of Omaha, AR

April 13, 1931 - December 6, 2024

Herbert "Herb" Owen Estes, age 93, passed away on Friday, December 6, 2024, in Harrison, Arkansas. He was born April 13, 1931, in the back of a Model T Ford in a cow pasture in Hereford, Texas.

Herb was known for his wisdom, compassion and exceptional storytelling abilities, often regaling family and friends with detailed, witty tales from his rich life experiences. His career was as diverse as it was distinguished. At the young age of 22, he became a Certified Master Chrysler Technician. His skills and reliability caught the attention of notable figures, leading him to serve on the security details for Senator Bobby Kennedy, actor Paul Newman and scientist Wernher Von Braun. He later became the first investigator for the detective unit at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, dedicating over 20 years to the role. In 1978, Herb, along with his wife, Joyce and children, moved to Harrison where they opened H&J Gun Shop. His entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there; he also owned a transmission shop, an automotive repair shop and worked at a boat dealership installing boat motors.

Herb was a devout member of Gaither Baptist Church, where he participated actively in the community. His hobbies included firearm and knife engraving and he was an enthusiast of guns, watches, clocks and radios. A flea market connoisseur, Herb enjoyed exploring various flea markets with his wife and two grandsons during the summers.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Joyce Estes; his sons, Doug, Tyrone, Eric and Kevin Estes; his grandchildren, Shaunna Estes, Seth and Mercedes Estes and Sage and Linsey Estes; his great-grandchildren, Dacoda, Cole and Rae Anne Yancey and Hensley Estes; his great-great-grandchild, Stevie and his sister, Phoebie. Herb was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Nina Mae Beach Estes; his daughter-in-law, Becky Estes; his siblings, Jim, Faye and Ruth and his daughter, Judy Kearney.


Visitation was held at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home on Friday, December 13, 2024.

The funeral service was on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home.

Graveside burial followed at Gass Cemetery in Omaha, AR.

Pallbearers were his sons, Doug, Tyrone, Eric and Kevin Estes and his grandsons, Seth and Sage Estes.


In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of choice honoring Herb's generous spirit.

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