Herbert Troy Brogdon

Herbert Troy Brogdon, lovingly known as Herb and to many as Pole Climber or Cowboy, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at the age of 97. A longtime resident of Glenwood, Arkansas, he was born on December 21, 1928, in Walnut Grove, Arkansas, to Abbie Jane Cason Brogdon and Albert R. Brogdon, and grew up in Cave City. At 18, he enlisted in the United States Army during the final months of World War II, serving with the 101st Infantry Division and the 1st Infantry Division. Stationed in Nuremberg, Germany, he stood guard during the historic Nuremberg War Criminal Trials. Upon returning home, he continued his service in the Army National Guard.

After his military years, Herb built a distinguished 41-year career as a lineman with Arkansas Power and Light, earning the enduring nickname Pole Climber for his skill and dedication. A proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers for more than 74 years, he also gave tirelessly to his beloved Glenwood community. For over 68 years he served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, playing a key role in establishing the area’s first ambulance service. A devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Glenwood, he served faithfully as a deacon for many years. He was also an active member of the Glenwood Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons #662 for nearly 70 years and belonged to The Glenwood Eastern Star.

Herb cherished the outdoors and shared many memorable hunts with dear friends Joe Floyd Wright, Mike Wilson, and Mark Hudgins. For years he raised prize-winning Walker Hounds sought by hunters across the country and enjoyed pursuing fox, deer, raccoons, and wild hogs on horseback. After retirement, he spent many happy years breaking horses and riding through the Ouachita Mountains, often traveling to remote places accessible only on horseback. He continued this passion until age 80, sharing trail rides, including moonlight rides, at horse camps with his wife and friends, and riding in the mountains of Colorado. Known as a gifted storyteller with a strong, warm voice, he touched many hearts with his tales.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis Brogdon; daughters Carolyn Brogdon Kapp (John) and Pamela Brogdon; granddaughters Karen Antonacci and Marissa Hayes (Jonah); stepchildren Kathy Ramsey (Bodie), David Doggett, Dee Dee Doggett, Leigh Green (Kyle), and Carrie Sanders; step-grandchildren Whitney Bussell, Sara McClard, Isaac Doggett, Julian Doggett, Jay Doggett, Nate Doggett, Brady Green, Brenna Green, Deanna McHenry, and Alex Sanders; and many great-grandchildren who brought him great joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Abbie Jane Cason Brogdon and Albert R. Brogdon; brother Doyne Brogdon; and sisters Willene James and Laverne “Dude” Rose. Herb lived a life of quiet strength, faithful service, and generous love for his country, community, church, and family.