Above all we worked hard to convince him to run for Presidemt in 1984 and 1988. His heart and sanity told him otherwise. I will always remember him for the time and thought he gave to this but how he put his role in his community and his wife and children first. He helped Presidemt Clontpn in so many way and when he left the Senate one of the last truly great leaders left. I will cherish him forever.
Lin Rapier
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Mrs. Betty,
The Family of Mary Eva Rapier would like to express or Deepest sympathies;to you and the boys i know that you and My mother were great friends and that you her and dale shared many laughs. may God Cover you in is comfort and peace at this time.
Gods Love And Ours
To your Family
John Chancy Lyford
Monday, January 4, 2016
As a writer and former Press Secretary for DB, I have been struggling with what to say here, to friends and to his family. The one statement I will try to articulate is that in our ten years together, Dale Bumpers taught me more than anyone else in my life what it means to have integrity, to be genuine and authentic, and how to stand up for yourself when it matters.
When the debate about gays in the military first came up in 1993, DB told me in a private conversation that when he had been a Marine there were gay guys in his unit, that everyone knew it and no one much cared--that it certainly didn't cause any disruption in the ranks--you watched a fellow marine's back no matter what. He just didn't understand what all the fuss was about. As I read the story about "Sis and the band director" in the Arkansas Times blog when he said, "I’ve thought a thousand times about how homophobia works," I know it's true.
He was not just the greatest statesmen I have ever known he was also a personal friend. He wrote hand written notes, many of which I still have and will cherish always. He always signed his correspondence "Best," which I told him I planned to "borrow" and I have to this day.
Although time has past over the years and I didn't get back to Little Rock often, I will always remember him saying when hanging up with close friends, "...I'm as close as your phone." What I wouldn't give for one more chance to know that were true.
Best,
John Chancy Lyford
Jim and Charlene Mullinax
Monday, January 4, 2016
The world has lost a great man but heaven has gained.
Janice Farris
Monday, January 4, 2016
Brent , I am so sorry to read about your father passing away .
Anne Weir Theurich
Monday, January 4, 2016
I don't remember not knowing Dale. He was my second dad that lived 3 doors down in Charleston. I remember lots of campaigning thru the years & lots of fun. Betty, Brent, Bill & Brooke - I love you all and am keeping you close in my heart.
Anne
Kevin Weathers
Monday, January 4, 2016
I am so grateful for Mr. Bumpers work and dedication for the state of Arkansas. Mr. Bumpers was a great asset in the building project of the twin bridges in MT Home AR which brought many jobs and people into MT Home. He truly cared about the people and the use of proper teamwork. The world has lost a great leader. Thank you for all your work Mr. Bumpers and my prayers to the family.
Tom Carpenter
Monday, January 4, 2016
During the 1970 political season I watched the various candidates vie for votes. I was not able to vote yet even though I was about to attend college. But, a fantastic ad of a man sitting on a stool with a legal pad and asking for help. He impressed me. So, I had parents and friends take a look at him. I would like to claim I won lots of votes for him, but all I can do is say that I told lots of people. As it turned out, Brent and I started Hendrix together that fall, and on the first day when parents were about to enjoy fried chicken, I had the chance to meet him and shake his hand. It was the first of several interactions over my career, but to me it was the most important.
I worked in D.C. during the summer of 1974, and was amazed at bus drivers and cab drivers, when learning I was from Little Rock, because they commented how hard it would be for Senator Bumpers since he defeated Senator Fulbright. It did not last long. And, I was able to watch with pride his legislative accomplishments. I think that my favorite, if there can be one, was how he single handedly saved portions of the Manassas battlefield from development, and helped local government officials know that there are true advocates in D.C. for such matters.
Senator Bumpers agreed to speak to the international city attorneys group when in met in Little Rock in 1996. It was a fantastic experience for two reasons: (1) I got to introduce him and let my admiration be expressed; and, (2) My fellow city attorneys from the U.S. and Canada commented several times about how his speech was meaningful and provided real substance for thought.
