In the 9th grade, W.J. found a part-time job and his future vocation at the Corner Drug Store, downtown on the square in Monticello. He enrolled in Arkansas A&M (UAM) as a pre-Pharmacy major and attended A&M until he gained early admittance into the University of Tennessee Pharmacy School. He was a member of the Phi Delta Chi Fraternity, serving as vice-president his senior year. In 1959, W.J. graduated with a Doctorate Degree in Pharmacy. Local Monticello physicians encouraged and recruited him to return home, and with a young wife, son and another child on the way, he purchased City Rexall Drug. He was the youngest registered pharmacist to own a pharmacy in the State of Arkansas at the time.
W.J., at the tail end of his 7- year service in the Army National Guard, quickly saw his fledging business career in jeopardy as the Berlin Crisis forced President Kennedy to mobilize the Army National Guard 404th Ordinance Company, Company B, 217th Engineer Battalion in the fall of 1961. W.J and all of Company B were deployed for nearly a year. Upon his return, W.J served as a pharmacist to Monticello and Southeast Arkansas for the next 55 years. In addition to his own pharmacy, W.J. served as the first hospital pharmacist in Drew Memorial Hospital and assisted in establishing the first ICU unit and obtaining the hospital's first accreditation. He served as pharmacist for the SEAHDC for 23 years, was a preceptor for interning pharmacy students, was a member of and chaired the Pharmaceutical Association and the Southeast Arkansas Pharmacy Association.
W.J. had a strong commitment to civic duty and he loved politics. He was a member and chairman of the Monticello Retail Merchants, Monticello Youth Council, and Babe Ruth Board. He was a past member of the Lions Club, Jaycees, Optimist Club, a past vice-president of the Chamber of Commerce. He was chairman of the Rural Water Association. W.J. often said that one of the best days of his life was when water service became available in Lone Prairie so he didn't have to haul water in barrels from Monticello. He served as a Monticello City Councilman for ten years and a term as Justice of the Peace on the Drew County Quorum Court. W.J. was of a generation that believed that the duty of an elected official was to loyally serve the public that elected him. He was tenacious in his desire to make Monticello and Drew County a place that people were proud to call home.
W.J. loved his family, and faithfully attended baseball, football, softball games, track meets, golf tournaments, ballet recitals, band concerts, and all of his children's school activities. He was a Dad helper for the Girl Scouts for 11 years. He welcomed his children and grandchildren in his store after school for snacks and homework. He found the time to help at least one of his children memorize the periodic table. W.J. faithfully ate with his father and mother every Sunday until their death, and he was always available to his siblings and his many aunts, uncles and cousins. W.J. has been a faithful attendant to his great-grandchildren's birthday parties and other important milestones, and in the past year he often visited his newest great grandchild in the afternoon for knee bouncing.
After being raised in poor rural Drew County, W.J. saw the essential need for education, and after seeing his own three children college-educated and his elder son, Dr. William R. McKiever complete medical school, W.J. worked tirelessly for the Earl Willis Memorial Scholarship to be awarded to a Drew Central Student to attend UAM. He proudly attended his grandchildren's college graduations with the exception of the three that are currently attending college.
W.J.'s father, William, gave his son a love of horses, and W.J. was truly a drugstore cowboy. He was a 53 year member of the National Cutting Association and the American Quarter Horse Association and a nationally ranked judge for the National Cutting Horse Association. W.J. competed in a national cutting horse in the brand new Astrodome in Houston.
W.J. was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Dewey and Harold McKiever.
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Charlotte Jones McKiever, a sister, Wanda and her husband W.L. Chester, sons, Dr. William R. McKiever of Monticello, Jay Bartley McKiever and wife Sharon of Corydon, In, and daughter Leslie McKiever of Monticello, as well as sons, Eric and Will Fredriksson, and daughter, Sarah Fredriksson Isbell.
His grandchildren are: William J. (Josh) McKiever and wife Amanda, Jay Randall McKiever, Jon Daniel McKiever, Jeffery Spraggins, Monica McKiever Lee and husband Zach, and Randi McKiever; Cole Bartley McKiever, Conner McKiever, and Kendall McKiever; Andrew Bentz and wife Karonica, and Bradley Bentz; Collins, Gunner, and Erica Fredriksson, Emily Mederios, Molly Fredriksson, Ashley and Kim Portenier; Zack and Macade Isbell.
