R.A. "Bugs" Birdsong Jr.

Memorial services for RA Birdsong, Jr. “Bugs” will be 2:00p.m., Thursday, March 12, 2015 at MMS-Payne Funeral Home Chapel, Ken Brassfield will officiate. Bugs passed away on at his home with his family by his side on Saturday, March 7, 2015 at the age of 71. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made in Bugs’ honor to First Baptist Church, where he was a member, to support its many ministries, 107 E. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore, Oklahoma 74017.
RA Birdsong, Jr. “Bugs” was born July 30, 1943 in Newport, Arkansas to RA Birdsong, Sr. and Geneva (Odom) Birdsong. He grew up in his birth community and received his education there. Bugs became an Eagle Scout and also served in the National Guard for six years. In 1964 he married Linda “Kaye” Tomlinson and the couple was blessed with a son in 1966, RA Birdsong III, “Trace”.
Working and living in northeastern Arkansas for over 20 years, Bugs found his calling in agricultural commodities. His skill and his strong work ethic eventually brought him to the Port of Catoosa, where he worked as a grain merchant for a short while and was soon promoted to general manager of the Peavey Grain facility. Bugs enjoyed sports; golf in particular was a passion that he pursued for many years…until back problems interrupted his hobby.
Bugs was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Linda “Kaye” Birdsong and his son Trace and his sisters Susie Rutledge and Phyllis Cowell both of Newport. He also has a large extended family which he loved dearly. His friends, co-workers and golfing buddies also held a special place in his heart. Bugs will always be missed. He is now free of pain and absent from his mortal flesh, but his spirit is present with the Lord…and his will always be alive in the heats of those who knew and loved him.