BATESVILLE — Gordon L. Boyer,

89, died on February 11, 2022, in Batesville, Ark. He was born December 2, 1932, in Bethesda, Ark. to the late Mabel M. (Leonard) and Gerald C. Boyer. He was of the Methodist faith. He was preceded in death by his parents.

From an early age, Gordon was interested and participated in the dramatic arts. He was a 1954 graduate of Arkansas College where he excelled in theatre. He was a member of Alpha Psi Omega, served as President of the Student Body in 1953, and was awarded the designation of Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges. In the 50’s he organized and directed several theatre groups including the Reader’s Guild and the Patchwork Players in Batesville, as well as the Pioneer Players in Cabool, Mo.

He was a U.S. Army veteran and served in the Production Department, Far East Network in Tokyo, Japan from 1954 to 1956. During that time he was active in directing and acting with the Tokyo Playhouse and was asked to direct Our Town at Keio University.

He graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles with a Masters in Theatre Arts Degree in 1958, he was active in subsequent years with the Player’s Ring and Gallery Theatre.

A career with the Department of Public Social Services was enhanced after graduating from the University of Southern California’s School of Social Work in 1963. In 1965, he was elected President of the USC School of Social Work Alumni Association. During his early years at DPSS, he was a member of the California Juvenile Officers Association. He retired in 1989 from the Los Angeles County DPSS after holding numerous administrative positions including Deputy District Director and Staff Development Specialist.

Defying the notion that “you can’t go home again”, he retired to his native grounds in 1989. He immediately became active in Batesville Community Theatre and served as President in 199192. He also served as President and Treasurer of the now inactive Batesville Community Concerts. He was a past Treasurer of Independence County Humane Society for 10 years; he was also a member of the Lyon College’s Athletic Booster Club.

At the deceased’s request, a private interment was held at Oaklawn Cemetery by Willis Funeral Service.