Pulaski County
WESLEY STEPHEN “WES” ALEXANDER, age 50, formerly of Little Rock, currently of Franklin, Tenn., passed away March 15, 2017 at Vanderbilt Medical Center after sustaining injuries from an accident. He was a member of St. Paul’s United Church where he was confirmed. Wes was a 1985 graduate of Parkview High School and was a member of the football and golf teams. Wes attended University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and received his BA Degree from University of Arkansas in Little Rock. He was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. He moved to Franklin in 1997 and began his career in several businesses including Nashville Pizza Company and WestSide Wine and Spirits. Wes was extremely involved in Franklin with many community initiatives including animal rescue, youth sports, Williamson County School System, Leipers Fork Community Association, Franklin Fire Fighters Association, Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, and many more. Wes will be remembered for his willingness to serve without recognition and his love for his community.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Rex and Louise Alexander, Kelly and Florence Sadler. Also Aunt Jan Alexander Hughes and Uncle Robert Hughes. He is survived by his parents, Keller and Carolyn Alexander, Little Rock, Ark.; sister, Janiece (Tim) Cramer; nieces, Alyson and Julianna Cramer, all of Harrison, Ark.; and the love of his life, Jennifer Russell, Franklin, Tenn.; and numerous family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life Service will be conducted 2 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 2017 by Tim Jackson at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211, (501) 224-8300. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Food Bank, Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue, snootygiggles.com, or any animal rescue charity of your choice. Pay it forward and do something good for someone else … “the Wes way”.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
–––––❖––––– DORIS ANN (SHIPLEY) ALLEN, age 84, of North Little Rock, formerly of Jacksonville, Ark., passed away on March 29, 2017 at Lakewood Nursing and Rehabilitation. She was born on Feb. 20, 1933 to James Henry and Ruby Pearl Shipley at Elgin, Ark.
She enjoyed many hobbies such as jewelry making, gardening and volunteering at Rebsman Memorial Hospital, where she served many years, in various capacities.
Mrs. Allen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James L. Allen, her son, James H. Allen and her parents.
She is survived by her sister Jimmie (Howard) House of Tallapoosa, Ga.; her daughter Aleecia (Danny) Starkey; granddaughter Alyssa (Wesley) Goad; and great-grandson Daniel Goad all of Sherwood, Ark. She is also survived by grandson Christopher (Katie) Allen and great –grandchildren Paige, Avery and Cooper Allen of Rogers, Ark. She further leaves sisters-in-law Beulah West of Little Rock, Ark., Mary Smith of Alabaster, Ala., and daughter-inlaw Melanie Allen of Bentonville, Ark. She further leaves to cherish her memory many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family wishes to Thank “Mama’s Angels”, “her Baptist Hospice Group” (Jenna, Trish, Judy and Jim) and the staff at Lakewood Nursing and Rehabilitation.
A service will be held on Friday, April 7, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home, 7700 Highway 107, Sherwood, Ark. Burial will follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock, Ark.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to First Baptist Church, 401 North 1st Street, Jacksonville, Ark. 72176.
Online obituary available at www.smithfamilycares.com.
–––––❖––––– SHALYN MARIE BASWELL, age 32, of Sherwood, Ark., passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2017. She was born in North Little Rock, Ark., to Shirley and Dale Baswell on Aug. 9, 1984.
She was a loving mother to Myles Lane Burnett and worked as a registered dental assistant with CDL for the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
She is survived by her loving son Myles Lane Burnett; her mother Shirley (Ray) Miller; her father Dale Baswell; her brothers, Seth (Robin) Tolliver and Chris (Allison) Tolliver; her son’s father Ben Burnett and Myles Lane’s grandparents Teddy (Nancy) Burnett. She is also survived by her uncles, Vernon (Jeannie) Rogers and Billy (Naomi) Baswell and numerous extended family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Ernest and Omega Baswell and Willis and Marie Rogers.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 7, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home, 7700 Highway 107, Sherwood, Ark.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Levy United Methodist Church, 701 West 47th Street, North Little Rock, Ark. After cremation the family will hold a private ascension.
Online obituary available at www.smithfamilycares.com.
–––––❖––––– JOSEPH LEE BURNS, 74, of Maumelle, went to be with the Lord and his wife, Mary, on March 29, 2017. Born in Blytheville, Ark., to Leon and Hazel Jo Rutledge Burns, he was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Blytheville. He was a printer, working at Burns & Son Printing, the family business, and was a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his father, his wife, Mary J. Burns, and a brother, Stephen R. Burns. Joseph is survived by his son, John L. Burns and wife, Lisa, of Maumelle; daughter, Susan York and husband, Greg, of Little Rock; son, Michael E. Burns and wife, Sarah, of Benton; his mother, Hazel Jo Burns; brother, Rhondal D. Burns (Carolyn); grandchildren, Josh Burns, Lyndi Burns, Kyle York, Austin York, Elizabeth Burns and Emily Burns; and a host of other family and friends.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 4, beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:30 a.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Interment with Military Honors will follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 320 Executive Ct., #104, Little Rock, Ark. 72205.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Joseph’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ALEXANDRIA CARTER, 25 of North Little Rock, passed March 30, 2017. Loving memories left to husband: Timothy Carter, children: Timia
Carter, Tamyah
Carter; step children: Tailynn Carter, Traiden Carter, and Tanaijah Carter; parents: Charles
Labron and Nicole Carter; grandmother: Mary Labron; siblings: Shay Labron, Ian Labron, Kennedy Labron, Gabby Labron, and Tavia Labron-Dodson; in-laws: Jimmy and Rhonda Harrison. Visitation April 5, 2017 11 a.m. with homegoing celebration immediately following at 2 p.m. at Superior funeral Services Rose Chapel 5017 E. Broadway North Little Rock (501) 945-9922. Online guestbook www.superiorfuneralservices.com. Trudean Long Brown “Providing Services Your Family Deserves.”
–––––❖––––– CHARLES RUSSELL “RUSS” COWART JR., 72, of North Little Rock died on March 28, 2017 from a heart attack.
He was born on Jan. 15, 1945 in Atlanta, Ga. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles Russell Cowart, Sr. and Edith Cowart of Albany, Ga. Charles “Russ” graduated from Albany High School and graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Industrial Management (I.M.). During his career he worked for AMF, became Industrial Engineering Manager for Timex, Industrial Engineering and Business Planner for AT&T and later worked at Am Tram in Conway. He was an avid fan of college sports. He loved to watch the Georgia Tech “Yellow Jackets” and Auburn “Tigers” play ball.
After he graduated from college he entered the Air Force and was later stationed at the Little Rock Air Force Base in Jacksonville. During that time he met and married his wife Ann. He is survived by his loving wife Ann Marie Cowart of 45 years and one son Kevin R. Cowart.
Visitation will be held 9:3010:30 a.m., Tuesday April 4, 2017 at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street with graveside services with Military Honors at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery following at 11 a.m. Arrangements by SmithNorth Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St.
Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– MYRNA CLARA DOUGLASS, 82, of Little Rock, passed away March 28, 2017. Born in Little Rock to the late James and Mildred Arendt Murphy, she was a member of Western Hills United Methodist Church. She was known affectionately as
Miss Myrna to the Douglassville neighborhood and community where she worked for many years as a cashier in the grocery store that had started as a family business.
She and her husband, James, who survives her, shared almost 68 years of life together. Also surviving are daughters, Cindy Taylor of Clinton and Sandy Douglass of Little Rock; brother, James Murphy III of Oden, Ark.; sister, Betty Budke of Arizona; grandchildren, William Douglass Taylor and Alisha Marie Taylor, and two great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 4 beginning at 9 a.m., followed by the service at 10 a.m. at Western Hills United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Anne Holcomb. Interment will follow at 1 p.m. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Myrna’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– REBECCA LOUISE “LOU” FLAHERTY, passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2017, after a valiant fight against cancer. She was born on Jan. 14, 1942 in New Madrid, Mo., to the late Ed and Dixie Inmon.
