Wendell Eddie Ashabranner

Wendell Eddie Ashabranner, 52, of Manila, died Friday, May 27, 2011, at his home. Born at Blytheville he was the son of Jessie and the late Eddie D. Ashabranner and had lived most of his life in Manila. He was a graduate of Manila High School and attended Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. Wendell was a retired cotton consultant and will be remembered for his love of sports, especially golf and baseball, and his great sense of humor. He was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Manila.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a nephew, Justin Veach.

Survivors include his mother, Jessie Holder Ashabranner, of Manila; a son, Kyle Ashabranner of Manila; two daughters and sons-in-law, Emily and Will DeSpain of Manila, Megan and Hunter Jackson of Manila; a grandson, Ryan DeSpain of Manila; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Sheila and Larry Bourland of York, Penn., Thelma and Randy Veach of the Lost Cane Community; nephews and nieces, Brandon and Juliane Veach, Gretchen and Darren Rudham, Matthew and Jessica Bourland, Kristy and Zach Beliew. Wendell also leaves several great nieces and nephews and two aunts, Dora Gaye Mattheus and Doris Robertson.

Graveside funeral service was 2 p.m. Monday at the Manila Cemetery with Randy Veach and Rev. Jerry Pentecost officiating. Services were under the direction of Howard Funeral Service of Manila.

Friends may sign the online guest register howardfuneralservice.com.