I am a fan of the entire family. Mrs. Bumpers' work with immunization is a milestone for foresight and responsibility that is hard to match.
But, Brent said it best: Senator Bumpers would most like to be remembered for the way that his children adored him.
One person wrote that it was so sad for Arkansas. I cannot feel that way. As Paul wrote, "well done, oh good and faithful servant." How can such a blessing to so many be a source of sadness for anyone.
Godspeed to the family.
Dianne Curry
Monday, January 4, 2016
So saddened to learn of the death of Senator Bumpers. He was a true Arkansas original. Dale Bumpers was a great American treasure, not just an Arkansas treasure. When he spoke on his positions, but they were always well reasoned and well thought-out. He was willing to go to bat for all the people and speak truth to power. I think he was the last great orator in American political life. My heart goes out to Betty, Bill, Brent, and Brooke.
Susan Baxter
Monday, January 4, 2016
Dear Betty and family,
Over twenty years ago, we were neighbors on Honesty Way in Bethesda, and my daughter played with your grandchildren on occasion. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. You are all in our prayers.
Jim Elkins
Monday, January 4, 2016
As a young student in 6th grade in Waldron I wrote then Gov Bumpers a letter requesting material for my Arkansas History class. He not only sent me material for my class, but also took time to write me a letter. I still have the letter. I have admired him and his accomplishments ever since. He was a true statesman and will be sorely missed. God Bless him and his family.
Lill Mood
Monday, January 4, 2016
Betty, I was so sad to learn today of your husband's death. I remember with great fondness serving with you on the National League for Nursing Board, and my admiration and support for your development of Peace Links. Your story of your family was compelling in its message for seeking peace. I still believe that wives and mothers have a special role in building peace in this world.
Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I share in mourning our loss of a fine man.
Patricia Moreland
Monday, January 4, 2016
I can remember Mr. Bumpers coming to our elementary school in NLR. The school was Pike View he spoke to the students and open the floor for questions. I raised my hand and he said what do you want to be when you grow up? I said a Lawyer. I was the only one who said that(smiling) he let us know we could be whatever we wanted to be.. afterwards Mr. Bumpers gave me his card...I still have that card..I'm 44 tears of age now...took the LSAT and changed my major...smh.. he was such an inspiration to me.
I will keep the family in my prayers.
LYNN L MITCHELL JR
Monday, January 4, 2016
im so sorry to hear of his passing. when i was a paper carrier for the log cabin democrate in conway ar. they did an article on me being the only carrie who was walking his paper route. senator bumpers sent me a copy of article back to me and wrote on a job well done, i still have that article. i always had a great respect for mr bumpers, i hope he had a great time enjoying his time with family and his friends.
Don F. Hamilton
Monday, January 4, 2016
The public service of Dale Bumpers both as a governor and a United States senator was the best. He set the highest standard of excellence before or since. His integrity and honor as a lawyer were second to none. Some of the most memorable times of my life were spent with him, his staff and others to secure the passage of the Arkansas Wilderness Act of 1984, particularly the days we were together seeing the proposed wilderness areas in our two national forests known as Flatside, Leatherwood and East Fork, as well as the conferences and hearings in Washington and Little Rock so long ago, not to mention visiting him grocery shopping in Little Rock during the more recent years. His accomplishments and work on environmental issues are too numerous to mention here, but I will always be grateful to him for his tireless efforts in this regard, as well as his sense of humor, which made it all so much more enjoyable. Thanks, Dale, forever.
William WARFIELD
Monday, January 4, 2016
Rest in peace
David Stewart
Monday, January 4, 2016
He was always Dale. Honest and sincere to the core. He was a huge moving force in my life. The world is a better place because of his presence and the world is suffering from of the absence of public servants like him.
Marcia Leeper Buford
Monday, January 4, 2016
Dale was a friend and a companion for my father, Walter Leeper, through the years. He was truly a man who thought about all the people who had needs. I wish we had him in the Senate now - he is truly missed.
