Pulaski County

WANDA “MAMA” ARMSTRONG (AUSBURN) died peacefully at home in Little Rock, Ark., on Aug. 16, 2017 at the age of 75. Wanda is survived by daughters Effie Martinez and spouse Leo, daughter Teresa Armstrong, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and other relatives. She is preceded in death by parents and siblings.

Wanda was born on Feb. 9, 1942 in Searcy, Ark., to Effie and Ernest Ausburn. A memorial service at a later date. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com. DORIS A. BEARD, 92, of Jacksonville passed away Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017. She was born Sept. 26, 1924 in Assumption, Ill., to the late Ernest and Cora Bracy. She was a registered nurse and administrator for Rose Care Nursing facility in Jacksonville for over 30 years. Doris’s faith in Christ was lived out in her life and she was prepared to meet Him for her eternity.

Doris is survived by her son, Robert and Fran Beard; grandsons, Chris and Heather Beard, Joe and Kelly Beard, Michael and Maranda Taylor, and Aaron and Jenni Taylor; numerous great-grandchildren and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Senior Master Sgt. Ex POW Robert L. Beard; daughter, Cynthia Taylor Collins; five siblings; and her best friends, Shirley Scott and Lucille Harper.

Per her request there will not be a service. Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

ALTA GENEVA BENTLEY of Little Rock joined the saints in Glory through death on Aug. 19, 2017. She was born in Stuttgart, Ark., to Bill and Ruth Stecks on Aug. 5, 1930. Geneva attended North Little Rock High School and graduated with the class of 1949. That same year she married Robert David Bentley and together they lived and raised a family on both sides of the river at Little Rock. David and Geneva were together for a total of 72 years. As a couple they have influenced and inspired literally thousands of people around the globe. If you asked Geneva what she did in her life she would say, “I am a singer.” In fact, she was a Christian evangelist who sang for the Lord throughout the world and led others to Christ with a generous heart and joyous spirit.

Geneva was a founding member of Life Unlimited Fellowship in Little Rock and was a member of Highland Valley United Methodist Church. For decades, David and Geneva played leading roles in World Ministry Fellowship of Dallas, Texas.

Geneva was the queen bee of an extensive family. Her survivors include her husband Robert David Bentley of Little Rock, three children and their spouses: David B. Bentley and Sally, Duwane Bentley and Emma Lou, Gayla Whitt and Gary, all of Little Rock. Her brothers with their wives are Donald and Maxine Stecks of Little Rock and Gary and Janie Stecks of Mayflower. She was Mammaw to 10 grandchildren and a multitude of great-grandchildren.

Funeral will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Roller Chenal Funeral Home with Reverend Tony Griffin and Brian Sharp officiating. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Concord Cemetery approximately one hour following service. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice at www.arkansashospice.org. Online guestbook at: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ chenal. MICHAEL S. BERHIET, age 68, of Little Rock passed away on Aug. 6, 2017. He was born on Aug. 21, 1948 in Dayton, Ky., to Sylvester and Virginia Berhiet.

Michael served in the United States Air Force, he was a member of St. James United Methodist Church and he was a master Jaguar Technician Guild member inducted in 2001; this is a prestigious award with only two being selected per year. After his retirement as a Jaguar Technician he was employed by Tri State Enterprises.

He was preceded in death by his parents Sylvester and Virginia Berhiet, his brothers Gerald and Richard Berhiet. He leaves behind his loving wife of 46 years, Victoria Berhiet; his children Lisa Wells and Adam Berhiet; his granddaughters Brooke and Sidney Wells; his sister Peggy Kenkel and brother Jim Berhiet.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark. Graveside honors will be presented on Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at 9 a.m. at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, W. 1501 Maryland, North Little Rock, Ark. Memorial services will be held on Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at 11 a.m. at First Assembly of God, 4501 Burrow Drive, North Little Rock, Ark. An online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice. com.

ANTWON M. BRYANT, 27, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Aug. 14, 2017. He leaves to cherish his memory: daughter, MaKayla Bryant; parents, Anthony Blueford and Karen Bryant; siblings, Jasper Brown, Broderick Blueford, Anthony Buford and Biancia Blueford; a host of other family and friends. Family Hour: Friday Aug. 25, 5-6 p.m. Funeral: Saturday Aug. 26, 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.” MARGIE LOUISE (JOHNS) CARLISLE, 86, of North Little Rock, formerly of Leslie, Ark., stepped into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017. Margie was a loving and devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; Charles and Una Johns, of Leslie; a brother, Charles Johns Jr.; three sons, Dennis Jaco, Billy Jack Jaco and Dale Jaco; along with her daughter, Lisa Sanchez.

She is survived by two brothers, James Johns and Harvey Johns; three daughters, Diane Scholz, Debbie Stephan and Theresa Shiels; seven grandchildren, Shauna Stephan, Jennifer Winters, Andrea Peek, Kayla Feltner, Natalie Sontag, Tara Raley and Zachary Jaco; and five great-grandchildren, Joey Winters, Gemma Raley, Josie Raley, Samuel Jaco and Russell Jaco.

Margie was a woman of faith who instilled strong values of love and loyalty in her family. She enjoyed her travels especially to Hawaii, Ireland and Japan.

