Carl Riley “Son” Bramlett was born December 31, 1942 to the proud parents William Carl and Mable Bramlett in Eldorado, AR. Carl spent all of his growing up years, save one, in Eldorado, moving to Hope, AR as a High School Senior. He joined the local Army National Guard unit serving until his father died unexpectedly, and Carl returned to oversee the family business. Carl’s working career consisted of two major positions within the Lion Oil Bulk Plant in Hope and the District Five Highway Department also in Hope. All who worked with him in these professional roles loved him.
Those who knew Carl well understood why he took all of his vacation days in one block during November each year. It is no surprise to these people to find his living room wall covered in buck deer mounts. His weekly trips to the Farm store, lumber and hardware stores shocked no one. Everyone who knew Carl understood deer season required year-round prep and how useless it was to make an appointment for him during the weeks the Game and Fish decided rifle season was to be. Great birthday and Christmas presents included ammo, guns and gun gear, camo of all sizes and shades, feed trough material and boots. Hunting was his passion but his loves were much wider.
His two sons, Daniel and Joel Bramlett, his brother Dave Bramlett and all those connected with these three were his loves. These were the reasons he rose each morning and worked hard each day. He was never short on encouraging words for these people. His world revolved around them. When this crew was younger he was their biggest fan. He made every ball game, coached every team and funded every hair-brained idea. On birthdays and at Christmas, his gift giving surpassed them all.
Carl’s smile and laugh were infectious. He loved to tell stories…over and over and over. He loved simple things, preferring a night of sandwiches with family than a night of fine food on the town. He much preferred a trip to the farm store than a trip to the grocery store. He was wise, loving, generous, kind and overly conscious of his burden on those around him. He loved well.
Carl was quick to tell you Jesus was the first love in his life. He prayed before he did anything. He was a longstanding member of Hope’s First Baptist Church, serving as a door greeter/usher and as the Sunday School Secretary for more years than we can remember. His smile, good humor and kind handshake were a welcome fixture for all who worship there.
Names that made him smile are Daniel and his wife Laura, Joel and his wife Whitney, Dave and his wife Betsy, Nita and her husband Bob, grandchildren: Riley, Elizabeth and Madeline, special nieces and nephews: Kristy (Regan), Ryan (Alisha), Angie, Diane (Kevin) and Kristi (Brian) and all of their children.
For almost 79 years, Carl Riley Bramlett made this world a better place to live. The legacy he leaves will not soon be forgotten.
Services will be held at First Baptist Church Hope on Monday, September 13 at 2:00 pm with Daniel Bramlett officiating. Memorials can be made to First Baptist Church.
Visit Herndon-Fuqua Funeral Home website for online guest book.