Pulaski County

FELESHA ANN AARON, 37, of Little Rock, Ark., transitioned this life October 22, 2016. She leaves to cherish memories with her husband, Larry Aaron; children, LaRon Aaron, Nathen Aaron; parents, Leo Horn and Joyce Horn; siblings, Sharon Horn and Regina Horn; a host of relatives and friends. Family Hour: Friday, 10-11 a.m. Service: Friday 11 a.m. both at Robinson Mortuary, LR. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive 371-0111. Sign online guest book at www.robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– JIM (JAMES) F. AKINS succumbed to cancer and went to be with the Lord on October 24, 2016. Jim was born June 11, 1951, near Mt. Sterling, Illinois, and spent his Jr. High and High School years in Sacramento, California, before graduating from Harding College (1969) and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock School of Law (1978) in Arkansas, which became “home” for him and his wife of 42 years, Janet Robinson Akins.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Paul Akins and Lydia Haskins, and brother, John Akins. He was also predeceased by his foster father, Maurice Baldwin and foster brother, Jeff Baldwin. Jim is survived by his wife, Janet; daughter, Julie (Caleb); son, Jeff (Mandy); and two grandsons, James and Timothy, whom he dearly loved; also two sisters, Jean Akins and Mary Rasmussen; his foster mother, Sharron Baldwin; and foster brother, Keith Baldwin (Kathleen); and many other in-laws, relatives and friends.

Jim was a member of the Somers Avenue Church of Christ in North Little Rock for three decades, serving as a Deacon and an Elder, with a focus on missions, education, and benevolence. Jim had a tireless and interesting career, which included serving as Assistant Attorney General, attending the Federal Law Enforcement Training School in Glynco, Georgia (graduating near the top of his class), and working briefly for the federal government. For the past 35 years, Jim maintained a solo civil law practice, Akins Law Firm, P.A., in Sherwood, Arkansas. He was grateful for the help of Steven McClelland in transitioning the law practice and also grateful to long-time friend, Mike Hughes, for much personal support during stressful times. Jim was instrumental in helping local non-profits (Capstone Treatment Center, Arkansas Pediatric Facility, APF Educational Services, Arkansas Child Fund, and others), along with his long-time friend and business partner, Gary Hunter.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Somers Avenue Church of Christ are welcomed. Visitation will be 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Thursday, October 27th. Funeral will be 1 p.m., Friday, both at the Somers Avenue Church of Christ, 4801 Somers Avenue, North Little Rock, Arkansas, with internment to follow at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, North Little Rock, Arkansas. Please share your messages of love, comfort and support with the family of Jim at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– Dr. BERNIE M. ANDERSON, 85, passed peacefully Sunday, Oct. 16, 2016. Family hour will be today, Oct. 26, 6-7 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305. Home going services will be Thursday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m. at Greater Archview Baptist Church, 1720 W. 23rd St. Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Haven of Rest Cemetery.

–––––❖––––– MARTHA A. BALDWIN, 88, of Alexander, Arkansas went to be with her Lord Saturday, October 22, 2016. She was born January 2, 1928 in Forrest City, Arkansas to James Franklin and Lucy Mae (Harbin) Hastings. She attended Soda Valley Baptist Church and was a lifetime member of the Eastern Star. Martha was a homemaker, great seamstress, loved flowers and was an amazing cook. She was a great “Mawmaw” who loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; spouse, Monroe Baldwin Sr.; a baby boy; four brothers; and two sisters. She is survived by her children, Connie Marie Scarbrough, Katherine Ann Jarrett, James Conner, Frank Conner, Ollie Monroe Baldwin Jr., Martha Ann Palmer and Vivian Baldwin Gullick; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one sister, Dorothy Hastings; many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Pallbearers: Bill Palmer, Jeremy Palmer, Hunter Pugh, Austin Price, Jeff Price and Michael Heagwood. Funeral Service will be 1 p.m. Friday, October 28, 2016 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home Chapel Greenbrier, Arkansas with Pastor Monroe Baldwin Jr., officiating.

