Mr. Denzil Draper was born on a cold, snowy day on February 23, 1966, to the late James and Verdia Lee Draper in Mineral Springs, AR. He entered eternal rest on May 16, 2026, at Hospice of Texarkana in Texarkana, TX.
Although he was not affiliated with a church, Denzil was a man of faith and accepted Christ at a young age. He was a 1984 graduate of Mineral Springs High School, where he was a standout basketball, football, and track star. His handsome looks and charming personality made him very popular among the ladies.
Denzil shared a twelve-year marriage with Sandra Sims. Instead of attending college, he chose to pursue a career as a maintenance technician. He started his career at Tyson before dedicating twenty-seven years of hard work to Poulan (Husqvarna) in Nashville, AR.
In his spare time, Denzil competed in numerous fishing tournaments to showcase his skills. He never hesitated to teach others how to survive off God’s land. He spent every November at Deer Camp in Ozan, AR, and never missed a hunting season. Outside of his love for wildlife and game, he was also well known for his amazing cooking skills and finger-licking barbecue sauce. Denzil spent his later years with his companion, Sheba Witherspoon. One of his greatest joys was spending time with family and friends.
Denzil worked as a security officer until his health began to fail. He later relocated to Prescott to be in the care of his daughter. He enjoyed spending his mornings hunting, fishing, and being outdoors. He was mesmerized by the way God awakened the world each day. He often spoke about watching the sunrise, hearing the birds chirp, and enjoying the quietness of the morning.
Denzil leaves to cherish his memories six children: Jamie Smith, Jasmin Draper, Taylor Draper, Dexter Draper, Damorris Draper, and Shaniah Draper; five siblings, Linda Gamble, Perry Draper (Lanette), Shirleen Hicks, Carolyn (Charles) Ogden, and James Earl Draper; eight grandchildren, Nateyvia, Kylie, Kadrian, Amari, Tyrin, Nyomi, Taylor Jr., and Tiylor; one great-grandchild, Nai’Ari; special nephews, Derrick Hicks and James Block; special friends, Don Hicks, Charles Ogden, Bobby Easter, John Sproles Jr., and the Class of ’84; and a host of family, friends, coworkers, and associates. Denzil was truly loved by many.
PUBLIC VISITATION:
Friday, May 22, 2026 at 3-5 PM
M & H Memorial Chapel
411 S. Walnut St. | Hope, AR
HOMEGOING CELEBRATION:
Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11 AM
Maranatha Baptist Church
300 Trenton Blvd | Nashville, AR
FINAL RESTING PLACE: Flint Hill Cemetery | Mineral Springs, AR
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Honored Service Provider:
McFadden & Hitchye Funeral Enterprises
30+ years of experience
870 777 4841