She was a strong woman who sacrificed and gave much over her years to her family and others for which she is dearly loved. She will be forever remembered and loved for her loving and generous heart, gentle spirit and sweet smile.

Arrangements under the direction of: Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark., (501) 791-7400. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens. EMILY BERNICE ROBERTS CARRIGAN passed away Sunday, Aug. 13 at Sherwood

Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, North Little Rock. Bernice, as she was known, battled Alzheimer’s Disease for many years, but will be remembered for her warmth, dignity, and kindness. The youngest of three children, Bernice was the daughter of Cecil and Taylor Roberts of Little Rock. She attended Little Rock schools and a year at Little Rock Junior College (now University of Ark-Little Rock), before transferring to Hendrix College, Conway, from which she graduated in 1946. She also married the late Conway T. Carrigan that year and settled in Little Rock, before moving to Cabot, and later on to Hot Springs.

Bernice’s life revolved around her family, her church and her community. She raised a daughter and two sons, who will be forever grateful for her gifts of faith in the face of trials, compassion to others, and for her constant infectious laugh. She took an active role at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Hot Springs, serving on the Altar Guild, Vestry, Junior Warden, ECW and many other activities for the parish. After moving to Fox Ridge Assisted Living in North Little Rock, she regularly attended services at St. Luke’s Episcopal, North Little Rock and could usually be found on the front row of the church.

Bernice travelled extensively in the U.S. and Europe with her husband and later, her sister and daughter. She also enjoyed time on Lake Hamilton with family and friends. After being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she moved to Fox Ridge and continued – remarkably - to send thoughtful notes to those she loved for years, before moving to Sherwood Nursing. She will be remembered at these facilities as a resident who was unfailingly gracious and kind. As her dementia increased, she became even sweeter, never losing her smile and twinkle.

She is predeceased by her sister, Ella Ruth Davis, her brother, Taylor R. Roberts and her former husband. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sue Carrigan Reep of Maryland, C.T. ‘Chip’ Carrigan of Conway and Patrick S. Carrigan of Dallas; also by five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, four nephews and a favorite niece, Janie Kendall of North Little Rock.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, North Little Rock, on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at 11 a.m. Interment of ashes will be in the columbarium at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Hot Springs. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 4106 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock or the Alzheimer’s Association Arkansas, 5506 Walsh Lane, Suite 212, Rogers, Ark. 72756.

An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com. MARY DAMOUR, 93, of Little Rock, passed away Aug. 17, 2017. Memorial service will be 7 p.m. on Wednesday with visitation beginning one hour prior to service at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 1101 N. Mississippi, Little Rock, Ark. 72207 or AR Children’s Hospital, 1 Children’s Way, Little Rock, Ark. 72202. Full obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com. MICHAEL ANTONIO DAVIS JR., 19 of Little Rock passed on Tuesday. He is survived by his parents, Tonya (Stepfather Patrick) Porter, Michael Davis Sr.; three sisters, T’Lisa Colvin, Raquel Lloyd, and Ronika Lloyd; two brothers, Darrell Robinson and Anthony Gaines; a special friend, Leah Hines and a host of other relatives and friends. Gillespie & Kelly Funeral Home 2420 Arch St. (501) 376-7892/612-5607 will be serving the Davis family. Visitation only, will be Friday 6-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral Saturday 11 a.m. Greater Second Baptist Church on Geyer Springs Rd., Little Rock. To sign online guest register, send flowers, condolences, and light an “In Loving Memory Of” candle www. gillespiekellyservices.com. SUNNY MELTON DIXON, 78, of Little Rock, passed away Aug. 18, 2017. She is survived by her daughters, Toni Dixon (Sterling) and Tara Holley (Brandt Morris); son, Bobby Jennings (Melanie); brother, Johnny Melton; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Motchen Rebman Melton and her sister, Pauline Burgener.

Services will be Saturday, Aug. 26 at 11 a.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Road), (501) 224-2200. Sunny’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com. ROBIN L. DU BOIS, 70, of Jacksonville, Ark., passed on Aug. 17, 2017. He was born July 1, 1947 to the late Frederick and Lucille Du Bois in Mattawan, Mich. He is survived by his wife, Ad Du Bois; children, Chris Rayub, Robin Du Bois Jr., Nina DuBois, and Julie Moore (Steve); grandchildren, Zane, Cody, Caitlyn, Joshua, Emmalee and Lyndzee Du Bois, Kirstie Horner, and Zackery and Jakob Moore; and great-grandchildren, Alice and Blaze Du Bois, Liam Harris, and Luke Horner.

His family would like to give a special thank you to North Metro ICU and UAMS ICU for taking good care of Robin.

A private memorial service will be held. REBECCA “BECKY” WALKER HEFLIN, age 64, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away peacefully at her home on June 24, 2017.

She was born Rebecca Ann Walker on Sept. 8, 1952 in Camden, Ark., to Fred and Lenora (Airoldi) Walker. Becky attended school in Monroe, La., as well as Louisiana State University.

Becky is survived by Pete and her three children Christy, Paige, and Kyle. Her legacy will live on with her family as she holds a special place in each of our hearts.

Celebration of Life will be held 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at Garvan Woodland Gardens, 555 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, Ark. 71913.

Please keep in touch with the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Humane Society of Pulaski County, www.warmhearts.org. SYBLE INEZ KAPLON, 79, of North Little Rock passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017. She was born on Sept. 3, 1937 and was the daughter of the late Howard

Clay and Alice Simmons May.