Interment will follow in Thorn Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier.

–––––❖–––––

DENNIS EDWARD BURNETT, 65, of Sherwood, Ark., passed away on October 25, 2016. He was born on August 8, 1951 in Little Rock, Ark., to the late George Edward Burnett and Juanita Duncan Marler. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Sammy Alton. Dennis was of the Baptist faith, member of the Brotherhood of Railway Car Men, International Propagation Society, and the American Ferret Association.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Burnett; one son, Jonathan Burnett of Sherwood, Ark.; one daughter, Christie Yarnell, M.D., and her husband, Bryan Yarnell, M.D. of Tampa, Florida; two sisters, Nancy Wimberly (Jerry) of Conway, Ark., Willette Atkins (Don) of Bella Vista, Ark.; three grandchildren, Madeline, Jackson and Aiden; other relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m., Friday, October 28, 2016 at Riverwood Memorial Gardens with Chaplain Jim Agee officiating. Visitation will be 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Thursday, October 27, 2016 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home & Crematory. (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

––––– ❖ –––––

CHARLES THOMAS CHAFFIN died on October 24, 2016 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born in Pampa, Texas on November 30, 1931. His family moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas in 1946, and Tom graduated from Fayetteville High School in 1949. He graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1953. While at the University of Arkansas, he first met Frances Marie Raines and they began a six-year courtship.

After graduating from the University of Arkansas, Tom moved to Kansas City and was hired by Sears Roebuck and Company as a manager trainee. He would eventually retire from Sears in 1990 after a 37-year career in which he rose through the ranks and eventually became a merchandise manager. While working with Sears, Tom developed life-long friendships with many of his co-workers that lasted well beyond his retirement.

Tom and Frances married on October 18, 1958. They lived in Kansas City for 10 years before moving to Olathe Kansas in 1968. Tom and Frances had three sons: Raines was born in 1960, Charles was born in 1963, and Nathan was born in 1970.

Tom was a dedicated outdoorsman, who enjoyed hunting and fishing with family and friends throughout his entire life. Some of his favorite memories involved fishing on his grandfather’s Missouri farm as a boy, squirrel hunting with college buddies in the Boston Mountains, hunting Kansas pheasants and fishing local farm ponds with his sons, duck hunting with family near DeWitt, Arkansas, and his annual father-son fishing trips with Raines in the lakes of Arkansas, Montana, and Canada.

Tom became a Boy Scout when he was 11 years old, and his interest in Scouting continued throughout his life. He volunteered as a Scout leader while he was living in Kansas City as a young man in the 1950’s, and again when his sons were Scouts in the 1970’s and 1980’s. He backpacked at Philmont Scout Ranch with Raines and Nathan in 1986, and as recently as 2009, he joined Charles’s troop on a backpacking trip to Colorado. As a Scout leader, Tom had a profound impact on many young men while demonstrating a true commitment to the principles of Scouting, with a special emphasis on Courteous and Kind.

Tom embodied Christian values in everything he said and did for his entire adult life. He earnestly pursued a better understanding of his faith, participating in Bible Study Fellowship for 25 years as a student and a leader.

Tom’s faithful love and devotion to Frances and his three sons will never be forgotten or replaced, and his ever-cheerful demeanor and gentlemanly countenance will be missed by all who knew him. He is also survived by one sister, Sybil Joyce Johnston, of Wooster Ohio.

The family suggest that memorial donations can be made to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m., Thursday, October 27, 2016 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211, (501) 224-8300. Graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Forrest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

–––––❖–––––

MARY LOUISE BAILEY COLE, 91, of East End, passed away Monday, October 24, 2016. She was born May 5, 1925 in Saline County to Joe and Cora Mooney Bailey. She was retired from AT&T Lucent Technology. “Mamaw,” as she was known by her grandchildren, was the best cook around. Her banana pudding, chicken & dressing and pickles couldn’t be topped by anyone else. She was a great storyteller, teacher and loving friend to many.

