Russell Pifer

May 28, 1946 – August 28, 2025

Born in Friendship, Arkansas, on May 28, 1946 — the best birthday gift his mother ever received — Russell Pifer entered this world with a strong work ethic, a heart for family, and just enough orneriness to keep life interesting. He went home to be with the Lord surrounded by the love and legacy he spent a lifetime building.

A proud Vietnam veteran, Russell served his country with honor during one of its most trying times. That same sense of duty and resilience carried through his entire life— in the way he worked, loved, and led his family. He was many things: a devoted husband and father, a faithful Christian, a proud Vietnam Veteran, a master of the dump truck, and the proud owner of a grocery store he built from his very own home, which, if you knew Russell, is exactly the kind of practical ingenuity for which he was known. For over 18 years, he ran his grocery store — not just a business, but a ministry of kindness, good conversation, and maybe a few deals that weren't listed on the price tag. He served Pulaski County Road and Bridge with pride, helping build and maintain the roads others traveled.

He raised his children in the Christian faith, not just by taking them to church, but by living out the Gospel in the everyday — through hard work, humility, and a steady hand. His greatest mission field may have been his kitchen table, where the Word was shared right alongside a plate of something hot and homemade.

Preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Isabel Pinkerton Pifer; his brothers, Frank, Grover, and Homer; his sisters, Lucille Cranford and Jane Mashburn; and his great-grandson, Carson Alexander Pifer — Russell now rejoices in the presence of Jesus and these beloved family members.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Dorothy Pifer, who stood beside him through life's every season - in love, faith, laughter, and the occasional "spirited disagreement" about thermostat settings. He also leaves four children who carry on both his name and his spirit: Russell Pifer Jr. (Tracy), Keith Pifer, Rachael Holliman (Darren), and Mary Poe (Joey). Known affectionately as Papa, Pops, or Grandpa, each of Russell's grandchildren held a special place in his heart : Lauren Pifer, Russell Pifer III,(Robin), Lindsey Null (Ricky), Madison Holliman, Joe Poe Jr., Kaleb Poe, Chloe Pifer and Chase Pifer. Russell was also blessed with five great/grandchildren: Russell Pifer IV, Connor Pifer, Julianna Pifer, Raelynn Pifer , and Zepplynn Pifer. All of his grands and greats learned early in life that spoiling from Papa was not only allowed, but expected.

Whether it was behind the wheel of a dump truck, behind the counter of his store, or at the head of the dinner table, Russell lived fully and loved deeply. His legacy isn't just in the roads he helped pave or the store he built, but in the lives he touched, the faith he passed on, and the laughter he left behind.

We'll miss his stories, his stubborn streak, and the way he would try to fix just about anything — except maybe his own TV remote. He was one of a kind, and we thank God for the gift of his 79 years on this earth.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

The family will be holding a visitation on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025, from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home.

There will be a military honor team to properly salute him as he is being laid to rest at his graveside service on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Wood Cemetery in Little Rock, Arkansas.