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Batesville Today
By the People, for the People
Longtime Mountain View Resident James E. 'Jim' Cash, Jr. Dies at 82
Cash was a community leader, business owner, and lifelong outdoorsman in the Arkansas Ozarks town.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:09am
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James E. 'Jim' Cash, Jr., a longtime resident of Mountain View, Arkansas, passed away on March 8, 2026 at the age of 82. Cash was a prominent figure in the community, serving as mayor, deputy sheriff, and volunteer firefighter, in addition to owning a pulpwood business and country music venue. He was also an avid outdoorsman and athlete, lettering in basketball and baseball in high school and playing American Legion ball.
Why it matters
Jim Cash's passing marks the end of an era for Mountain View, as he was a pillar of the community for decades, contributing to the town's growth and development through his public service, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. His life story reflects the rich history and culture of the Arkansas Ozarks region.
The details
Cash was born in Batesville, Arkansas in 1943 and graduated from Mountain View High School in 1961, where he excelled in basketball and baseball. He went on to play American Legion baseball and was offered professional contracts, ultimately attending Ouachita Baptist University on a baseball scholarship. After college, Cash returned to Mountain View, married his high school sweetheart Patsy Decker, and began a career in public service and entrepreneurship. He served as a deputy sheriff and juvenile officer, was elected mayor for two terms, and co-founded the popular 'Cash's White River Hoedown' country music and comedy show, which ran for 28 years. Throughout his life, Cash remained active in the community, volunteering with the fire department, Jaycees, and other organizations.
- Jim Cash was born on September 22, 1943 in Batesville, Arkansas.
- He graduated from Mountain View High School in 1961.
- Cash played American Legion baseball from 1958 to 1964.
- He served two terms as mayor of Mountain View.
- Cash passed away on March 8, 2026 in Mountain Home, Arkansas.
The players
James E. 'Jim' Cash, Jr.
A lifelong resident of Mountain View, Arkansas who was a prominent community leader, business owner, and avid outdoorsman.
Patsy Decker
Jim Cash's high school sweetheart and wife of many years.
Bill Clinton
The Governor of Arkansas who accompanied Jim Cash in 1990 to place a 100-year time capsule on the Mountain View courthouse.
What’s next
The 100-year time capsule placed by Jim Cash and Governor Bill Clinton in 1990 is scheduled to be opened in 2090, providing a future opportunity to reflect on Cash's legacy and the history of Mountain View.
The takeaway
Jim Cash's life embodied the spirit of community service, entrepreneurship, and outdoor recreation that has long defined the culture of the Arkansas Ozarks. His decades of leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on the town of Mountain View that will be felt for generations to come.
