Obituaries

Pulaski County

ROSE ANN ALFORD, 76, of North Little Rock, passed away on May 16, 2017. She was born on January 6, 1941. Graveside service will be 2 p.m., Friday, May 19, 2017 at Arkansas Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 19, 2017 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home & Crematory. (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

BETTY BOWDEN, 97, of North Little Rock died May 15, 2017. Survivors include children, Andy Bowden and Sonya Williams, sister, Carol “Jeanie” Cox and extended family and friends. Local arrangements by Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home; burial will be handled by Gill First National Funeral Home, Winnsboro, La. Online guestbook at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

JEANETTE (EVANS) BURNS, 68, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on May 12, 2017. Family Hour: today, 6-7 p.m. Services: Friday at 11 a.m. both are at Shiloh SDA Church, 2400 S. Maple St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204, Pastor Terrell R McCoy officiating. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202.

BILLIE JEAN COLBERT, 78, passed on Monday, May 15. She was a retired registered nurse at St. Vincent’s. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 55 years Robert L. Colbert; son, Robert Colbert (Sarah); four grandchildren; three sisters, Esther Lee, Shirley Washington, Joann Lloyd; three brothers, Elbert, Homer and Jimmy White. Viewing Friday, May 19 from 1-4 p.m. Services, Saturday May 20th at 11 a.m. Both will be at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations are made to Hospice Care Little Rock.

EVELYN MAE LILLIAN CRABTREE, age 88, passed away in Maumelle, Ark., on May 17, 2017. She was the widow of Harold Crabtree and daughter of George and Maude Jones. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 19, 2017 at 2 p.m. A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark. www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

RONALD ARMIN GROSSMANN, 75, of Maumelle, passed away May 15. He was born October 24,

1941, in Chattanooga, Tenn., to Martha Engels Grossmann and Armin John Grossmann.

His family moved to Detroit, Mich., where Ron graduated from Mumford High School in 1959. During his youth he was active in Christ Memorial Evangelical Lutheran Church, which laid the foundation for his lifelong Christian faith. He often spoke of his “Ozzie and Harriet” childhood, the idyllic life he had growing up in Detroit in the 1950’s, and he loved to tell his grandchildren that, as a 10-year-old, he was his local drugstore’s yo-yo champion.

In 1963, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University where he was a member of Theta Chi. Thus began his lifelong devotion to his Spartan athletic teams.

Shortly after graduation, he married Peggy Fallan, and together they raised their two beloved children, Angi and Tom. Ron enjoyed a successful career in retail management, a career that eventually led him to Arkansas in the late 1970’s.

When he retired, he settled comfortably into a routine of tennis two days a week, golf two days a week, and one day a week for other activities, most notably caring for his beautiful flowers. An avid gardener, his yard was always filled with a variety of colorful blooms. He enjoyed golf with his friends at Eagle Hill Golf and Athletic Club and made an amazing five holes in one over the course of 15 years. Equally special to him were the friends he made on the tennis courts of Otter Creek Racket Club.

In 2003, he and Linda Watson Holt married at Henderson United Methodist Church, where Ron had been a longtime member, and their two families merged. Ron loved his blended family, and he and Linda were never happier than when they were entertaining their grandchildren. He was called Papa by some and Popcorn by others but was dearly loved by all of them.

Instilled with a love of travel by his parents who always had a summer vacation, he continued the tradition with his children. After he and Linda married, he busily planned at least three trips a year. Europe was always a favorite, and they especially enjoyed Italy, France, and Germany, the home of his ancestors. In the 13 years they were married, he and Linda visited an amazing 43 states, as well as 24 European countries, Costa Rica, Canada, the Eastern Caribbean, Australia, and four countries in southern Africa. An Alaskan cruise in 2016 rounded out his visits to all 50 states.

He and Linda loved to entertain, often having friends over to play bridge or enjoy a good meal. Holidays, especially Christmas, were huge reasons for celebration, and he made sure their home was fully decorated.

An avid reader, his knowledge of history, current events, sports, and music was astounding. He and Linda passed many hours playing trivia games on long road trips, with Ron usually emerging the winner.

His Christian faith, ever present, was demonstrated as he was a Sunday School teacher, small group leader, usher and mission volunteer at First United Methodist Church of Maumelle. When he was diagnosed with the cancer that would ultimately take his life, he looked at Linda and said, “I’m in a win/win situation. If, with treatment, I can extend my life, I win If I can’t, I win because I will be in Heaven. There would have been no point in practicing Christianity my entire life if I got to this point and didn’t believe that.”

