Mark Wimpy
Mar 28, 2019
Excerpt from HorizonAg Tribute
USA Rice extends condolences to the family and friends of Mark Wimpy, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, who passed away March 25, at the age of 59.
A fourth-generation farmer, Mark took great pride in his work and cared deeply for the rice industry, often serving as a spokesperson for important topics like conservation, progressive agricultural practices, or promoting U.S. rice.
Mark and his family won Arkansas Farm Family of the Year in 2009, and in 2011 he was honored as the Rice Farmer of the Year by Rice Farming magazine, an acknowledgment of his contributions to our industry, and to his commitment and dedication to farming. When he was interviewed for the award, he was quoted in Rice Farming saying that he considers raising quality seed as his greatest achievement as a farmer, along with protecting the environment, maintaining the integrity of the land, and conserving resources for generations to come.
For the last several years, he graciously opened his farm and headquarters for the Horizon Ag annual field day near Jonesboro, hosting farmers, consultants, industry leaders and influencers, and visitors from around the world.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Mark over many years,” said Dr. Sunny Bottoms, Horizon Ag district field representative for the Arkansas Grand Prairie. “I’ve grown very close to him and his family. This is a huge loss, and I will miss Mark very much.”
For lasting memorials the family asks that consideration be given to Arkansas Children’s Hospital-Angel One, 1 Children's Way, Slot 661, Little Rock, AR 72202-3591; Mark Wimpy Family Scholarship award for high school students, 854 CR 431, Jonesboro, AR 72404; or Keller’s Chapel Cemetery Association-Jerry Lewis, 707 Amberwood Cove, Jonesboro, AR 72401.