AUBREY LEE AVANTS,

79, passed away on Monday, February 13, 2023, in Escondido, Calif., surrounded by his family. The son of Aubrey H. and Floy McAllister Avants of Jacksonville, Ark., Aubrey was born November 24, 1943, at St. Vincent’s Infirmary and grew up in Jacksonville, Ark., where he graduated high school in 1963. He also graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 1967, with a bachelor’s degree in Business, and attained an MBA from University of Tennessee in 1978. Aubrey also served in the US Army in Vietnam (67—70), attaining the rank of First Lieutenant.

Upon his return to the states, Aubrey accepted a role with Texaco, Inc., in Chattanooga, Tenn., but it was when he joined Merrill Lynch that he developed his investment skills that would carry him throughout his career. He had the opportunity to work for the finest banking groups in Arkansas to include Union National Bank, Worthen Bank and Trust, First Bank of Arkansas (Jonesboro), Liberty Bank of Arkansas (Jonesboro), and Centennial Bank. Marquis also recognized him ‘Who’s Who’ of noteworthy investment executives. Aubrey retired in 2017 to Jacksonville, and in 2019, relocated to the San Diego, Calif., to be closer to family.

Aubrey was lifelong lover of animals, always having one around for comfort and would often keep food & water out for strays. He was a lifelong fan of Elvis Presley, George Jones, Dolly Parton, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Cadillac cars. He believed that one’s appearance spoke volumes not only about oneself but was indicative of the respect he had for others.

He loved his God, his country, and his family. He was always there for his children with support, love, and a guiding hand to keep them right path.

Aubrey is survived by his sister, Floy Ott (Harold); son, Jay A. Avants; daughter, Andrea Grayson (Greg); two grandchildren: Jude and Sam; numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends. Please join the family in celebrating and remembering Aubrey at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, located at 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark., 72117, on Saturday, March 11, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. www.griffinleggettresthills.com.