BRYANT — Archie B. Patrick, Jr.,

entered his heavenly home on Thursday, July 23rd, following a lengthy illness. After a lifetime spent as an athlete, hunter, fisherman, gardener, and educator, he accepted nine years of disability with the same dignity and grace with which he lived his 90-year life. He loved God. He loved his country and was willing to fight for the many freedoms his forefathers had died for. He loved, honored and respected his parents and the childhood sweetheart he chose to be his 70- year life partner in marriage. Archie “Pat” was born in Oklahoma, to Archie B Patrick, Sr. and Anne Catherine McWhirt, on June 16, 1930. He grew up in a family with six sisters. He moved to Arkansas at an early age. He graduated from Malvern High School where he earned first time, all-state honors as a guest and line-backer on the football team (after his third spine surgery he joked that he should have played in the band as his mother wanted him to do!). After high school graduation Pat earned a football scholarship at the University of Arkansas. A knee injury and the Korean War ended his football playing days. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1952, serving in the Korean Conflict until the war ended. Before leaving for Korea, Pat married Henrietta “Ritta” Ball with the promise to both parents, that the young couple would continue their education when the war ended. As promised, Pat and Ritta completed undergraduate degrees at Henderson State Teachers College, Masters Degrees at the University of Oklahoma, and administrative certification at the University of Arkansas. Pat coached football, basketball and track at Horatio, Gould, Star City, and McClellan High School in Little Rock. Following his coaching and teaching career, he became a principal in Pulaski County Special School District, serving at Mabelvale Jr. High, Fuller Jr. High and high schools and Robinson High School. He retired in 1987 after 18 years at Robinson High. As a coach, classroom teacher, or administrator, Pat’s philosophy remained the same: Do your best—win or lose; follow the rules; accept responsibility for your actions; and treat others the way you want to be treated. He lived his life the same way. Pat recognized the fragility of young people. He found it unnecessary to raise his voice, whether correcting a player or student, he would call him or her to the side and quietly point out the problem and solution. Pat enjoyed pick-up trucks, camping, hunting fishing and gardening. When his health no longer allowed him to participate in these activities he enjoyed sharing pictures of his gardens and the vegetables he raised with his friend Phil Heyer. The family wishes to thank the many ex-students, teachers, and friends, who continued to remain intouch throughout Pat’s years of disability. Special thanks goes to Bro. Gary Lambright, Pastor, and the congregation of Park Place Baptist Church in Bryant for their prayers and support. A visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, July 27, 2020 from 9-9:45 a.m., at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Highway 5 N. Alexander, Ark., 72002. A graveside service will occur Monday, July 27, 2020 at 10 a.m., at Forest Hills Memorial Park, 10201 Highway 5 North, Alexander, Ark. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Park Place Baptist Church, P. O. Box 716, Bryant, Ark., 72089.