W.J.'s great- grandchildren are: Addee McKiever, Marley and Mercer Spraggins, Slade and Maeme Lee and Andrew (AJ) Bentz.
W.J. is also survived by Randy, Leslie and Jay's mother, LaNell Sanderlin McKiever, a special nephew, Stanley Chester and wife, Patty, and niece, Karen McKiever Leggett and husband Thomas, as well as many other nieces, nephews, cousins and scores of friends.
Visitation is 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday September 21, 2017 at Stephenson Dearman Funeral Home.
Funeral Service is Friday September 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with burial in Prairie Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Earl Willis Scholarship Fund, Drew Central Schools, 250 University Drive, Monticello, AR 71655 and First United Methodist Church, 317 South Main, Monticello, AR, 71655. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(47)
linda funderburg
monticello, AR Sunday, October 15, 2017 monticello and drew county has lost a good friend and so has the don funderburg family RIP my friend. you will be missed by manyWAYNE GRAVES
hamburg ar., AR Wednesday, October 4, 2017 sorry I know you will be missedMartha Huffman
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 28, 2017 Sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed when Mr. W.J. would come into the funeral home. He was a sweet man.Hershel Gober
Palm Coast, FL Wednesday, September 27, 2017 WJ and I were friends from 1950 until he left us. We loved each other as brothers. He helped to keep our 1954 classmates together and he fostered the Earl Willis fund. I am still in shock over losing my friend but I will never forget him and his love of Drew County, Arkansas and this Nation. He was a good man, a friend and there is nothing negative that anyone can say about him RIP Bull.Bobby Joe-Betty Hibbard
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 27, 2017 Our hearts are so heavy, yet full of gratitude for the brother-like friendship we had with WJ. BJ & WJ went thru many ups/downs together. Our hearts are also overflowing with love & sympathy for Charlotte /Randy/Josh. Such great stewards they'll always be of WJ's life & legacy. We are always here to do anything possible for any of them! Please call - keep in touch with us. We love you so much!Bobby Joe-Betty Hibbard
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 27, 2017 Our hearts are so heavy, yet full of gratitude for the brother-like friendship we had with WJ. BJ & WJ went thru many ups/downs together. Our hearts are also overflowing with love & sympathy for Charlotte /Randy/Josh. Such great stewards they'll always be of WJ's life & legacy. We are always here to do anything possible for any of them! Please call - keep in touch with us. We love you so much!Dorothy McWhorter
Ft. Worth, TX Sunday, September 24, 2017 A man of unlimited interests. An outstanding role model.Debbie Roberts Frost
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 I worked in my first job in the Pharmacy Soda Fountain at W.J.'s pharmacy. It was a great to have a job during high school. He will be missed by many friends.Warmest Regards to your family, your in our prayers
Winnie Roberts
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 W. J. was a good friend to Vernon & I. Vernon & W.J. had many good conversations at the Drug Store sharing a cup of coffee. Prayers are with your family. WinnieJerry and Ann Carlton
Fayetteville, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 We are so sorry to hear that W.J. has passed away. Heard too late to attend funeral but our thoughts and prayers are with all the family during this sad time. He will be missed by us all but we have comfort in knowing he is now in a better place. We met W.J. for first time in 1965 when we moved to Monticello as an employee of Arkansas Power & Light Company. We rented a house from W.J. and I played on his City Rexall basketball team. Coffee most mornings at City Rexall where we attempted to solve the problems of the day. After several transfers with AP&L, we moved back to Monticello in 1991 and again renewed our friendship. Relocated again from Monticello but continued to stay in touch. Yes, a good friend gone to a better place. Ann and I want to express our sincere sympathy to the family during this time of loss. We are so sorry for the pain you bear and the loss that you're feeling right now. We pray that brighter days will come your way and that time and prayers will lessen your sorrow. God bless.Robin Johnson
Monticello, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 Charlotte and family,God has gained such a kind man and always with a smile. His friendship and kindness has marked many life's and what a tribute to him. Our love and prayers with each of you.
