Daryl Love

Daryl Chris Love, age 85, a man whose long life was defined by the steady hum of a motor and a deep-seated belief in the kindness of the open road, passed away April 11, 2026, leaving a legacy of service and adventure.

A Life of Service and Craft
Born on July 17, 1940, in Carlisle, Arkansas, Daryl was the son of the late Chris and Evelyn Manson Love of Arkadelphia. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Love of Batesville.

For 41 years, he was a pillar of the local business community as the owner and operator of 720 Auto Parts. Along with his dedicated employees in the associated machine shop and garage, Daryl provided more than just mechanical repairs; he provided a helping hand to his neighbors. He was well-known for his generosity, often stopping to assist both community members and strangers passing through town who were in need of automotive or motorcycle help. For 25 years, Daryl was also a dedicated volunteer at the Arkadelphia Senior Activity Center.

The Open Road
Daryl’s true passion was found on the back of a Harley-Davidson. Together with his beloved wife of 66 years, Doris Ann Scott Love, he traveled the vast landscapes of all 48 contiguous states, Canada, and Mexico. These journeys were a testament to his “pay-it-forward” philosophy. While he was always the first to pull over for a stranded traveler, he spoke with equal heart about the many “roadside angels”—strangers who stepped up to help him and Doris during their own thousands of miles on the move. A proud member of the Retread Motorcycle Club for 25 years and an auxiliary member of the Motormaids, Daryl cherished the camaraderie of the riding community.

Family and Survivors
Daryl was a member of Mount Bethel Baptist Church and found great joy in his family. His memory lives on through his wife, Doris; his two sons, Daryl II and Bradley Scott, both of Washington, D.C.; and Ruth Hickman of Batesville. He leaves behind a family that will forever cherish his spirit of independence and his stories from the highway.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the management and staff of Nightingale Arkadelphia for the compassionate care they provided Daryl.

Private Arrangements
Private remembrance events for immediate family only will be held to honor Daryl’s life. There will be no public memorial or services. Arrangements are under the direction of The Welch Funeral Home, where friends are encouraged to share condolences and memories in the online guestbook.

To honor his lifelong spirit of helping those in need – In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Humane Society of Clark County. Contributions may be sent to  P.O. Box 435, Arkadelphia, AR 71923  or made through their online donation page.

Daryl leaves behind a world that is a little less noisy without his Harley, but a lot better for the help he gave along the way. May his final ride be on that smooth golden road with a full tank and the wind at his back.