Marcia Leeper Buford
Marianne Leeper
Charles & Anne Allen
Monday, January 4, 2016
We join legions of others expressing sadness for our loss of an exemplary statesman and diplomat. He will be so sorely missed, especially in these rancorous times of lack of common decency, courtesy, and respect for others, not to mention the lack of civil discourse. We DO lament his passing.
We send these thoughts to his family that " your faith, your family, and your friends are your sources of peace, strength and comfort".
Gregg Reep
Monday, January 4, 2016
Senator Bumpers in many ways was a mentor to me and many others. He was a big part of my desire to be involved in public service. His unique way of voting the way he believed to be right and then being willing and able to explain his reasons, taught me a lot about politics. Beverly and I offer our deepest sympathy to the entire Bumpers family. Arkansas has lost a great friend and native son! He will never be forgotten.
Mary Richardson
Monday, January 4, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Bumpers passing. He was one of my favorite politicians because he was "honest." Sincere prayers for the family. May God grant you peace.
Don and Pat Reynolds
Monday, January 4, 2016
While working in the Federal building in Little Rock while Senator Bumpers was a Senator he would come in the snack bar and walk around and introduce himself to everyone. One day we were sitting there when he walked in and he went around his usual way to the tables finally stopping at ours he reached out shook hands and said "Hi my name is David Pryor" and then walked off. The people with us said I thought I heard him tell that table his name was Bumpers? We had to explain that he was being funny.
He will long be remembered as a great politician who was trustworthy and honest not many can have that said about them.
Mrs. Bumpers know that he was loved and will be missed. And to the Children you have been given a great gift to be able to tell someone that your father was Governor/Senator Dale Bumpers.
God Bless You All and Keep you in His Arms
Rick Fivekiller
Sunday, January 3, 2016
It was an honor to have known and worked in Dale's re election campaigns. He was a wonderful person. He will be deeply missed. My condolences to Betty and family.
BILL ENGLES
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Well, Betty, I'm so very sorry to hear about Dale.... For years, he'd said he would come up and speak to my Exchange Club. When I spoke to him on his birthday, he said he would come in April. I told him that I'd come get him..... You and he were two of my best and oldest friends... You knew I knew his daddy... in business there in Charleston.. I worked for Wise Radio and sold them different things... That's where I knew Dale first.. I've sent you all a Christmas card for more than 50 years.... and called him on his birthday more than 30 years...Again, I'm very sorry... If I can help you, let me now...
Greg Brozeit
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Sen. Bumpers was the greatest political orator of my lifetime. One of the great memories of my time working for Sen. J. Bennett Johnston in the early 1990s was being able to watch Sen. Bumpers in action. Part of the job working in the Senate is having a personal t.v. and keeping it on when the Senate was in session. We were required to monitor the proceedings on the Senate floor in case something came up in our areas of responsibility to advise the senator immediately if needed. The legislative staff was housed in cubicles and you could hear all the other people typing or making phone calls.
Whenever Sen. Bumpers took the Senate floor to give a speech, the entire office floor would go silent. You could hear a pin drop and no one took a call. No one was as captivating as he was. We were all glued to our sets taking in and savoring every word. As soon as he was done, you’d hear the clatter of keyboards and calls being taken again. One of my colleagues used to say used to say that Sen. Bumpers was our generation’s Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, and John Calhoun wrapped into one. And we were lucky enough to actually see him. I remember many occasions of hearing and saying, “You tell ‘em, Dale!”.
He was close friend and colleague of Sen. Johnston and we used to see him in our office often. He was always gracious and loved to tell stories to us. My strongest memory of him was when Sen. Johnston, who was the chair of the Energy Committee, was making a big push to get congressional approval of the Superconducting Super Collider, a physics project that would have cost billions of dollars and been built underground in Texas (which, after it failed to get support, was built on the Swiss-French border and verified the theory of the Higgs boson). Like any good pork barrel project, Sen. Johnston made sure that 46 states would have contracts related to the project, but Arkansas wasn’t one of them. Late in the game, both Sen. Johnston and Sen. Bumpers took opposing sides on the merits of the project on the PBS MacNeil-Lehrer Newshour. After Sen. Johnston outlined the merits of the program, Sen. Bumpers acknowledged that Sen. Johnston was a good friend and that it pained him to come out against the project. And then, in typical Sen. Bumpers clarity, said, “If my state had one of those contracts for the project, I’d probably be for it.” It was brilliant.
