Longtime Newport Resident Bobby Leroy Kieffner Dies at 89

Kieffner, a retired Union Pacific conductor, was known for his love of sports and the outdoors.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Bobby Leroy Kieffner, a longtime resident of Newport, Arkansas, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 89. Kieffner worked as a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad for 38 years before retiring in 1999. He was known for his strong work ethic, love of sports, and passion for fishing and duck hunting.

Why it matters

Kieffner's life and legacy reflect the values and experiences of many longtime residents of Newport and the surrounding region, where close-knit communities, devotion to family, and a love of the outdoors have long been cherished.

The details

Kieffner was born in Greene County in 1937 and graduated from Stanford High School. He married his wife, Yvonne Ward, in 1955, and they shared 70 years of marriage. Kieffner was an avid fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Newport Greyhounds. He took great pride in maintaining his yard and vehicles, and was known as 'The Pointman' for his ability to spot ducks. Kieffner was also a devoted family man, attending many events for his sons, grandsons, and great-grandchildren.

  • Kieffner was born on February 3, 1937.
  • Kieffner married Yvonne Ward on December 24, 1955.
  • Kieffner worked for the Union Pacific Railroad for 38 years, retiring in 1999.
  • Kieffner passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 89.

The players

Bobby Leroy Kieffner

A longtime resident of Newport, Arkansas, who worked as a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad for 38 years before retiring in 1999. He was known for his strong work ethic, love of sports, and passion for the outdoors.

Yvonne (Ward) Kieffner

Kieffner's wife of 70 years, with whom he shared a life in Newport, Arkansas.

Randy Kieffner

One of Kieffner's two sons, who lives in Searcy, Arkansas.

Bryan Kieffner

One of Kieffner's two sons, who lives in Melbourne, Arkansas.

Brad Kieffner

Kieffner's grandson, who lives in Newport, Arkansas.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Kieffner's life and legacy reflect the values and experiences of many longtime residents of Newport and the surrounding region, where close-knit communities, devotion to family, and a love of the outdoors have long been cherished.