Jack Newhart, 77, passed away Monday, February 22, 2016, at his home in his hometown of Charleston, Arkansas.

Jack was born in 1938, the oldest of Dorothy and Lindel Newhart's three sons. Jack was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bill and Dan.

After a successful career at a Ft. Smith insurance firm, where he was probably as well known for his generosity as he was for his business skills, Jack retired and focused his attention on his family, his golf game and a lively, daily breakfast conversation with his longtime friends at Kat's Kitchen. He was a kind and loving father to his only daughter, Desiree, and an enthusiastic grandfather to his only grandson, Sam. The two would go for walks in the woods, fish or throw rocks in creeks and, many Christmases, would head out together in search of the ideal Christmas tree. He finished with a perfect record of never allowing his son-in-law, Steve, to pay for any meal.

He is survived by Desiree, Steve and Sam Hill, as well as his sister-in-law, Mary Newhart; nieces, Dara Knight and DeShea Bates, and nephews, Ricky Newhart and Darrin Newhart. Jack had numerous relatives throughout the area and many good friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 26th, at Marietta Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Charleston, with Rev. Vondal Davenport and Rev. Bill VanMeter officiating. A reception will immediately follow in the fellowship hall. Services are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home and Flower Shop in Charleston.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Charleston Animal Shelter or the Arbor Day Fund.

To pay an online tribute please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com