William Earl Oxner

William Earl Oxner, 84, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026 at Brookridge Cove Rehab and Care in Morrilton, AR. He was born on October 13, 1941, to the late Arque and Hazel Oxner. He was raised in Moro, Arkansas, on the R.E. Short Farm alongside his beloved sister, Julia Ann, where he developed the strong work ethic and love of the land that would define his life.

A proud graduate of Marianna High School, William Earl attended Arkansas State University before returning to Brinkley in 1962 to begin his farming career with Lehman Fowler at Piney Farms. In 1979, he established Oxner Farms, building a legacy through hard work, grit and dedication. After more than 50 years of farming, he retired, but he never truly left the fields, continuing to lend a helping hand to his sons and grandson as they carried on the family tradition.

William Earl was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Frances Williams Oxner; and his second wife, Helen Palmer Oxner.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Kris Chadek of Higden; his children, William Earl Oxner II (Tonya) of Brinkley, Michael Oxner (Sarah) of Searcy, Rusty Crowell of Higden, and Tammy Long of Drummonds,TN; his grandchildren, William Earl Oxner III (Mary Brooks), Haley Oxner, Mary Frances Oxner, Laura Grace Oxner, Paten Oxner, Aleah Hundley, Colby Chailand (Brad), Brooke Crowell, Whitleigh Yon (Shawn) and Seth Long (Ashley) and his great-grandchildren, Annie Oxner, Zeb Hundley, Remi Chailand, Presley Chailand, Cohen Crowell-Mourer, Cooper Yon, Sawyer Yon and Hazel Long; his sister, Julia Ann Hall; his niece, LeeAnn Hall Hyde (Todd); his great-nephew and great-niece, Johnny Hyde and Julia Kay Hyde; along with many other beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Known affectionately as “109”, “Squirrel”, and “W.E.” to those who knew him best, William Earl had a deep love for farming, trucking, and life outdoors. Whether he was spending time at the lake, boating, camping, riding his side-by-side, or taking cruises, he found joy in every adventure. He was especially known for his gift of storytelling, and he could always be counted on to share a memorable tale. His laughter, wisdom, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed.

William Earl leaves behind a farming legacy and a lifetime of cherished memories with those he loved. His greatest harvest was not measured in acres, but in the family, friendships and memories that he cultivated throughout his life.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Brinkley First Baptist Church, 215 West Elm Street, Brinkley, Arkansas, with funeral services following at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.