Melvin Ray Fletcher, also known as Pete, was born to Melvin and Dorthy Fletcher on August 27,1938 in the state of Missouri. Pete went to be with the Lord on November 15,2024 in Gravette Arkansas where he lived for many years.

Like many of his generation, Pete left school early in life, because he was needed at home to work and help his family. Throughout his life, Pete held many jobs. In his youth he was a logger and worked at a sawmill with his brothers.

He enjoyed fishing, country music and being with his family…. (most of the time).

Pete made his own way and is, perhaps, remembered by many as an entrepreneur. For the last twenty years of his working career Pete and his wife Betty owned their own business, Fletcher Backhoe, operating heavy equipment. He was known as one of the best and most talented in his field.

Before starting his own business, he began his career with Cooper Industry in Bella Vista where he helped build several of the Lakes that many in northwest Arkansas enjoy today.

Pete's independent spirit influenced many in his family. His legacy and influence lives on today with his children and grandchildren, several of whom own and operate their own businesses. He affected so many of us and truly made an impact on our lives that cannot be measured. He had many titles in life, son, husband, father, grandpa, Poppy, uncle, friend, father-in-law. Pete loved his family and worked hard his whole life to provide for them.

Pete was ready to meet his creator. To be reunited with the loved ones that have gone on before him. He will be missed and never forgotten. A unique and special individual, we will carry him in our hearts until we meet again.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty Fletcher; daughter, Kay Morgan; son-in-law, Jim Morgan; grand son-in-law, Bobby Foster; one great grandson; three great granddaughters; and his two brothers, Don Fletcher and Doyle Fletcher.

Pete is survived by one son, Joe Fletcher (Pam) of Hiwasse, Ark); two daughters, Lisa Riggins (Mike) of Gravette Ark, and Rae Jean Smith (Gale) of Sulphur Springs Arkansas; ten grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Bella Vista Funeral Home, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, AR 72715. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. also at the Bella Vista Funeral Home, followed by a burial at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Gravette, AR.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.