Oscar Burnard DeMaine

Oscar Burnard DeMaine, 98, passed away on April 17, 2023, and was reunited i n Heaven with his beloved wife of 70 years, Dolores Michael DeMaine.

He was born November 6, 1924, in Pine Bluff to Adolphus DeMaine and Gertrude Cheney DeMaine. Oscar attended Pine Bluff schools, and proudly served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee during World War II. After his discharge, he attended engineering school at Carrier Engineering School in Syracuse, N.Y.

Through self-education, hard work, and determination, Oscar arose from humble beginnings on the levee to become a successful businessman known for his generosity and sense of community involvement. He was a mentor for many aspiring businessmen and developed Comfort Air Conditioning Company as a leading heating and cooling business in southeast Arkansas, which he owned and operated for 65 years. His civic activities included being a 32nd degree Mason, Potentate for the Sahara Temple, and director of the Royal Jesters. He held leadership positions in Rosswood County Club and was a member of the West Pine Bluff Rotary Club.

In his 98 years, Oscar lived life to the fullest extent. He was always excited to share his many stories of Pine Bluff history, his experiences in business, and his adventures while serving in Europe during World War II to anyone willing to listen. For all his qualities, Oscar will be remembered most for his kindness and generosity to others. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends, but will live on through the retelling of his famous stories and the lasting impression he made on so many. He truly lived life by his favorite saying: “When you help others, you help yourself.”

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Dolores Michael DeMaine, whom he married in 1952 in Pine Bluff, and who passed away February 15, 2023; brothers, William DeMaine, Charles DeMaine and Richard DeMaine; sister, Virginia Reed, and son, Oscar Burnard DeMaine, Jr.

Survivors include his daughter, Denise Clarke (James); two sons, Jeffrey DeMaine and Darryl DeMaine (Pam); and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 1-3 p.m. at Ralph Robinson and Son Funeral Home with funeral service to follow. A private burial with full military honors will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Online guestbook at www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.