Bruce Markell

A vibrant storyteller who “never met a stranger”, “Big Daddy” Bruce Harris Markell, 74, passed
away February 28, 2022 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born February 23, 1948 in De Queen,
Arkansas, to the late Lee and Virginia Markell. He and his wife, Rhonda Markell, shared 26
years of life, love, and marriage.
Bruce was a graduate of De Queen High School. He obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in
Business from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, where he was a member of the Phi
Delta Theta fraternity. After college, Bruce enlisted in the Army Reserves and was honorably
discharged as Captain in June 1980.
Retired from decades in the transportation industry, Bruce formerly served as Vice-President of
CARCO National Lease, President of the Arkansas Motor Carriers Association, and was a long
time board member and President of the Hot Springs Village Razorback Club. He was an avid
sports fan demonstrated over years of coaching baseball and softball for his children and
calling those Hogs. He enjoyed golf outings and hunting with friends and family, fishing,
cruising the lake on the boat with Rhonda, showing off his dance moves, and taking long walks
with his dog “Lady”. He also gave amazing hugs and memorable back pats.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Rhonda; children Shannon (Patrick) Dennis, Kristin (Matt Short)
Markell, Steve (Angela) Markell; Papa to his grandchildren Jack, Reilly, James, Lillian, Beckett,
and Vivian; siblings Rick (Marilyn) Markell, Susan (Frank) Buchanan, and Scott (Marcie) Markell;
as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and
son, Beau Smalley.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 12th at 1:00 pm at Presbyterian Kirk in the Pines,
275 Asturias Drive, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909. In lieu of flowers, memorials can by made
to Presbyterian Kirk in the Pines, www.kirkinthepines.org.