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Martha and Armin Grossmann, and his grandson, Michael Armin Orsini. He is survived by his wife, Linda Watson Grossmann; his children, Angela Grossmann Orsini (Alex) of Little Rock, and Tom Grossmann (Shari), of Acworth, Ga.; Linda’s children, Andrea Holt Jackson (Jim) of Mount Juliet, Tenn., and Kevin Holt (Shannon) of West Memphis; grandchildren, David, Jacob, and Noah Orsini, Aydan and Fallan Grossmann, Miranda and Bo Jackson, and Kaiden and Samantha Holt; his brother, Ken Grossmann (Pam) of Livonia, Mich.; nephew, Jeff Grossmann (Kathie) of Roswell, Ga.; and niece, Paige Nicholson (Jeremy) of Plymouth, Mich., and the mother of his children, Peggy Cihi of Fort Myers, Fla.

A devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and faithful friend, Ron could say without doubt, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7.

A celebration of his life will be held at First United Methodist Church of Maumelle, 1201 Edgewood Dr., Maumelle, Saturday, May 20, at 10 a.m. with visitation immediately following in the family life center. Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Michael Armin Orsini Endowment, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 1 Children’s Way, slot 661, Little Rock, Ark. 72202 (be sure to include Orsini Endowment on the memo line of your check), First United Methodist Church of Maumelle, or the charity of your choice. Online guest book available at www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/conway.

WANDA (ELMORE) HENDRICKS, 79, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2017. She was born September 3, 1937 in Lonoke, Arkansas to the late Guy and Inez Elmore. She is also preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Elmore. Wanda was a member of First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock for 40 years.

Wanda is survived by her husband, Leroy Hendricks of 61 years; daughters, Ranee Guard and husband, Mark of Knoxville, Tennessee; Michele Hendricks of Plano, Texas; grandchildren, Emma Taylor and Jake Taylor both of Knoxville, Tennessee.

A visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., on Thursday, May 18, 2017, at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Rd., North Little Rock, Arkansas. Graveside service will be 2 p.m., Friday, at Center Point Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, 249 W, north of Hazen, Arkansas.

GEROME “ROME” HILTON, 63, of Little Rock went home to be with the Lord peacefully on May 14th at 6:41pm at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock. He was a retired electrical lineman at the Pine Bluff Arsenal. He leaves to cherish his loving memories, Children: two sons; Cameron Hilton of Los Angeles, Calif. and Corey Hilton of Phoenix, Ariz.; one daughter; Onnie Hilton of Pine Bluff, Ark.; siblings: Sherry (Preston) Harlston of Little Rock, Debbie Hilton of Warren, Ark.; 10 nieces and nephews. He had a very special friend and companion; Ms. Gracie York of Warren, Ark. along with her daughters; (whom he referred to as as his stepdaughters), granddaughters and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed among a host of relatives and friends. There will be a viewing from 10-11 a.m. and the funeral at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 20th at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Warren. The interment will be at the St. Stephens Baptist Church/Cemetery in Cornersville, Ark. Gillespie & Kelly Funeral Home (2420 Arch Street 501-3767892/612-5607) will be serving the Hilton families. For more information, send flowers, condolences, and light an “In Loving Memory Of” candle www.gillespiekellyservices.com.

DAVON JOHNSON, 19, of Little Rock transitioned May 13, 2017. Survived by parents; Anissia Johnson, Charlie

Moody; siblings,

Akee, Daterius Johnson, Andre Campbell Jr., Sebron Moody, Dakia, Shimesha Campbell, Miley Russell, Shamyria and Shamerica Jackson, Nikki Henry. Family Hour: May 19, 2017, 7:308:30 p.m. Gunn Funeral Home. Funeral Service: May 20, 2017, 12 noon, New Haven MBC, West Helena, Ark. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th, Little Rock, Ark. 72204 (501) 660-4323.