Syble married the late Valentine Kaplon on July 31, 1954. She went on to work as a data entry operator for the state of Arkansas until her retirement. She was a member of Cedar Heights Baptist Church where she loved attending her Seekers’ Sunday School Class.

She is survived by her siblings, Ina Lucille Boll (Marvin), Emma Jean Roberts (Curly, predeceased), June Marie Harness (Clytee, predeceased), and Earl May (Chom) and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Valentine Kaplon; her parents; and her half-brother, Raymond Grimes.

Memorials may be made to Life Choices, 609 Locust St., Conway, Ark., 72032.

A visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St. Funeral service will be held 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017 at Cedar Heights Baptist Church, 14510 Cedar Heights Road, North Little Rock. Burial will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Park. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

FRAN SWAYZE LANEHART, formerly of Ferriday, La., was born on Sept. 9, 1945 and passed away on Aug. 12, 2017 at her residence in Little Rock. She was a graduate of Ferriday High School - Class of 1963, and was a proud Ferriday Bulldog Alum. She was employed for over 30 years with the Little Rock School District as a librarian. Her passion in life was to help children receive books. She often helped at school book fairs by supplementing the cost to ensure that no children were left out. Fran stayed busy in retirement by joining a Zumba class where she made many new friends and she took pride in the fact that she was able to crochet blankets for everyone in her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Ruby Swayze; and her birth mother, Era Drane Jones. Survivors include her two sons, Ty Lanehart and wife, Karen, and Richard Lance Lanehart; one grandson, Jonathan Lanehart; and a dear close friend of the family, Norma Harris, all of Little Rock.

Funeral Services were held in Ferriday on Aug. 16, with burial at Natchez City Cemetery. There will be a memorial service for Fran on Sunday, Aug. 27 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, 4823 Woodlawn Drive, (501) 664-3600. Honorary Pallbearers will be Dr. Brad Baltz and Billy Rucker.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72210.

To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www. comerfh.com or www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

JACKIE RENEE MATTHEWS, age 40, of Jacksonville, Ark., passed away on Aug. 15, 2017. She was born on June 23, 1977 in Jacksonville, Ark. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark. Memorial service arrangements are pending. An online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice. com.

ANNETTE STOBAUGH MOBLEY 91, of Little Rock, passed away Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. She was born March 30, 1926 in Morrilton, a daughter of the late Ernest Rankin and the late Lucille Clerget Rankin. She was a homemaker and of the Methodist Faith. She loved painting and traveling. She had the opportunity to visit 11 foreign countries and Hawaii. Survivors include one son: Chuck and wife Jeanie Stobaugh of Little Rock; one sister: Mary Dean Lyford of Little Rock; four grandchildren: Donna, Kim, Nikki, and Parker; and two great-grandchildren: Heather and Danielle. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by first husband: Babe Stobaugh; three daughters: Julia, Judy, and Beth; and her second husband: Bobby Joe Mobley.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at Elmwood Cemetery with Pastor Art Horn officiating. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. At Annette’s request, visitation and services are to be casual dressed. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes. net.

RICHARD STEVEN OTTIS, 55, of Jacksonville passed away Aug. 10, 2017. He was born in Omaha, Neb., to the proud parents of Richard A. Ottis of Nebraska, and Jean Stitt of Arkansas, on June 29, 1962. He was a proud Navy veteran.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Sherry Lewis Ottis; two sons, Jonathan Ottis and Shawn Miller (April); four grandchildren, Corbin, Dalton, Stormy and River Miller; three sisters Renee Casey, Melinda Mamer, and Diane Blair; two brothers Bradley and Bobby Ottis.

Steve was preceded in death by his son, Steven Joshua Ottis.

A graveside service will be held at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017 at 10 a.m.

Cremation Arrangements entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.arkansascremation.com. LYNNE TRULOCK RAVELLETTE, 64, of Little Rock died Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 in Little Rock after a brave battle against cancer. Born Sept. 20, 1952 in Pine Bluff to Sue Dickens Trulock and the late Leo Andrews Trulock, she was a member of the Trulock family that moved to the Pine Bluff area in 1848. Lynne was predeceased by two younger sisters and one younger brother, two at birth and one in infancy. Lynne loved her beautiful family, a multitude of friends and was beloved by all. She was unique, being the combination of the consummate professional and sweet dear daughter, sister, cousin, friend, mother and child of God.

Lynne grew up in Pine Bluff, graduating from Pine Bluff High School in 1970 where she was a varsity cheerleader. She graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor of arts degree in English and from the University of Arkansas, Little Rock School of Law in 1993. She served as a law clerk to the Honorable Robert Dudley. Upon his retirement Lynne went into private practice. She later retired from the US Veterans Administration legal department in North Little Rock.

Lynne became a member of the Arkansas Bar Association upon becoming licensed and served the association in many capacities. She was a member of the Government Service Section and the Labor and Employment Section. Lynne also served on numerous committees including Appellate Practice, Attorney/Client Privilege, Indigent Representation, Health Law, Public Sector, Law School committees, and Young Lawyers Section Executive Council.

