of North Little Rock, AR

June 8, 1930 - September 26, 2023

James Edward Chrestman Jr., and you better not leave Jr. off, was born in Bauxite, Arkansas on June 8, 1930 to the late James Edward Chrestman Sr. and Ola Pearl Wilkerson Chrestman. He passed from this life on September 26, 2023 under the care of Arkansas Hospice at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 93.

He was preceded in death by his son, James Edward Chrestman III, who everyone knew as Eddie. He is also preceded in death by his sisters, Lucille Taylor and Ola Jean Hagins and his brother, Donald Chrestman.

He is survived by his wife of almost 71 years, Jewel Dean Clemons Chrestman, who called him Honey, Baby and Sweetheart. Anna Chrestman Banard and husband, Richard knew him as pawpaw. Doyle Chrestman and wife, Rhonda knew him as dad and papa James. To Vicki Hollis and husband, Walt he was dad and papaw. To Gizelle Jones and husband, Brett he was dad and pawpaw. Carla Martin and husband, Charles knew him as dad and pawpaw. He is survived by 12 grandchildren. He is known as G-Paw to many of his 18 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 sisters, Louise Chrestman and Emma Ford, who knew him as Brother and James.

By his own written words, James Chrestman was mischievous. He withheld the truth to get into the army the first time at 16 years old. From all written accounts, he signed up multiple times for the army and reserves.

He was an engineer and retired from Union Pacific Railroad after many years of operating trains. He was very supportive of many different charities.

James was a member of Apostolic Church for over 55 years and was known as Brother Chrestman. He was not just a pew warmer, but taught Sunday School, was a small group leader, vehicle mechanic, prayer meeting facilitator, would get supplies for fund raisers, get involved with fall festivals, bake for the cafe, cook at every growth group he was a part of, bring his neighbors to church, worship, sing and memorize scripture. In other words, James Chrestman set an example that it didn't matter how old you were, you could always be involved in the work of the Kingdom.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 30, at 1:00 PM at Apostolic Church in North Little Rock. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 12:00 PM.

A graveside service will be held after at 3:00 PM at Edgewood Memorial Park in North Little Rock.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Owens Funeral Home
5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
North Little Rock, AR  72116
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com