VERDIE BEATRICE CANNON JOHNSON was born to the late Jeff Cannon and Catherine Keels Cannon on August 7, 1940 in North Little Rock, Arkansas. She passed away on May 15, 2017 at St. Vincent Hospital in Little

Rock, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by both parents. She is survived by her husband, George Johnson Jr., sons, George (Vernita), Robert and Leroy Johnson. Daughters, Kathy Stewart, Karen (Napoleon) Jackson, Patricia (Jerry) House; brothers, Clyde Brandon, Jeff Cannon, and Paul Cannon; sisters, Geraldine Seals, Cornelia Adams, Diane Chachere, and Linda Williams; 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services, 2 p.m., Saturday, May 20, 2017, St. Luke Baptist Church, 8205 Highway # 161, North Little Rock. Family Hour 6-7 p.m, Friday, St. Joe Baptist Church, 807 Brownlee Avenue, North Little Rock. Funeral Services entrusted to the legacy, Hubble Funeral Home, 501-374-3134. “Serving you with professional care since 1900.” www.hubblefuneralhome.co.

MARY FUENTES LESTER, 63, of North Little Rock died Monday, May 15, 2017. She was born November 4, 1953, to Elva Harmon Fuentes in Beebe, Arkansas. She is survived by her two sons: Shane T. Lester (Mindy) of Little Rock and Rodger Lester of North Little Rock. Memorial Service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20, 2017 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home. Online Guestbook: www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

BARBARA “CISSY” MACKEY passed away on May 12, 2017. The family will receive friends and family on Thursday, May 18, 2017, 6-7 p.m. The funeral will be held on Friday, May 19, 2017, 1 p.m. Both services will be held at New Hope Baptist Church, 1821 Edmonds St., North Little Rock, Ark. Services are entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202 (501) 376-4800.

JAMES (JIM) THOMAS MEISTER, age 78, of Little Rock, went to be with the Lord on Monday, May 15, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn of Little Rock; daughters, Cathy Melton (Ray) of Pensacola, Florida, Karen Brown (Mike) of Southaven, Miss., and son, J.T. Meister Jr. (Ginger) of Little Rock. Services will be Saturday, May 20 at 2 p.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 1 p.m., at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Jim’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

MARCELLUS GEROME PERSON, 67, of Sherwood Arkansas passed Sunday, May 14, 2017. Marcellus was born August 13, 1949, in Little Rock, Arkansas where he was a lifelong area resident. He was a 1967 graduate of Harris High School. He continued his education by attaining a B.A. from Arkansas Baptist College in 1979.

His life was forever changed when he enlisted in the Army in 1967. Marcellus served two tours in the War of Vietnam. In 1971 he enlisted in the Arkansas National Guard and continued to diligently serve the country. Throughout the course of his 43 year military career, Mr. Person or “Mr.P”, as his comrades called him, received 18 decorations, medals, and badges including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Service Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. CW4 Person not only served as an Aircraft Mechanic and Equal Employment Manager, but in unofficial roles such as mentor, confidant, and friend.

His impeccable legacy will be cherished by his children, Angela Person-West, Steven Gerome Person, Ameerah Person, and Amanda Rochelle Person. His unconditional love will be carried on by his grandchildren, Tristan Person, Kennedy West, Anaya Nicole Ketchum, Jayden Ferguson, Kalise Goff, Marliegh Chanay, Maisyn Chanay, Gia Aubriana Person, and Dyson Monroe Person; as well as his beloved special friend, Jackie Stewart. He is survived by his mother Ruthie Walls; siblings Reva Nell Cohn, Ben Edwards, Judy Williams, Edith Morrissey, Nyla Faye Cohn, William Harlen, Laura Ellen Teamore, Jennifer Elizabeth Lloyd, Charles Acklin, Vivian Dianne Acklin, James Stanfield, and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Marcellus was preceded in death by his grandmother, Elnora Grady; father, Jerome Acklin; and brothers, Jerome Acklin Jr., and Otis Acklin.

A celebration in his memory will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2017, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Parks on the River in Maumelle, 11903 Crystal Hill Road, Maumelle, Ark. 72113. The Official Military Honors ceremony will be held Thursday, May 18, 2017, at 11 a.m., at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 West Maryland Avenue, North Little Rock, Ark. 72120.

Contributions in memory of Marcellus G. Person should be made to The Arkansas Food Bank, 4301 West 65th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72209. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

JAMES “RON” ROY, 78, of Sherwood went to be with the Lord on May 15, 2017. A Visitation will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. and memorial service at 11:00 at First Baptist Church of Sherwood. Please see website for full obituary at www.griffinleggettresthills. com.

MARY LOUISE QUATTLEBAUM RUPLE, 90, of Sherwood, Arkansas passed away May 16, 2017. She was born September 17, 1926 in Guy, Arkansas to the late Jeffie Albon and Virgie Maurine Johnson Quattlebaum. She attended North Little Rock High School, completed Baptist nursing school, and was in psychiatric nursing for almost 30 years, retiring from VA Arkansas Fort Roots. Mary Louise was a member of Sylvan Hills Church of Christ for over 60 years.

