William Henry Olive

William Henry Olive, 100, of Leachville, passed from this life Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2021, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. Born in Mayflower, and raised near Paragould, he was the son of the late Henry and Etta McPherson Olive. William had been a longtime farmer in the Bard community near Paragould before making his home in Leachville where he established Olive Grocery in 1971. He operated that business for 20 years before owning and operating Olive's Package Store until his retirement. During his time as a Leachville merchant, he became a successful rental property owner in the Leachville and Manila areas. William also was able to acquire several acres of farmland in Mississippi County, Mo., Pemiscot County, Mo., and Dunklin County, Mo. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time with friends at the coffee shop. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Olan Olive; one sister, Ruby Cole; and a longtime friend, Voy Bailey.

Survivors include his wife of 80 years, Vacle Phillips Olive; one sister, Eula Fruchey of Paragould. He also leaves several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, as well as great-great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 23, at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Leachville with Rev. Bobby Austin officiating. Burial will follow in the Shiloh Cemetery in Paragould. Serving as active pallbearers will be Brian Harris, Gary Cupp, Danny Andrews, Glen Rounsaville, Chris Page and Jan Cole Roddy. Honorary pallbearers will be Eddie Bolar and Thomas Puckett.

The family will receive visitors Tuesday morning from 11 until service time at the funeral home. The family requests lasting memorials be made to Children's Home, Inc., 5515 Walcott Road, Paragould, AR 72450. Online guest register: www.howardfuneralservice.com