While in law school Lynne was elected to the Law Journal staff, a high honor for any law student. In 1992 she authored an article, “Criminal Procedure-Harmless Error-Coerced Confession in No Longer Grounds for Automatic Reversal of a Trial, Arizona v. Fulminate” for the University of Arkansas Little Rock Law Review.

While working in the US Veterans Administration legal department for many years until a month before her death, Lynne trained law enforcement officers on legal procedures and worked in the fraud division of the agency.

Before practicing law Lynne was a library assistant for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Pine Bluff. She was also a past member and volunteer for First Presbyterian Church in Pine Bluff, Pine Bluff Junior League, Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, Wildwood Park for the Arts, Mrs. America Arkansas pageant, ACLU, and Congregation B’nai Israel in Little Rock.

Lynne is survived by George Ellis Belew of Little Rock; mother, Sue Trulock of Sherrill; daughter, Suzanne Truax Wilkins (Russell) of Fort Worth, Texas; sons, Stephen Wendell Truax of Helena, Mont., Michael Burton Ravellette (Kelly) of Terre Haute, Ind.; grandchildren, Elizabeth Andrew “Drew” Conner of Fort Worth, Wesley Trulock Conner of Redfield, Addison Grace Strack of Fort Worth, Jo Lee Ravellette and Graham Burton Ravellette of Terre Haute. Other survivors include an aunt, Lynne Dickens Vammen (Reuel) of Texarkana, Ark.; cousins, Jeff Trulock of Little Rock, Sonny Vammen (Anna) of Little Rock, Dr. David Vammen (Melinda) of Texarkana, Texas, David Trulock of Pine Bluff, Steven Trulock (Mary) of Fayetteville, Ark., Greg Trulock (Kristen) of Little Rock, and Arch Trulock (Catherine) of Birmingham, Ala.

Pine Bluff services are Monday, August 21, 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church in Pine Bluff with Reverend Ric Webb and Dr. John Landis officiating. A reception beginning at 1 p.m. precedes the service in McColgan Hall at the church. Interment follows in Bellwood Cemetery by Ralph Robinson & Son.

Lynne’s Little Rock memorial service is Tuesday, Aug. 22, 1 p.m., Congregation B’nai Israel in Little Rock with Rabbi Barry Block officiating.

Memorials are requested to First Presbyterian Church of Pine Bluff, Congregation B’nai Israel of Little Rock, Hospice Home Care of Little Rock, or cancer research.

Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com. ALLEN J. SIMS, 54, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Aug. 12, 2017. Family Hour: Monday, 6-7 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, LR. Service: Tuesday, 11 a.m. at Antioch FGBC, 3824 Antioch Blvd., LR. Bishop Kenneth Robinson, Eulogist. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 3710111. “Service You Can Trust.”

RICHARD GEORGE WARREN, 76, of Jacksonville passed away on Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. He was born Jan. 1, 1941 in Oklahoma City to James and Beatrice Warren. Richard served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, retiring as a Staff Sergeant. After his military career, he worked for Sears and retired after 20 years of employment.

Richard is survived by his wife of 15 years, Diane Warren; two daughters, Geneieve Finley-Warren (Robert) of Moore, Okla.; Amanda Warren of Conway; and one grandson, Russell Warren.

A Memorial Tribute will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 25 at the Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home, 7100 Hwy 107/JFK. A visitation will be held from noon-1 p.m. prior to the service. Inurnment will be at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Online guest registry and tributes at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

Arkansas

ALEXANDER — James Andrew Huff, 89 of Alexander, passed away Aug. 18, 2017. He was born to Melvin and Eva Ola Huff on July 26, 1928 in Mabelvale, Ark. James was the owner and operator of Radford Equipment Company for 20 years. He was an avid gardener. He also loved hunting, horse racing, casinos, and traveling. He was of the Methodist faith. He was a longtime member of Mabelvale United Methodist Church. In recent years, his membership transferred to Bryant United Methodist Church. He is preceded in death by his wives, Joan Meyer Huff and Bobbie Reed Huff; two sisters, Mattie Dove Huff (Lambirth) and Norma Louise Huff (Emory); four brothers, Melvin Grogan Huff, Walter Hugh Goin II, Walter Daniel Huff, and William David Huff; and his parents.

He is survived by his children, James Wayne Huff, Brenda Carlene Huff Carson, Melissa Ann Huff; brother, John Thomas Huff; grandchildren, Christopher Wayne Huff, Eric Andrew Huff, James Matthew Huff, Nicholas K. Carson, Alexander K. Carson, Scotty Alexander Maison, Brett Allan Green, Brittney Ann Green, Cary Ball, Kelsey Ball (Henderson); 16 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and special consideration for all of his Costa Rican family and friends.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at Pinecrest Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life at 12809 Huff Lane, Alexander, Ark, at 5:30 p.m. Jim’s favorite foods will be served. An online guestbook is available at www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com. ALEXANDER — Pauline Sugg Lay, 92, of Alexander, Ark., passed away Aug. 17, 2017. She was born Jan. 1, 1925 in Little Rock, Ark. Graveside service: 11 a.m.,

Friday, Aug. 25, National Cemetery 2523 Confederate Blvd.,

Little Rock. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com. ALEXANDER — Mr. Billy Ray Williams, 81, of Alexander, Ark., went to be with the Lord, Friday, Aug. 18, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospital in Benton. Bill was born in November of 1935 in Van Buren County, Ark. to Major and Ovnie Williams also of Van Buren County.

