Jim “Rusty” Avants III was born on December 5, 1958, to James “Bud” Avants and Betty Ann Avants in Little Rock, Arkansas. A resident of Dover, Arkansas, Jim passed from this life on October 20, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 67, following a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a legacy of hard work, and a family who will forever carry his love in their hearts.

On March 23, 1987, Jim married the love of his life, Tammy Avants. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to one another. Their marriage was blessed with three wonderful sons, Cody, Jake, and Wiley, who brought him tremendous pride and joy. For Jim, family was never simply a part of life; it was the very heart of everything he did. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a grandfather whose love knew no bounds. Jim was also a member of Lake Hills Church in Russellville, Arkansas.

Jim learned the value of hard work at an early age. As a young boy, he spent his summers working alongside his grandfather, affectionately known as “Bo,” determined to earn enough money to purchase his very first car. That same determination and strong work ethic followed him throughout his life. A talented carpenter and skilled craftsman, Jim spent much of his career working in construction, developing a reputation as a man who knew the value of an honest day's work. He dedicated 20 years as an independent contractor for Quality Siding in Russellville, Arkansas, before retiring. His hardworking hands built and repaired countless things over the years, but the most meaningful thing he ever built was the life he shared with his family.

Jim had an adventurous spirit and a genuine appreciation for the great outdoors. He loved hiking, exploring new places, and studying maps. He had a remarkable ability to memorize roads and landscapes, often researching routes and studying the lay of the land simply because he enjoyed knowing where every road might lead. He was an avid reader who loved learning and discovering new things. When he wasn't outdoors or studying a map, he could often be found enjoying a good classic movie, especially an old Western. Gunsmoke and the Western movies of years gone by were among his favorites, and he never seemed to tire of watching them. Jim also enjoyed collecting knives and had a special appreciation for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, proudly owning a Harley of his own.

Of all the things Jim enjoyed, nothing compared to the time he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was the kind of grandpa every child deserves, one who made ordinary moments feel like grand adventures and created memories that would last a lifetime. He shared an especially close bond with his grandson Cole, who was not only his grandson but also his very best friend. Together, they made YouTube videos, went fishing, and enjoyed countless adventures. They even kept an aquarium filled with fish they had caught together, a simple but special reminder of the time they loved spending side by side. To Cole, Grandpa wasn't just someone to visit; he was a best friend, an adventure buddy, and someone who made the world a little more exciting. Their bond was truly something special.

Jim's greatest accomplishments could never be measured by the work he completed, the places he explored, or the things he collected. They were found in the love he gave so freely, the family he cherished, and the memories he created along the way. He was a man of many interests and talents, but above all, he was a family man. His presence brought comfort, his knowledge inspired curiosity, and his love left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Those left to cherish Jim's memory include his loving wife, Tammy Avants, of the home; his three sons, Cody Avants of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Jake Avants and wife Suzanne of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Wiley Avants and wife Chen of Clarksville, Arkansas; his mother, Betty Ann Avants of Russellville, Arkansas; and his beloved grandson Cole, along with other cherished family members and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James “Bud” Avants II.

Although his journey on earth has come to an end, the love Jim shared and the memories he made will continue to live on through the lives of those he held dear. His family will remember him with every old Western, every winding road, every fishing trip, and every adventure that brings his memory close again. His hardworking hands are now at rest, but the love he built into the lives of his family will