of LEXA, AR
August 16, 1971 - June 28, 2024
Ryan David Spakes departed this earth June 28, 2024 doing what he loved with his son, Nate.
Ryan was born August 16, 1971 in Farmington, Missouri to Donna & Larry Spakes.
He leaves behind his sons, Justin Spakes (Morgan) of Poplar Grove, Arkansas and Dawson Spakes (Kaitlyn Gould) of Lexa, Arkansas; his granddaughters, Natalee and Berklee Spakes of Poplar Grove, Arkansas; the mother of his children, Michelle Spakes of Lexa, Arkansas; his significant other, Susan Oxner of Helena, Arkansas; his bonus daughter, Arica Pankey of Helena, Arkansas; his bonus mother, Janice Spakes of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his siblings, Krista Sells (Steve) of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Kyla Smith (Randy) of Lexa, Arkansas, Dustin King (Shaunta) of Peoria, Illinois and Bryan King of Fayetteville, Arkansas and many nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends and fishing buddies. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Spakes and mother, Donna Carpenter.
A cherished member of the community, Ryan dedicated over 16 years to the Helena/West Helena Fire Department, serving from May 1997 until his retirement in 2013. His commitment to the community extended beyond his professional duties; he was actively involved in the Phillips County Fishing Rodeo, a proud member of the West Helena Bass Club and a participant in the Good Ole Boys Bass Tournament. His competitive spirit and passion for fishing earned him the title of 2023 Angler of the Year.
Great memories of fishing and hunting adventures with friends and family highlight Ryan's life. His love for the outdoors was only matched by his love for his family. Whether spending time with Susan and the kids, watching Natalee play softball, or never missing one of Berklee's t-ball games, he was happiest when with them.
Ryan's later years were spent caring for those around him, showing his big heart to everyone, even when expressed through teasing. His family meant everything to him and he demonstrated his love for them in countless ways, even in his final moments.
His legacy will be carried on by all those who love him.
Visitation will be held at the Twin City Church of Christ on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
The funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 beginning at 10:00 a.m., also at the Twin City Church of Christ.
Rev. Jason Jordan will be officiating, with burial at the Sunset Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Rollers-Citizens Funeral Home-In Memory of Ryan Spakes.
Services will be directed by the staff of Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870)572-2571. Relatives and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena
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27 Condolence(s)
Rusty Porter
Saturday, July 6, 2024
Having moved across the state, getting local news is sporadic. Prayers for peace and comfort to the family and many close friends.
Rusty Porter
JAMES F. VALLEY
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
My sincere condolences to family and friends of Ryan and Nate. He had a big heart. Love was an action word for him and he showed it.
Sincerely,
James F. Valley
Elizabeth Hawkins
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Prayers for all who loved them and will miss them.
Chad & Jackie Chisnall
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
So sorry for y’all’s loss. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Mary Cope
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Rest in PEACE, your job here is done, now enjoy your talks with Nathan. Miss you both ,Ms.Mary.
Guinn and Mickey Cantrell
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
So sorry for the loss of your loved ones. Deepest condolences and prayers.
Missy Ishmael
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
To the Spakes families,
I thought so much of Ryan and sweet Nate. They will both be missed. My prayers are with you all.
Janet Harris
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Ryan very well but I did see his love for Nate and his caring spirit.
Tim, Charlotte, and Lee Cissell
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Prayers to the family for their loss. A WONDERFUL family man and a good friend that will surely be missed.
Sidney & Antonio Aguilar
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Sending prayers for the family!
Sue Shillinglaw
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
My prayers are with all of you during this time of loss. May God hold and keep all of you showing Grace and Love.
Gayla Allen
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you the strength you need for the following days. Ryan and Nate will be missed by their families and communities.
Heather Rogers
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Ryan, it breaks my heart that I didn’t get to meet you in person. Although, after hearing Blake talk about you and seeing all the kind words from your family and friends, I feel like I knew you! So sad that you won’t physically be here for our wedding, but I know you’ll be there in spirit and we will certainly honor you! Sending much love and prayers to your family and friends down here
Delana Potter
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
May you find comfort in knowing that both Ryan and Nate’s lives touched so many in such a positive way. They were an example for us all of how to live life honorably and with a loving heart. May you find strength in their example of how they overcame some of life’s extreme challenges while keeping their joy and love for life. I thank God for their lives and their light. Thank you Lord for comforting the family and friends during this difficult time. For You have said, “you will never leave us or forsake us”
Trey Edwards
Monday, July 1, 2024
Prayers for Michelle, Justin and Dawson. Ryan was such and amazing father and great friend. He has been a big part of my life growing up at deer camp and beyond. Him and Nate will be missed dearly.
Karen Lavender
Monday, July 1, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers your way.
Florence B Oneal and family
Monday, July 1, 2024
Thinking of y’all at this time. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
George Gates
Monday, July 1, 2024
So sorry for y’all’s loss. Godspeed Ryan!
Janet Henderson
Monday, July 1, 2024
Praying for comfort and strength for the entire family. My heart breaks for you all.
Michelle Bates
Monday, July 1, 2024
Prayers to the entire family.
Darryl Waites
Monday, July 1, 2024
Ryan was a humble good guy. I first knew of him at our church when he 4 yrs old. How time flies. Even though very tragic,he went out doing what he loved the most. Fishing is great for the soul! My condolences to his sisters and all his family.
Bernie Winkel
Monday, July 1, 2024
Praying for the family during their time of grief. Ryan and Nate were always together and now they are together in heaven still catching the big fish. I have fond memories of how Ryan took such good care of Nate. Love and miss these guys.
David & BJ Gregory
Monday, July 1, 2024
Sending love and prayers to the Spakes family. May God provide comfort and peace today and in the days ahead. God Bless
Keith Jaco
Monday, July 1, 2024
God Bless!
Mike Duren
Monday, July 1, 2024
Prayers for the family. A good friend who will be dearly missed.
Marla Riddell
Monday, July 1, 2024
Praying for comfort and strength for all of your family during such a terrible loss. May it bring some comfort knowing that life and love continue far beyond what we can see and touch.
Holly Sanderlin
Monday, July 1, 2024
To Michelle and children and family and friends, you all have my deepest condolences. Ryan was a big part of my childhood and school days. I'm so sorry. Gone but never forgotten. Love and prayers to all.