Cattle community remembers young boy

RUSSELLVILLE — Eight-year-old Grayson Garcia was known among many in the Franklin County cattle community not simply as a child who tagged along, but as one who enjoyed being involved.

Those who knew him remember a boy who liked being outdoors, cared deeply for animals and took genuine joy in being part of the work around him.

Grayson was the son of Denise and Wilmer Garcia. He was homeschooled and often spent his days alongside his parents, particularly on the family’s farm, where his interest in cattle and livestock grew naturally over time.

“He really liked cattle,” Denise said. “At the time, when he passed, he had seven calves that he was bottle feeding. He really liked to do that.”

She said her son was eager to help and proud of the responsibility he was given, whether it was mixing bottles, checking on animals, or accompanying others as work was being done.

Grayson’s interest in farm life extended beyond cattle. He also had sheep, horses and a donkey named Jellybean, whom he enjoyed feeding bananas.

In addition to his love for animals, Denise said her son was curious by nature and paid close attention to details.

“He was very well behaved and respectful,” she said. “He was kind of a rule follower. If you weren’t buckled in the car, he’d tell you that you had to buckle.”

She described him as a thoughtful older brother who adored his younger sister, Jules, whom he nicknamed “Julesy.” The two often played together, building forts inside the house or playing outdoors.

Grayson also enjoyed learning. Denise said he did not like reading at first but became more interested as he gained confidence. He enjoyed books such as the “Magic Tree House” series and hands-on learning, particularly math and science.

“He was very good at math,” she said. “He liked chemistry and, because I have a chemistry background, we would do science experiments together.”

ShesaidGraysonenjoyed mixing ingredients in the kitchen, creating what she described as “concoctions,” adding he also liked carefully arranging food so it was presented nicely for others to try.

Grayson’s presence was felt beyond his family.

Caleb Beason, a member of the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association, said Grayson was often alongside his father and became familiar to many in the cattle community at a young age.

“He was always very energetic and eager to go with us,” Beason said. “He was a smart young man, very respectful and very responsible.”

Beason said Grayson stood out because of his work ethic and genuine interest in what was happening around him.

“Every day was an opportunity to fulfill a purpose,” he said. “He lived that out.”

Milton Hatton, whom Grayson called “Mr. Hat,” lives nearby and knew him from the time he was born, said the boy’s character left a lasting impression.

“He was a different kind of little fellow,” Hatton said. “He was respectful and hardworking.”

Hatton said Grayson often helped care for animals and took pride in doing things the right way.

“He was just a special kid,” he said. “Everybody liked him.”

John Thorn, who knew Grayson through the local farming community, said he still thinks of him fondly.

“That boy was the sweetest little fellow you have ever seen in your life,” Thorn said. “I can’t say nothing but good things about Grayson.”

Grayson died in 2023, following an accidental drowning in a pond on the family’s property. In the months following his death, members of the cattle community looked for a way to honor the young boy who had become a familiar and beloved presence.

That effort led to the creation of the Grayson Garcia Memorial Production Scholarship, which is awarded annually by the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association at its yearly banquet.

Beason said the scholarship is designed to support young people who are actively involved in agriculture and livestock production.

“This is a production scholarship,” he said. “It’s meant for youth who are involved in the cattle industry and can use the funds toward their operation, whether that’s fencing, feed or livestock.”

Recipients may or may not be graduating seniors, and the funds may also be used for educational purposes.

Denise Garcia said seeing her son remembered in this way has been meaningful for her family.

“It lets me know that people still remember him and care about him,” she said. “Even though he was just eight years old, he made an impact.”

She said hearing stories from others about her son has been both difficult and comforting.

“It’s nice to know that people have good stories to share about him,” she said.