She will be greatly missed by all those blessed to have known her. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Guy Cole; brothers, Ethiel, Cecil, Renvil, Reese and Joseph; sisters, Zudie, Annetta, Scyville, Sybil and Jewel. Mary is survived by her children, Ricky Cole (Janice), Gloria Shaw (Don) and Janet Cole; sister, Betty Jo Bost of Pine Bluff; grandchildren, Steve Shaw, Donna Hester, Robert Cole, Brittni Taskey and Matt Roberts; ten great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Also, by many nieces, nephews and other extended family.

Memorials may be made to the Salem Cemetery Fund, c/o Richard Wilkerson, 3413 Lorance Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72206. A special thanks to caregiver Nancy Marchbank and Hospice Home Care.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, October 27, 2016 at East Union Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery in East End. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday one hour prior to the service. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖–––––

MAE ELLA ELLISON, 86, of Little Rock, transitioned Oct. 20, 2016. Funeral services will be Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, 10 a.m., at Greater Second Baptist Church, Little Rock. Family visitation: Thursday, Oct. 27, 2016, 6-7 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖–––––

WILLIAM A. “BILL” FISHER, age 78, of Little Rock, passed away Monday, October 24, 2016. He was born October 19, 1938, in Black Oak, the son of Woodrow Wilson Fisher and Elsie Ball Fisher. On November 17, 1962, he was married to Patti Ann Dickson. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Kenneth Eugene Fisher.

A U.S. Navy veteran, he was a member of the Albert Pike Masonic Lodge #714, and was Missionary Baptist in his faith. For several years he owned and operated his own construction company, building some of the most beautiful homes in several of the elite neighborhoods in Little Rock. He retired from Garney Construction, where he had the privilege of working alongside his son and three of his grandsons.

Bill was a strong and courageous man known to many as “Bad Bill”, because of his unstoppable will to fight any battle hard and head on, never giving up even in his final moments here on earth. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and sitting on his porch visiting with friends and family. Truly loved by all, Bill was a wonderful and cherished husband, father, Pap-Paw, son, brother and friend, and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patti Ann Fisher of Little Rock; one son and daughter-inlaw, William Keith and Kay Fisher of Little Rock; two daughters and sons-in-law, Phyllis and Eric Jacobsen of Maumelle and Jennifer and Brian Decker of Little Rock; six grandchildren, Cory Holt, Jon Jacobsen, Jamey Jacobsen, Ava Robbins, Benjamin Decker and Brianna Decker; two great-grandchildren, Hannah Jacobsen and Emily Jacobsen; one brother, Mark Fisher of Judsonia; one sister and brother-in-law, Vera and Richard Kidd of Tennessee; numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and extended family members; and a host of wonderful friends.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday in Davis-Smith Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood, with Bro. John McAnally officiating. Visitation will be Friday, 12 noon-2 p.m., prior to services. Interment will be in the Sweet Home Cemetery, Amity. Pallbearers will be Cory Holt, Jon Jacobsen, Jamey Jacobsen, Keith Fisher, Eric Jacobsen and Brian Decker.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jamie Burton with CARTI, and the staff of Hospice Home Care, for all of their wonderful care given. Guest registry is at www.davissmith.com.

