Claude William Cruthis Jr., affectionately known to most as "Big Bill" was born December 3, 1956, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, to Claude Senior and Katherine Haller Cruthis. Bill's life was defined by service and hard work. He married the love of his life, Sindy, in 1982. Bill and Sindy weren't just husband and wife for the past 42 years, they truly were best friends. He spent his early career as a farmer until 1996, cultivating the land he loved. He devoted several years to serving as a deputy sheriff in Monroe County, where he was known for his commitment to the community and his compassion for others. Bill also served briefly as mayor of Roe as well as serving many years as a volunteer firefighter, both roles that allowed him to contribute further to the community he called home at the time. He was a member of Roe Methodist Church and the Roe Men's Club as well.

In addition to his public service, Bill worked in construction and as a truck driver, always embracing the values of diligence and integrity. Outside of work, he found joy in a variety of hobbies that reflected his love for the outdoors and the cowboy lifestyle. He enjoyed riding horses, team roping, and engaging in cowboy action shooting. A passionate hunter, Bill cherished the time spent deer and duck hunting, particularly when surrounded by family and friends. Above all, Bill was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Bill was so proud of his family and unapologetically spoiled his grandkids rotten.

He passed away at home on October 15, 2024 at the age of 67 years old. He was preceded in death by his father, Claude Senior, and his brothers, Johnny and Terry. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Sindy Cruthis; his son, Trey and wife Leah Cruthis; and his cherished grandchildren, Ryanne, Drake, Reese, and Rowyn Cruthis as well as his mother, Katherine Cruthis and a host of extended family and friends. Bill's family was the center of his world, and he acquired immense joy from creating lasting memories with them.

Bill's warmth, verbosity, and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on through the stories he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he spread throughout his community and family.

Serving as Pallbearers: Greg Richardson, Glenn McCarthy, Jason Dominy, Bo Holden, Bill Frolich, Alex Bryant, Ben Chane. Honorary Pallbearers: Dennis Parker, Tommy Ives, Mike Walton, Roy Gray, Leroy Williams, Scott Warren, Gaylon Massengill

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Saturday, October 19th, 2024 at 10 AM at New Life Baptist Church in Alexander, AR with Bro. George McVay and Bro. John Venable officiating. A graveside service will follow at 3 PM at Roe Cemetery in Roe, AR. Visitation will be Friday, October 18, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Sheridan, Arkansas.

To honor his memory and continue Bill's legacy, memorials may be made to The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) scholarship fund.