of Little Rock, AR

November 29, 1943 - February 6, 2025

Dr. James Harper Bledsoe, 81, of Little Rock (by way of Rogers), Arkansas passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, February 6, 2025. Born on November 29, 1943 in Warren, Arkansas, Jim was the second of five children born to the late Rev. Doyle and Mildred Bledsoe.

After graduating high school in Stuttgart, Jim completed his undergraduate degree at Ouachita Baptist, followed by medical school at UAMS. On January 22, 1972, Jim married Cecile Herndon and together they had three children: Greg, Samuel and Tricia. After his surgical residency, Jim fulfilled his military service at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, FL and he was honorably discharged having attained the rank of Major. He then chose Northwest Arkansas to call home and practice as a general surgeon for over 40 years, impacting the lives of countless patients with not just his skills, but his kindness and compassion, too. Jim was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and served on its Credentialing Committee.

Upon retiring from private practice, Jim launched into his second career as the Medical Director for EMS and Trauma for the Arkansas Department of Health. He spent many hardworking but also enjoyable years there, retiring in 2022.

Jim's pride and joy was his family. He was Cecile's best and most loyal supporter as she served in the Arkansas House and Senate for two decades. His sons followed in his footsteps and both graduated medical school at UAMS and are practicing physicians in central Arkansas. His daughter went to law school and practices healthcare law in Indianapolis.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Cecile; children, Greg and Sara Bledsoe, Samuel and Kelly Bledsoe all of Little Rock, and Tricia Freije and fiancé Shawn Kenney of Indianapolis. He also leaves behind a cherished legacy in his ten grandchildren: Reagan, Taylor, Joshua, Harper, Jaden, Maddox, Emery, Asher, Tatum and Hannah. Jim is also survived by his brothers, Ben (Susan) and Bob (Carol) and sisters, Nancy (Don) Chandler and Millie (Keith) Rollins; as well as Cecile's sisters, Patricia (Van) Waters and Camille (Brad) Ward who considered Jim a brother, too.

Jim's life was a testimony of faithfulness to his friends, to his family and most importantly, to his faith. His love for his family was second only to his love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His family grieves and mourns his passing, but takes such comfort in the truth that he is now in his heavenly home.

Rest in Peace, Dad. You fought the good fight, you finished the race, and you kept the faith.

Visitation will be held at St. Andrew's Anglican Church in Little Rock on Wednesday, February 12th at 12:00pm with the funeral service beginning at 1:00pm. Funeral arrangements are being provided by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com