–––––❖–––––

LAVERNE GLASS of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life October 18, 2016. She leaves to cherish her memories: Deana (Erwin), Marlon (Jessica) and Tamara; two sisters, Barbara (Isiah) and Deborah; and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 29, 2016, 11 a.m., at House – Prayer Pentecostal Church, 1400 East 10th Street, Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Elmlawn Cemetery. Arrangement by: Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 South Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

––––– ❖ –––––

MARILYN JOANN KINGERY HARDER, 77, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 21, 2016. Marilyn was born on September 7, 1939, in Corning, Iowa. She retired as a bookkeeper from the North Little Rock School District after 25 years of service. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and very active in the Sherwood Senior Center where she was a member of the Bean-Bag Baseball Team.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Rolland Harder; two daughters, Vicki Harder and JoReta Moore and her husband William Moore, all of NLR, and her son Scott Harder and his husband Dr. Rick Ward-Harder of Hot Springs, Ark. She is also survived by two grandsons Jimmy Ney and Danny Ney of NLR, and adopted grandson Evan Parker of Hot Springs, Ark. Other survivors include her sister, Eleanor Romine of St. Louis, Mo., as well as extended family in Nebraska and Iowa.

The family will receive friends on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the chapel at the Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be in Rest Hills Memorial Park. The Rev. Larry Seifert will officiate the funeral and Rev. Dr. Rick Ward-Harder will officiate the Committal Rites. Arrangements are by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main, NLR, Ark. 501-758-1170. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

––––– ❖ –––––

FRANCIS MASSIE HUGHES JR., 80, of Little Rock passed away on October 20, 2016. He was born in Bremerton, Wash., on August 10, 1936, to Francis Massie Hughes Sr. and Jane (Eynon) Hughes.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Diane Hughes of Little Rock; daughter, Kari Lynne Gillenwater (Spence Fricke) of Little Rock; sons, Kevin L. Hughes (Tracey) of Bellevue, Washington, and Francis Massie Hughes III (Tammy) of Warner Robbins, Ga.

Funeral Mass will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, Saturday, November 5th at 10 a.m. Visitation Friday November 4th, at 6 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Circle Clubhouse, #16 Hunter’s Green Circle, Little Rock. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Please sign Francis’ online guest book at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖–––––

KEN JONES of Ferndale Community, age 89, passed away October 24, 2016. He was born in Swifton, Ark., January 15, 1927 to the late Floyd Seigman Jones and Gladys Carlin Jones.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Maurine Jones Bass and his brother Robert (Bob) Bryant Jones. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Sue Carroll Adkins Jones and three daughters, Elaine K. Jones (Steve), Becky Lynn Jones (Ron McCaskill) and Carol Sue Jones (Les Rowell); two grandsons, Stephen Thomas Roach (engaged to Amanda Legate) and Barry Jones McCaskill, married to Haley Whisenhunt McCaskill.

Ken served in the Army as a Staff Sergeant and serving in Japan’s occupation forces. His most vivid memory was the total devastation he saw as the troops rode the train through Japan after the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. When he was honorably discharged, he began his college education at Little Rock Junior College. He worked at Royal Typewriter right after leaving the service, but soon went to work at Beach Abstract and Guaranty Company and attended law school at night. After working at Beach a number of years, he and Gerald Cathey bought the records of Fidelity and named the new company Standard Abstract. He used his law degree specializing in real estate law and wills and probate law. After selling his interest in Standard, he bought American Abstract Company along with his brother–in-law, Bob Adkins. After several years he completed his title insurance and closing career by starting a third title company in 1984. He practiced law along with operating The Title Company until he transferred ownership of the company over to his daughter, Elaine K. Jones in 1990.

He was a 50-year member of Pulaski County Bar, Arkansas Bar and the American Bar Association. He was a 50-year member of the Greater Little Rock Optimist Club serving as President; then serving as Governor of Optimist of Arkansas in 1966-67. He was a member of the Salvation Army Advisory Council, Little Rock Command and served on the Board of Little Rock Boys Club. He was Past President and member of

4-H Foundation Board. He was a long time member of Highland Valley United Methodist Church where he served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chairman of Finance Committee, served as Usher of Early Morning Service for many years, and was a long time member of the Highlander Sunday School Class. The Children’s Education Building at Highland Valley was named Ken Jones Educational Building after he created a very complicated construction financing plan the church could afford at the time when the interest rates were very high. He served as a Judge for the family court of the Alexander community. Over the years, he enjoyed playing softball. For several years, he coached the Optimist Club Little League with his brother Bob for the team sponsored by The Guardian Company. He later played Senior Softball for men 70 and older and their team went to Nationals in Florida.

