Sidney Wayne Gifford

Sidney Wayne Gifford, 83, died Friday, February 28, 2020 at The Manor in Poplar Bluff.

He was the first-born son of the late Lemuel and Ruby (Sollars) Gifford of Williamsville.  Sidney graduated from PBHS Class of 1954, then went on to receive his bachelor’s from Arkansas State University and his master’s degree at Cape Girardeau.  He taught at Hendrickson Elementary, Neelyville High School and Poplar Bluff High School where he was Science Dept. Chairman for 18 yrs.   Sidney also served as NEA President for 2 terms.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening, and was a member of the local NRA.  Sidney could always be found at the local “Sale Barn” each Friday morning.  He was well known for driving around town giving vegetables to the elderly and poor, as well as donating to the Northside Nutrition Center.

On Dec. 23, 1961 he married Shelby Jean Bearden in Poplar Bluff.  She survives.

Sidney is also survived by three brothers; Dr. Vernon (Pete) Gifford of Starkville, Miss., Lowell (Dean) Gifford, wife Lynda of Oceanside, Ca. and James L. Gifford, wife Pat of Jeff City, Mo; one sister, Jane Gifford of Poplar Bluff and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m.  Friday, March 6, 2020 at Cotrell Funeral Chapel with the funeral service following at 11 am. Mr. Vernon Curry and Sidney’s nephew Robert Vester will officiate. Burial will be at Three Springs Cemetery in Butler County.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Sidney’s memory to the Paragould Children’s Home, 5515 Walcott Rd. Paragould, AR 72450.