Dr. Larry Dean Petton's Obituary
Dr. Larry Dean Petton, 72 of Elm Springs, AR passed away Friday, March 21, 2025 in Fayetteville, AR. He was born September 20,1952 in Dallas, TX to Clarence Leroy Petton and Julia Juanita (Leigh) Petton.
He graduated from W.W. Samuel High School in 1971, Dallas Baptist University in 1975 with a BA in Religion and Journalism, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1979 with a Master of Divinity and graduated from Luther Rice Seminary in 1982 with a doctorate in Ministry.
He pastored churches in Texas and Arkansas for 50 years and was the pastor of Cross Pointe Community Church in Tontitown at the time of his death. He also served for 17 years as a Headquarters Chaplain for Tyson Foods and was the author of 10 books.
Pastor Larry never met a stranger always talking to everyone he saw whether he knew them or not. He had time for everyone, was a constant encourager, loved so deeply, and was an inspiration to many. He was always willing to listen and was a kind comforter. He was known for his infectious smile, his humility, and positive attitude. Mostly, he believed the Bible to be God’s inerrant Word and preached it faithfully beginning when he was only 16 years old.
A lifelong Rangers and Cowboys fan, he quickly threw his support behind the Razorbacks after moving to Arkansas in 1996. In addition to sports, he enjoyed hunting, boating, gardening, and game nights. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rosanne Petton, daughter Katie Skinner (husband Danny), son Andy Petton (wife Haley), granddaughter, Sophie Petton, sister LaJuana Christian (husband Travis), brother, David Petton (wife Peggy), five nephews, two nieces, several great nieces and nephews and a wonderful church family.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 28th from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Cross Pointe Community Church, 1174 W. Henri De Tonti Blvd, Tontitown, AR. A Celebration of Pastor Larry’s life will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday March 29th at Calvary Freewill Baptist Church, 1000 N. Gutensohn Road in Springdale and burial will follow at Pinnacle Memorial Gardens in Rogers. The service will be livestreamed at https://youtube.com/@calvarychurchfwb?si=lleQw7fZ3rhaJ7M6 or https:www.facebook.com/share/1AMgZJSXDc/?,ibextid=wwXlfr .
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund, which Pastor Larry was passionate about, at Cross Pointe Community Church (1174 W. Henri De Tonti Blvd., Tontitown, AR 72762). https://subsplash.com/u/-3SW8VQ/give?fund_id=ef4bd477-5876-43ce-80ce-cb14d0bdb27a&frequency=once
To sign the online quest book please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Larry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Larry?
Share a story where Larry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Larry you’ll never forget.
How did Larry make you smile?