of Little Rock, AR

April 28, 1935 - February 10, 2025

Dr. Cagle Harrendorf, 89, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 28, 1935 in Van Buren, Arkansas to John and Gladys Harrendorf, Cagle's life was a testament to perseverance, service and an enduring passion for healing and helping others.

Cagle's journey to ''the other side of the mountain'' began at the age of 13, working behind the counter of a local drugstore, where he developed a fascination with medicine and caring for others. This early experience planted the seed for what would become a remarkable career. He earned a degree in pharmacy from the University of Arkansas, followed by a master's degree in biology. He shared his knowledge as a professor at Little Rock University (UALR) teaching nursing students before pursuing his greatest dream-attending medical school at UAMS, where he graduated in 1966.

Following his graduation, Dr. Harrendorf served his country in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Bossier City, Louisiana. His experiences in military service deepened his commitment to compassionate, community-focused care, which he continued as a physician in the rural town of Stamps, Arkansas. There, he provided essential medical services to the local community, touching many lives.

Always driven to expand his expertise, Dr. Harrendorf completed a residency in psychiatry and established a solo clinic specializing in mental health-a pioneering step in a field that was still developing. He later founded the first chronic pain program in Arkansas, merging innovation and empathy to address complex patient needs, focusing on improving patient outcomes by closely monitoring drug interactions and promoting mental wellness with minimal reliance on pharmaceuticals. Although he retired from private practice in 1998, his desire to serve never waned. Cagle continued sharing his unique perspectives with others in the local volunteer community, as well as at the state and local level.

A man of many nicknames, his favorite people called him simply ''Dad'' or ''Gran''. His beloved family was the joy of his life and his constant motivation. Cagle had a deep appreciation for life's simple joys. He found peace in the quiet beauty of snowy days, sitting by a warm fire with a glass of wine in hand, jotting down ideas or poems, lost in thought or conversation. Summers were spent by the sea on cherished beach vacations with his family, where laughter, stories, memories and traditions filled the days. These moments, as much as his professional accomplishments, defined a life well-lived and deeply loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, ''Jack'' and Gladys Harrendorf; his brother, Keith Harrendorf; his sister, Joyce Harris and his wife, Jan ''Chickie'' Harrendorf. Cagle leaves behind a legacy of love and service in his daughters, Kristi Barton and husband, Dr. Gary Barton and Leigh Ann Bennett and husband, Brian Bennett; his beloved grandchildren, Caroline Chang and husband, Dr. Jon Chang, Claire Barton, Dr. Reid Barton, Jack Bennett and Sam Bennett and his great-granddaughters, Charlie, Abby and Margaret Chang. He is also survived by nieces and nephews, Judy Parks, Wayne Harris, John Harris and Joe Harris.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Baptist Hospice, especially Dee Dee, Susan and Katie, along with Dr. Patrick Selakovich, Dr. Megan Chang and Dr. Jon Chang. A special thanks goes to his devoted caregivers-Dontesa Edmond, Pam Ford, Dede Parker, Laura Landrum, along with Eldonia Lovelace, for their unwavering kindness and care.

A private Celebration of Life will be held to honor Dr. Harrendorf's remarkable journey at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Baptist Hospice in his memory.

Dr. Cagle Harrendorf's life was one of purpose, service and quiet but profound impact. His work touched countless lives and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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