She was a graduate of Arkansas State University, attended UCA and held a Master’s Degree in Special Education. An elementary school teacher for more than 39 years, she initially taught at Warren Dupree Elementary and later Bayou Meto Elementary Schools in Jacksonville. She enjoyed teaching children more than any activity in life. Described by those who knew her as the most considerate person they had ever encountered, she enjoyed doing for others and over the years she provided volunteer services to such social nonprofit organizations as Pathfinder Schools for the mentally and physically handicapped in Jacksonville and Our House Homeless Shelter in Little Rock.
She is survived by her husband Joseph (Joe) Flaherty; her sister, Shelba Inman Carlisle; brothers, Frank and Bill Inmon; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Ward 3B, Springhill Baptist Medical Center, NLR who hovered over and cared for her and her family during her final days, they are truly Angels.
Memorial services will be from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to your favorite charity.
Arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home & Crematory (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www. mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– JIMMY RALPH “JIM” FRANCIS, 87, of Little Rock, entered eternal life on Friday, March 24, 2017. Jim was born in Amity, Ark., on Aug. 6, 1929 to Wilford Green and Gracie Lena (Rogers) Francis. He is survived by his wife of 64 years; one daughter, Cheryl Lane (Milton) of Little Rock; grandchildren, Tiffany
Coyle (Ryan) of Harrisburg, Pa.;
Kelley Lane and Kimberly Lane of Little Rock; great-grandchild, Hudson
Francis Coyle; brother, Glen Francis (Jen) of Dallas, Texas; and a host of nieces and nephews.
He made a career of helping others, retiring from the Arkansas State Highway Department after 37 years of service, where one of his many efforts was leading the initiative to plant crimson clover along Arkansas’ highways, currently in full bloom. After retirement, he joined FEMA,where his greatest accomplishment was leading an inspection team in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.
He was a man’s man — tall and strong, often clad in his worn leather bomber, with handfuls of peppermints tucked away in his pockets — and yet, sincere and gentle, always prepared with the right thing to say, the softest shoulder to cry on and the best batch of warm and gooey chocolate chip cookies.
He could fix almost anything: a hand-crafted home for his family, an antique, leather-lined Mercedes, a Chris-Craft houseboat resurrected from the bottom of the lake, a rich batch of red wine, a Tinker Toy-town constructed on the living room floor, and the bruised knees and broken hearts of his granddaughters, who affectionately referred to him as “G-Daddy.”
Every Sunday night, he went out to dinner with his family, where he loved blooming onions, and never let a good steak or scotch on the rocks go to waste. On summer weekends, he took his family to Lake Ouachita, where he water skied on long wooden skis, played a mean hand of Progressive Rummy and whipped up the creamiest batches of homemade ice cream. He collected cars and motorcycles (both of which he drove — fast), and was the pilot and owner of multiple airplanes. He traveled with his family to many vacations in his beloved Beechcraft Queen Air, which he piloted alongside his son-in-law.
He was well traveled, with no shortage of adventure stories, many of which starred his big brother, Glen, who shares his love for flying, and is infamously said to have flown him under the Broadway Bridge.
He tended to bountiful gardens, and introduced the whole family to the peach orchard, where he regularly picked armfuls of perfectly ripened peaches that he generously shared.
He had a knack for making handmade biscuits, frying little smokies on the griddle, finding the perfect time to deliver a homemade pound cake, and satisfying the cravings of his eternal sweet tooth.
He was the husband to his loving bride, and the cornerstone of a progressive family of independent women, in whom he instilled his can-do attitude and strong-willed personality.
He religiously attended the First Church of the Nazarene, and was a prime example of a good and faithful servant.
He passed away of old age, having lived a good life, under the care of the good Lord, surrounded by family in the comfort of his home.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, F. Vesto Francis; sister, Ruthie Von Collenberg and an infant baby brother.
Heartfelt thanks go to Nurse David, Chaplain Deb, CNA Phyllis and the staff of Arkansas Hospice, as well as his caregiver, Ellen, who provided the best care and warm-heartedness his family could have asked for.
A private funeral was held on Tuesday, March 28 with family, where we celebrated the life of a great man, and the best husband, father, G-Daddy, brother and uncle around, and honored an inspirational role model, whose legacy is remembered, cherished and loved.
Please sign Jim’s online guestbook at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– PEARLIE MAE HILL, 88, of Little Rock, Ark., went home to be with the Lord on March 30, 2017. She was preceded in death by: parents, Roday Rogers and Will Rogers; brothers, Golden Rogers and SD Rogers. Pearlie Mae leaves to cherish her memory: son, Gary (Angela) Rogers; siblings, Willie Mae Lowe of LR, Izola Lewis of Fresno, Calif.; and John Arch Brown of Chicago, Ill; ten grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren; and a host of family and friends. Visitation: Friday, noon-6 p.m. Funeral: Saturday, 10 a.m., both at Robinson Mortuary Chapel, LR. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– ISAIAH FLOYD “ZEKE” JONES, 77, of Little Rock departed this life March 30,
2017. He was preceded in death by his father, Teley R. Jones; mother, Violet Jones; son, Andre Lewis; brothers, Lawrence Jones, Teley Jones Jr., Arnold Jones, and Jessie Jones. Isaiah was a proud member of Greater Archview Baptist Church in Little Rock, Ark., under the leadership of Pastor Kenneth Martin.
Isaiah leaves to cherish his memories; wife, Zipporah Jones; children, Anthony Jones, Angela Jones, Kelly Williams, Terrell Stokes; siblings, Betty Jones of
Alex, La., and Elsie Bailey of New Orleans, La.; fourteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.
Public Viewing: Friday, 10-11 a.m. Funeral: Friday, 11 a.m., both at Greater Archview Baptist Church, 1720 W. 23rd St., LR; Pastor Kenneth Martin, officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, LR, (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.” Sign online guestbook at www.robinsonmortuary. com.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT LOUIS KUMPE, SR., passed away peacefully at his home March 31, 2017, at the age of 103. He was born February 16, 1914, in Ironton, Arkansas, to Christopher and Effie Kumpe. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Susan Gertrude Kumpe; son, Robert Kumpe Jr.; daughter, Phyllis Ford; brothers, John Otto, Wilbur and Henry Kumpe; and sister, Bertie Dollins.
He was a charter member of Olive Hill Missionary Baptist Church and was ordained as Deacon. He was a member of First Missionary Baptist Church of Mabelvale for over 65 years where he served faithfully as Deacon and Sunday school teacher.
He is survived by children, Carolyn (Robert) Ashcraft of Mabelvale, Grace Lea (W.M.) Smith of Haskell, Kay (Troy) Collins of Bauxite, and Philip (Kathy) Kumpe of Haskell; sister, Lola M. Kumpe of Mabelvale; 23 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren and a host of friends and loved ones.
He retired in 1967 from the U.S. Postal Service as a Railway Mail Clerk. He was a charter member of the Saline County National Association for Retired Federal Employees (NARFE). He also served as the clerk for the Pine Bluff Association of Missionary Baptist Churches.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 6, at 10 a.m. with a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church of Mabelvale with Pastors Robbie Horne and Melvin Burris officiating. Interment will follow at Olive Hill Cemetery.
Online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.
–––––❖––––– CHARLES DONTE LEVINGSTON III, 21, of Little Rock departed this life March 26, 2017. Family Hour: Tuesday, 5-6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary-NLR. Funeral: Wednesday, 12 Noon at Friendly Chapel of the Nazarene, 116 Pine St., NLR. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 4511 East Broadway, NLR (501) 374-0111. “Service You Can Trust.” Sign online guestbook at www.robinsonmortuary.com.
