of North Little Rock, AR
June 8, 1930 - September 26, 2023
James Edward Chrestman Jr., and you better not leave Jr. off, was born in Bauxite, Arkansas on June 8, 1930 to the late James Edward Chrestman Sr. and Ola Pearl Wilkerson Chrestman. He passed from this life on September 26, 2023 under the care of Arkansas Hospice at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 93.
He was preceded in death by his son, James Edward Chrestman III, who everyone knew as Eddie. He is also preceded in death by his sisters, Lucille Taylor and Ola Jean Hagins and his brother, Donald Chrestman.
He is survived by his wife of almost 71 years, Jewel Dean Clemons Chrestman, who called him Honey, Baby and Sweetheart. Anna Chrestman Banard and husband, Richard knew him as pawpaw. Doyle Chrestman and wife, Rhonda knew him as dad and papa James. To Vicki Hollis and husband, Walt he was dad and papaw. To Gizelle Jones and husband, Brett he was dad and pawpaw. Carla Martin and husband, Charles knew him as dad and pawpaw. He is survived by 12 grandchildren. He is known as G-Paw to many of his 18 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 sisters, Louise Chrestman and Emma Ford, who knew him as Brother and James.
By his own written words, James Chrestman was mischievous. He withheld the truth to get into the army the first time at 16 years old. From all written accounts, he signed up multiple times for the army and reserves.
He was an engineer and retired from Union Pacific Railroad after many years of operating trains. He was very supportive of many different charities.
James was a member of Apostolic Church for over 55 years and was known as Brother Chrestman. He was not just a pew warmer, but taught Sunday School, was a small group leader, vehicle mechanic, prayer meeting facilitator, would get supplies for fund raisers, get involved with fall festivals, bake for the cafe, cook at every growth group he was a part of, bring his neighbors to church, worship, sing and memorize scripture. In other words, James Chrestman set an example that it didn't matter how old you were, you could always be involved in the work of the Kingdom.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 30, at 1:00 PM at Apostolic Church in North Little Rock. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 12:00 PM.
A graveside service will be held after at 3:00 PM at Edgewood Memorial Park in North Little Rock.
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10 Condolence(s)
Leslie Tritsch
Sunday, October 1, 2023
I will miss my Uncle James! He was many things to me. He acted as a father to me for many years. He and my Aunt Jewel introduced my mother to the wonderful truth of the One True God, Jesus Christ! I loved him and I believe he loved me.
billly gosvener
Saturday, September 30, 2023
he was a great man and will be miss also great fried
Steve & Angela Butler
Saturday, September 30, 2023
May fond memories of your loved one bring you comfort during this hard time in your life.Our heart and prayers go out to you and your family. We are truly sorry to hear of the loss of Brother Chrestman. May our prayers help comfort you.
Love , Steve and Angela Butler
Gerry Thompson
Friday, September 29, 2023
We shall remember, that Brother Chrestman has completed the tasks God assigned him. He is now residing and watching over us from God's home. We shall continue praying for strength and comfort for your family.
Phyllis Sanchez
Friday, September 29, 2023
So sorry for your lost what time I did see him and his wife they were very friendly and also meet you with a smile God be with the family
Allen Hill
Thursday, September 28, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.
Cicily Tubb
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
He was one of the most genuinely Godly, loving, and kind men I’ve ever known. It was an honor to attend church with him and witness the constant, unwavering godliness he and his wife always displayed. He will always be a beautiful example of what a truly Christian heart is.
John & Evelyn Colston
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family for comfort during this time.
Norman and Sue Smith
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Dear precious friends, We love you all so much. Our hearts hurt greatly for you. We sure loved Bro. Chrestman, he was a wonderful and faithful man. We feel honored to have been his friends. We love Jewel and her family very much. Prayers for peace and strength at this difficult time.
Donna Gray Cochran
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
So sorry to hear about Bro. Chrestman. Praying for the Lord to comfort all of you in your time of loss!
Donna Gray Cochran