In 1972 he wanted to live outside the city limits west of town, so he bought 21 acres in Ferndale where he enjoyed a big garden and puttering in his workshop. In the mid-70’s he formed the West Pulaski Property Owners Association which made two unsuccessful efforts to form Improvement Districts to obtain city water for the area. He served as a volunteer with the West Pulaski Crime Watch and drove the neighborhood roads many hours watching for any activity to report to the Sheriff’s office. When they first moved to Ferndale, his wife Sue was involved in the Ferndale 4-H Club, which met in the Ferndale Extension Building. Later, Sue began to meet with the extension club and soon became President. Ken had a client who gave him the opportunity to select charities to share her estate. Among the recipients, he made funds available to the Greater Little Rock Optimist Club, The Pulaski County 4-H Foundation and the Ferndale Extension Club. The Extension Club used its funds to construct a new building, which was recently completed. The community held a dedication ceremony and presented a beautiful plaque to honor both Ken and Sue for their service to the community. The building is available for community meetings and rental for individual events.

He also bought property on Crystal Valley Road and developed the 200 acres into a subdivision platted as Plantation Acres. As those lots were sold, he bought additional land off Kanis Road and developed Golden Pond and Falcon Ridge Subdivision which both have panoramic views from the tops of the mountains.

In 2010 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and fought valiantly by working hard to stay active. However, by 2012 he needed health care aides who were a Godsend. We want to thank Ken’s caregivers, Pam Talley and Wanda Smith for their special loving care for the last four years. Also, special thanks to Hospice Home Care for their guidance.

Memorials in Ken’s honor may be given to Highland Valley United Methodist Church at 15524 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211. www.hvumc.org.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Ark., at 12 noon, Thursday, October 27, 2016 with Rev. Tony Griffin presiding. Graveside Prayer will follow with burial at Pinecrest Memorial Park. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Wednesday, October 26, 2016 at Ruebel Funeral Home. Online Registry at www.ruebelfuneralhome. com.

–––––❖–––––

Mother ALFREEDA PICKENS MARSHALL, 94, of North Little Rock, Ark., formerly of Helena, Ark., departed this life peacefully at her home on Friday, October 21, 2016. She was born October 19, 1922, to the late Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Carrie Pickens in Mayersville, Miss., who preceded her in death along with all of her siblings and her husband, the late Deacon Nexton P. Marshall Sr. Mrs. Marshall was a retired gifted and talented resource teacher with the North Little Rock School District.

She leaves to cherish her legacy, one daughter, Angeline Marshall Hawkins of Atlanta, Ga; two sons, Nexton P. Marshall Jr. (Mary) of Montgomery, Ala., and Abraham Marshall of Lumberton, N.C.

Visitation will be Friday, October, 28, 2016, 6-7 p.m. Funeral services Saturday, October 29, 2016, 11 a.m., both services will be held at First Baptist Church, 811 Scipio A. Jones Drive, NLR, Ark. Services entrusted to: Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St., LR (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖–––––

LAWRENCE FREDERICK McKELLIPS SR., age 92, passed away on Monday October 24, 2016. He was born in Fennville, Mich., on February 14, 1924, the youngest son of David William McKellips and Carrie Vivian Morse. His parents, his brothers, David, Alonzo, Russell, Clyde, Claude and Edward, and his sister Adelaide predeceased him. Lawrence attended school in Michigan and Texas.

Lawrence married Vera Ernestine “Tena” Davis on October 13, 1941, in Newport, Ark. Over the years they resided in Michigan, California and Arkansas. Lawrence and Tena were married almost 47 years with Tena passing away on August 22, 1981. During their marriage they operated McKellips Ornamental Concrete on Highway 10 as well as the McKellips Family Fireworks stand.

