Michael “Mike” William Crotty

age 73, died peacefully on Monday at UAMS in Little Rock with his devoted wife and loving brother by his side. Born in El Dorado, Arkansas to Charles Lawrence Crotty and Helen Reba Pippin Crotty, he was the first of the infamous “Crotty Boys.” After spending a little time in the National Guard, Mike decided to come back to his oil field roots, spending much of his career at Cross Oil Refinery in Smackover. His true passions though, lay in gardening, hunting, fishing, and cooking for his large family. He was affectionately known as 'Poppy' and “Uncle Mike”—a title he wore with pride, even though he was not truly an uncle or poppy to all who loved him.

Mike was known for an infectious smile, bright blue

eyes, the sweet smell of his cologne, always dressing to the nines, contagious laughter, larger than life personality and embracing hugs that let you know everything was going to be okay. His unwavering commitment to those he loved, combined with his genuine love of life, inspired everyone he knew. Whether it was through cooking for family gatherings, sharing vegetables from his garden, spoiling his grandchildren, or simply just lending a helping hand to his neighbors, Mike cared for and loved people. If you called him your friend, you knew you were loved.

Preceding him in death were his parents, a son, Colburn “Cole” Michael Crotty, and brothers James “Jim” Lawrence Crotty and Patrick “Pat” David Crotty, and a host of loved ones. before him. Mike is having the most joyous reunion in Heaven with the ones he loved so dear, especially his baby boy!

Survived by his bride of 28 years Ginger Crotty of Hampton, four children, Colleen Crotty of El Dorado, Amy McDonald Farris of Hampton, Adam McDonald (April) of Hampton, and Michelle Taylor Parnell of El Dorado, 4 granddaughters Maggie Crotty of Carlisle, Allison and Gracely Farris of Hampton and Hannah McCarty of El Dorado, 3 grandsons Brody Crotty of El Dorado, Riley Farris and Ayson McDonald of Hampton, a younger brother John Crotty of Norphlet, a brother-in-law Mark Rinehart of Hampton, host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, family, and friends. His legacy will live on as those he touched think back on his beautiful smile and his ability to be a constant source of encouragement to those he loved.

Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00p.m. Thursday, December 12 at Hampton First Assembly of God Church. Funeral services will immediately follow with Brother Rickey Smith and Brother Dustin Sanders officiating. Burial will follow at Earnest Cemetery in Tinsman, Arkansas under the direction of Benton Funeral Home with Brother Rickey Smith presiding. Pallbearers will be Brody Crotty, Ayson McDonald, Riley Farris, Daniel Crotty, Zach Rinehart, Jordan Gorman, and Floyd Walter Nutt.

Memorials may be made to Hampton First Assembly of God Youth Group.

Rest in peace, Mike, you made sure we all knew you loved us before you left, and we will never forget it.