–––––❖––––– GEORGE LUPER, 81, of Sherwood passed away on Saturday, March 25, at home, surrounded by his family. He was a retired Fireman and one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He is survived by his loving wife Jean of 60 years. Two daughters — Jayne Burge of Sherwood, Shauna Ramsey (Keith) of Spokane, Wash. Two grandchildren, Jennifer Burge and Daniel Burge (Ashley) along with their father Danny Burge. Three great-grandchildren — Cole, Logan and Gavin. Also, Ron Johnson (fiance to Jayne). Special thanks to caregivers Clorissa and Shelia. Neighbors John and Kelly. Friends Tony and Debbie, Charles. Memorial service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 230 Smokey Lane, North Little Rock, on Saturday, April 8th, at 4 p.m. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.
–––––❖––––– VIOLA (VI) DEWITT MILLER, age 79, of Jacksonville, went to be with The Lord on March 31, 2017. She was born Dec. 19, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Margarito and Zulema Galvan.
Vi was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She loved with all of her heart and will be deeply missed by her husband, Bobby Joe Miller; her sons, Daniel J. Miller, David C. Miller, Tommy O. Miller, and Donald A. Miller (wife, Debbie); daughter, Susan M. Miller; and a multitude of grandchildren. Viola was fond of cooking, spending time boating and camping at Greers Ferry Lake, playing video games and doing whatever she could to help her family. Her favorite song was “For the Good Times.”
A private service and celebration of Vi’s life was held on April 1, 2017, at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home & Crematory (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– SARAHJANE NEWLAND, 80, of Little Rock, went to be with the Lord on March 28, 2017. She was a graduate of Little Rock High School and the University of Arkansas. She was a home economist for Arkansas Power
& Light.
Sarahjane had many friends and enjoyed much fellowship throughout her life with her home economist colleagues and her Bible study groups.
Sarahjane was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.E. Newland. She is survived by her sister, Linda Denson of Fayetteville, Ark.; nephew, Charles (Carrie) Denson of Dallas, Texas; niece, Gwen (Larry) Watkins of Fayetteville, Ark.; five great-nieces and nephews; two great-great nephews and lifelong friend, Tony Owens.
A prayer service will be held from 1-2 p.m. Thursday, April 6, 2017, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211, (501) 224-8300 followed by burial at Roselawn Cemetery. No flowers please, you may send memorial contributions to the Pulaski County Humane Society, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72210, or www.warmhearts.org.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
–––––❖––––– SHIRLEY ANN (BROWN) PARKER, 63, of Little Rock, died March 30, 2017, after a lengthy illness. Memorial visitation will be Sunday, April 9, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Dial Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Online guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– VIRGINIA JOAN POWELL of Jacksonville, Ark., passed from this life on Friday, March 31, 2017. Joan was born on Thursday, July 12, 1934, in Brownwood, Texas, to the late Johnnie and Ina Evans.
Joan is survived by her loving husband, Bernie Powell, of 64 years; one daughter, Berna Powell Love of Conway; one son, Bryan Powell of Cedar Park, Texas; one granddaughter, Katherine Powel of Cedar Park, Texas.
Joan was a member of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville and a loving wife and mother to her family.
Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at 6 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Ark. Services are entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, (501) 982-3400. Online guestbook can be found at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.
–––––❖––––– VIRGINIA QUEEN passed away March 29th at Parkway Health Center. She was born October 25, 1921, the daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J.F. Queen. She was awarded bachelor’s degrees in music from Ouachita Baptist University in 1944 and a master’s degree in music from the American Conservatory in Chicago in 1949.
After teaching at Prescott High School and the Tennessee College for Women, she joined the Ouachita faculty in 1946 where she was Addie Mae Maddox Professor of Music and taught 40 years before retiring as Professor Emerita and moving 29 years ago to Parkway Village in Little Rock.
Virginia served as President of the Arkansas State Music Teachers’ Association and was named College Teacher of the Year in 1979. She also served as President of the Arkansas Federation of Music Clubs, was a Life Member of the National Federation of Music Clubs, a Rose Fay Thomas Fellow and a former Founders’ Day National Chairman. She served as President of the Arkadelphia Philharmonic Club, a member of the Coterie Piano Rep Group, and Past President of the Little Rock Musical Coterie, which annually awards a scholarship in her name.
Miss Queen loved to teach, as an adjudicator of festivals and competitions and served as church organist for many years. Her students have pursued doctoral studies in piano, become college professors, private piano teachers, public school music teachers and significant leaders in the arts in America.
Memorials may be sent to Ouachita Baptist University and designated for the Queen Award Fund, an award competition established by Miss Queen to encourage piano excellence in Ouachita piano majors.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at the Parkway Village Chapel at 10 a.m. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.
–––––❖––––– PERRI LOUIS RAY, age 59 of Little Rock passed away on March 30, 2017, with his family by his side. He was born on February 19, 1958 to Calvin Sr. and Mary Ray. He is survived by a host of family and friends who all love and will miss him dearly. A graveside memorial will be held on Monday, April 10, 2017 at 1 p.m. at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Ferndale. To sign his online guest book go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT R. TANKERSLEY, 37, of Little Rock, passed away on Thursday, March 30, 2017. He was born, April 17, 1979 to Randy Tankersley and Susan Hill in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robert attended George Washington University and Arkansas State University. He’s been with Regions Bank for 15 years serving most recently as Vice-President/Consumer Banking Manager. In 2016, Robert served as the Corporate Chair of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Arkansas’ Light the Night event. He was also a supporter of the Ozark Mission Project-PHUMC.
Robert was preceded in death by his grandfather, Everett Tankersley; grandparents, Lois and James Scheibe, and his beloved dog, Koko. He is survived by his parents: Randy Tankersley (Kathy) of Little Rock and Susan Hill (Danny) of Maumelle, Arkansas; brother, James Tankersley (Amanda) of Alexander, Arkansas; and grandmother, Helen Tankersley of Little Rock.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, 4823 Woodlawn Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211, (501) 224-8300.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Cornerstone Hospital Group and the ICU health care team at UAMS.
In lieu of flowers, a camper scholarship has been created in Robert’s memory. Donations can be made to Ozark Mission Project, Attn: Robert Tankersley Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 26525, Little Rock, Arkansas 72221 (www.ozarkmissionproject.org), or the Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210 (www.warmhearts.org). Online guestbook: www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT CHARLES “BOB” WILLIAMS SR., 84, of Little Rock, Ark., surrounded by his wife and four children, died Tuesday, March
28, 2017, at Parkway Health
Center after a prolonged illness related to military service in Vietnam. He was born March 16, 1933, in Hartford, Conn., the younger of two sons of Frank Joseph and Clara Macht Williams, who predeceased him. Bob spent his early years in Middlebury, Conn. He attended Danbury Teachers College in Danbury, Conn.
In 1953, during the Korean Conflict, he enlisted in the USAF, serving twenty years at Sampson AFB, N.Y., Lackland AFB, Texas, Hunter AFB, Ga., Little Rock AFB, Ark., and Glasgow AFB, Mont. As a combat crew member on KC97 and KC-135 tankers, he was an inflight air refueling specialist in the Strategic Air Command, the nation’s first line of defense during the Cold War, performing the intricate maneuvers necessary to refuel fighter jets, nuclear bombers, and reconnaissance planes while airborne. He was among the first boom operators to be trained in Refueling the SR71 Reconnaissance planes. He participated in our country’s defense during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. Besides his permanent duty stations, his military career sent him to many temporary assignments.
Due to developing disability, Bob left flying status in 1970 and was transferred to Danang, Vietnam, in the Pacific Air Forces as First Sergeant of a Military Airlift Command Squadron for one year. He completed the Strategic Air Command Non-commissioned Officers Academy in 1971, returning to Little Rock AFB as First Sergeant of the Missile Maintenance Squadron, which serviced the Titan II Missiles in Arkansas. He retired in 1974 with the rank of M/Sgt. During his military career he was awarded the Bronze Star, Air Medal with Special Operations Group, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Service Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Oak Leaf Clusters in addition to numerous other medals and ribbons.
