Arvil Wayne King, 83, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of September 24, 2026. Born June 14, 1943, he grew up in the Elkins (Thorny) and Huntsville area. For a time, he lived with his sister Velda in Huntsville, where he learned to cook at her café while he was still young.

Arvil had a gift for figuring things out and making things with his hands. He began working as a flooring contractor at a young age and later learned furniture upholstery. He spent many years in business for himself and became a master upholsterer, known for the beautiful work he could do even on the most intricate pieces.

In the mid-1970s, Arvil joined the Fayetteville Fire Department, where he served for nearly 20 years. His schedule as a firefighter allowed him to continue building his upholstery business. He was instrumental in organizing the Fayetteville Firefighters’ Union and served as the second president of International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2866.

Arvil married Helen Pollock in January 1962. Together they built a life and raised five children. Arvil was loyal to his family and was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help. He enjoyed camping, fishing, cooking, working with his hands, and spending time with family and friends. Many will remember the fish fries he and Helen hosted, often featuring crappie caught during their fishing trips.

Arvil was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; his parents, Ray and Dellie King; his sister, Velda Faulkner; and his grandchildren, Christerfer Williams and Timothy Williams.

He is survived by his five children: Chris King (Karen) of Fayetteville; Sheila Reagan (Bill) of Fayetteville; Shawna Williams (Doug) of Alton, Illinois; Kenny King (Tia) of Farmington; and Kevin King (Kristy) of Fayetteville.

He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren: Austin King (Jennifer) of Fayetteville; Emily Cardwell (Dylan) of Fayetteville; Katelyn Osborn (Cody) of Prairie Grove; Myranda Relph (Tom) of Farmington; Sara Bone (Chris) of Monticello, Iowa; Mark Sprinkle (Cody) of Plano, Texas; Jessica Surber (Chad) of Fayetteville; Olivia King (Zach) of Springdale; Avery King of Farmington; Kale King (Haley) of Fayetteville; and Kendell King (Katie) of Springdale; as well as 19 great-grandchildren and expecting more.

Arvil will be remembered for his remarkable ability to work with his hands, his years of service to his community, his willingness to help others, his sense of humor, and the love and pride he had for his family.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 PM Friday, October 2, 2026 at Beard’s Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Beard’s Chapel. Interment will follow in Mt Olive Cemetery.