Mr. Travis Benard Hempstead

Travis Benard Hempstead, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 21, 2025, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, at the age of 83. Born on May 23, 1942, in McKamie, Arkansas, to L.C. and Esther Lenora Hempstead. Travis grew up in the backwoods of Arkansas, where he developed the values of hard work, resilience, and family that would shape his entire life. A graduate of Ellis High School (Lafayette County Training School), Travis worked in pulpwood in his younger years and carried with him the wisdom and strength of those early lessons. Known for his radiant smile, kind spirit, and deep love for his family, Travis touched the lives of everyone he met. He found joy in simple pleasures, especially gardening, tending to his yard, and recycling. Though he was a Christian, Travis practiced faith privately, holding church in his own heart, and living as an example through kindness and love. He was a very generous man and would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. Travis lived later years of his life in Gurdon, Arkansas, where he was deeply loved by his community. In his last couple of years, he spent time in Hot Springs, Arkansas. A place he had always loved and dreamed of living, and it was there that he entered eternal rest. Travis was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, Roy and Lena Hempstead, and his daughter, Robbie Marie Hempstead. Travis’s family was the center of his life. He was the proud father of 2 children through his relationship with Ruth Helen Rucks (Heath). Cherished memories will remain with his son, Wesley Bernard Hempstead of Gurdon, Arkansas. Travis was the loving grandfather that brought immense joy to his life to Raphael De’Bareo Hempstead of Texarkana, Texas; his sister, Lydia Montgomery of Chicago, Illinois; his brother Malvin Douglas Hempstead (Frances) on Harbor City, California, and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Travis also opened his heart to bonus children whom he loved deeply, Patsy Witcher (Charles), Patricia Priggett (Andre), Billy Grissom (Gina), Ernest Heath, Terry Robertson (Betty), and Darren Sparks (Candy). His care and guidance touched every life he encountered, and he treated everyone as part of his extended family. Travis will be remembered as a man of wisdom, joy, and quiet strength. He taught those around him that there is value in hard work, and that the rewards of such work are treasures to hold on to. He cherished his family and community, and his smile and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he is gone from our sight, Travis’s love and lessons will live on for generations to come. Celebration of Life services will be held Saturday, August 30th, 2025, at R.L. Reed Funeral Home Chapel in Magnolia, Arkansas at 2:30 p.m., with a direct burial to follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Stamps, Arkansas, under the direction of R.L. Reed Funeral Home, LLC. Visitation will be Friday, {Aug. 29th}, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at R.L. Reed Funeral Home in Magnolia, Arkansas. “For precaution due to the COVID-19, Masks are Encouraged but Not Required While Attending the Services and During Visitation Hours. However, wearing masks ensures safety for you and others. Thank you.”

Mr. Travis Benard Hempstead

May 23, 1942 - August 21, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Mr. Travis Benard Hempstead

May 23, 1942 - August 21, 2025

Obituary Notification

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information