Following his military retirement, Bob became a representative for the Veterans Administration Regional Office. As a Field Investigator for the northwest area of Arkansas, he serviced the needs of his fellow veterans for 22 years. He retired from the Administration in 1997, having received many awards. His combined Air Force and Veterans Association careers spanned a total of 42 years of dedicated service to his country.
A multi-talented man, retirement afforded Bob the opportunity to pursue his artistic skills. He attended courses in conservation at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., volunteering his newly acquired abilities in assisting Bob Devan, State Conservator of the Arkansas History Commission, a man who became his closest friend for the remainder of his life. During this time, Bob enjoyed developing his innate gift for painting on canvas, a talent discovered in his childhood. His intricate, detailed landscapes have been displayed on television, in magazines, state pamphlets, galleries and art shows. As a free-lance artist, he sold many original paintings and limited edition prints. He was also a member of the Lions Cub, American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans.
Bob married Fay Livingston of Savannah, Ga., in a formal wedding on June 18, 1954, at Hunter Air Force Base Chapel. Their oldest child, Robert, Jr., was born in Georgia, and their remaining children, Ray, Sonja, and Carolyn, were born in Arkansas. Despite frequent, extended absences from his children during their youth, due to his military service, Bob’s loving, firm guidance has been a constant influence throughout their lives. In addition to attending church and school events, their childhood was spent enjoying scouting, camping, fishing, gardening and sports events with their father and mother.
In addition to his wife of 62 years, Bob is survived by a brother, Frank Williams (Nobbie) of Noank, Conn.; sons, Robert Williams, Jr (Debbie) of Melbourne, Fla., and Ray Williams (Joyce) of North Little Rock; daughters, Sonja O’Leary (Michael) of Maumelle, and Carolyn Warner (Mark) of North Little Rock; grandchildren, Marcia Ballentine (Rob), Jennifer Williams, Bernie Williams (Jaime) all of Orlando, Fla., Garry Hatzell of North Little Rock, Ark., Heather Owen of El Dorado Springs, Mo., Franklin Brent of Oppelo, Ark., and Sean Carney (Laura) of Prairie Grove, Ark.; great-grandchildren, Caden and Jaxon Williams, Riley and Henry Williams all of Orlando, Fla.; Brendan, Christopher, and Matthew Reddick of El Dorado Springs, Mo.; Allistar and Amelia Carney of Prairie Grove, Ark. The family is convinced that Henry Luke Williams, born in Tampa, Fla., within a few hours after Bob’s death, was welcomed into this world by his great-grandfather during their transition.
Special extended family members include Bob Devan of Little Rock, Barbara Cooper of Maumelle, Perry DeJarnette of Little Rock, Kathy James of Little Rock, and Sheila Johnson of El Dorado, Ark. Bob is also survived by a host of loving friends in a life-saving, world-wide Fellowship.
The family expresses gratitude to Dr. Claudia Tolleson and her staff of Parkway Village Clinic, Parkway Health Center’s Administrator Steven Gates, and all nurses, aides, and staff members who gave such excellent and loving care to Bob during his extended stay. Thanks, also, to the Baptist Hospice team that eased his transition.
Services will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2017, at Roller Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211, (501) 224-8300 with visitation at 10 a.m., and a memorial service led by Rev. Jim Agee, Chaplain of Baptist Hospice Care, at 11 a.m. Full military honors with interment will be at 1 p.m. at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, followed by a reception for family and friends at 142 Beaver Creek Lane, Maumelle, Ark., at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, (woundedwarriorproject.org), P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kan. 66675, or Ozark Water Projects, Inc, (Facebook), 10701 Rivercrest Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72212.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
Arkansas
ALEXANDER — James Malcolm Atherton, 83, passed from this world into his new home on March 29, 2017 at 12:53 a.m. He is preceded in death by his mother, Francis Pauline Atherton and his father, Dee Atherton. His Aunt and Uncle, Corine and Elbert Fortney. His two grandsons, Just Lynch and Tyler Atherton. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sally Jo Netherton Atherton of Perryville, Ark.; his daughter, Machelle Lynch, (James Lynch), (Pete Main) and son David Atherton, (Cindy Atherton). He was the proud grandfather of two granddaughters, Farrah Rachelle Wallis, 25, and Taylor Lynn Atherton, 11, both of Bryant, Ark.
He was known by many, always willing to lend a helping hand and never met a stranger. He was loved and will be missed by all. A memorial Celebration will be held at a later date.
–––––❖––––– ALEXANDER — Christene G. Hicks, 83, of Alexander passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 29, 2017. She was born February 20, 1934 in Austin, Arkansas. Married at 20, she was widowed after only ten years and proudly raised her children single-handedly. Affectionately known as Mama Tene, she was a cancer survivor and became a positive example of strength and perseverance to her family.
Christene is survived by her daughters, Brenda Spann (Michael) and Linda Tanner, both of Alexander, and two grandsons, Dr. Joshua Spann of Fort Worth, Texas, and Jeremy Tanner of Alexander, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Evie Shock Gilliland, husband, William “Gene” Hicks, and two sisters, Helen Fisher and Carol McClain.
Christene will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery in Austin at a later date of the family’s choosing. Cremation arrangements were made by her friends and former colleagues at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock.
The family would like to express thanks to the staff at Southern Trace Rehabilitation and Care Center of Bryant and Saline Memorial Hospice Care for the exceptional warmth shown to Christene during her time in their care. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
–––––❖––––– ALEXANDER — Laura Wilkins, 59, of Alexander passed away March 27, 2017. She was born on December 5, 1957 to Jerrell and Peggy Wilkins in Little Rock, Arkansas. Family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. Arrangements provided by Dial and Dudley Funeral Home. Online guest book, visit www. dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ARKADELPHIA — Carolyn Arnold Batson, age 83, went to be with her Lord on Saturday, April 1, 2017. She was born in Camden on April 1, 1934 to Robert Myron Arnold and Glena Deaton Arnold. She was married to R.H. Dick Batson, the love of her life. Carolyn was a 1952 graduate of Arkadelphia High School and held a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Arkansas.
Carolyn was an RN for the VA hospital in Shreveport, La.; Clark County Memorial Hospital; and Baptist Medical Center in Arkadelphia. She was the Director of Nursing at both Baptist Arkadelphia and Hot Spring County Memorial Hospital. She served on the National Board and traveled to San Francisco to write exam questions for the national nurses exam (NCLEX).
She and friend and colleague Charlotte Hunter pioneered the Kindergarten Roundup program in Arkadelphia. Carolyn was a school nurse at Henderson State University before joining the original nursing faculty at HSU. She retired as Assistant Professor of Nursing in 1996 after thirty years. Carolyn continued her service after retirement by providing free blood pressure checkups each week at the former Elk Horn Bank.
Carolyn is survived by her three sons: Retired State Police Corporal Mark (Kathy) Batson of Arkadelphia, Highway Police Captain Ross (Lisa) Batson of Bryant, and Clark County Prosecutor Blake (Jill) Batson of Arkadelphia. She also leaves to cherish her memory five grandchildren: Jerod (Kyla), Christopher (Leanne), Tyler, Cabb, and Blaise Batson; her brother Bob (Laurie) Arnold; five great grandchildren: Gunner, Shooter, Archer, Katie Jo and Cooper Batson; and many special nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give a special thank you to her many special friends and the wonderful staff at Twin Rivers Health and Rehabilitation and to Dr. Kristen Brandon for their excellent care.
Visitation will be on Monday, April 3, 2017 at 11 a.m. in the Ruggles Wilcox Chapel in Arkadelphia with services following at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery in Arkadelphia. Memorials may be made to the Carolyn Arnold Batson nursing scholarship to be established in her memory at Henderson State University. Online register is available at www.ruggleswilcox.com.
–––––❖––––– BENTON — Linda Louise Addie, 67, Benton died Friday, March 31, 2017. She was born Oct. 31, 1949, in Benton.
