John W.

Varner

John W. Varner, a remarkable man whose zest for life and enduring spirit brought immense joy and laughter to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, in Bentonville, Arkansas, at the Circle of Life. He was born on September 7, 1948, in Pierce, Florida, to the late Asa and Betty (Beville) Varner.

John proudly served his country as an Army helicopter gunner during the Vietnam War, a testament to his bravery and dedication. His commitment to public service continued long after his military career as he went on to lead the Sulphur Springs Fire Department as its esteemed chief, a role in which he earned the respect and admiration of both his team and the community he protected.

John was a character in the best sense; his humor was as quick as his generosity, and he could as easily cuss you out as  he offered you the food from his table and the shirt off his back—all in the same day. His unique quips often left his family in stitches, and his instruction to change his voicemail to a cheeky message about "pushing up daisies" will be remembered as a classic moment of his wit. An avid outdoorsman, John's love for nature was as vast as the great outdoors he cherished. His enjoyment of deer hunting was matched only by the legendary tales of his wrestling a bear and claiming victory

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joyce Varner, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and cherished memories. John is survived by his loving family, including his daughters Elizabeth Varner-Lewis, Trishia Lee Varner, and Robin Edwards; son Michael Edwards; and grandchildren Cynthia Reynolds, John Michael Edwards, Carrie Weeks, Kathy George, Hunter Yates, Laiten Varner, Casey Varner, Diamond Varner, Crystal Varner, Shannon Buckner, and Tina Stowe. He also leaves behind a multitude of other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends, all of whom were deeply touched by his presence in their lives.

As John W. Varner's chapter on earth comes to a close, his story is far from over. It will continue to be shared by the many lives he touched, ensuring that his memory will endure as a beacon of love and generosity for all who were blessed to be a part of his extraordinary life.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Funeral services with full military honors are at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 20, 2025, at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri, with David Barber officiating. Services are entrusted to the sole care of Ozark Funeral Homes in Anderson, Missouri.