Robin and Kenny Johnson
Gail Kizer
Dermott, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 W. J. was my Pharmacist/friend until he retired from that profession. We remained friends through our love for horses. He always had time to talk to me and always was friendly and courteous. He has a wonderful family and will definitely be missed.Dr Sam Wherry
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 22, 2017 Charlotte McKiever and Dr. William Randall McKiever and Members of the Family: The Transformation of W.J. McKiever by El Shaddhi The Almighty God and King Jesus Christ from Mortality into Immortality brings to the close the finale of the Trailblazer Pioneers of the Second Half of the 20th Century of whom via his unconditional allegiance of the Betterment of Monticello/Drew County Arkansas whether Business, Industry, Educational, Economic/Community Development W.J. McKiever over the last 50 years ruled with Honor and Integrity in Local, County Constitutional Elected Alderman/Quorum Court, Boards and Commissions not just a member but a Roman Senator Replica Power enforcer who was the integral positive plus power broker for each and every Initatives that transformed Monticello/Drew County Arkansas from a Second and Third World Socio-economic Settings into a vibrant 1st World Rural Role Model(Flagship) Socio-economic Settings in the Lower Mississippi Delta Mid South USA.This Giant of a Christian Gentlemen Loved God and King Jesus Christ and he for decades Sunday School Teacher at the 1st United Methodist Church Monticello Arkansas.
In no way the Death of W.J. McKiever leads him into a state of nothingness but an Open Door that Leads him into everlasting life with El Shaddai The Almighty God and King Jesus Christ.
So Be it!
W.J. MCKEEVER
Gayle Lashley
Orlando, FL Thursday, September 21, 2017 Charlotte and family thinking of you with love. W.J. will be missed.Mr. & Mrs. Terry L. Jordan
Jonesboro, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 Our prayers are with the family.Linda Barber
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 I was so sorry to hear of WJ's passing. He was a great man and admired by everyone whose life he touched. All my thoughts are with his family at this time.Becky Bolin
, TX Thursday, September 21, 2017 I was so sorry to hear about WJ. He was a long time family friend and wonderful community leader. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.Rosalie Emerson
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 I am praying that the Lord will comfort and be with you at this time.Charlotte Anderson
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 Ms. Charlotte, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. W.J. He was a very good friend to me and my family. He will truly be missed. You are in our prayers. Love, Charlotte AndersonWoodrow Rial
Bristow, OK Thursday, September 21, 2017 I am deeply saddened for your loss and your family is in our prayers,Mr. W.J. was one of the nicest and loving men I have ever had the privilege of being able to know. I always made a special effort to see him when I made a trip home.
While it maybe a little darker here on earth it is certainly brighter in heaven now that he is there.
Lee Ann Tadel
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 I am so sorry for your loss. My mom and dad thought so much if your dad. It was a very special man.mary cooper
monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 RIP WJ!! SO SORRY TO HEARD ABOUT WJ, JUST TALK TO HIM ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO!! HE WILL BE MISSED!!Wanda Morphis
Star City, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 I am so sorry for your loss. W.J. was one of a kind. He helped me and my family numerous times. He was always ready to help anyone. He was a great friend. He will be missed.TOM MCGINNIS
Johnson City, TN Thursday, September 21, 2017 So sorry to hear of the passing of a great man and one of my brother Mike's best friends. Have fond memories of WJ and the drug store from my days in Monticello. My sympathy to all.Pam Beard
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 So sorry to hear about Mr. WJ. Praying for all the family at this sad time. He was a very nice man that was a friend to all of my family through the years. He will be missed. Love Mike and Pam BeardMary Sue Price
Little Rock, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 W.J. gave me my first job and I enjoyied it so much. I have so many fond memories of him. I love you Charlotte and my thoughts and prayers are with you. You are like my sister.Ashley Price
Little Rock, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to Charlotte and all the family. W.J. Was so sweet to me as a child and I have the best memories of him giving me a wooden nickel every time I came into the drug store. He was a good man.Coach Harold and Carolyn Tilley
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.Amy (Harper) Chapman
