Lathan Floyd Erwin

Lathan Floyd Erwin, lovingly known to many as “Hunky,” passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 12, 1944, in Bradley County, Arkansas, to Lathan Loyd Erwin and Mary Maxine Thompson Erwin.

On April 8, 1965, Lathan married the love of his life, Sandra Lee Erwin. They shared nearly 55 years of marriage before Sandra’s passing on January 20, 2020. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work.

Lathan proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years before beginning a lifelong career in the logging industry. He dedicated more than five decades to logging, beginning in 1969, and was widely respected for his hard work, integrity, and commitment to the profession. In 2016, he was named Arkansas Forestry Association Logger of the Year, and in 2018 he and his family were recognized as Dallas County Farm Family of the Year, reflecting his dedication to Arkansas forestry and logging industry.

Lathan was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Sandra Lee Erwin, and his brother, Alvin Ray Erwin.

He is survived by his three sons, Greg Erwin and wife Karen, Jamie Erwin, Jeremy Erwin and wife Madonna all of Fordyce; siblings, Bobby Wayne Erwin and wife Brenda of Fordyce, Elizabeth Ann Herrington and husband John of Rison, James Randle “Randy” Erwin and wife Phillis of Fordyce, Ronnie Erwin and wife Kay of Fordyce, and Sandra Kay Tidball and husband Bob of Little Rock; seven grandchildren, Carlee Burns and husband Tyler, Kendyl Erwin, Lathan Erwin and wife Abbie, Judge Erwin and wife Karli, Rylee Erwin, Gage Erwin, Tannon Erwin and many nieces and nephews; two great grandchildren, Logan Burns and Harper Erwin; and lifelong friend Stacy Finley, who he thought of as a son. Also, survived by his companion, Ms. Mary Brown. Honored for her care, dedication, and companionship over the past several years.

The family will receive friends Monday from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Funeral services will follow visitation at 2:00 p.m. in the Benton Funeral Home Chapel with Dusty Rhodes and Rev. Debbie Head officiating. Burial will be at Stoney Point Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Stoney Point Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.