Billy E. Bauknight

Billy E. Bauknight, 78, of Pine Buff, Ark., departed this earthly plane Friday, January 15, 2021. After a valiant fight with a lengthy illness, he succumbed. Billy was a beloved husband, father, brother, nephew, and friend to many and will be greatly missed. He leaves to cherish his memory:

His devoted wife of many years Patricia Bauknight of Pine Bluff, Ark.; a loving daughter, Dr. Nichole Bauknight Boles (Eundra) of Little Rock, Ark.; two dedicated sons, Earnie Bauknight of Hot Springs, Ark., and Quinton Bauknight of Jacksonville, Ark.; one granddaughter, Eden Boles of Little Rock, Ark.; two sisters, Mae Dean Ryles (Leo, deceased) of Pine Bluff, Ark., and Joann Jones (Cleo) of Chicago, Illinois, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Billy leaves behind a very special legacy. He played a critical role in ensuring the success of many of Arkansas’ African American physicians as Director of Minority Affairs for UAMS College of Medicine. He holds a special place in the hearts of many of these physicians with whom he dedicated 37 years of service.

Services will be held at First Missionary Baptist Church located at 4500 Faucett Road in Pine Bluff, Ark., on Saturday, January 23, 2021, with visitation at 10 a.m., and funeral at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, make donations to UAMS Foundation with designation to the Bill Bauknight Center for Diversity Affairs. Mailed to: Institutional Advancement, Slot 716, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Ark., 72205. COVID-19 protocol with masks and social distancing will be required.