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. W.J. will be truly missed by so manyJanice Gladden Wiggam
Hot Springs Village, AR Thursday, September 21, 2017 I am so sorry to read about W. J.'s death. He was a true friend to all my family, especially my mother Claudie Wolfe Gladden and her sisters, Marscille Williams and Ella Helm. He will be truly missed by all. I pray God will give you peace and comfort at this sad time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.With love & sympathy,
Janice
Don Ross
Zachary, LA Thursday, September 21, 2017 My prayers are with you & W.J.Larry & Janie Rabb Fuller
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 WJ was an Icon in Drew County. It was a privilege to know him. We shall miss him. May God grant his family courage at this difficult time.Gloria Schwab
Bentonville, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 WJ gave me the first job I ever had at the drug store . I was in college and he was always very supportive and education always came first . I'm so sorry for the loss of a good friend. Prayers for all of the family .Rev. Dr. Ronnie Tucker
Chambersburg, PA Wednesday, September 20, 2017 To the McKiever Family,My heart was saddened to hear of the death of Mr. W.J. McKiever, the man who gave me my first job and allowed me to work at City Rexall Drug Store until the day I graduated from College. I am forever grateful for all that Mr. McKiever invested into my life. Who would have ever thought that a little fellow mopping drug store floors would turn out to be a preacher and college professor. I am praying for the family, I am so sorry that I cannot be there is person. It was a pleasure and a blessing being able to work for Mr. McKiever and to know him and his family. May God richly bless each of you and may God guide you through the days ahead.
You will always be in my prayers,
Rev. Dr. Ronnie Tucker
Bob Prestridge
Hot Springs Vlg., AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 W.J. Was known and loved by so many and He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers for the family.Kent davis
Maumelle, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 He was a dear friend for yrs, we l traded horses been a bunch of places, I am so sorry prayers for the hole familylinda funderburg
monticello, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 monticello has lost a good friend.. so have I RIP you will be missed by many ...Beth Rothwell
Orlando, FL Wednesday, September 20, 2017 Sending love and prayers from the Rothwell Family in Orlando, Florida.Alvin and Irma James
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 To family: our thoughts and prayers with you.Brandy Milton
Warren, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 WJ made such a huge impact on my life and meant so so much to me! I loved working with him and how he knew EVERYONE. I looked up to him and he felt like family. He was nice regardless of who you were, he didn't care because he loved everyone! I'm praying so so hard for you Mrs Charlotte! He was truly an AMAZING man!!Pat Savage Montgomery
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 My thoughts and prayers are with you all.JIM TRIMM
BROOMFIELD, CO Wednesday, September 20, 2017 W..J. WAS MR..DREW CENTRAL, MR. MONTICELLO AND LOVED BY EVERYONE WHO KNEW HIM. MAY YOUR CUP ALWAYS BE FULL ,THE SKYS CLEAR, YOUR SAILS FULL.....LOVE TO FAMILY......JIM "ACE" TRIMM
BERNADINE JONES
WARREN, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 I WORKED WITH W.J. at SEAHDC. I REMEMBER MEETING HIM WHEN I WORKED AT MONARK BOATS AS A SECRETARY. HE WAS A VERY NICE MAN AND SO VERY SMART. PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY AS THEY LEARN TO LIVE WITHOUT HIM.Nancy Early
Monticello, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 WJ was one of my favorite men who was a friend of my parents. I remember going down to the drug sore after school and getting either a shake or a soda at the soda fountain. That was a favorite thing to do after school.I was so sorry to read about his death on the computer just now. Charlotte, I am praying for you as you walk through this valley , as the Bible says.
Dale Kizer
White Hall, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 WJ was one of my best friends. We really enjoyed our cutting horse shows that both he and Charlotte participated in. He and I had many personal talks over the years and someone I really confided in. Charlotte, I am just heart-broken.Rebecca Sibley Clancy
Clinton, MS Wednesday, September 20, 2017 Mrs. McKiever you and your family are in my prayers. I always loved visited with W. J. when I would see him at the pharmacy or just in town somewhere. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him. Love, Rebecca Sibley ClancyDennis Wells
Springdale, AR Wednesday, September 20, 2017 So sorry to hear of the passing of W. J., he was a life long friend of the family. Prayers for the family.Dennis Wells