3600 AR-163
Birdeye, Arkansas
870-588-4608

This cemetery, located in the community of Birdeye, east of Cherry Valley in Cross County in located in the rolling hills of Crowley’s Ridge, will be the final resting place for veterans, their spouses and eligible dependents. It is the fifth veterans cemetery in Arkansas, and the second operated by the state. The 100 acre property was purchased by the state in 2008 from the family of Maurice Smith, a veteran and former director of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department. In a statement at the time Arkansas Governor said that "This cemetery has long been needed for our veterans in East Arkansas. This will make it easier for families and friends to pay their respects when we bestow the final honor upon those who have served our country."

The Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs oversaw a committee that was selected to design the cemetery. Construction began in the fall of 2010 following a groundbreaking ceremony with Governor Beebe. Primary funding, including more than $5 million in construction costs, came from the federal government. The first interment was conducted in February 2012, when Colonel Thomas Blake, an Air Force veteran, was laid to rest. Blake led the committee of individuals in selecting the land to build the cemetery.

The Arkansas State Cemetery at Birdeye is expected to become the burial site for 41,000 veterans within the next 125 years. Veterans, family members, veteran service organization members, and community members are encouraged to visit this cemetery

Visiting Arkansas State Cemetery at Birdeye
The cemetery may be visited at any time.
Administrative Operating Hours
Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 4 pm
There is no charge to visit the Arkansas State Cemetery at Birdeye.