She is survived by her children, Gwen Beason (Lee) of Sherwood; Jeff Ruple of Sherwood; Mary Ann Carrington (Ed) of Pine Bluff; grandchildren, Deborah Teel (Mark) of Dallas; Justin Hurley (Jennifer) of Sherwood; great-grandchildren, Nicole Zeinert (Patrick) of New York City; Blake Manfre of New York City, Katelyn Manfre of Dallas; Jake, Carson, Ethan, Jude, Claire, Emersyn Hurley of North Little Rock; sister, Janiece McDorman and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Doyle Ruple; parents; and sister, Patricia Ann Quattlebaum.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to service at 10 a.m., Friday, May 19, 2017 at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home, 7700 Highway 107. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. with interment to follow at Harmony Cemetery. Guest register at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

CODY BALLARD SIMMONS, 19, of Sherwood passed away on May 14, 2017. He was born on June 25, 1997 in North Little Rock to parents Pamela Haynes and Roger Simmons. Cody was of the Baptist faith and employed by U.S. Environmental Services.

Cody was an avid duck hunter, turkey hunter and loved jacked up trucks. He eagerly awaited each fall and winter for hunting season to begin. He loved his family and loved his mother’s home cooking (especially her chicken parmesan). Cody was a good hearted man, everyone who met him loved him. He will be remembered and missed by his family and countless friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Obie (Pappaw) Delong and Carl (Pepaw) Carlton. Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Pamela Haynes; father, Roger Simmons, and step-mother, Kara Simmons; brother Kadeyn Simmons; sisters, Blakely Haynes and Laityn Simmons; grandparents, Dana (Chyrl) Humphrey, John (Pat) Simmons, Ray (Melissa) Murphy and David (Becky) Squires, great-grandparents, Sue Carlton and Ann Delong; and his aunts, Heather (Michael) Martin, Donya (Tommy) Sebourn and Courtney (Chad) Golden and his uncle, TJ House.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, May 19th at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Rd., NLR. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 2 p.m., Saturday, May 20th with interment immediately following at Rest Hills Memorial Park. Online guestbook at www. griffinleggettresthills.com.

Arkansas

ARKADELPHIA — Claudine Theresa Penzo Pianalto, 82, of Arkadelphia, formerly of Tontitown,

Arkansas, passed away Monday, May 15, 2017. She was born December 3, 1934, in Tontitown to Andrew and Flora Bariola Penzo. She married the love of her life, Leo Alfred Pianalto (Junior), on July 29, 1967. They were married 32 years until his death in 2000.

Claudine was a 1952 graduate of Springdale High School. She was a secretary at Jones Truck Lines for 15 years and later was the leave replacement at the Tontitown Post Office for 18 years. As an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tontitown, she volunteered in the church office typing the weekly church bulletin and was an active member of the Altar Society.

Claudine was an excellent cook and housekeeper and a wonderful daughter, wife, and mother. She enjoyed her flower gardening, crocheting, quilting, working Cryptoquotes, and playing Scrabble with her mother, daughter, nieces, nephews, and sisters-in-law.

In addition to her husband, Claudine was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law, Luellen and Jim Weiss. Survivors include one daughter, Jennifer Pianalto Gills and husband Bary of Friendship, Arkansas; two brothers, Husk Penzo and wife Rita and Andrew Penzo and wife Peggy, all of Tontitown; four step-grandchildren, Brandon Gills and wife Amanda, Brooke White, Kori Gills and Kamron Gills; five step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.

Visitation will be Friday, May 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tontitown. There will be a rosary Saturday, May 20 at 9:30 a.m. and a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff of Briarwood Nursing and Rehab in Little Rock and Twin Rivers Health and Rehab in Arkadelphia for their loving care and support over the past seven years. Should friends desire, contributions may be sent to St. Joseph Catholic Church, P.O. Box 39, Tontitown, Arkansas 72770. Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com.

BALD KNOB — Olen Corbit, 97, entered his eternal home on May 17, 2017. Survivors: daughter, Debbie Ridings; son, Tommy Corbit; son-in-law, Denny Gordon; chosen son and daughter, Clois and Connie Cox; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Thursday, May 18, 2017, at the Velvet Ridge Cemetery. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

BEEBE — Savannah C. Knight, age 30, of Beebe, Arkansas, passed away on May 15, 2017, in Ward, Arkansas. She was born on September 9, 1986, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and she was the daughter of Brenda Davenport.

