Oliver J. Thrist,74 a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted servant of both his nation and faith, transitioned on January 7, 2024, in Hot Springs, AR. Born on July 28, 1949, in Camden, Arkansas, to Andrew and Hannah Thrist.

Oliver is preceded in death by his parents, his children; Olivia and Andrew, his brothers; Louis, LeeRoy, William, James, Alvin, Paul, Thomas, Decatur, Ugene, and Elmo. his sisters; Emma, Rosie, Mary, Pauline, and Charline.

Oliver graduated from Lincoln High School in 1967, shortly after he was drafted into the United States Army in May of 1969, and courageously served as a communication specialist during the Vietnam War. Yet, his greatest calling arrived over 40 years ago when he felt the divine beckoning to the ministry, embracing it with his whole heart. Oliver's life was marked by a profound dedication to family, service, and spiritual calling. His journey was one of unwavering commitment and selflessness.

His life was a testament to love and devotion. In 1993, Oliver found his life partner and soulmate, Lauretta, and they embarked on a 30-year journey together. His devotion to her was unparalleled; he made it a ritual to express his love and assurance of protection to her and their family every single day.
Oliver's love extended beyond words. He was a man of action and compassion, touching lives wherever he went. Whether it was his dedication to God's work, his employment at Ford, managing a bar, or working in the sanitation department at the Colonial Baking Company for 18 years upon retirement, Oliver's warmth and kindness shone through.

His fondness for fishing, especially for catfish, was known to many, but his greatest catch was the love and joy he brought to those around him. His favorite scripture, Romans 8:28, and his habitual phrases like "Come, Holy Spirit," and "I love you" reflected the depth of his faith and love.

Oliver is survived by his adoring wife, Lauretta, and his son; Oliver C. (Cherelle)of Rockford, IL. Bonus Children; Alton (Dr. Kristal) of Normal, IL., Tony (Tequila), of Rosenburg, TX, Emtesha (Charles) of Surprise, AZ., and Mela'nie of Phoenix, AZ. His siblings are Emmitt (Mary)of Buffalo, NY, Ralph (Marilyn) from Kansas City, Mo., and Elbert (Mary) from St. Louis. Mo. Raymond (Diane) of Camden, AR. Opal and Marilyn both of Camden, AR., and Earvine of St. Louis, MO. His grandchildren Malika, Myles, Naya, Toni, Langston, Landon, Layla, Sanaii, Jeremiah, Jabri, and Shade. His great-grandchildren JaSiah, Gabby, Champ. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends memories of his kindness and warmth.

A visitation to honor Oliver's life will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Carrigan Memorial Funeral Service in Hot Springs, AR. The Funeral Service will follow on Friday, January 26, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Roanoke Baptist Church, 236 Whittington Ave Hot Springs, AR 71901 where his legacy will be celebrated. The burial will be 1:00 pm at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery 1501 West Maryland Ave North Little Rock, AR 72120.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.