Survivors, daughters and sonin-law, Patressia (Jay) Strickland, Patience Addie; brothers, Kelly Wilson, Irvin Wilson, Robert Wilson; sisters, Oma Gene Wilson, Mary Scallion, Violet Edens; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and a special friend Alice Payne.
Visitation, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Ashby’s. Funeral, 10 a.m. Tuesday, Ashby’s Chapel; burial, Mt. Harmony Cemetery. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– BENTON — George Lynual Johnson, 89, of Benton, Ark., passed away on March 30, 2017. He was born on Oct. 20, 1927, in Little Rock, Ark., to Robert Jeff and Verna Lee (Neal) Johnson. George worked for AMF Cycle Division for 25 years and we loved the custom bikes he built for us when we were children. It truly made us feel special. He loved to squirrel and coon hunt and enjoyed training and showing his blue tick and hound dogs. George was a WWII veteran serving in the U.S. Navy on the destroyer the USS OMBUS and was honorably discharged in 1953. He was a lifelong Baptist.
George is preceded in death by his middle daughter, Marsha Lynn Johnson Morrow; two grandsons, Thomas (Tom) Michael Morrow and David (Dave) McKinley Morrow; and one granddaughter, Lisa Michelle Clay; his parents; one brother, Marvin Jeff Johnson; and two sisters, Darlene Johnson Woodall and Shirley Johnson Magness.
He is survived by his sweet wife of 68 years, Glenna Gail (Stimpson) Johnson from Thornburg, Ark.; two daughters, Brenda Joyce Johnson Clay (Bobby) of Scotland, Ark., and Darlene Johnson Lackey of North Little Rock, Ark.; son-in-law, Thomas (Tommy) Ray Morrow of Little Rock, Ark.; one granddaughter; Angela Rouse Owen (Mike) of Sherwood, Ark.; four grandsons, Robert Jeffrey (Jeff) Clay (Debbie) of Bryant, Ark., Darin Michael Clay of Hot Springs, Ark., William Joseph (Billy Joe) Clay of Hot Springs, Ark., and Mark Edward Morrow of Benton, Ark.; fourteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Baptist Health Foundation, Hospice Home Care or the Arkansas Humane Society.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 7, 2017, at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Ark. Services are under the direction of A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Ark. Online guestbook, www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.
–––––❖––––– BENTON — Grady Allen Parks, 84, passed away March 30, 2017. He was born to Henery and Maltdia Parks on Nov. 14, 1932. Services will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Tuesday, April
4, 2017, 1 p.m. Visitation will be Monday, 6-8 p.m. To sign on-line guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– BLACKWELL — Johann Hill, 96, of Blackwell, Ark., departed this life March 25, 2017. Funeral: Monday, 10 a.m. at St. Matthew Baptist Church #3, 208 Blackwell Road,
Atkins, Ark. Interment: Rose of Sharon Cemetery, Atkins, Ark. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– CABOT — Dorotha Lee Roberts, 93 of Cabot (formerly of Plano, Texas) went home to be with the Lord on March 28, 2017. She was born Feb. 22, 1924. Friends called her Dottie and family called her NeNaw. Dottie is survived by her daughter, Gari Lyn Percefull, and son-in-law, Bill Percefull from Cabot; three grandchildren, Christi Payne, Cathy Morgan, and Keith Percefull; three great-grandchildren, Branom and Bailey, Payne and Kyle Morgan; two very special cousins, J.C. Sutch of Jacksonville, and Helen Davis of McKinney, Texas.
Dottie was proceeded in death by her first husband, John A. Page, second husband, James B. Roberts, and a son, John W. Page.
A celebration of her life was held at Fellowship Baptist Church in Cabot on Saturday, April 1, 2017. She will be laid to rest at the Mount Carmel Cemetery on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. Friends and family are welcomed. Arrangements are by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– CADDO VALLEY — Jeffery Dean Lampton, 81, passed away peacefully in his sleep Feb. 24, 2017 in Bee Cave, Texas.
Jeff was born Oct. 27, 1935 to Clarence Lampton and Ina (Patterson) Lampton. After graduating from high school in 1954 in Blad Knob, Ark., Jeff enlisted in the Air Force and was honorably discharged in January 1963. After the Air Force, Jeff settles in Plymouth, Mich., where he enrolled in college and subsequently went to work for Eaton Corporation as an engineering technician. After retirement from Eaton in 1997 he moved to Caddo Valley, Ark., where he lived for the next 19 years doing what he loved most: fishing for crappie, growing tomatoes and bell peppers, and hunting squirrels and deer. Jeff enjoyed watching British comedies on PBS, was a prolific reader, and was an accomplished craftsman and machinist. But of all the things he enjoyed in this world, what he loved most was the solitude he found in nature in the woods that encompassed his home.
He is survived by brother Everett AD Lampton of Fenton, Mich.; nieces Robin Taylor and husband Scott of Spicewood, Texas, Gail Lampton and husband Gary Desrosiers of Austin, Texas, Barb Lamb, London, Ontario, Canada, Nancy Lampton and husband Scott Raby of Fenton, Mich.; nephews Jerry Blanton and wife Lola of Bald Knob, Ark., and Bob Blanton and wife Barbara of Lyman, S.C.; and cousins Wayne, Jerry, and Lynn Roetzel of Arkansas.
Jeff’s family would like to extend sincere, heartfelt thanks to
the staff at Silverado Memory Care Community in Bee Cave, Texas, for their unparalleled kindness and compassionate care. You enlightened our journey, made each transition as smooth as possible, and above all, honored Jeff’s dignity to the very end. And to neighbors Wayne Bear and Dee Ratliff Jr., and Sgt. Roy Bethel of the Caddo Valley Police Department, thank you for being there at the right time and for all your care and support the past year. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for all the peace of mind and love you shared through your selfless actions.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 8 at 11 a.m. at Carter Cemetery in Russell, Ark.
May the squirrels rest easy now.
–––––❖––––– CAVE CITY — Paul Wayne Beitler Jr., 67 of Cave City died Friday, March 31, 2017. Funeral services, Monday, April 3, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the Qualls Funeral Home Chapel in Cave City. Burial, Lee’s Chapel Cemetery at Sandtown. Visitation, Sunday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
–––––❖––––– EL DORADO — John D Trimble Jr., 85, of El Dorado, Ark., passed away on Thursday, March 30, 2017, at his residence, the same house in which he was born on May 6, 1931.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John D. and Lena Goodwin Trimble; two sisters Bettie Trimble Mabray and Mary Trimble Maier; a son John D. Trimble V; his first wife of 53 years Robin Berry Trimble and his second wife Etta Sue Frantz Trimble.
Survivors are a daughter Elizabeth Trimble Robinson (Ben) of St. Joseph, La.; a son James Berry Trimble of Chevy Chase, Md.; a sister Jean Trimble Brewer; a daughter-in-law Julie Trimble; along with grandchildren Ann Elizabeth Trimble, John D. Trimble VI, Robin Elizabeth Geurin (Justin), Mary Diana Bradley, Lena Olivia Bradley, Charlotte Trimble Bradley, George Ware Trimble, Jill ‘Cassie’ Kathleen Trimble and Darby Gabriel Trimble; two twin great-granddaughters Robin Elizabeth Geurin and Lillian Jane Geurin along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A lifelong resident of El Dorado, he graduated from El Dorado High School in 1948 and then attended Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Va., and Southwestern at Memphis, Tenn., (now Rhodes College). In 1950 he transferred to the University of Arkansas and graduated from its Law School in 1953.
Mr. Trimble’s father John D Trimble Sr. died shortly before his graduation from Law School, and he returned upon graduation, to El Dorado to manage his father’s estate serving as executor of the estate. In 1956 he and his three sisters formed a partnership known as Trimble Properties which he served as managing partner from its inception until his death. Originally a land management and investment securities company this partnership developed into a small oil and gas exploration and production business.
