OBITUARIES Rev. John ‘David’ Talley
The Rev. John “David” Talley, 58, of Benton, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, June 15. He was born May 11, 1961, in Springhill, Louisiana, to John Thomas and the late Donna (Smith) Talley.
David gave his life to lead people to the Lord and closer to the cross for more than 30 years. David trusted that God would provide their needs and was willing to use his last dime to serve others. David served as a preacher, evangelist, singer, prophet, prayer warrior, minister and teacher. He was a gifted musician, owned a recording studio and was an accomplished songwriter. David became pastor of Benton Four Square Church in October 2018.
David loved his family with all his heart. He was affectionately known as “Pops” to his grandchildren. David founded The Crusader’s Ministry in 1988. Family refer to David as “Mr. Fix-it.” He was an amazing bus mechanic. David was a presidential director of First Fitness Nutrition.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 37 years, Penney Talley, of Benton; two children, Amber Byrd and hus- band, Scott, of Benton, and Jonathan Talley and wife, Ashley, of Ashdown; an honorary son, Steven Hayes, of Benton; five grandchildren, Anniston Byrd, Karsyn Byrd, Tatum Talley, Rylan Talley, and expected in December — Kinsley Talley; his father, John Thomas Talley and wife,
Kay, of Emerson; a brother, Thomas Curtis Talley and wife, Karen, of Bella Vista; spiritual mentor, Bro. Mac Wilbanks, of Ridgeland, Mississippi; a number of nieces and nephews, family members, and thousands of friends across the United States and worldwide who loved David and will miss him always.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. today, June 18, at Smith-benton Funeral Home, located at 322 N. Market St. in Benton.
Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 19, at Benton Four Square Church, located at 2722 Military Rd.
Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Western Cemetery in Magnolia.
Memorials may be made to The Crusaders Ministry at www.thecrusadersministries.com to continue his ministry. Services are entrusted to Smith-benton Funeral Home. Online guest book: www.smithfamilycares.com.