Cecil Costner, 89 of Fort Smith passed away Tuesday, October 7, 2014 in a local hospital. He was born December 3, 1924 in Cosby, Tennessee, in the heart of the Smokey Mountains to John T. and Mattie Costner. He was a retired U.S. Government Civil Service employee of 31 years and a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Van Buren. He was retired from the U.S. Army Reserves serving with the 95th Division. A Member and past vice-commander of the American Legion Post 31 in Fort Smith, a member of NARFE, member of Sons of American Revolution and a Graduate of Greenville, TN Business College. He is preceded in death by his parents, step-father Odius Yarbar, one sister, two brothers and one granddaughter Sarah Emily Costner.

Graveside services will be 10 AM Friday, October 10, 2014 at U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home.

He is survived by his wife Norma Costner of the home; one daughter Rebecca Collins and her husband Bryan of Van Buren; one son Philip Costner and his wife Cheryle of Van Buren; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Philip Costner, Isaiah Costner, Jacob Costner, Aiden Costner, Bryan Collins and Britney Collins.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Heart Foundation 108 East Sunbridge Drive, Fayetteville, 72703; Sebastian County Humane Society 3800 Kelley Hwy, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901; Calvary Missionary Baptist Church 2117 Alma Blvd, Van Buren, Arkansas 72956.

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at Sparks Hospital and Ashton Place who cared for our loved one; Peachtree Hospice and Reverend Tom Hill.

Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of Cecil Costner, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.