Gerald Edwinn Hendricks

Gerald Edwinn Hendricks, lovingly known as "G Man," passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on June 23, 1963, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Gerald was a proud Christian who found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved playing his keyboard, listening to classic and hard rock music, painting, going to the movies, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. He had an incredible knowledge of college and professional baseball, basketball, and football. Those who knew him also knew he was famously a fair-weather fan. Gerald had a quick wit, a fierce sense of humor, and was never shy about sharing his opinions, making him unforgettable to everyone who knew him.

Gerald participated in the Special Olympics and spent many wonderful years working and living through Bost, Inc. His family is deeply grateful to Bost, its dedicated staff, and its generous donors for giving Gerald opportunities, independence, friendships, and some of the happiest years of his life.

A special thank you is extended to Kayla McAlister, Gerald's waiver worker for nine years, and to Janet Swan, who served as his waiver worker for six and a half years. Together, they enriched Gerald's life in countless ways—taking him shopping, to action movies, playing games with him, helping him cook, and supporting him in caring for his apartment. Kayla also took Gerald on memorable trips to Branson and Silver Dollar City. One of Gerald's greatest joys was carefully choosing cards and gifts for the people he loved, proudly using his own money to buy them.

In recent years, Gerald also made many cherished friendships with both the residents and employees at Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. His family sincerely thanks them for the kindness, care, and compassion they showed him.

Gerald is survived by his father, Walter (Ed) Hendricks; his stepmother, Pat Hendricks; his mother, Linda Hendricks; his sisters, Audrey Smart and family and Kelly Cloud and family; his aunt, Sandy Wagner; his cousin, Sarah Wagner Joglekar; his stepbrother, Len Robbins; his stepsister, Holly Preston; his cousins: Chris and Lisa Meyers, and Mike and Terri Meyers; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Even in his passing, Gerald's generous spirit continues to touch the lives of others through the gift of organ donation. His selfless final act saved multiple lives and brought hope not only to the recipients but also to their families and loved ones. His family could not be more proud. Gerald was, and always will be, a hero.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Lewis Funeral Home in Fort Smith, followed immediately by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A private family burial will take place afterward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bost, Inc., whose programs gave Gerald so many meaningful opportunities to work, grow, and enjoy life, or to Special Olympics Arkansas, P.O. Box 16388, North Little Rock, AR 72231-6388.

Gerald will be remembered for his laughter, his love of music and sports, his unwavering opinions, his generous heart, and the joy he brought to those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of kindness, friendship, and generosity will live on in the many lives he touched. His final gift to others through organ donation reflected the generous heart he shared throughout his life—a legacy that will continue for years to come.

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