R. Scott Ferrell

R. Scott Ferrell, 60, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away on September 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and profound service. A man of quiet strength and unwavering purpose, Scott transformed his own journey into a source of hope for others.

Born on February 10, 1965, Scott was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William H. and Dorothy Genelle Ferrell, whose love and guidance shaped the man he became. Their memory remained a constant source of strength throughout his life.

Scott celebrated 13 years of sobriety—a milestone that marked not only personal triumph but a deep commitment to helping others find their own path to recovery. He was an accomplished carpenter, a craftsman whose work reflected both skill and soul. His creativity extended beyond the workshop, as he also appeared in an independent film, embracing life’s unexpected opportunities with humility and grace.

He served as a life coach and security guard for the Community Rescue Mission, offering both guidance and protection to those in need. As a Peer Recovery Counselor for Sebastian County, Scott was instrumental in bringing peer recovery programs to incarcerated individuals battling addiction. His work in the jail system gave voice to the voiceless and hope to the forgotten.

Scott is survived by his partner in life, Deanna Heisler; her brother Ramses Ford; and his newfound family: Deanna’s son Zachary Quick and spouse Kaylee, along with grandchildren Braxton and Lillian Grace. He was lovingly embraced by “The Three Outlaws”—Samantha & Will Francis with grandchild DeannaLynn, Jackie & Arron Wittmuss with grandchild Freya, and Jordan & Nicholas Delahoussaye with grandchild Malakai.

He is also survived by his sisters Donna Dianne Ferrell and spouse James “KOZ” Callison, and Susan Ruiz; nieces and nephews Brandy & Michael Calles, Bianca & Roger Sanchez, Nathan Ruiz, Zachary D. Gonzalez, and Cameron & Tauna Ruiz; and great-nieces and nephews Ethan Jace Sanchez, Eli Jordan Sanchez, Dylan Ruiz, Madison Genelle Sanchez, and Oaklynn Ruiz.

Scott’s life was a testament to second chances, quiet courage, and the power of human connection. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the many lives he touched—not just for what he did, but for who he was: a man who turned pain into purpose and never stopped believing in redemption.

Visitation will take place Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 2:00pm-4:00pm at Edwards Funeral Home, 201 N 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901. A private memorial will be held to honor Scott’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to organizations supporting addiction recovery and reentry programs, in Scott’s name.