Their three children, Betty Mae McKellips Penrod (John) of Little Rock, Lawrence F. “Larry” McKellips, Jr. (Virginia) of Bigelow and Judy Carol McKellips Fulmer Smith (Marvin) of North Little Rock survive him. Lawrence is also survived by sisters-in-law, Juanita Thresher and Dorothy Davis of Bakersfield, Calif. In addition Lawrence is survived by his grandchildren, John McKellips, Sr. (Theresa), Sharri Briley, Scott Penrod, Lance McKellips (Elizabeth), Donnie Fulmer (Natasha) and Jeremy Smith, nine great-grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren. His grandchildren by marriage, Donovan Briley, Deborah Swope and Keith Dooley predeceased him.

On September 3, 1989 Lawrence married Elli Karoline Beaumont. Elli passed away on May 27, 2009. He is survived by her children, Bo, Mary, Karoline and Suzie and their families. The third love of his life Sue Watkins Webb also predeceased him.

Lawrence completed the Electrical Apprenticeship Program in 1951. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 295 receiving his 70 year pin in 2012. He worked as an electrician all of his life and obtained his Master’s License in the late 1950’s. Lawrence opened McKellips Electric Company in 1960 and closed it in 1981. During those years he was elected Treasurer and Vice President of the National Electrical Contractors Association. He continued to work in the electrical trade until he retired in 1989. He was past Chairman of the Electrical Examination Board for the City of Little Rock.

He was in Boot Camp at the Great Lakes U.S. Navy Training Station in Waukegan, Ill., during World War II. He then served as an Electricians’ Mate 3rd Class in the ship repair unit in San Diego, Calif. Lawrence was ultimately stationed in the South Pacific, Admiralty Islands where he received many medals. He was discharged on January 1, 1946. On May 5, 2012 he was recognized, along with other World War II veterans as they arrived in Washington, D.C., on an Honor Flight to visit the World War II Memorial in our Nation’s capital.

Lawrence was a member of Western Star Lodge No. 2. He served as Master of Trinity Lodge No. 694 in 1973. Lawrence received the Pillars of Solomon Award for his outstanding service and dedication to that lodge in 2002. He was recognized in 2006 and was only the 4th person in the history of Trinity Lodge to receive the Medallion of Honor, which was established in 1921. The Medallion is worn by the honoree during his lifetime and then returned to the lodge for presentation to another 33rd degree mason for their service.

Lawrence was a member of Bendemeer Grotto and Esther Chapter No 217, Order of Eastern Star. He was a 33rd degree mason of the Scottish Rite Bodies and received his 55th year membership pin in 2016. He was also active in the Scottish Rite Camp Guard.

Lawrence had been a 50 year member of Scimitar Shrine Temple until the Shrine and the Grand Lodge split their association. He was a past captain of their Motor Patrol, a past secretary-treasurer of the Bowler’s Unit, past president of the Provost Unit, and was recognized as being Shriner of the month.

Bowling had been a hobby of Lawrence’s since the early 1950s. He was the oldest league bowler at Millennium Bowl with a 505 series. He also loved the Razorbacks and ushered at home games played at War Memorial stadium for over 35 years. Lawrence received his private pilot license in 1947. He still played golf for charity events. He also loved to travel.

Lawrence was a member of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church. He served on the Board of Stewards, was a member of the Prime Timers, and was past Chair of the Older Adult Council, member of the Broadcast Ministries, the Dietz Dialogue Sunday School Class and Cancer Friends.

The family wishes to thank Hospice Home Care and Kim and Jennifer for all their support and care. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, October 27, 2016. Services will be held Friday October 28, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, 4823 Woodlawn Street, Little Rock, with the Reverend Lynn Lindsey officiating.

Pallbearers will be his grandchildren, with honorary pallbearers being the Dietz Dialogue Sunday School Class. Burial with Military and Masonic Honors will follow at Pinecrest cemetery. To sign the online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church’s Broadcast Ministries.

