This resolution honors the life and legacy of Lawrence Ervin Bearden, who passed away on February 3, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Chidester, Arkansas, Bearden was a dedicated family man, a veteran of the United States Army Reserve, and a prominent figure in the oil industry. He was actively involved in education, serving on the Smackover School District Board and the Southern Arkansas University Foundations Board, where he contributed significantly to the university's growth and development. His commitment to community service extended to various local organizations, including the Smackover Jaycees and the Smackover Library Board, as well as mission work in Haiti.

The resolution recognizes Bearden's unwavering dedication to public service, education, and economic development in Arkansas and beyond. It highlights his leadership roles, including his presidency of the Smackover School District Board and his appointment to the Arkansas Workforce Investment Board. Bearden's legacy is characterized by his integrity, compassion, and commitment to improving the lives of others, leaving a lasting impact on his family, community, and the state of Arkansas. The resolution concludes with an expression of condolences to his family and acknowledges the enduring influence of his contributions.