Bill is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lynda Lee Williams; son Terry Williams of Grand Prairie, Texas; daughter Kay Holt (Robert) of Alexander, Ark.; daughter Dana Lisk (David) Harrison, Ark.; two grandchildren Amber Murray and Cameron Holt; and two great-grandchildren.

Bill was a business owner and barber for 44 years and attended Abundant Life Assembly of God of Bryant, Ark. He loved to travel by land and sea.

Visitation, celebration of life, and shared memories will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, August 21, at Pinecrest Funeral Home in Alexander with the service following at 2 p.m. Graveside service will be at Forest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Abundant Life Assembly of God, PO Box 764, Bryant, Ark. 72089. The online guestbook is available at www. pinecrestmemorialpark.com BATESVILLE — Howard K. Garrison, 83 of Batesville died Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. Funeral services, Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017 at 2 p.m. at the Qualls Batesville Funeral Service Chapel in Batesville. Burial, New Hope Cemetery near Bethesda. Visitation, Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017 from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

BENTON — Christopher “Chris” Doggett, 43, Benton, died Friday. Survivors: wife, Meredith Doggett; daughter, Jessie Doggett; son, Fisher Doggett; mother, Linda Doggett; brother, Rick Doggett (Christy); nephew, Little Rickey Doggett; niece, Randi Doggett. Visitation, 6-8 p.m., Monday, Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral, 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Ashby’s, burial, Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. Memorials, www.paypal. me/christydoggett. BENTON — George L. Holliman, age 78, of Benton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 at Baptist Hospital in Little Rock. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a cement finisher for 60 years and spent his summers raising grandchildren. Although he’s gone, the memories will last forever. He is survived by his wife, Edna Holliman; three sons, Donald, David and Darren Holliman; daughter, Debra Peoples; two brothers, Rocky and Skip Holliman; sister, Peggy Bradley; 14 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be noon Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Ashby Funeral Home. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com. BENTON — Margaret Lou Ragsdale of Benton went to be with our Lord on Aug. 17, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Ardell Ragsdale; her second parents Charlie and Opal Cockman; and her brother Charles Cockman. She is survived by her husband, Elbert Ragsdale; their two daughters Karen Ragsdale and Tonia Cox (Greg); granddaughter Sabrina Cox; brother Rayburn Cockman (all of Benton); and two sisters, Barbara Smith (Jack) and Lorrie Morris, both of California. Visitation is Monday, Aug. 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Caruth Village Funeral Home (4623 N. Hwy 7, Hot Springs Village). A second visitation will be held at noon on Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Calvary Baptist Church (612 Valley View, Benton) followed by services at 1 p.m. Interment will be at Green Cemetery on Beaudry Cicle. in Jessieville at 3:15 p.m. Full obituary can be viewed at www. caruth-hale.com. CABOT — Annie Stephania Howard, 93, of Cabot died Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. She was born Feb. 27, 1924 in Philadelphia, Pa., to the late John and Mary Onulack. Mrs. Howard was a member of Lost Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Sheridan. She operated a daycare and home school from her home where she spent her life caring for and educating children. Mrs. Howard spent her life caring for others but her greatest love was for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also loved roses, gospel music, bingo and dominos. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Howard was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Marion Howard.

Mrs. Howard is survived by her children, Donald Howard, Jimmie Charles Howard (Flo), David Lee Howard (Betty), Robert Eddie Howard (Peggy) and Shirley Ann Homsley (Jerry); her grandchildren, Debra Nail (Kevin), Jason Howard (Cindy), Andrea Mayne (Lee), Morgan Finn (Tracy), Christopher Scott Howard (Ilyse), Timothy Wayne Howard (Angela), Stacy Homsley, Brad Homsley (Jennifer), Elvia Jean McAlister and Ben McAlsiter; as well as 20 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017 at Lost Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Sheridan with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Lost Creek Cemetery under the direction of Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

CAVE CITY — Harold E. Sparks, 79 of Cave City died Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. Memorial services, Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at 1 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church in Cave City. Graveside memorial services, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Cardwell Cemetery in Cardwell, Mo. CHEROKEE VILLAGE — Dewey Dark Jr., age 87, died on Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. He was born April 30, 1930 in Possum Grape, Ark., and was raised in Hardy, Ark., to where the family returned in 1932. He was one of four sons and four daughters born to Dewey Dark and Ona Dell Groom Dark.

In 1951 he met Bonnie Lee, Youth Director at Clarksville First United Methodist Church, at a youth sub-district meeting in Ozark. They married at McCrory

Methodist Church in 1952, and moved to their first appointment together in Lavaca. Through the years they joyfully worked together in ministry.

Among his many talents he used in ministry were counseling and building, renovating parsonages, and building churches. He built an A-frame cabin on Spring River in Hardy, which became home and roots for the family of four children.

He retired to Cherokee Village after serving 40 years as a United Methodist minister in the North Arkansas Conference, where he served as Conference Secretary for eight years. His ministry included Superintendent of the Paragould District, pastor at Wynne, Mountain Home, Marianna, Beebe, Trinity at Fayetteville, Midland Heights at Fort Smith, Central Avenue at Batesville, Prairie Grove, Bald Knob, Lavaca, Alix Circuit, and Bard/Morning Star.

