of Harrison, AR

October 17, 1943 - March 13, 2025

Paul Vinton McBride Jr., age 81 of Harrison, died suddenly March 13, 2025. Paul was born October 17, 1943, in Pine Bluff, AR.

For several years patrons had been asking him when he planned to retire. His answer was "I walked into work at Berryville Walmart nearly 32 years ago and when the time comes if I can't walk out, my associate friends will help me." No group of people could have been more truly sympathetic and helpful, from his morning coffee drinkers to all levels of management. Paul would have celebrated his 32nd anniversary at Wal Mart in May 2025.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his Goddaughter Roberta; his daughter and son, Michelle and Matthew McBride; two grandchildren, Conner and Marguerite McBride, and one brother and sister-in-law, Willy Lee and G.G. McBride. He was preceded in death by his mother Mamie Belle Bolin and his father Paul Vinton McBride Sr.

Paul graduated from Watson Chapel High School in 1961. He attended ASU on a full music scholarship. He earned first a BA and then an MA in music. He was Band Director for 28 years, the last 25 at Green Forest High School. Paul played clarinet, saxophone and keyboard in many settings from private weddings, Church organs, honky- tonks, theatre performances to The Arkansas Wind Symphony. He also gave private lessons. Paul had a strong interest in science and math. He taught Astronomy at NAC for several years as well as a summer session in creating an orchestra. The class then formed an orchestra to play for Ozark Arts Council musicals performed at the Lyric Theatre. Restoration of the Lyric and performing there in OAC events allowed him to act, direct plays, play music, direct the orchestra and serve as officer in OAC. In recent years, he has become very involved in the CarroII County Community Band and its successful combination of musicians from teenagers to senior citizens. Paul has been fascinated in their abilities to learn from each other.


In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to go to Carroll County Community Band. They have a ( Facebook Page) All proceeds from ticket sales and donations are used as Band Camp tuition for young students. Or to the Ozark Arts Council to help fund one of Paul's dreams to encourage children, in fact people of all ages, to participate in the performing arts and support the Lyric Theatre. Julianna Hamblin, OAC Executive Director 870-391-3504.

At Paul's request, no funeral services will be held, but a Celebration of Paul's Life is being considered later this year.

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