Bobby Joe Free, 78, of Griffithville, formerly of Searcy, passed away August 18, 2016 at Beebe Retirement Center following a long illness.  He was born March 5, 1938 at Garner, Arkansas to the late Elzie and Opal Walls Free.
     Prior to his retirement, he worked for Searcy Public Schools for 10 years and lastly at Robinson Hardwood Flooring.  He enjoyed riding horses and was a car enthusiast; he loved working on them as well as buying and selling cars.
     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant son, Ricky Free; and brother, W.A. Free.
     He married Judy Kirkland Free August 31, 1966 at Batesville, Arkansas; she survives.  He is also survived by two sons, Bobby Duane Free of Griffithville and David Lynn Free (Tonia) of Judsonia; two daughters, Melissa Christine Free of Griffithville and Penny Bishop of Judsonia; three grandchildren, Joseph, Dakota, and Maddie; and two great grandchildren, Alisha and Madison; as well as his three loving Pomeranians.
     No services are scheduled at this time. Lasting memorials can be made to Paws Inn No Kill Animal Shelter in Searcy.

Services have been entrusted to Sullivan Funeral Care of Kensett. Condolences: www.SullivanFuneralCare.com