Dewey was a graduate of Hardy High School, College of the Ozarks, and Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Ga. While a student he started Glencoe United Methodist Church there.

After retiring, he served on the Cherokee Village City Council, oversaw the zoning of the newly classified city, and led in the redesign of a spacious house into apartments for Fountain Place, an independent living facility sponsored by churches in Cherokee Village.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and sisters, and son Paul Douglas Dark.

He is survived by his wife Bonnie; daughter Lee Ann Kendrick of Fayetteville; sons Stan Dark of Baton Rouge, La., and Barry (Susi) Dark of Nashville, Tenn.; grandchildren Heather Holaway, Chelsea Kendrick, and Alexa Dark; great-grandchildren, Marti Pearl and Penelope; and many nephews and nieces.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Cherokee Village United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Bronaugh Cemetery in Hardy.

Arrangements entrusted with Wortham Funeral Home and Cremations of Highland, Ark. CHERRY VALLEY — Mr. Odas Luster Seay, 80, of Cherry Valley, died Aug. 18, 2017, at Wynne. There will be a visitation Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home, 1900 West Washington Ave., Jonesboro. Funeral services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com. CLEVELAND — James Hamric Wells, 84, of Cleveland, Ark., died Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017. Funeral: 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, at Cleveland Missionary Baptist Church. Burial: Brents Cemetery in Cleveland. Visitation: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20 at the funeral home. Arrangements

by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes. net.

COLT — Mrs. Patricia Young, 79, of Colt, died on Friday, Aug. 18, 2017, at her home. There are no public services at this time. Arrangements by Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home.

FORT SMITH — Paul R. Edenfield, 68, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of Vietnam, died Aug. 11, 2017. Survivors include his sister, Anna Prellezo of Tampa, Fla. Graveside services with Military Honors will be Friday, Aug. 25 at 1 p.m. at Ft. Smith National Cemetery. Paul’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com. HARRIET — Jerry Alvin Jackson, 72, of Harriet died Thursday. Husband of deceased wife, Mary Benavides Jackson. Survivors: children, Johnny Jackson, Robin Wheeler and Stephanie Reid; six grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; siblings, Nadra Horton, Donnie, Danny and Bud Jackson. Arrangements: Roller-Coffman/Marshall. Graveside: 2 p.m. Sunday, Rock Creek Cemetery in Harriet. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ marshall.

HARRISON — Todd O’Malley, 32, of Harrison, died Aug. 11, 2017. He was born Aug. 19, 1984 in Texarkana, Texas. Memorial Service will be at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Full Obituary: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens. HARRISON — Mary Frankie Bradford Watts, 95, of Harrison, died Thursday. Survivors: daughters, Jaqueta Isbell and Freda Keller; four grandchildren, Scarlett, Andy, Dawn and Michele; three great-grandchildren, Kendle, Jamie and Amber; brothers Bob and Jack Bradford. Arrangements: Roller-Coffman/Marshall. Visitation: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Roller-Christeson/Harrison. Graveside: 2 p.m. Monday, East Lawn Cemetery/Marshall. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/marshall.

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Adair Crane Atkinson passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Aug. 13, 2017 at age 88. Born in Fort Smith, Ark., to Balfour Dorset Crane and Ruth McKinney Crane, she attended Fort Smith High School, Randolph-Macon College and the University of Arkansas where she met her husband, Joe Frank Atkinson.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Joe Atkinson, and her parents, Dorset and Ruth Crane. She is survived by her children Martha D’Anna, Jeff Atkinson (Fran) and Ruth Lee (Mike), seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and her dear cousin, Carolyn Starr.

Her life will be celebrated on Aug. 26, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Kirk in the Pines Presbyterian Church in Hot Springs Village, Ark. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Kirk in the Pines Presbyterian Church, Good Samaritan Society in Hot Springs Village or Teen Challenge.

Arrangements are with Hot Springs Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.hotspringsfh.com. JUDSONIA — Marty W. Staggs, 53, of Holly Springs went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. Visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 21, from 6-8 p.m., and the funeral service will be held on August 22, at 2 p.m., at the Roller-Daniel Funeral Service. Online guestbookrollerfuneralhomes.com. LESLIE — Janice Fay Flack, 66, of Leslie, Ark., passed away Aug. 5, 2017.

She was born Jan. 29, 1951 in Sikeston, Mo.

Services will be held Aug. 26, 2017 at noon at the Assembly of God Church, 320 Elm Street, Leslie, Ark., 72645.

Online Registration: rosewoodcremation.com.

MAGNOLIA — Dewey Cheatham, 83 of Magnolia died Thursday at the Hughes House at Wentworth Place in Magnolia.

Visitation will be Sunday from noon-1:30 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. in Magnolia with a graveside service to follow at 2 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery with Bro. Leland Callaway officiating. MCCRORY — Donna Dewitt, 53, died Friday. Survivors: son, Dillon Dewitt and brother, Detton Perrodin. Visitation: Sunday, 2-3 p.m. at the Judsonia Church of Christ. Services: 3 p.m. Interment: Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Donna and Dillon Dewitt benefit at Merchant and Planters Bank. www. powellfuneralhome.net. MONTICELLO — Erica Elfreida Jackson CMSgt (Ret.), 54, was born on Dec. 22, 1962, in Monticello, Ark., to

Willie Earl and

Shirley Ann Jackson. She was the oldest of three children and the only daughter.

