Brian McAlister

Brian Keith McAlister, age 63, of Lonoke Ark., passed away on June 18, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. After a short but hard-fought battle with brain cancer, Brian departed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he cherished.

Brian was born on February 19, 1961, to J.A. and Shirley McAlister. From a young age, Brian's exuberance for life and his boundless humor endeared him to all who knew him. His younger years were enriched by the guidance of his beloved Grandpa Mac, who instilled in him a deep affinity for nature and wildlife and a strong work ethic through their days working and hunting together on the family farm. His childhood was filled with many outdoor adventures with his cousins and classmates where his goofiness and ability to lighten any situation with a joke or a silly gesture made him a favorite among his cousins and friends.

Brian's greatest joys in life were his two girls, Leigh and Lauren. As a proud dad, he never missed an opportunity to capture them in a photo or boast about their achievements. He cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was cheering on the Razorbacks with Leigh or biking down Arkansas’ trails with Lauren. Be it an early morning meteor shower, a sunset hike at Pinnacle Mountain, or braving the bluffs of Greers Ferry, Brian gave his children a precious gift—a sense of awe for the world around them and the courage to explore it. His children were the center of his universe, and his knack for noticing the small wonders of the world will live on through them.

Brian was a dedicated employee at the State Department of Information Services for 30 years. He was respected by colleagues for his dedication and strong work ethic.

 Outside of work, Brian was known for his deep commitment to his alma mater and the life-long friendships he formed with his classmates. As an avid Jackrabbit, he never missed an opportunity to attend a class reunion, support a local fundraising event, or help a friend. Whether it was a surprise coffee or an impromptu tree trimming, Brian was always eager to lend a helping hand.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Deborah McKenzie McAlister, and his grandparents: Orville and Vertis McAlister and Felix and Daisy Price.

He will be fondly remembered for his infectious spirit and big heart by his parents, J.A. and Shirley McAlister and daughters, Leigh and Lauren McAlister as well as many cousins and friends.

The funeral will be held at Boyd Funeral Home on June 22, 2024. Visitation is at 1 p.m., with the memorial service held at 2 p.m. and the burial following at the Lonoke Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to CARTI’s Tour de Rock in Brian's honor. https://www.carti.com/foundation/events/carti-tour-de-rock/