Johnny David Eidson

Johnny David Eidson, Sr. passed from this life on May 3, 2023, in his home at Mt. Ida, Arkansas. He was born May 11, 1945, in Nettleton, Arkansas, and was a proud graduate of Nettleton High School, class of 1963. He studied at Arkansas State University and Garland County Community College and had a long and fulfilling career with the Jonesboro Police Department. He was a loving father and grandfather, a devoted husband, a caring brother, a family man until the end, and Johnny loved Jesus!

He was a man of many talents and liked to keep busy himself with his hobbies. One of his favorite pastimes was playing music. He was a skilled guitar picker. He and his beloved wife, Gina Doyle Eidson, spent countless hours jamming together and with friends. He was in bands most of his life -- rock bands, country bands, bluegrass bands… you name it! For a time, the two of them explored the country in their travel trailer, visiting friends and navigating the bluegrass festival circuit. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, and technology. Other hobbies included judo, taekwondo, karate, kempo, ‘breaking’ wild horses, and wrestling. Johnny was proud to be a charter member of the Craighead County Mounted Patrol.

He wore several hats over the years. Though he retired as a Lieutenant from the Jonesboro Police Department, he tried his hand at many jobs. He worked for a power company, in the trucking industry, as a motorcycle escort, hauling money for banks to the federal reserve, and as a private investigator. He even had his own karaoke business. He always had an interesting story to tell! Perhaps one of the most memorable occurred when he drove for Hedger Brothers’ Concrete. He was driving a concrete truck when he was hit by a train. Upon realizing what happened, he hopped out of the truck and was able to walk away without a scratch.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents, Virgil and Elizzabetha Crabtree Eidson; brothers, Norman and Jimmy Eidson; sisters, Ida Faye Cooper, Vonda Lee Mahan, and Nora Greenway; stepson, Jimmie Doyle Farmer.

He is survived by his wife, Regenia “Gina” Eidson; son, John “Charlie” (Mary) Eidson, Jr.; his step-daughter Lisa (Ronnie) Coots; his grandchildren: Dylan Eidson, Tayler (Jay) Allred, Adam Waddell, Logan Waddell, Nathan (Katelyn) Waddell, Abby (Brett) Adams, Haven Tinsley, Connor Tinsley, Matt (Carly) Farmer, Holly (Tyler) Kirklin, Ariel Coots, and Mayzee Coots; his great-grandchildren: Piper, Kash, Aspen, and Hadlee Allred, Kennedy and Lydia Waddell, and Kia Adams. Additional survivors include his brother, Garry (Kathy) Eidson and sister, Sharrion (Kenny) Walker; his best girl -- his puppy dog -- Marze “Zee” Eidson; as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

John was an incredible man who will be missed dearly. Those who would like to pay their respects may do so at his memorial service on May 20th at 10:00am, at Temple Baptist Church (2835 Race St, Jonesboro, AR 72401).

In lieu of flowers, you may consider lasting donations to the Jonesboro Fraternal Order of Police P.O. Box 9262 Jonesboro 72403; or DARE 1001 South Caraway Rd Jonesboro, AR 72401. Arrangements are under the direction of Thornton Funeral Service in Mt. Ida. Guest register at www.thorntonfh.com