1945-2026
Charles Ray Geans, 81, of Conway, Arkansas, passed away on June 3, 2026, at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Charles was born on January 5, 1945, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, to Theodore and Verdie Geans. He graduated from Holman High School in 1962 before serving his country in the United States Army as a Field Artilleryman from 1963 to 1966. During his military service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal and qualified as Expert with the M-14 rifle. He later continued his military service in the Reserves, including service in the Air Force Reserve.
On August 7, 1967, Charles married the love of his life, Hallie Geans. Together they built a marriage that lasted more than fifty-five years until Hallie’s passing in 2023. Charles worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family, allowing Hallie to devote herself full-time to raising their children and caring for their home. Together they raised their family in the Chicago area and made their home in Oak Park, Illinois, where family and friends were always welcome.
Following his military service, Charles completed Tool and Die training at Washburne Trade School in Chicago and went on to build a successful career as a skilled machinist, toolmaker, machine builder, and maintenance specialist. After more than three decades in manufacturing, he retired and returned to Arkansas.
Charles had a lifelong passion for music. His collection included more than 1,500 albums, thousands of 45 rpm records, and thousands of CDs, with a special love for soul, R&B, Motown, jazz, and blues. He and Hallie hosted family gatherings and holiday celebrations that became cherished traditions, with Charles proudly serving as the family’s DJ.
He was also an avid fisherman, photographer, and cook. Through his camera lens, he captured countless family memories that are treasured today. He was known for his cooking, whether in the kitchen or behind a barbecue pit, and passed that love of cooking on to his children. He taught them practical skills, from fishing and automobile repair to the values of self-reliance, responsibility, and hard work.
Charles was a tough and resilient man who faced numerous health challenges later in life with determination and courage. Despite those obstacles, he maintained his independence and strong will until the final week of his life. His perseverance, grit, and refusal to give up were qualities admired by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hallie Geans; his parents, Theodore and Verdie Geans; his brother, Ivory Lee Genes; and his sister, Ruby Geans.
He is survived by his children, Reginald Geans and wife Jamie Geans, Craig Geans, and Bridget Onick and fiancé Mark Bowman; his grandchildren, Alexis Geans, Rai’ Geans, Jasmine Ney, and Amber Beebe; his brothers, Clayton Geans and Michael Geans; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Charles will be remembered for his devotion to family, his work ethic, his love of music, his generosity, and the strength and perseverance that carried him through life’s challenges. The lessons he taught, the memories he captured, and the love he shared will continue to live on in the lives of those who knew him.
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026 11:00 AM Holman Heritage Community Center 605 N. Buerkle Street Stuttgart, AR 72160
Repast: Saturday, June 20, 2026 Holman Heritage Community Center 605 N. Buerkle Street Stuttgart, AR 72160