Savannah was an amazing spirited daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend who strived daily to find happiness in life. She would light up the room just by walking in, she loved making other’s laugh and tried to find the positive in any situation. She loved Prissy (her dog), music, children, her family and friends. Savannah was a true friend and always there when needed. She was constantly searching for freedom and has finally found it. She was a gift from God that will be greatly missed.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents Rayford and Carolyn Davenport. She is survived by her beloved dog Prissy; her mother Brenda Davenport; and her four siblings Melissa, Bobby, Brittany and Carly. She will be missed by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 19, 2017, at 10 a.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 W. Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas. A graveside service will follow at Chapel Hill Cemetery, Jacksonville, Arkansas. Online guestbook available at www. anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

BRADFORD — Betty Jo House Stracener, 69, died Monday. Survivors: husband, Lee Stracener; daughter, Nena Taylor (Heath); mother, Hazel House; brothers, Jimmy House (Sophia), Jerry House; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Visitation: Thursday, 6–8 p.m. Services: Friday, 2 p.m., Powell Funeral Chapel. Interment: Providence Cemetery. Powell Funeral Home, Bald Knob – Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

BRYANT — Matthew Zielstra, age 34, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, May

14, 2017. Matthew was a 2000 graduate of Conway High School (Conway, Ark.), he worked for numerous places in Arkansas and also in Dubuque, Iowa.

Matthew loved animals, adopted rescue dogs in need, and he strived to help numerous people who were struggling with addictions and homelessness. Matthew possessed a most remarkable trait: his loyalty to his friends and those in need. It was undeniable. For Matthew, a friend was a friend for life. He accepted as friends those who most needed a friend the most, without pause. Matthew unconditionally gave his friends his most prized asset. His loyalty, trust and “brighten your life in a second smile.” Matthew always had room in his heart for one more. His larger than life heart was full of pride in his family which he spoke of often. Matthew’s gift was friendship, understanding and listening to the hopes, dreams and fears of anyone. His loss is hard to come to terms with for anyone who knew him.

Matthew is survived by his parents: Paul (Cheryl) Zielstra (Council Bluffs, Iowa); Debbie (Phil) Brown, his brother Scott (Shanna) Zielstra, his sister Brittany (Cameron) Jones, nephews/nieces, Payton and Kaitlynn Zielstra – all of Conway, Ark., aunts and uncles: Brian (Cindy) Zielstra – Ayrshire, Iowa, Kevin (Andrea) Zielstra – Glenwood, Iowa, James J (Annie) Worster, Ginny (David) Capps, grandfather, James B Worster – all of Yellville, Ark., uncle Martin (Constance) Worster – Ft. Collins Colo., step-sisters, Andrea (Stuart) Hunt - Greeley, Colo., Courtney (Jason) Williams – Greenbrier, Ark., step-brothers Kyle Riddle, Ft. Collins, Colo., Josh Brown - Grantham, N.H., Matthew Brown - Carrolton, Texas, and many cousins and countless ‘friends’.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 18, 2017, from 6-8 p.m. at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Funeral Service will be Friday, May 19, 2017, at 10 a.m. at Roller McNutt. Interment will be at 3 p.m. in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Ralph, Ark. Memorial contributions may be given to Faulkner County SPCA (Conway, Ark.), 4 Gail Lane, Conway, Ark. 72034, (501) 339-1980 www.facebook.com/fcspca. Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/conway.

CLARENDON — Pearlie Mae Teague, 79, of Clarendon, died Sunday, May 14, at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff. Her son, three daughters, her companion, 31 grandchildren, and a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends survive her. Visitation will be held Friday, May 19, from 1 until 2 p.m. at Union Missionary Baptist Church in Clarendon. Funeral services will take place on Friday, May 19, at 2 p.m. at Union Missionary Baptist Church, 228 South 5th Street in Clarendon. Interment will take place at Shady Grove Cemetery by Branscumb Funeral Home of Brinkley (870) 734-2772 www.branscumbfuneralhome.com; Facebook: Branscumb Funeral Home & email: branascumbfuneralhome1928@yahoo.com.

CLINTON — Gerald Don “Donnie” Isom was born May 4, 1949, in Clinton, Arkansas, and passed away May 15, 2017. Visitation is at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2017, at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. Interment at PeeDee Cemetery near Clinton. For online guestbook, www.rollerfuneralhomes.

