Ness Sechrest dead at 90

Longtime local leading citizen passes away

By Ralph Hardin

news@theeveningtimes.com Of all the many people who have played a role over the years in service to the West Memphis community, few have done it as dedicated or as long as Ness Schrest.

Noah Sylvester “Ness” Sechrest was a beloved father, grandfather and respected community member. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 25, at the age of 90.

Though born in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, it was in West Memphis where he would leave his mark on the world through a life of unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Ness was a graduate of Poplar Bluff High School, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. His passion for sports led him to the University of Missouri and Arkansas State University where he played football. A natural

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Noah 'Ness' Sylvester

Sept. 17, 1933-Aug. 25, 2024 SECHREST

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leader, Ness served as president of his high school senior class and president of the ASU Student Government Association. He was also a distinguished member of the ROTC.

After graduating, Ness embarked on a successful business career, starting with Esso Corporation and becoming the owner and president of West Memphis Petro, Inc., Petro Tank Lines, and Flash Market, Inc. His entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen contributed to his success and allowed him to make a significant impact on his community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ness was a devoted family man. He married Carolyn Bollinger Sechrest and was married to her for 68 years. Together they raised three children, Dana Patton (Bret), Brad Sechrest (deceased) and Dawn Robinson (Blake). Ness was a loving and supportive father, grandfather and great-grandfather and his family was his greatest joy.

Ness was also deeply committed to his community. He served on various boards and committees, including the Southland Board of Directors, the Fidelity National Bank Board of Directors, the West Memphis Lion's Club, the West Memphis Chamber of Commerce, the Crittenden Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, the First Methodist Church Finance Committee and the West Memphis Public School Board. He served as a 32nd Degree Mason and Shriner and had the rank of Captain in the Army National Guard.

Ness served as a Commissioner on the Arkansas Parks and Tourism Commission from 1985 to Emeritus, a member of the MSCC Board of Directors from 2000 to 2007, a member of the Arkansas State University Foundation Board from 1998 to present and a member of the ASU Heber Springs Advancement Committee from 2005 to 2013.

Ness was recognized for his contributions to his community with several awards, including the ASU College of Business Distinguished Alumni Award in 1996, the ASU Distinguished Alumni Award in 1999 and the Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism Henry Award, Hall of Fame, in 2010.

Ness will be dearly missed by his family, friends and the community he loved. His legacy of hard work, compassion and service will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Funeral Services will take place for Ness on Friday, August 30, 2024 beginning at 1:00 PM at First United Methodist Church in West Memphis followed by a private family burial.

Image courtesy of the City of West Memphis