James Russell "Rusty" Malcom, age 69, of Curtis, passed from this life on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock. He was born May 8, 1956, in Clark County, the son of the late Russell Milton and Marilyn Chitwood Malcom.  Rusty was a retired heavy equipment operator.  He enjoyed riding his side by side with his most trusted friend, his rat terrier, Jenny.  Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Iona Sue Malcom and one son Travis Davis.

Survivors are one son, Max Malcom (Shannon) of Arkadelphia, one daughter, Susan Williams (Dennis) of Beirne, one sister, Sandra Blanton of Curtis, one brother, Tommy Malcom (Karen) of Curtis, five grandchildren, Cody Pruitt, Danielle Burns (Alex), Brady Malcom (Hailey), Clayton Malcom (Zhara) and Mitchell Malcom, seven great-grandchildren and his most trusted friend, Jenny.

A memorial visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday evening, February 3, 2026, at Welch Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Humane Society of Clark County, P.O. Box 435, Arkadelphia, AR 71923.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.  Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.