CONWAY — Virginia “Ginger” Glover, 80, of Conway, passed from this earth on Monday, May 15, 2017. She was born in Sedgwick, Arkansas, on November 20, 1936, to the late George Fox and Sarah “Sally” Statler. Waiting in Heaven are her parents; brothers, Eugene, Hank, Kennett, Sam, Jim; sisters, Geneva Statler, Bonnie Lambie, Marie Prater, and Mary Foster. She is leaving behind her daughter, Vanessa Hoggard Fisk, and much adored grandson, David Aubrey Fisk, of Conway; one brother, John Statler of Walnut Ridge; many nieces and nephews; and a lifetime of friends. After cremation, she will be interred according to her private wishes. No memorial is planned at this time. She will be missed beyond words. Online registration: rosewoodcremation.com.

CROSSETT — Donald R. Greene, 77, of Crossett, died May 16, 2017, at the VA Hospital in Little Rock. Funeral service 1 p.m. Thursday at Church of the Redeemer, 2220 Highway 425S, Hamburg. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy. 52W, Crossett. For full obituary go to meddersfuneralhome.com “Celebrating Life.”

FORT SMITH — Anthony Carl Moody, age 58, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away Friday, May 12, 2017. He was born in Bakersfield, California, on February 2, 1959. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.

GREENBRIER — Johnny Kellar, age 68, of Greenbrier passed away May 15, 2017. He was the husband of Diana Davis Keller. A memorial service in his honor will be Friday, May 19, 2017, at 11 a.m. the Life Song Baptist Church in Greenbrier. Condolences can sent at www. rollerfuneralhomesofarkansas.com/greenbrier.

GREENBRIER — Helen Mack Tapley, 81, of Greenbrier, went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, May 17, 2017. She was born Friday, June 7, 1935, in Bay, Arkansas, to the late William Joseph McCollum and the late Gladys Dee Snow McCollum.

Helen was an accomplished pianist with a unique style of playing the piano and organ. Her musical talent provided immense pleasure and spiritual blessings to many. She was well known for her contribution to gospel music throughout Arkansas and the surrounding states by her involvement with the Faulkner County Singing Club, the Faulkner County Gospel Music Convention and many others.

Helen shared her musical talents serving her Lord and church as the pianist/organist for over sixty years at the Springhill Baptist Church in Greenbrier, Arkansas. She taught public school music for thirty-three years and retired in 1990 from Greenbrier High School.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Bill McCollum. She leaves to cherish her memory husband, Charles A. Tapley of the home; daughters, Vickie Elliott (Bo) of Greenbrier and Gayla Sybert (Randy) of Little Rock; grandchildren, Nick Naylor (Shannon) of Greenbrier, Natalie Vick (Wesley) of Russellville and Blair Sybert of Little Rock; great-grandchildren, Alex Stanton, Arden Naylor and Ethan Berry; brothers, Tom McCollum (Pat) of Greenbrier and Rick McCollum (Deb) of Greenbrier; sister-in-law, Becky McCollum of Greenbrier; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

Visitation will be Friday, May 19, 2017, 10-11 a.m. at Springhill Baptist Church. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. in the church Bro. Ed Stevenson officiating. Interment will follow in Springhill Cemetery under the direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Greenbrier. Memorials may be made to Springhill Baptist Church, 25 HWY 287, Greenbrier, Ark. 72058. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ greenbrier.

HARRISON — Joseph Bedford Brock, 70, of Harrison, died Tuesday in Hot Springs. A visitation will be held from 6-9 p.m. Thursday at Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. There will be no formal funeral service. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.

HOT SPRINGS — Louise Williams Heath, 90, of Hot Springs died Tuesday, May 16, 2017. Survivors include Kathleen Moore of Hot Springs, John “Bucky” Williams of Jefferson, four sisters, four grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Graveside services are Friday at 11:30 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Pine Bluff. Online condolences: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

LONOKE — Alberta Coleman Nellum, the baby of the late Rufus and Martha Coleman Sr., was born on January 8, 1935, in Lonoke County, Arkansas. At an early age she became a follower of Christ at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, later united to New Zion Chapel. Alberta became an accomplished seamstress after spending much time with her Aunt Beatrice. She helped provide for the family through many years of employment at Kellwood.

In November of 1955 she married Paul Nellum. They served as Pastor and 1st Lady of several churches, Jerusalem, Elm Grove and Mt. Cannan. Together they raised 17 children. Alberta was called home to be with the Lord early May 13, 2017, at the age of 82.

