Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has ordered the United States and Arkansas state flags to be flown at half-staff on March 1, 2025, in memory of former Congressman Beryl Franklin Anthony Jr. Anthony, who served as the U.S. Representative for Arkansas’ Fourth Congressional District from 1979 to 1993, passed away on January 11, 2025. His decades of dedication to public service left a lasting impact on the state and its people.
A Career Rooted in Law and Public Service
Born on February 21, 1938, in El Dorado, Arkansas, Anthony built a distinguished legal and political career. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law and returned to his hometown to practice law. He later served as an Assistant Attorney General in Little Rock under Bruce Bennett before being appointed Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Union County. His passion for justice led him to run for elected office, where he became Prosecuting Attorney for Union County.
During his tenure as Prosecuting Attorney, Anthony played a significant role in modernizing Arkansas’ criminal code while serving as President of the State Association of Prosecutors. His commitment to legal reform and dedication to justice earned him widespread respect throughout the state.
Leadership in Congress and Commitment to Rural Health Care
Anthony’s political career reached new heights in 1978 when he was elected to Congress. As a freshman representative, he was elected Vice President of his class, which helped him secure a position on the influential House Ways and Means Committee. During his 13 years in Congress, he focused on improving infrastructure, public finance, and health care access, particularly for rural communities.
The Arkansas Hospital Association and the American Hospital Association both recognized Anthony’s contributions to rural health care. He was instrumental in passing policies that expanded medical services in underprivileged areas and ensured that Arkansas’ small towns had access to critical health resources.
In the later years of his congressional service, Anthony founded the Anthony Public Finance Commission, an initiative designed to bring local government officials together to strengthen public infrastructure. His efforts led to better roads, bridges, and municipal resources across the state, further cementing his legacy as a public servant committed to improving the lives of Arkansans.
A Lasting Legacy Honored by the State
Anthony’s deep love for the state of Arkansas was evident throughout his career. His work in law, politics, and public policy left a profound mark on communities across the state. Governor Sanders, recognizing his enduring contributions, has called for the flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor.
“It is fitting and right for Arkansas to honor him and his years of service to her people,” reads the proclamation issued by Governor Sanders. By lowering the flags, the state pays tribute to a man whose commitment to public service and passion for justice defined his life.
Beryl Franklin Anthony Jr. will be laid to rest on March 1, 2025. His memory and contributions will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps, striving to serve Arkansas and its people with the same dedication and integrity.
