Cleon Green, age 72, of Nashville, Ark., passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, determination, and love.
Born Sept. 3, 1952, with cerebral palsy, Cleon faced life’s challenges with an indomitable spirit, inspiring all who knew him. Cleon was preceded in death by his parents, D.L. and Eva Green; his brother, Floyd Green (Barbara); and his dear friend, Charles Reese, who will forever remain in the hearts of Cleon’s family.
He is survived by his siblings, Alan Green (Michelle) and LaDonna Curtis (John), both of Nashville; his stepbrother, Robin Miller; and his special friend, Billie Jones of Murfreesboro, along with a community of friends who were like family.
At age five, Cleon attended Easter Seals in Jacksonville for three months of therapy before returning to Nashville to begin kindergarten at The Little Red School House. With the support of John Shaddox and dedicated friends who carried him between classes, Cleon completed all 12 grades of public school. In a touching tribute, Cleon requested these same friends serve as his pallbearers, carrying him to his final resting place, as he planned his service in 2019 during one of his many triumphant recoveries. His pallbearers, as he wished, are Allen Ray, Max Tackett, Bo Castleberry, Milton Puryear, Frank Puryear, Jerry Compton, Johnny Graves, Mike Graves (whom Mike jokingly teased would cost Cleon $100), Buddy Tribble, Bobby Jamison, and the late Randy Jamison. After high school, Cleon pursued higher education, attending the University of Central Arkansas for three semesters and later Lubbock Christian College, studying psychology. Though college proved challenging, Cleon’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to open a vitamins and supplements store in Nashville in 1978, where he sold Shaklee products for many years. A passionate advocate, Cleon was appointed to the Governor’s Council for the Disabled in 1988, serving for 19½ years. His work took him to Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Mackinac Island and beyond, amplifying the voices of those with disabilities.
In his community, Cleon was a beloved figure, supported by friends like Dr. Glenn Lance, who helped him achieve milestones such as completing a 5K and earning an award. Cleon’s vibrant personality shone brightly at Nashville Nursing Center and, for the past five years, at The Springs of Mine creek Health and Rehabilitation, where he humorously declared himself mayor, sheriff, bouncer, and weatherman. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at both facilities and to Dierksen Hospice, who provided exceptional care and became like family to Cleon. Cleon’s church family at Sunset Church of Christ was a cornerstone of his life, offering unwavering love and support. His faith and their care sustained him through the years. A celebration of Cleon’s life, planned by him in 2019, will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Sunset Church of Christ in Nashville, with visitation at 10 a.m. and the funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Nashville Cemetery. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the Nashville community and beyond.