Her parents, six brothers, four sons (Aaron, Ollie, Sylvester & Otis) and three daughters (Sarah, Betty & Annie) preceded her in death. Loving memories will be carried on by her remaining family of four sons — Leeo (Mary) Nellum of Conway, Robert and Morris Nellum of Lonoke, and Collins Ray (Sherri) Nellum of Fort Smith; six daughters – Essie Johnson, Odessa Jones & Alice Rufus of Lonoke, Norma (John) Curlett of Conway, Paul lester Walker of Sikeston, Mo., and Louise Scott of Little Rock; two brothers – L.C. Coleman of Lonoke and Roy Coleman of England; 40 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and a huge host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, at Boyd Funeral Home Chapel, with burial following in Lonoke Cemetery. www.boydfuneralhome.net.

McCRORY — Willis Eugene “Gene” Speece, 90, of McCrory died Wednesday. Visitation 10 a.m. Friday, Thompson-Wilson McCrory Chapel with 11 a.m. graveside services following at Woodman Cemetery. Survivors, daughters, Tammy Speece of McCrory, Sabrina (Jerry) McCuistion of Sanger, Texas, two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, one step-son, three step-grandchildren, seven step great-grandchildren. thompsonwilsonfh.com 870-731-2551.

MORRILTON — Jashua Manuel Medina, age 4, of Morrilton, Arkansas, passed away Thursday, May 11, 2017. He was born November 10, 2012, in Queens, New York, a son of Jason Medina and Jahaira Rosario-Cruz. Memorial service at a later date. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

MORRILTON — William Wright, 73, Morrilton, departed this life May 13, 2017. Survivors, children, Tracy, Shantrel (Andre) Reliford,

Tony, Shonelle (Tiffany), Zuri,

Damian; five siblings; 11 grandchildren. Funeral 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2017, St. Matthew #2 Missionary Baptist Church, Morrilton. Visitation 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Friday, May 19, 2017, at funeral home. Interment: Oddfellow Cemetery. Services entrusted to Larry G. Acklin Funeral Home, 307 N. St. Joseph Street, Morrilton. 501-354-0053 www.larrygacklinfuneralhomes.com.

––––– ––––– MOUNT VERNON — Martha Jewell Hawkins, 95, passed away Tuesday. Survivors: six children: Gary (Cheryll) Hawkins, Marilyn (E.J.) Bradley, Jimmy Louis (Dene) Hawkins, Joanne (Brian) Ward, Chirs Hawkins, Babbette Strickland, Liz (Eugene) Farris; 15 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren. Visitation: Saturday, 10 a.m. Funeral: 11 a.m. Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Family Funeral Service, Heber Springs. www. dwightfamilyfuneral.com.

MOUNTAIN VIEW — David Wayne Cates, 69, died May 12, 2017. Survived by wife, Betty Cates; son Corey Cates; daughter, Tina Looney; sister, Linda Archer; and grandson Bradley Cates. Funeral services are Thursday, May 18, 2017, 2 p.m. at Foothills Baptist Church in Mountain View, Arkansas. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/mtview2.

PINE BLUFF — Mr. Lafayette Wooten, 66, of Pine Bluff passed Monday, May 15, 2017. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday, May 19, 2017, at Grace Temple Missionary Baptist Church by Rev. Amelio Howard. Interment will be in Forest Lawn Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Online Registry: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

QUITMAN — Louona Colleen Allen, 85, passed away Tuesday. Survivors: husband, Cecil Allen; sons, Jerry Shue (Marilyn), Quitman, Terry Shue (Ramona), Delta, Colorado; four grandchildren; one great-grandson; one step-granddaughter. Visitation: Thursday, Family Funeral Service, 6 to 8 p.m. and funeral, Friday, 2 p.m., South Crossroads Church. Interment: Flat Rock Cemetery. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.

SEARCY — Loretta Eileen Johnson, 73, of Searcy, died Tuesday, May 16, 2017. Born on August 1, 1943. She is survived by a Son, Lee Johnson (Kim). Preceded in death by her Parents; Husband, Ray Johnson. Memorial service Saturday, May 27th at 12 noon, 170 Swinging Bridge, Heber Springs, Arkansas 72543. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

SHIRLEY — Walter Lafayette Tharp Sr., 80, of Shirley passed on May 16, 2017. Visitation is Thursday, May 18th at 9 a.m., the funeral at 10 a.m.; Roller-McNutt Chapel in Clinton. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Edgemont, Arkansas. Final arrangements were entrusted to Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton. Online guestbook, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton.

