of Mayflower, AR
October 27, 1937 - January 21, 2024
Herman R Waters Jr., affectionately known as 'Russ,' peacefully passed away on January 21, 2024. Born in Helena, Arkansas, he graduated from Barton High School and pursued a business major at the University of Arkansas, where he was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity.
After returning to West Helena, Russ married Mary Katherine Von Kanel following a six-year courtship, marking the beginning of a 62-year marriage. A highly successful businessman, he owned Waters Lumber Company for many years, constructing enduring homes in West Helena. Russ's passion for construction extended across the country, where he built Commercial Real Estate and ventured into Canada. Additionally, he owned a thriving business in St. Croix, USVI.
Known for their love of adventure, Russ and Mary traveled the world, exploring Europe and the Caribbean. His legacy includes successful businesses and the homes and memories he created for families in West Helena.
He is preceded in his death by his parents, Herman and Ethel Waters. He is survived by his wife, Mary Waters of Little Rock. Two sons, Rusty Waters (Robin) of Mayflower and Lance Waters (Suzanne) of Little Rock. 6 Grandchildren, Von Waters (Jenica), Brandon Waters (Haven), Tyler Waters, Brittney Waters (Daniel DeJesus), Whit Waters, & Grayson Waters. 2 great-grandchildren Westin and Gatlin Waters. He is also survived by his sister, Dolores Zandstra (Ken).
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Parkway Village Memory Care for their unwavering love and care during Russ's last two years. His presence, fondly known as Herm Herm, became a cherished part of the building.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens, West Helena, AR.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Goodness Village 11610 Pleasant Ridge Rd. Ste. 103-174 Little Rock, AR 72223 or www.goodnessvillage.org
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9 Condolence(s)
Jean Schwantz Clark
Friday, February 16, 2024
So sorry for your loss.
Theresa Copeland -Taylor
Monday, February 5, 2024
I just heard about Mr. Waters. He actually had a house built for us on Seminole Street on a FHA loan my dad took out. I loved that house. It was truly our first house that felt like home.
I'm so sorry about your loss. May God comfort and give you Peace during this very difficult time.
Janie scaife
Saturday, January 27, 2024
So sorry for your loss.
Patsy Campbell Orcutt
Saturday, January 27, 2024
My sincere sympathy at this time of loss...may you find strength and peace.
Our families go back a long way from our days at Barton High School to work at Water's Lumber Company. We also moved into a house built by Russ when we married.
Thinking of you, Rusty and Lance and sending love and prayers!
Billie Sue Rohrscheib
Friday, January 26, 2024
Mary and Family, So sorry about Russ! He was a friend to my family , and he built the home that Henry & I moved into our wedding day! Everyone that knew him was blessed to have him in their life, and he will be missed. My prayers are with you all, and you say goodbye to him!!! Love Billie Sue Rohrscheib
FITZ OCONNOR
Thursday, January 25, 2024
I was blessed to have known “ RUSS” for many years; traveled to many Countries with him. A man of honor and a real gentleman. May the LORD welcome him home and grant peace to his beloved special family.
FITZ
Ann Von Kanel Stafford
Thursday, January 25, 2024
I’m so sorry you your loss. Your family is in my prayers.
Valerie Wilkinson McMickle
Thursday, January 25, 2024
I remember Mr.Russ well from my grandfather CC doing business with him. He was a kind man. Prayers and thoughts for the family.
John Broome
Thursday, January 25, 2024
A good man who will be remembered by many. Prayers for all the family.