RB Ard

RB Ard died after a short illness in Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center on Sunday, August 18, 2019 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 82

RB is survived by his wife, Estella Ard; children: Linda Ard-Bonner (Steve) Los Angeles, CA; Bonny Madison (Ken)Colorado Springs, CO; Loretta Ard Rockwall, TX, Sherry Dealmas Rockwall TX; Darylyn Ard (Jennifer) Los Lunas, NM and Consuela Calloway Compton, CA; 8 siblings: Louise Davis (Phoenix, AZ); Arthur Ard (Fort Worth, TX), Doris Jones (Tucson, AZ), Easter Bush (Tucson, AZ),Ester Marion(LD) Temple, TX; Frank Ard (Bridget) Phoenix, AZ; Joyce Darnell (Richard) Fort Worth, TX; Margaret Ards (Tucson, AZ) and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.   He is preceded in death by his parents Fed and Etta Ard, daughter, Helen Marie Brown, son RB Ard, Jr. and grandson Jimmy Ard.

RB was born on June 12, 1937 in Porter Springs, TX to Fed and Etta Ard.  He went to school in Vistula, TX.  He and his family moved to Arizona when he was a young boy. At the age of 18, he married Estella Harry, in 1955.  He joined the United States Navy, retiring after serving 20 years. Most of his military career was served in California.  After retirement, he continued working as a paint and body man, as well as a certified commercial truck driver.  Over 64 years, the couple welcomed 7, children; 11 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

RB was a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend Darnell Smith.    He was also a member of the Navajo Elks Lodge, holding many positions during his membership.

The viewing will be held on August 29, 2019 from 5-6 pm for the family and 6-8 pm for guests at Strong Thorne Mortuary at 1100 Coal Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM, 87106.  The funeral is scheduled for 11 am at Macedonia MBC, on August 30, 2019, with a repass immediately following the burial. Reverend Darnell Smith will officiate the ceremony.  The burial will be at Fairview Cemetery All are welcome to attend and celebrate RB Ard’s life. 

The Ard family would like to thank you all for your care, comfort and kindness.  We would also like to thank the doctors and nurses at Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center.  In addition, we would like to thank the staff of Strong Thorne Mortuary.