James Walter “J.W.” Hulen, Sr., of Swifton, Arkansas, departed this life on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at the age of 87. Mr. Hulen was born June 14, 1935, in Swifton, the son of Elijah Walter and Bertha Mae (Hastings) Hulen.
Mr. Hulen was a graduate of Swifton High School. A dedicated person, he never missed a day of school the entire 12 years. He was a United States Army veteran, and a loyal employee of Norandal, where he worked for 45 years until his retirement.
Mr. Hulen enjoyed gardening and being the Boss. He was an all-around good guy, who never met a stranger, and possessed the gift of gab.
Mr. Hulen especially loved his hometown of Swifton, Arkansas. He loved to collect and share Swifton history, and George Kell memorabilia. The hardest worker many had ever seen, he spent a great deal of time and effort taking care of his hometown by mowing and cleaning yards and lots.
He was a lifelong member of the Swifton First United Methodist Church.
Mr. Hulen was preceded in death by his wife, Beatrice Hulen; his son, James Walter “Jimmy” Hulen, Jr.; one granddaughter, Whitney Britten Goodman; two sisters, Erma Lee King and Anna Mae Malone; his half-siblings, Maston Batterton and Lena Williams; and his parents.
He is survived by one daughter, Connie Goodman of Searcy; seven granddaughters, Brandy Massey, Amber Henley, Kodi Plancarte, April Daigle, Ellie Hulen, Lexie Hulen, and Chloe Hulen; ten great-grandchildren; one niece, Phyllis Campbell and husband, Mike of Swifton; one nephew, Monroe King and wife, Patty, of Swifton; one step-son, Leslie Hartsell; and a lifetime of friends.
Friends may visit the funeral home, Tuesday evening, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Swifton First United Methodist Church, with interment following at Swifton Cemetery.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Kori Cruz, Maston Kinder, Rusty Kinder, Mike Campbell, Brian King, and Chris Keton. Honorary pallbearers are Will Massey and Mario Plancarte.
