RUSSELLVILLE — Dwight DeMoss Driver,

79, a resident of Russellville, died Saturday, April 30, 2022, at his home following a long illness.

Mr. Driver, a fifth-generation Arkansan, was born on May 6, 1942, to Jettie DeMoss Driver and Virginia Blackwood Driver. He attended school in Osceola, graduating from Osceola High School in 1960. He was a graduate of the University of Arkansas, where he was a member of Kappa Sigma.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his brother, Jerry Blackwood Driver.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Yvonne “Nonnie” Driver; two daughters and sons-inlaw, Allison Rule and Jeff Rule of Chevy Chase, Md., and Ashley Younger and Ryan Younger of Little Rock; and two granddaughters, Lauren Rule and Juliette Rule of Chevy Chase, Md. Mr. Driver’s career in commercial finance spanned nearly 40 years in Houston, Texas. During his tenure in Houston, he was instrumental in the incorporation of the City of Meadows Place, which had been an enclave within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of Houston but whose residents desired not to be annexed into the city. Mr. Driver led referendum efforts to form a new municipality and was appointed to fill the role of “Town Marshal” until the formation of a police department as required by Texas law. In this capacity, Mr. Driver hired a Chief of Police and oversaw the creation of the Meadows Place Police Department.

Mr. Driver also was an active member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Committee. His other avocation was working on his golf game. He played almost daily until an old back injury sidelined him. Upon retirement, Mr. Driver fulfilled a promise made to himself decades earlier to retire back home to Arkansas. It was his great pleasure to explore the lakes and scenic byways of his home state, usually with his beloved dogs, past and present, joining him and Yvonne as they traveled the state marveling at the natural beauty of the wildflowers, fall foliage, and botanical gardens.

Mr. Driver was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a pillar of strength for his family, always ready to offer words of encouragement and sound advice. Mr. Driver and his family embarked on countless road trips and misadventures, creating memories his family will cherish.

A private family service has been planned. In remembrance of Mr. Driver’s life, memorial tributes may be made to the First Baptist Church of Osceola, 2900 West Keiser, Osceola, Ark. 72370 or to the Russellville Animal Shelter, 3115 South Mobile Avenue, Russellville, Ark. 72801. Online guestbook and condolences available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.