of Benton, AR
February 5, 1937 - September 13, 2023
Dardanelle Townsley, 86, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on September 13, 2023. Dardanelle was born on February 5th, 1937 to John and Hazel Townsley. Dardanelle served his community as a Baptist minister, spreading the word of God for more than 50 years to numerous churches and communities throughout the years. He served his time at First Missionary Baptist Church in Mena for the longest time, for more than 40 years. He was a member of Oak Park Baptist Church. His faith was a major aspect of his life and he enjoyed working on his computers, as well as carpentry.
Dardanelle is survived by his wife of 67 years, Wanema Townsley; daughter, Melody Terry; 3 Grandchildren, James Paul Terry (Erin), John Terry (Lindsay) and Audrey Weatherly (Parker) as well as 6 Great-Grandchildren, Timothy and Ian Terry, Anastasia Terry, Azalea Terry, Adaline Terry and Ava Terry.
He is preceded in death by his parents and one son, Paul Lee Townsley.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 19, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home in Benton, AR. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Fairview Cemetery in Cave City, AR.
We have you all in our thoughts and prayers. Kenny, Mellissa, Justin, Kerrie
Melody, I'm so sorry for your loss. He was such a good man, and that's reflected in you, too. You're a special, caring person who puts God and family foremost in your life. I'm lucky to know you through our wonderful children and perfect grandchildren. Please let me know if I can do anything for y'all right now. You all are in my prayers.
Debbie
Gonna miss you very much Daddy. I know you are at peace and healed. Until we meet again some day. 💕
Growing up I always looked forward to seeing Dardenelle at family gatherings. He was a good man and the world will be a lesser place without him.
Go take your rest, Dardenelle. Your work here is done.
Bro. Dardenelle has always held a special place in my heart. He married Ricky and I in 1978. We will be praying for the family.
I'm so very sorry to hear of Bro. Townsley's passing. Glad for him but I know he'll be greatly missed. I'll be praying for God's peace and comfort for your family.
Melody, I see Paul, your boy, in this picture of your dad.
Praying for your comfort. Sending love.
Thought and Prayers with the Family
What a great legacy; and good to see his grandchildren living out their faith. On behalf of South City Church family, we trust in God’s nearness as the Comforter upholds and strengthens you.
Darrell Adcock
So sorry for your loss. I have many memories of my mother, Myrtle Crafton, talking about John and Hazel Townsley. She has such fond memories of them.