Robert Lee Fulford

Homegoing services for Mr. Robert Lee Fulford, lovingly known to all as "Showboat," were held Saturday Feb. 23, 2019 at 11 O'clock a.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 1109 M. School Street, Dermott, Arkansas. Rev. Ricky Lattimore, Sr Pastor; Rev. Lawrence Glover, officiating.

Robert Fulford was loved by his community and recognized for his talent as a painter, author, singer and musician who inspired many young voices. He transitioned from this life at the age of 71 Feb. 18, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Cloyce Ann Fulford; his mother-in-law, Asilee Owens; his parents, two sisters (Lorraine and Bettye), and one brother (Willie).

"Showboat" was born in Lake Village, Arkansas to the late Robert Fulford and Bessie Mae Porter. He accepted Christ at a very young age and was a member of First Baptist Church in Dermott, Arkansas under the leadership of Rev. Lawrence Glover.

Robert graduated from Central High School in Lake Village, Arkansas in 1969. After graduation, he became a musician and opened his own business, Robert Fulford's Exterior and Interior Painting. But music filled his heart. As a gifted musician he had a tremendous ear for music. He played every instrument and sang with a gospel band for many years -- traveling and at home with churches. He helped form the Dermott Community Choir and played in many choirs across Southeast Arkansas.

[quote style="boxed"]The trumpeters and musicians joined in unison to give praise and thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments, the singers raised their voices in praise to the LORD and sang: 'He is good; his love endures forever.' Then the temple of the LORD was filled with the cloud. 2 Chronicles 5:13[/quote]

Those left to morn his passing and cherish his memory include:

• One son: Jacqueline Fulford-Hildreth of Jacksonville, AR
• One step-son: Anthony Owens of Chesapeake, VA
• One sister: Ethel Peoples of Little Rock, AR
• Seven grandchildren: Falon, Jacqutta', Porsha, Christopher Jr., Kyah, Toni, and TyTi'Yana
• Four great-grandchildren: Melanie, Madalyn, Levi and Ace
• Special friend: Jesse Burton
• And a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.
• Anna Bell Rivers, Joyce Ann Hardison, Shirley Wilson and Jacquelyn Walsh of Seattle, Washington

Robert Fulford will rest in Hurds Cemetery in Hurds, Arkansas. Funeral services entrusted to Dillard Funeral Home of Dermott, 210 Trotter Street.