James Franklin Gramling

James "Monk" Franklin Gramling, 79, of Paragould, passed away from this life to the next on May 12, 2022, at Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House. He was born April 3, 1943, in Paragould, Arkansas, to James Elbert Gramling and Selma Tedder Gramling. He was a member of the Southside Community Church and a veteran of the United States Army. Monk was a man of many trades: plumber, electrician, HVAC. He was also an entrepreneur of many businesses throughout his lifetime. He knew that hard work was the key to success. As a young man, he signed a professional baseball contract with the Kansas City A's. His love for athletics often placed him in the stands cheering on his three sons as they pursued both baseball and basketball. On most Saturdays, he could be found hitting home runs on softball fields across Arkansas. Once retired, he enjoyed being at the auction, selling anything and everything for a great price. Monk's legacy was first and foremost love of family, hard work, and loyalty to all who worked with him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James "JC" Gramling, Robert "RT" Gramling, and Joe Max Gramling; sisters; Cordell Emma White, Ima Dell Shipman, and Dortha Jean Gramling.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Deborah Gramling; sons, Troy (Stephanie) Gramling, Mark (Melissa) Gramling, and Jimmy Gramling; step-sons, Michael Dendy and Matthew Dendy; step-daughter, Mecca Hutcherson; grandchildren, Tyler (Amber) Gramling, Lexi (Blake) Clayton, Carson (Jessica) Gramling, Cade (Kamari) Gramling, Reece Gramling, Rachel Gramling, Beau (Taylor) Gramling, Baylee Gramling, Gracie Gramling, Ryan Gramling, Taylor Hines and Clayton Hines; great grandchildren, Lyon Gramling, Hayes Clayton, Luna Gramling, Collyns Gramling, Hudson Hines and Magnolia Young; one sister, Betty Holland; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.

The family will receive friends Monday, May 16th, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Heath Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 10 am on Tuesday, May 17th, at Heath Funeral Home with Troy Gramling officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at Warren's Chapel Cemetery. Tyler Gramling, Carson Gramling, Cade Gramling, Beau Gramling, Reece Gramling and Blake Clayton will serve as pallbearers. Lyon Gramling and Hayes Clayton will serve as honorary pallbearers.