–––––❖–––––

LARRY MILLER, 68, of Little Rock died Tuesday, October 25, 2016. He is survived by his sons, Greg and Larry; sister, Carolyn Brooks (Benny) and his friend Barbara. Larry loved his family, friends, hunting, fishing and a good cold beer. The family will have a private Memorial. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Please sign Larry’s online guest book at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

––––– ❖ –––––

ROBERT E. (BOB) RITCHIE II, 79, passed away early Monday, October 24, 2016. The son of Reeves and Gladys Ritchie, he was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on November 4, 1936.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dana Booe Ritchie; four children and their families: Pamela Ritchie Aguirre of Abilene, Texas and her daughter, Sarah Aguirre Guy and son-in-law, J. Guy; J. Ritchie of Seattle, Washington and his spouse, Mark Linvill; Robin Ritchie McNight of Conroe, Texas and her husband, Allen McNight and their two daughters, Rebecca Elizabeth McNight and Kathryn Grace McNight; Susan Ritchie Moenning of Madison, Mississippi and her husband, Chuck Moenning. He is preceded in death by his parents, Reeves and Gladys Ritchie, and his sister, Nancy Ritchie Ogle.

He graduated in 1954, from Pine Bluff High School. He attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville where he joined Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Bob took a two year break from college to serve in the U.S. Air Force returning to the U of A in the fall of 1960, where he graduated with a BSBA in January of 1962.

Bob’s career spanned banking, management and computer consulting, retirement planning and 22 years with the State of Arkansas Department of Computer Services. He retired in July 1999.

In 1962, Bob met his future wife, Dana Booe Martin, on a blind date arranged by a mutual friend. They were married in 1966. They spent their honeymoon in Rio de Janerio, Brazil; LaPaz and Santa Cruz Bolivia.

Bob was active in many community activities as a member of the Little Rock Jaycees where he served on the Board of Directors, Treasurer, and State Director. He served on the board of the Arkansas Arts Center for a number of years and was a member of Little Rock Community Theater serving as Producer, Treasurer, Vice President, and President. Bob was a member of the Downtown Little Rock Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. Bob was the treasurer of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity Alumni Association. Bob’s passion for the outdoors spurred his active involvement in the Ozark Society serving as local chapter vice president and president, and he served on the board of the parent organization for over thirty years, including terms as Vice President and President. He also served as the Ozark Society Treasurer for over 25 years. Bob was a member of the Little Rock Country Club, and also, Lakeside Country Club, where he and Dana enjoyed entertaining friends at an annual ”Christmas in the Country” party. He served on the Lakeside Board of Directors for nine years.

Bob was active for over thirty years in the Boy Scouts of America serving on the troop committee, as Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster. He also served on the Pioneer District Committee as District Camping Chairman, District Commissioner, and as District Chairman. During this time, Bob received the District Award of Merit; the Life, Family, and Church Award; and the Silver Beaver Award. He led five trips to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico taking over 50 scouts and adults for ten days of backpacking in the back country of the over 137,000-acre ranch in northeast New Mexico.

A lifelong member of the First Christian Church, Bob served as Deacon, Elder, Worship Leader, Youth Leader, Committee Chairman, Vice-Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Board and Trustee. For 15 years, he took the high school aged youth to the Great Smoky Mountains for a week of backpacking and white water rafting.

Bob’s love of the outdoors was fostered by many fishing and hunting trips with his father starting as a young boy and continuing into adulthood. He canoed most of the rivers in Arkansas and southern Missouri. He rafted whitewater rivers in the western U.S. including the Salmon and Middle Fork of the Salmon in Idaho, the Madison, Gallatin, and Yellowstone in Montana, the Arkansas River in Colorado, and the Colorado River through the entire Grand Canyon (twice) in Arizona.