During his life time, he also operated oil leases in Texas and assisted in managing substantial agricultural interests owned by his family in Louisiana.
Mr. Trimble served on the Board of Directors of the First National Bank of El Dorado and First United Bancshares until those institutions were merged with Bancorp South Corporation in the year 2000. He also served for 12 years on the Board of Trustees of the Arkansas College in Batesville, Ark., (now Lyon College)
He was a member from childhood of the First Presbyterian Church of El Dorado, but in 2010 he joined Scotland Presbyterian Church near Junction City, Ark., of which he was a member at the time of his death.
Graveside services will be at Somerset Family Cemetery near Newellton, La., at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2017, with John Mabray officiating. Serving as pallbearers are Herb De Lone, Jimbo Matheney, and his nephews John L. Maier, Tommy Turner and Pat Mabray.
Memorials may be made to Lyon College, 2300 Highland Road, Batesville, Ark. 72501, or First Presbyterian Church Bell Tower Fund, 300 East Main, El Dorado, Ark. 71730.
An online registry is available at www.youngfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– GRUBBS — Malisa B. Fields, 98, of Grubbs departed this life on Friday, March 31, 2017, at Harris Hospital in Newport. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Monday, April 3, 2017, from 6-8. Graveside Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at Ballews Chapel Cemetery. Arrangements provided by Dillinger Funeral Home. www.dillingerfuneralhome.com.
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GUY — Bradford “B.H.” Hartwick, 90, formerly of Guy, passed away March 31, 2017. He was born July 15, 1926, in Guy, Ark., to the late Waco and Minnie Hartwick. B.H. enjoyed his beagles and hunting. He was of the Baptist faith and served in the Navy in World War II.
B.H. is preceded in death by his wife Barbara; parents; brother: Donnell Hartwick; and grandson Jimmy David Hartwick.
He is survived by sons: Jerry Hartwick (Beth) of Greenbrier, Bill Hartwick of Floresville, Texas, and Jim Hartwick of Austin, Ark.; grandchildren: Brad Hartwick (Audra), Cody Hartwick (Penny), Brooke Worden (Dusty), Josh Hartwick (Carlene), Kaitlyn Hartwick, and Emily Hartwick; 15 great-grandchildren; sister: Barbara Albright; brothers: Amon Hartwick and Roy Hartwick; and many more nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Visitation will be Monday, April 3, 2017, at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Greenbrier from 6-8 p.m. Funeral Service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at the Funeral Home with burial following at Copperas Springs Cemetery in Guy.
Pallbearers will be Ricky Wiedower, Rodney Wiedower, Scotty Poole, Ronnie Hartwick, Donnie Hartwick, and Grady Hartwick. Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ greenbrier.
–––––❖––––– HAMPTON — Edith Turner Newton, 82, of Hampton died Friday, March 31, 2017, at her home. She was born May 10, 1934, in Tinsman, Ark. Edith was a retired nurse. She is preceded in death by her parents, Alfred Roy Turner and Virginia Green Turner; husband Bobby Joe Newton; grandson, Jake Hudson; great-grandson, Logan Williams; son-in-law, Jim Hudson; seven brothers, Claude, Travis, Ralph, Kenneth, Blann, Dutch, and Short Turner; two sisters, Dee O’Mary and Mary Dean Turner.
She is survived by one son, Jimmy Newton and wife Lisa of Texarkana; two daughters, Mary Jo Williams and husband Billy Frank of Hampton, and Kathy Hudson of Texarkana; two brothers, Jack Turner of El Dorado, and Harold Turner of Harrell; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Monday, 6-8 p.m., at Benton Funeral Home in Hampton. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Community Church at Earnest Cemetery with Rev. Robbie Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at Earnest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Earnest Cemetery, P.O. Box 747 Hampton, Ark. 71744, or the cemetery of your choice. Arrangements by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.
–––––❖––––– HOPE — Edward J. Cooper of Hope, Ark., passed away Thursday, March 30,
2017. He was born in Nevada
County Feb. 11,
1937. He finished Prescott
High School in
1954, and attended Texarkana College, Southern State College, and Ouachita Baptist University. He was preceded in death by his father, Jonathan Cooper and his mother, Emma Hamilton Cooper and his wife, Shirley Allen Cooper.
Edward is survived by three children, Lesha Renae Cooper, Sharyla Cooper Thompson (Stan) and Jonathan Allen Cooper (Michelle). He has two grandchildren, Kaley Thompson Tucker (Curt) and Brady Marshall Thompson.
In 1989, Edward retired from the Hope Public School System, where he had taught English for 23 years. Prior to that, he had taught seven years at Emmet High School. In 1980 he was Hempstead County Teacher of the Year. Edward was also a music composer and writer. He was an organist and deacon of Unity Baptist Church from 19702000. He published music under the name of “Linger at Calvary Melodies” and “Melon City Music” and had composed music and lyrics to 100 plus songs, both gospel and secular. After retiring from the public school system, he taught music privately for 10 years. Following that, he was office manager and pianist for the First Baptist Church of Prescott for many years, where he presently is a member.
Edward wrote and published “Farmer’s Paradise,” a musical history of Hempstead County in 1993. A percentage of sales of it were donated to the Friday Music Club, the Arts Council, and the historical society. He was a member of the Golden “K” Kiwanis Club for several years. One of those years, he was president of the club. The club sponsored a CD of “Farmer’s Paradise” in 2003 and all proceeds were given to local places to help handicapped individuals. He was presented to the prestigious George F. Hixon Award by the Golden “K” Club in 2003.
He recorded 12 different CDs of music, some of which were his piano arrangements of gospel and secular songs. In particular, he composed a gospel album entitled “Linger at Calvary” in 1970. It was recorded in 1971 and featured the Unity Baptist Trio and Unity Baptist Music Makers. Members of those groups were Rev. Gordon Renshaw, Bob Hand, Shirley Cooper, Ruth Hicks, Linda Brown, Quetta Ellis, Edward Cooper and Mike Huckabee on bass guitar. The album was advertised by the Baptist Missionary Association of America and all proceeds from the sales were given to help BMA missionaries.
The story behind the song, “Linger at Calvary,” began in 1967, when Cooper read a thin booklet by Dr. James Alexander Stewart of Scotland. It was about the prayer life of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, one of the greatest preachers of the 1800’s. While reading a line that said, “It was wonderful to see how he lingered at Calvary.” Cooper said the words of the song he wrote were immediately in his mind, and as he sat down at the piano, he played the song. He then jotted it all down on a piece of manuscript paper, and it was completed in approximately 15 minutes. He published the song and sent it to the Stewart office in Lansdale, Pa. It was then sent to Dr. Stewart, who wrote Cooper back shortly thereafter. Stewart said he could tell the song was truly inspired and was instructing his evangelistic team to use it in their Scotland crusades.
Edward’s life story was dramatized by professional actors on “Unshackled,” the famous radio drama of Pacific Garden Mission of Chicago in 1977 and was broadcast over several hundred radio stations worldwide in November of that year. The drama concentrated on his difficult childhood, his music compositions, and his personal faith in Jesus Christ. One of his favorite scriptures (1st Corinthians 1:2631) was from the King James Version of the Bible, which declares how God has chosen the weak and despised things of the world…. that no flesh should glory in his presence… as it is written, he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” Other favorites of his were John 3:16 and the Roman Road of Salvation.
Although he had a few music contracts, he never pushed his music a lot through publishers. In fact, he gave a lot of it away. He was excited about a letter he got from John W. Peterson, famous gospel composer, who encouraged him to submit two of his songs to Singspiration Publications. The two songs were accepted and he was paid a modest sum for them.