Erica accepted Christ at an early age and joined Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev J.S. Skipper, where she remained a member until she graduated high school in 1981.

After high school Erica entered the U.S. Air Force where she served 30 years. During her military service Erica continued to serve God by serving her country and participating in religious activities at her stations. Erica was known and loved by many. She mentored a number of young people in her 30 years of service to country being promoted to Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force.

Erica answered the master’s call to come home Aug. 14, 2017. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Dewitt and Elizabeth Freeman. Those left to cherish her memory and celebrate her home going are: Parents, Willie Earl and Shirley Ann Jackson of Monticello, Ark.; Sons Thomas Wayne Crumpton Jr.(Rahshida) of Moody AFB in Valdosta, Ga.; Eric Jackson Crumpton (Larryne) of Little Rock AFB in Jacksonville, Ark.; Brothers John Jackson of Monticello and Todd (Alnita) Jackson of Raeford, N.C..; Grandmother Ada Everett; six grandchildren; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Visitation: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20th at Zion Hill MBC. in Monticello. Funeral: 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 21st at First Baptist Church 811 S.A Jones Drive in North Little Rock. To leave online condolences visit: www.samuellvanceandsons.com. The family is under the Professional Auspices of Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors of Malvern.

(501) 337-0100. “The Epitome of Service.” NEWPORT — Judy Hernandez, 58, died Aug. 17, 2017.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; her father, Jeff Neeley.

Survivors include her mother, Erma Neeley; two daughters, Amanda Garcia and Brandy Coleman; two brothers, James Neeley and Ron Neeley; two sisters, Deloise Garringer and Patricia Reyes; and nine grandchildren.

NEWPORT — Mrs. Omagene (Loftin) Stokes Laird died Friday.

Survivors: children, Dale, Glinda, Angie; stepchildren, Danny, Johnny and Jackie; sister, Vina; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Watson Cemetery. Friends may visit at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Sunday 6-8 p.m.

PINE BLUFF — Mr. Charles Eugene Morris, 60, of Pine Bluff passed Aug. 9, 2017.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at Brown Funeral Home.

Interment will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at 1501 Maryland Ave., Sherwood, Ark. PRATTSVILLE — David Ishman Buie, age 99, of Prattsville, passed away Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospice House in Bryant, Ark. Mr. Buie was born March 5, 1918 in Prattsville, Ark., to the late Roy Buie and Emmie Ashley Buie. He was a retired farmer and served in the United States Army, WWII, Japan. In addition to his parents, Mr. Buie was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Joe E. Mooney in 2005. He is survived by two sons, Robert Buie and wife, Del of Prattsville, James Buie of Prattsville; one daughter, Davalene Warner and husband, Johnny of Bryant; eight grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren and 18 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at Buie Funeral Home in Sheridan with Brother Don Goodman officiating. Interment will follow at Philadelphia Cemetery in Prattsville. Pallbearers are Steve Sheffield, Bean Freeman, Troy Buie, Stephen Shoptaw, Chase Mangiapane and Brendon Shumate. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan. Please sign the online guestbook at www.buiefuneralhome.com. (870)942-3231.

REDFIELD — John David “J.D.” Morrison, age 90, of Redfield passed away Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017 at St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock. He was born Dec. 21, 1926 in Prague, Okla., the son of the late John Morrison and

Eva May Tyler Morrison. Mr. Morrison was a member of Woodson Pentecostal Church. He is preceded in death by his parents and son, Johnny Dale Morrison.

Left to cherish his memory, wife, Flossie Clingan Morrison of Redfield; son, Wayne Long and wife, Doris of Redfield; brothers, Curtis (Betty) Morrison of Fort Mohave, Ariz., Tom (Donna) Morrison of Terra Bella, Calif., Albert (Judy) Morrison of Poplar, Calif., Buddy Joe Morrison of Tulare, Calif., and Clarence Ray (Paula) Morrison of Idaho Falls, Idaho; grandchildren, Ray (Traci) Langley, Herrell “Jr.” Long, and J.C. Long, all of Redfield; and great-grandchildren, Kaleigh and Jenny Long.

Funeral services are 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan with Reverend George Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Redfield Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m. Pallbearers are Ray Langley, Herrell “Jr.” Long, J.C. Long, Ron Johnson, Jason Clingan, and Rick King. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Woodson Pentecostal Church, 24512 Irish Drive, Hensley, Ark. 72065. Arrangements are by Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan. www. buiefuneralhome.com. TRASKWOOD — Russell Raper, 69, Traskwood, died Thursday. Survivors, son, Jody (Leigh) Raper of Traskwood, one daughter of Benton. Graveside services by Ashbys, 11 a.m. Monday, Traskwood Cemetery. No visitation planned. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com. WARREN — Mark Allen Evans, age 61, of Warren, Ark., died Friday, Aug. 18, at his home. Arrangements were by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Online guest register www.frazerfuneralhome. com.

YELLVILLE — Betty Sue Mathis Silver, 73, of Yellville died Wednesday. Survivors: husband, Bill Silver, sons, Eric, Todd & Chris Silver, brother, Eddie Mathis, many cousins and other family. Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Monday at Roller-Coffman/Marshall. Burial will be in Canaan Cemetery at a later date. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/marshall.

