Rev. Don Hutchings' Obituary
With profound love and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the legacy of Rev. Don Hutchings, who went home to be with the Lord on February 18, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, evangelist, mentor, and friend, Don’s life was a testament to faith, service, unwavering joy, and passion.
Born in Hibbing, MN, on June 1, 1957, Don later moved to Marquette, MI, where he graduated from Marquette Senior High School in 1975. He pursued his passion for ministry and education, earning a Bible Degree from Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Education from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, Arkansas.
Don dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and shepherding others in faith. He began his ministry as an Assemblies of God Youth Pastor in Russellville and Dardanelle, Arkansas, from 1977 to 1982. He then pastored Lakeview Assembly of God in Hot Springs (1982-1989) before taking the helm at Evangel Temple Assembly of God in Fort Smith, where he faithfully served for 35 years (1989-2024). In 2024, he embraced a new chapter as an evangelist, continuing to share the Good News until his passing.
A pillar of the Fort Smith community, Don’s servant heart extended far beyond the pulpit. He was an active member and past president of the Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club, a chaplain for the Fort Smith Police Department, and served on the Fort Smith Board of Directors for eight years. He served on the Fort Smith Civil Service Commission, ensuring fairness and integrity in public service. As a board member of the Degan Foundation, he helped advance medical and community initiatives, and through his board leadership at Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, he supported the growth of medical education in the state. His dedication to the Community Rescue Mission provided critical resources for those in need, and his tenure on the board of Hannah House created a refuge for young women, children, and babies seeking safety and support. He was a past member of the Sparks Foundation, aiding in healthcare advancements, and the Fort Smith Rotary Club, promoting service and fellowship. In recognition of his dedication and service, he was honored with the Spirit of the Frontier Award by the City of Fort Smith and the Order of St. Florian Award from the Fort Smith Fire Department for his exceptional service to first responders and their families.
Beyond his ministry and civic involvement, Don was a man of boundless energy and joy. He loved telling jokes, hunting, playing basketball and racquetball, and running. He was an avid supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks, Minnesota Vikings, and Minnesota Twins. But his greatest love was his family. Don cherished every moment with his children and grandchildren, always beaming with pride over their accomplishments and faith journeys.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Lois Patterson Hutchings, and his brothers, Danny, Duane, and Dino Hutchings.
Don is survived by his beloved wife who he proudly introduced as his 1975 Homecoming Queen of Russellville High School, Carol Jayne; his children, Celeste (Mike) Nichols of Pocola, OK; Monica (Ray) Malouf of Davidson, NC; and Evan (Elizabeth) Hutchings of Thompson Station, TN; his cherished grandchildren, Zayne (Graci Hardbarger) Amerson and Noah Amerson of Pocola, OK; Manasseh (McKenna) Nichols of Van Buren, AR; Asa (Elexis Cherry) Nichols and Abram Nichols of Pocola, OK; Owen Malouf and Cora Malouf of Davidson, NC; and Wyatt Hutchings of Thompson Station, TN; and one great-grandchild, Beckham Nichols of Van Buren, AR. He is also survived by his siblings, Debby (Lynn) Hemstock of Lexington, KY; David (Kim) Hutchings of Bossier City, LA; Diana (Bill) Whitaker of Rogersville, MO; Danette Hutchings of Coon Rapids, MN; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.
Don Hutchings lived a life marked by faith, laughter, and an unshakable commitment to God and others. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Well done, good and faithful servant. Welcome home.
A celebration of his life and ministry will be held at Evangel Temple Assembly of God in Fort Smith, on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 2 p.m. Visitation with the family will begin at 12:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Evangel Temple Building Fund, P. O. Box 1077, Ft. Smith, AR 72902 or Ft. Smith Noon Kiwanis Club, P.O. Box 10722, Fort Smith, AR 72917, in honor of Don’s lifelong commitment to serving others.
To sign the online guestbook please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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