When I left the Senate and worked on myeloma issues, I saw him again in an elevator in the Hart Senate Office Building. I mentioned to him that I used to work for Sen. Johnston as we exited the elevator together. He cornered me saying, “Of course I remember you!” (I know he didn’t!) and then asked what I was doing. When I mentioned my work in cancer advocacy, he sincerely asked about my opinions and what I thought was important to patients on the issues he might be about to vote on. He closed by saying, “I’m so happy that you’re doing, it truly is the Lord’s work and we need to be reminded of it all time. You be sure to let me know anything you think I need to know.” And then he gave me a hearty handshake, a hard tap on my shoulder and his genuine grin.
He was truly my most admired person who ever served in Congress in my lifetime. As the last of the great Southern Democrats, Dale Bumpers was a testament to how low our national and regional politics have degenerated since he left the Senate. I only wish I could be in Arkansas to attend his memorial service and pay my respects to an original, great American. I doubt that I have or will ever feel so proud and good about a political figure in my life ever again.
Edwin e. Waddell, Sr.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
I met Senator Bumpers when he was governor in 1971 when I first came to The Little Rock office of the state forestry commission . he was a friend of both the state and federal forestry communities. through his leadership valuable legislation was passed that greatly assisted in the protection and development of the forest resources of Arkansas and the nation, as well. I never met a more capable, caring, and fair individual. He was a great asset to the state of Arkansas, as well as the United States of America. He would have a great president.
Bernece Myatt family
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Dale was a good friend of Jimmie Dale Myatt and family. They were in the House together and close until Jim passed away. Your family are in our prayers. The state of Akansas has lost a great statesman.
David Greenhalgh
Sunday, January 3, 2016
I never met Mr Bumpers, but during his long and active career I was very impressed by his integrity, his energy and intelligence to establish and then promote his views, his willingness to work well with political opponents to reach decent compromises, and his humor and good will he created throughout all those efforts. What an example he is, and will continue to be, for today’s and tomorrow’s leaders, too many of whom have yet to reach those standards.
I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends, and indeed to all who wish a better future for all in the US and, indeed, in the world. All of us have been blessed having his presence amongst us.
John Russ
Sunday, January 3, 2016
While I didn't know Senator Bumpers personally, his death feels very personal. I don't expect to see a person of his stature in Arkansas politics again. The senator was a statesman in every sense of the word. His twenty-eight years in the political arena made life better for so many of us.
Wesley Bizzell
Sunday, January 3, 2016
DB was a force of nature on and off the Senate floor. It was an honor to be a member of his staff in both DC and Little Rock. My prayers and thoughts are with the entire Bumpers family during this difficult time.
Tim and Anita LaMonica
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Good person, my father enjoyed working for him,while Mr. Bumpers was Governor of Arkansas. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Kyla Crank Pirani
Sunday, January 3, 2016
There are no words to express my feelings of love and loss for the Bumpers family at the passing of Senator Bumpers. The memories of mother doing flowers at the mansion and the privilege of playing the piano at the Christmas parties are as clear as if they happened weeks ago instead of years ago. He was a very special man and part of a very special family. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Kyla
Jeanie (Hirons) Hobbs Dailey
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Brent: you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. It's been several years back that I worked for you, I always held Mr Bumpers with high respect. May God bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Nancy & Tony Madeira
Saturday, January 2, 2016
So sorry to hear of your loss - our loss. He was a great man and will be missed
Jerry, Jackie and Madison McCoskey
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Thanls for your years of service to our state.
Terri Putnam Seller
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Fond memories of a very special man. Thinking of you all.