Earl Patrick McIllwain, 73, of Romance, Arkansas passed away on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at Baptist Health Medical Center, in Little Rock. He was born on Monday, November 17, 1947, in Fisher, Arkansas, to Samuel Patrick McIllwain Jr. and Sammie Ellen Everett. Earl is preceded in death by his parents, son Larry, and sister Kathy. Earl is survived by his longtime, loving companion, Laverne Askins; four children, Jeffery McIllwain, Betty (Rico) Hogue, Amy (Nathan) McIllwain, and Tracy McIllwain; four brothers, Don (Lillie) McIllwain, Carl (Geri) McIllwain, Paul (Nancy) McIllwain, and Tommy (Pat) McIllwain; two sisters, Mary Ellen (George) Murphy, and Grace Ann (Freddie) Hall; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Earl was very proud of his Cherokee heritage, and always identified himself as a “Red Man”. He was a hard worker who took pride in his work all his life. Earl built his house upon Blackjack Mountain, and was an avid arrowhead hunter, fisherman, and deer hunter. Earl was a kind and humble man with a heart of gold who would help anyone in need. He loved his grands and great grands and will be greatly missed by all who love him. Until we meet again- Donadagohvi. A graveside service will begin at 1:00 pm, on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at Dail Cemetery, in Ravenden. Those honored to carry Earl to his final earthly resting place areTommy McIllwain, Carl McIllwain, Josh Wells, Clint Sherman, Rico Hogue, and Freddie Hall. The family has respectfully designated Paul McIllwain and Don McIllwain as honorary pallbearers.