He was most grateful to have local artists sing his songs while he accompanied them on the piano. He enjoyed playing and arranging music offertories for churches where he belonged. “I never was comfortable with applause from local congregations as the trend evolved. I wanted to emphasize the melody of the hymns so that the listeners’ attention was focused entirely on the lyrics so that they truly had a worshipful experience,” he said. At First Baptist Church of Prescott, Cooper said he had great pleasure in arranging songs of pianists such as Dino Kartsonakis and playing them for offertories with Anne Franks, an excellent organist.
The family of Edward Cooper will receive friends and family on Sunday, April 2, 2017 between the hours of 3-5 p.m. at Herndon-Pharr Funeral Home, 403 South Main, Hope, Ark.
Funeral services for Edward Cooper will be Monday, April 3, 2017 at 2 p.m. in the Unity Baptist Church, conducted by Bro. Frank Henson, Bro. Glen Tropp and Bro. Kevin Smead. Music will be provided by several local artists who had recorded some of Cooper’s songs. Arrangements under the direction of Herndon-Pharr Funeral Home.
Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Shover Springs, Ark., under the direction of Herndon-Pharr Funeral Home.
Online guestbook available at www.pharrfuneralhomes.com.
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HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Kerianne Marie Beasley, 46, passed away March 28, 2017. Survivors include her son, Christopher Beasley; daughter, Felicia Beasley, both of Hot Springs Village; brother, David Donato of Denver, Colo.; and sister, Deatra Gilbert. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Kerianne’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– JONESBORO — Maria Burdyshaw, 88, passed March 30, 2017. Born in The Netherlands, Maria survived World War II, witnessing the Nazi occupation. She spoke at schools about naturalization wearing native costume. Visitation is Tuesday 5-7 p.m. Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home, Jonesboro with interment at Jonesboro Memorial Park. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/Jonesboro.
–––––❖––––– JUDSONIA — William Nier, 97, went to be with the Lord Friday, March 31, 2017. Survivors include his daughters, Patricia Sims (Lloyd) and Beverly Ramsey; four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Visitation: Monday, 6-8 p.m. Services: 2 p.m., Tuesday, at the Powell Funeral Home-Bald Knob. Interment: Providence Cemetery. www.powellfuneralhome.net.
–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Phillip Edward Golleher, 69, of Lonoke, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord March 31, 2017. He was born in Bakersfield, California, May
25, 1947 to parents, Edward Golleher and
Virginia Hanson Golleher.
Phillip was preceded in death by his parents and one brother: Gary. He is survived by his wife: Scarlett Golleher; two sons: Phillip E. Golleher, Jr. (Mandy) of Hot Springs and Jack Owen of Lonoke; three daughters: Kara Marsden (Rand), Blair Seelye (Chris) and Maggie Polk (Nick) of Lonoke; six grandchildren; one brother: Mitch Golleher (Evelyn) of Hot Springs; nieces, nephews, and extended family. Phillip loved his family, his dog Bunny, golf and was a sports fan.
There will be a private family service at a later date. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/england.
–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Alan Paul Stokes, 68, passed March 28, 2017. Born December 17, 1948, Bridgeport, Conn. Son to the late Whitney Gerald and Gladys Holliman Stokes. Visitation Tues. April 4, 6-8 p.m. Regency Funeral Home. Cremation arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Jack “Murry” Wylie, Sr., 80, passed away March 30, 2017. Born in Carthage, Arkansas, to the late DeKalb Wylie and Pearl Starks Wylie, he was an equipment operator in the lumber industry and an Army National Guard veteran.
Preceded in death by his parents and several brothers and sisters, he is survived by his children, Jack M. Wylie, Jr. (Kathy) of Sheridan, Janoy Gail Ross (Chris) of Carthage and Veronica Lee Ann McCoy (Alex) of Crestview, Florida; grandson, Thurman Lea II of Carthage; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 2242200. Murry’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– MONTICELLO — Sharon Marie Byrd, 59, of Monticello passed away, Monday, March 27, 2017 at home. A Memorial Service will be 1 p.m. Monday, April 3, 2017 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Sunday night at the funeral home. Online guestbook www. stephensondearman.com.
–––––❖––––– NEWPORT — Polly (Clark) Stoner, 78, of Newport, died Friday. Survivors: three brothers, Bud Clark, David Clark, and Bobby Clark; sisters, Betty Shipley, and Brenda Pipkins; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation: Monday beginning at 12:30 p.m., with services following at 2 p.m. at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Chapel. Interment: Gracelawn Cemetery. www.jacksonsfh.com.
–––––❖––––– PIGGOTT — James Arlie “Jack” Vaughn, Jr., 83, of Piggott, Arkansas, passed away April 1, 2017, at the Piggott Community Hospital in Piggott, Arkansas. He was born on August 11, 1933, in Bono, Arkansas, and was the son of the late James Arlie and Sally Bea (Groves) Vaughn. Jack was united in marriage to Charlotte Bradberry on March 27, 1953, and to this union a son was born.
Jack was a longtime member of the General Baptist Church. He was a 45-year member of the Piggott Masonic Lodge #545 and was a dual member of the Eastern Star Lodge #207. He was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Olive Chapter Lodge #147, the Scottish Rite, and the Shriners.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Michael Shane Vaughn; brother, Earl David Vaughn, and sister, Marie Presley.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Charlotte Vaughn of Piggott, Arkansas; son, Gerald Dewayne Vaughn and wife Tammy Stegmann of Pleasant Plains, Arkansas; sister, Alice Lee Lampp of Jonesboro, Arkansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
A Masonic funeral service will be held on Monday, April 3, 2017, at 7 p.m. in the Hoggard & Sons Chapel with visitation immediately following until 8:30 p.m. A private burial will be held at a later date. Hoggard & Sons Funeral Home of Piggott, Arkansas, will be in charge of the arrangement.
–––––❖–––––
PINE BLUFF — Sue Dell Black, 95, of Pine Bluff died Thursday, March 30, 2017.
Born in Star City, Arkansas, June 7, 1921, a daughter of the late Earl Wayne and Myrtis Adams Vick, she grew up in star City, graduating from Star City High School at age 16 in 1938. She attended Arkansas A&M (now UofA-Monticello) for one year and Modern School of Business in Monticello for one year before starting her business career.
She joined the Public Welfare Department in Star City in 1940, then in 1941 joined the Lincoln County Triple-A where she worked until 1953. She transferred to the Jefferson County Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service until retiring in 1976.
She married Orlen Sanford Campbell in 1943. He died at age 58. She married Wade Black, Pine Bluff florist, in 1972. He died in 2003.
She was a First United Methodist Church-Pine Bluff member, Special and Honorary member of United Methodist Women, past president and member of Wesley Friendship Sunday School Class. She was also a member of the DAR-Pine Bluff Chapter since 1989 and the Pine Bluff Duplicate Bridge Club.
Her survivors include three nieces, three nephews, many great and great-great nieces and nephews, two cousins, and a sister-in-law. In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by her sister, Martha Betty Vick Atkinson, and brother, Earl Wayne Vick Jr.
Services are Monday, April 3, 2017, 10:30 a.m., Chapel of First United Methodist Church. Memorials are requested to her church, P.O. Box 8003, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71611. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.
–––––❖––––– REDFIELD — Calvin Ray Reynolds, age 58, entered into eternal life on March 26, 2017.He was born Nov. 11, 1958 in Dallas, Texas, to Vivian and Boyd Reynolds. He was preceded in death by his brother Donnie, his son CB, and his mother Vivian.
Left to cherish his memory are his father Boyd; his beloved wife of 35 years, Nancy; his daughters Sandy and Tasia, and bonus son Richard Anderson. He also leaves eight grandchildren.
Important to Calvin was his host of brothers within the Bandido Nation, as well as many friends and associates in the motorcycling world and beyond. He was true blue, a hard worker, and an easy going man. The world is a far lonelier place without his generous heart and spirit.
A non-traditional service is planned for 1 p.m. April 8, at Cranford Funeral Home, 8302 Dollarway Road, White Hall, Ark. 71602. His final ride to his rest will commence at 2 p.m.