Out-of-state

SHREVEPORT — Tilmer Keels Jr., 71, of Shreveport, La., passed Friday May 12, 2017. He was born in North Little Rock, Ark., July 5, 1945 to Tilmer Keels Sr. and Beatrice Williams-Keels. He attended S.A. Jones High School and graduated in 1963. He received a BA in music from Mississippi Valley State College and a master’s degree from Louisiana Tech University. He taught band in the Caddo school district and owned a successful architect business for over 40 years.

He was preceded in death by wife: Clara Dandridge-Keels; both parents and sister: Dorothy Keels-Williams. He leaves to cherish his memories wife: Wannetta Roberts-Keels; children: Timeriya (Byron) Keels-Fitch, Justin Roberts, and Candace Roberts; two grandchildren; siblings: Phyllis Keels-Credit, Janie Keels-Jackson, and Donald (Evelyn) Keels Sr. all of North Little Rock, Ark.; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. A special aunt Lillian Keels-Richard.

Family hour Friday May 19, 2017, 10 a.m. with funeral following at 11 a.m. at The Russell Road Church Of Christ in Shreveport, La.

ARLINGTON, Texas — Ricky Ledell Caldwell, 52, of Arlington, Texas, transitioned to his heavenly home. He was preceded in death by son Ricky Caldwell; father, Andy Caldwell Sr.; mother, Freddie M. Griffin Caldwell; sister, Rosetta Caldwell. Ricky leaves to cherish his memory: wife, Tiffany Boykins Caldwell; children Rickeya, Chasity, and Codrick Caldwell; siblings Tisha, Tommy, Lavel, Leroy and Andy Caldwell Jr.; and a host of family and friends who loved him dearly. Funeral: Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 10 a.m., Robinson Mortuary Chapel Little Rock, Ark. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

HAMPTON, Va. — Robyn Joe Smiley, age 59, a resident of Hampton, Va., passed away on Monday, May 8, 2017. He was born May 7, 1958, at Stuttgart Memorial Hospital, in Stuttgart, Ark., to JoAnn Smiley. Robyn accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at a very early age, and became a member of First Baptist Church in Stuttgart, where he was baptized and discipled under the leadership of the late Rev. Deltha Lee O’Neal, Sr.

Robyn attended school in the Stuttgart school district where he graduated from Stuttgart High School in 1975. He excelled academically and was a member of the National Beta Club. After graduation, he attended Arkansas State University, in Jonesboro, Ark. In 1978, he embraced the family tradition of military service to and joined the United States Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller. He served all over the country, including the United States, Japan, Europe, and Southwest Asia (Desert Shield/ Desert Storm). In June 1998, he was honorably retired from the United States Air Force. Upon retirement he returned to college to complete his Bachelor of Science Degree in Information System Technology.

While serving in the Netherlands, Robyn met Samantha Van der Schoot and they quickly became inseparable. They were united in holy matrimony on September 11, 1996, and enjoyed 20 years of love and devotion to each other until the day of his passing.

Robyn was raised by his great-grandfather, Samuel Savage, and his great-aunt, Elurah Savage, whom both loved and adored him. He is remembered by all who knew him as a humble, kind and very gentle soul.

Robyn was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Joe D. Smiley Sr., Mildred Smiley Timmons, and one brother, Maurice Savage. He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife, Samantha; his mother, Joann Smiley, North Little Rock, Ark.; four sisters, Tanya (Joseph) Bivens, of Clarksville, Tenn., Sharon (Frank) Porter, Sherwood, Ark., Debra Gardenhire, Twinsburg, Ohio, Hollie (Maurice) Taylor, North Little Rock; and one brother, Michael (Crystal) Lewis, Harlem, N.Y.; his loving mother in-law, Maria de Jong; two sistersin-law, Sanny Van der Schoot and Jolanda Van der Schoot; nephews, Dartellion Willems, Jayden Van der Schoot; and niece, Lesley Willems, all whom reside in IJsselstein, Netherlands. He leaves a hosts of aunts, uncles, nieces nephews, cousins and friends whom loved him dearly.

Fly, Fight, Win….Job Well Done Airman!

Visitation will be Friday, May 19, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 West 12th Street, Little Rock. Following the visitation will be a procession to the Arkansas State Veteran’s Cemetery in North Little Rock for funeral services at 12 noon.