In addition to Philmont, his backpacking trips have taken him to the Great Smoky Mountains. Bob hiked many miles looking for Indian ruins, petroglyphs, and pictographs in Arizona and Utah, across the Continental Divide in Colorado, and a dozen trips into and across the Grand Canyon. Bob also hiked many miles with the Boy Scouts or with friends in the Ozark Society on the Ouachita Trail, the Ozark Highlands Trail and The Buffalo River Trail and other hiking trails in Arkansas.

Bob shared this love of nature with his children, Pam, J., Robin, and Susan taking them on canoe trips and backpacking trips when they were growing up.

Bob and his wife, Dana loved to travel. They traveled extensively throughout the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, and river trips via canoe, raft or paddlewheel. They enjoyed traveling overseas including Finland, Russia, Greece, Egypt, Jordan, UAE, South Africa, England, France, Italy, and Turkey. He was thrilled to visit Washington, D.C. and attend the festivities of the first Clinton inauguration in 1993.

One of Bob’s greatest sources of pride and joy were his four children, Pam, J., Robin, and Susan. Although Dana had two children when they married, Bob never had step-children. They immediately became his own and soon changed their last names to Ritchie. One of Bob’s proudest moments was when his son J told Bob he wanted to be adopted and had already talked to a lawyer to arrange and pay for the adoption himself. Of course Bob said “yes”. What a wonderful tribute to Bob.

Despite all his accomplishments and giving back to the community, his greatest accomplishments were “loving, supportive husband and father” who always acted with kindness and integrity through the positive examples he set each and every day of his life.

The memorial service will be on Thursday, October 27, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas with family visitation following. Prior to the memorial service, there will be a private family burial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ozark Society, refer to www. ozarksociety.net or First Christian Church Endowment Fund, 1500 N. Mississippi Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72207. There will be no viewing.

The pallbearers include Alice Andrews, Catherine Tolson, Fred Chilcote, Guy Dillahunty, Dave Gruenwald, Rex Kyle, Mark Linvill, Grady McCoy, Allen McNight, Joe Pete McNeill, Chuck Moenning, and Jim Mulkey. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/chenal.

–––––❖–––––

SARAH W. SHULTS, 88, of North Little Rock, passed away October 24, 2016. She was born May 28, 1928 in Eufaula, Alabama, to R. E. and Celia Anne Elizabeth Ward. She graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics.

Sarah was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John Shults and five siblings, Mildred Carpenter, Evelyn Blackburn, Helen Saliba, Robbie Thomas and Bob Ward. She is survived by four children, Stanley (Diane) Shults of San Antonio, Texas, Elizabeth Karam of West Helena, Arkansas, Carol (John) Stark of North Little Rock and Stephen Shults of Fayetteville; four grandchildren, Molly (Steven) Detmer, Laurie Shults, Katie (Joe) Kiger and Peter Shults; and one sister, Anne Michie.

Graveside service will be Thursday, October 27, at 3:30 p.m. at Rest Hills Memorial Park in North Little Rock, Pastor Luke Flesher officiating. Online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖–––––

TOMMY WITKOWSKI, 73, of North Little Rock passed away Friday, October 21, 2016. He was born February 13, 1943 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Marion Edward and Ruth Whitfield Witkowski.

He is survived by his children, Chad Edward Witkowski and Heather Noel Witkowski; stepdaughters, Rachel Pitts and Rebecca Snyder; grandchildren, Isabella, Madelyn, Amber and Miranda Witkowski; siblings, Georgia Rogers, Marilyn Wright, Steve Witkowski, Susi Witkowski and Randy Witkowski; his favorite nephew, Johnny Wright; and other extended family, friends and “the Barn Gang”. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to give special thanks to Kyle Stane and Joe Muchesko for all their help, and to his caregivers: Tammy, Angie, and Ellen. Thank you Darrell Fortner for your time and concern.

Memorials may be made to Holy Angels, attention: Heather Witkowski, 6600 W. Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont, North Carolina 28012.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Friday, October 28th at Edgewood Memorial Park, North Little Rock. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, October 27th at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.