–––––❖––––– ROMANCE — Ms. Loudene “Lucy” Boyster died Friday. Survived by one son, two daughters, her former husband; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Remmel-McCall Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday 4-6 p.m. at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Bonnie D. Meimerstorf, 82, of Russellville died Saturday. Funeral is 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at East Point Baptist Church. Burial in East Point Cemetery and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation: Monday, 5-6 p.m., at the funeral home. The online obituary/guestbook available at www. shinnfuneral.com.
–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Charles “C.K” Kirksey Poynter, 62 of Russellville, died Thursday. Funeral will be 2 p.m., Monday at First Baptist Church of Dover and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation: 1 p.m., until service time at the church. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.
–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Elmer Lee Greer, age 91 of Searcy, died Friday, March 31, 2017 in Searcy. He was born July 15, 1925 in Searcy to the late Lee and Nettie Greer. Mr. Greer was a 1943 graduate of Searcy High School; a World War II Veteran of the Army Air Corps where he served as a B-52 Gunner; owned and operated Searcy Frozen
Foods for 46 years; worked for the Harding University Maintenance Department for 12 years; Searcy Parks and Recreation for three years; was a former member of the Searcy Lion’s Club; and served as a Deacon at West Race Baptist Church for 37 years.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Elva Greer; one son, Ronnie Greer and wife Brenda of Searcy; two grandchildren, Matt Greer and wife Stacy of Searcy, Stuart Greer and wife Mindi of Searcy; and two great-grandchildren, Hayden Greer and Maggie Greer, both of Searcy. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Nettie Greer; three brothers; five sisters; and four infant children. Visitation is Sunday from 5-8 p.m. at Powell Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Monday at 10 a.m. at West Race Baptist Church with interment to follow at Honey Hill Cemetery. The family has requested any donations be made to the Searcy Little League Baseball program. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.
–––––❖––––– SHERIDAN — Patricia “Pat” Williams McCool, 77, of Sheridan, died Friday. She volunteered for many years on causes to benefit Veterans. Survivors: husband, Lloyd Gene McCool; sons, Rick, Scott, and Joshua McCool; brother, Henry Williams; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Funeral: 10 a.m., Monday, Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial at Hampton Springs Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, 2-4 p.m.
Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook, www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.
Out-of-state
UKIAH, Calif. — Jim Leslie Hankins, of Jasper, Ark., died at home with his loving daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Rodney Grisanti, in Ukiah, Calif., March 26. He joins his beloved wife, Dallas; his sisters Pauline Sowell, Shirley (Lowell) Holt and Willie (Randall) Williams; and his parents, Tom and Elsie Lee Dickey Hankins. He is survived by his children, Sarah Leslie (Rodney) Grisanti and Lee Fletcher Hankins; his sisters Camilla (Richard) Smith of Piqua, Ohio, Hazel (Ralph) Jones of Atlanta, Ga.; his brother Don Hankins of Pelsor; Martha Angelo (George) Easley of Newport, R.I., James “Jim” (Daniel) Angelo of Little Rock, Lucien “Butch” Angelo of Hernando, Miss., special niece Camille Williams (Wayne) Bennett of Scott, and many nieces, relatives and cousins.
Jim was born Nov. 25, 1940, in Pelsor, Ark. One of seven siblings, his father owned and operated the Hankins General Store and had the post office. He graduated from Arkansas Polytechnic College (now Arkansas Tech).
Jim married Dallas Angelo of Augusta. They lived first in North Little Rock and then settled in Pine Bluff where they raised a family and were very involved in their church, Grace Episcopal, and their community.
Jim worked with the criminal justice system, where he developed early intervention and support systems for affected youth and their families that mentored children and was directed at avoiding incarceration and reducing recidivism. He excelled at public relations and worked to promote Arkansas with Arkansas Parks and Tourism and worked as Public Relations Director of First South Bank.
Eventually, Jim moved to Russellville and later to Jasper. He loved the mountains and nature. His favorite activity was to sit in the sun and read. He was a voracious reader – from books, magazines and newspapers, he loved to learn something new and was never without a book or two. He dearly adored his wife and his two children, sports and his dogs and did everything possible to give them a good life. He was a devoted brother to a large, close-knit family and a friend to all he met. He left this world a much better place than when he found it because he touched everyone with humor, good conversation and kindness. He cared more for others than himself and lived his Christian faith every day and in every way.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Paws in Prison Foundation, P.O. Box 8707, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71611-8707.
–––––❖––––– GRAND LAKE, Colo. — Kenneth Everett Kimball II, succumbed to the effects of untreated PTSD on March 11, in Denver, Colo. Born in Okinawa on Aug. 24, 1975, he is survived by his wife, Paula D. (Holzfaster) Kimball, of Grand Lake, Colo.; grandmother Barbara Kimball of Hopkinton, Mass.; his grandfather, Arthur Albert Brazeau of Marlboro, Mass.; his mother Donna (Brazeau) Kimball of Marlboro, Mass.; his father Kenneth Kimball of Hopkinton, Mass.; his three sisters Tracy, Christine and Carrieann. He leaves three nieces, four nephews, two great-nieces, and one great-nephew. He graduated in the charter class of Youth Challenge. He spent 16 years in the 101st Airborne as a flying Blackhawk crew chief. He served three tours of duty in the Middle East. He attended Pulaski Tech and Embrey Riddle, pursuing his A&E license which he was going to complete this fall. A social butterfly, he was liked by all he met and made friends easily.
A memorial service is scheduled at Sherwood First Church of the Nazarene, 8800 Hwy 107, on April 8 at 2 p.m. Friends and acquaintances are welcome. God rest his tired soul.
–––––❖––––– LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. — Our beloved Laura I. Fisher “Gene”, 87, passed on March 15, 2017. She is preceded in death by her husband Cecil Fisher; daughter Vickie Morrissey; grandsons Michael Fisher and Zachary Fisher.
She was the matriarch of both the Ray and Fisher families. Laura “Gene” was a homemaker, head bank teller, and owned the Stilwell Locker Plant with her husband, PTA president, Sunday school director, and had a zest for life. Cec and Gene took several trips with their family during their retirement years, leaving wonderful memories with their children Patty Coleman-Baker, husband Gary Baker, Debbie Shultz, Michael Fisher, Mark Coleman, and Tyler Shultz, and their grandchildren Laura Morrissey, David Morrissey, Patrick Coleman and wife Keegan, Dorey Rutland and husband Dr. Jamie, Pastor Trevor Shultz and wife Emily, Sammie Shultz, and Taylor Fisher. She also has 10 great-grandchildren.
She has been a blessing to her family and friends, witnessing for Jesus even during hospice. Graveside services will be at Gilcrest Cemetery in Friendship, Arkansas, at a later date.
Condolences to the family may be made to: Laura Fisher Family c/o Debbie Shultz, 206 Sandpiper St., Raymore, Mo. 64083.
–––––❖––––– TEXARKANA, Texas — Louise Easterling Cagle, 90, of Texarkana, Texas, went to be with the Lord on Friday, March 31, 2017.
She was born Nov. 21, 1926, in Kingsland, Ark., to Joel Harrison and
Bamma Wolfe Easterling. She was reared and educated in Kingsland graduating from Kingsland High School in 1944. She was a member of Whiteville Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Cagle had worked at Newberry’s and Ben Pearson before her marriage.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William Odell Cagle, whom she married on June 20, 1953, in Pine Bluff; brothers, Troy, Bill, Hugh and Linnie Easterling; sisters, Pauline Wilson, Ruby Rich and a granddaughter, Julie Ann Cagle.
Survivors include a son, David Cagle of St. Charles; daughters, Lynelle Thompson of Texarkana and Cindy Williams of Malvern; sister, Lorene Best of West Monroe, La., and five grandchildren.
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Monday at Robinson’s. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2017, Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son with Reverend Eli Maynard officiating. Burial will follow at Fitzhugh Cemetery. Online register at www. ralphrobinsonandson.com.