Kenneth Chilton

Kenneth R. "Tooterbill" Chilton, 74, of Benton died Wednesday, March 12, 2008. He was born Jan. 13, 1934, in Thornburg, Ark. His childhood friends knew him as "Tooterbill," to which his grandchildren transitioned to "Pa Toot."

He was a member of First Baptist church in Benton and a 1955 graduate of Bryant High School. He attended Little Rock University and opened his own accounting practice in 1965, where for the next 40 years his children and grandchildren played and were raised. He was also a member of the State Board of Accountants, founding member of the Future Panther Football program in Benton and coached baseball for the Benton Optimist Club.

He is survived by four children, son, Mark Chilton and wife Susan, daughter Renee James and husband Gary, son Eric Chilton and wife Amy and son Ken Chilton and wife Patti; one brother, Jay Chilton and wife Kay; and nine grandchildren, Josh James, Jade James, Sarah Chilton, Ally Chilton, Mattison Chilton, Bonner Chilton, Jenny Chilton, Grayson Chilton and Drew Chilton.

Mr. Chilton was preceded in death by his father, Joel Chilton; mother, Agurtha Hunt Chilton; brother, Charles Chilton; and sister, Eva Chilton.

After battling a series of surgeries and complications, he left his loving family to be with the Lord on March 12. He was a faithful and devoted father, grandfather, brother and friend and will be greatly missed by his family and friends for his kindness, gentleness and humor.

Funeral service was held Saturday, March 15, at First Baptist Church with Dr. Rick Grant officiating. Interment followed in Harmony Cemetery on Highway 10.

Pallbearers were Russell Goodwin, Lanny Fite, Robert Cloud, Joey Chilton, Fred Swaim, Gerald Francis, Arnold Wright and Alton Robertson.

Funeral arrangements were by Roller-Ballard Funeral Home.

The family wants to give special thanks to Stoneybrook Nursing and Rehab Center for all their care and love towards their father "Toot". Also, to Saline Memorial Hospice and the "WAGS" friends at First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boys and Girls Club, 105 Cox Street, Benton, AR 72015.