Gary Stephen Cothern, a resident of Fort Smith, was called home on Sunday, January 29, 2023. He was born in Forrest City, Arkansas, on March 22, 1950, and was "raised on the ways and gentle kindness of a small town Southern man."

After graduating from Forrest City High School, Gary went to work for Southwestern Bell. Retiring after almost 20 years, he went into business for himself. He had successful businesses in Texas, Florida, and Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lonnie and Janie Cothern and brother Stan Cothern.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kris; three sons, Steve Cothern (Courtney), Adam Coats (April), and Dustin Coats (Angela); seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his two beloved bulldogs.

All who knew and loved Gary will miss him dearly but will also rejoice "cause God has a place in Heaven for a small town Southern man."

No memorial service is planned; however, online condolences may be made at brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gary's memory may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org).

Lyrics from "Small Town Southern Man" by Alan Jackson.