Michael Gene Chitmon

Michael Gene Chitmon, 75, passed away at his home with his family by his side. Mike was a life-long resident of Blytheville until 11 years ago when he relocated to Monette. Recently, due to his declining health, he moved to Mountain Home. Mike was born Nov. 8, 1949, to Lavonda Lee Karnes Chitmon and Gene “Babe” Chitmon in Blytheville. He served in the United States Army from 1969-1971 and was very patriotic throughout his life.

Mike, known to his trucking buddies as “Rerun”, was a truck driver for over 50 years. He finished his driving career with great friends, Riley and Kelly Rhodes, owners of Utley Trucking of Steele, Mo. He enjoyed working beside dear friends, Joey Middleton, Larry Pounds and Bill Allison.

He enjoyed fishing, playing with grandkids, and would always try to make you laugh. He liked making football bets with Shelly. Mike enjoyed taking care of his yard, working in his shed, and talking to friends on the phone. In his final days, he would play the Sunday sermon by Pastor Roger Duffel from Bethabara Baptist Church, and Holland Baptist Church on his phone and replay it all throughout the week.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, Brian Ashley Calvert.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sandy, of the home; two sons, Kasey (Jennifer) Chitmon, of East Bernard, Texas, and Justen (Lindsey) Chitmon, of the United Kingdom; three daughters, Shelly (Joe) Richardson, of Lakeview, Pam O’Dea, of Mountain Home, and Hollie (Montez) Owens, of Blytheville; two step-brothers, Dr. Gordan (Cynthia) Akin, of Jonesboro, and Dr. Charles (Phyllis) Akin, of Rogers; 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; a host of great friends and extended family.

Funeral services will be at Carney Funeral Home, Saturday, Dec. 28, at 1 p.m. Visitation will be from11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Burial will be in Carney Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at carneyfuneralhome.com.