It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith, Curtis Leonard Vandergriff, who passed away at the age of 79.

Curtis Leonard Vandergriff was born on October 8, 1946, in Pocahontas, Arkansas, to Curtis and Faye White Vandergriff. He was a proud graduate of Dalton High School, and he excelled in basketball. He was given the opportunity to play college basketball, but with a young marriage already begun, he chose a path of responsibility—committing himself to providing for his family.

He was first married to Janice Rickman, and together they had one son, Chris.

He began his career in the natural gas pipeline industry, starting with the hard work of picking up and clearing rocks. Through determination, grit, and strong work ethic, he rose to operating a winch truck and eventually to overseeing entire jobs and being the Teamster president for the state of Oklahoma. He took great pride in his work and dedicated 40+ years to the natural gas industry.

On March 31, 2001, he married Winona Allen Stewart. They worked together for many years and traveled over a million miles.

Though he loved his career, his greatest calling came with the birth of his first granddaughter, Caitlyn Grace. At that moment, he made the decision to retire and devote himself fully to being a grandfather—a role he cherished above all else. Being “PawPaw” was his greatest joy, and he embraced it with his whole heart.

He found immense happiness in spending time with his grandchildren, Chase, Brayden, Caden, Brenden, Jaxson, Emerson, and in their activities. Whether cheering from the stands or taking the grandkids to Branson, he created memories that will be treasured forever. He loved to brag about his grandchildren to anyone who would listen, beaming with pride at every opportunity.

He was a devoted father to his son, Chris and his wife Christy. He took every chance to share with them how proud he was of them and how much he loved them. His love for his family was constant, strong, and deeply felt.

Through his marriage to Winona, he is also survived by his daughters by marriage, Laurie and husband David Prater and their children and Jennifer and husband Jeff Cooper and their children.

He was a faithful member and board member of Full Gospel Tabernacle in Shirley, Arkansas.

Above all, he was a man of God who lived his life guided by faith. His character, kindness, and unwavering love left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

He will be remembered as a great man—steadfast, loving, hardworking, and deeply devoted to his family. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, May 3 at 2 PM at Antioch Cemetery with Heston McFatridge officiating under direction of McNabb Funeral Home.