Longtime Arkansas Resident Eddie Ranew Jr. Dies at 87

Ranew was an environmental engineer and carpenter who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and fossil collecting.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:41am

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Eddie Wright Ranew Jr., an 87-year-old resident of Cave City, Arkansas, passed away on March 12, 2026. Ranew was an environmental engineer and carpenter who was a member of the White Drive Baptist Church. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, hunting fossils and arrowheads, and spending time with his family.

Why it matters

Ranew's passing marks the loss of a longtime member of the Cave City community who was dedicated to his faith, family, and various outdoor hobbies. His life and work as an environmental engineer also highlight the importance of protecting natural resources in rural Arkansas.

The details

Ranew was born on July 27, 1938, in Trenton, Florida, to Eddie and Bessie Ranew. He was married to his wife Joyce for 64 years and had a son, Darren, and a daughter, Carrie. Ranew was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

  • Ranew passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Brown Chapel on the campus of Lyon College.

The players

Eddie Wright Ranew Jr.

An 87-year-old resident of Cave City, Arkansas who was an environmental engineer, carpenter, and active member of the White Drive Baptist Church.

Joyce Ranew

Ranew's wife of 64 years.

Darren Ranew

Ranew's son.

Carrie Hipp

Ranew's daughter.

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The takeaway

Ranew's life and legacy in Cave City highlight the importance of community, faith, and environmental stewardship in rural Arkansas. His dedication to his family, hobbies, and church will be remembered by all who knew him.