Out-of-state

BENTON, La. — Joeska Sharon Westbrook, 63, Benton, La., died Aug. 18 2017. Survivors, husband, Donald Westbrook, daughter Kristen Renee’ Westbrook Patterson (Alex), grandchildren Jesse Dean Sparaco and Hunter James Patterson. Graveside, Tuesday Aug. 22, 2017, 10 a.m., Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Hwy 222. Arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com. AUSTIN, Texas — Orval Elmo Riggs, age 97, from Walnut Ridge, Ark., Little Rock, Ark., and recently of Austin, Texas, died peacefully Aug. 1, 2017 in the home of his youngest daughter, Dianne, where he had lived for the past five years since his wife’s death. Orval was born in White Oak, Ark. on April 18, 1920, the sixth of 10 children born to Menona and James Roscoe Riggs. He graduated from Walnut Ridge High School in 1939 and attended Arkansas Tech from 1939–1941. He joined the Naval Reserve and trained as a pilot, subsequently serving in Corpus Christi, Texas, as a cadet. During WWII, he flew transport airplanes in the U.S. and transported supplies and the wounded in the Pacific, 19421945. He was an excellent pilot and was offered the opportunity to become a flight instructor during this period, which he did.

Following his Naval service, he flew as a commercial pilot for a year in Los Angeles, Calif. He then attended Stanford University, UCLA and the University of Arkansas, graduating Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Arkansas in 1949. In 1953 he graduated AOA from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine (UAMS). He served his internship at St. Louis City Hospital 1953-1954 and practiced general medicine in Walnut Ridge, Ark., from 1954-1956. He then did a residency in general surgery at UAMS, 1956-1960 and practiced general surgery in Jonesboro, Ark., 1960-1966. He trained as a radiologist at UAMS, 1966-1969, then did a year of training in radiation therapy at Vanderbilt University, 1969-1970. He returned to the faculty at UAMS in radiology from 1970-1972 and was in the private practice of radiology, 1972-1978.

His love for surgery pulled him back into the practice of surgery, this time in the form of cardiothoracic surgery training at the University of West Virginia, 19791981. He subsequently practiced cardiothoracic surgery in Little Rock and was on the faculty in cardiothoracic surgery at the Clarksburg, W.Va., Veterans Hospital and the University of West Virginia in Morgantown, W.Va. He was a member of numerous medical societies and authored a number of scientific articles. He was voted outstanding attending surgeon at the University of West Virginia, 1987-1988. He was board certified in general surgery, radiology and cardiothoracic surgery.

He was a loving husband and father and will be sorely missed by his family. His fascination with medicine was lifelong, and he never tired of reading medical journals and articles, even after his retirement. His other favorite pastimes included playing tennis and watching sports on TV, often watching different sports events on multiple televisions at the same time, a man of ahead of his time. He enjoyed hearing and telling jokes of all kinds, especially corny ones, and never lost his sense of humor or his polite demeanor. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Little Rock for many years where he and his wife, Inez, faithfully attended the Bowen-Cabe class.

He was predeceased by his wife Inez Waldron Riggs, his son Thomas Richard “Tommy” Riggs MD, his parents, his brothers: Jim, Jack and Claude; and his sisters Ellen Sharp, Mae Blansett, Lorene McKinney, Evelyn LaCoss and Velma Clark. He is survived by his sister, Naomi Bell of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; his brother-in-law, Tom Waldron of Walnut Ridge, Ark.; and his daughters, Dianne Riggs Espinoza of Austin, Texas, and Susan Riggs Runge MD of Ann Arbor, Mich.; as well as the families of his three children including nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish, 3125 N. Lamar Blvd., on Monday Aug. 21, 2017 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. followed by a graveside service at 10 a.m. at Austin Memorial Park, 2800 Hancock Drive. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, First United Methodist Church, Little Rock, Ark., or the charity of your choice.

An online guestbook is available at: http://wcfish.tributes. com/Orval-Riggs - Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, Austin, Texas. (512) 4528811.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — James B Hardin, 77, passed away Aug. 3, 2017 at Corpus Christi, Texas. James, a life-long resident of Arkansas had moved to Corpus Christi to enjoy retirement with his wife of 55 years, Shirley Ward Hardin.

James was born Feb. 9, 1940, in Conway, Ark., to Paul Eugene Hardin and Ruth Brewster Hay. James is survived by his wife, Shirley, daughter Kelli Ann Granberry (Mark) of Little Rock, son James Scott Hardin (Page) of Bentonville, grandson Graham Hardin of Bentonville, sister Geraldine Hardin Myrick of Conway and brother Bill Hardin (Brenda) of Mount Ida. James was preceded in death by his sister Eleanor Hardin Opitz of Conway. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

James graduated from Conway High School in 1957 and attended ASTC (now UCA) and the University of Arkansas. Following his father’s love of construction, James began his career as a site engineer constructing USAF Titan missile launch facilities before becoming an associate at Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson Architects in Little Rock. He joined the Baldwin Company in 1968 which evolved into Baldwin-Shell Construction Company where James was instrumental in its early growth. In 2000, James retired as Executive Vice President. During his career James served as the lead manager for hundreds of projects including the corporate headquarters of Murphy Oil in Texarkana, the Jones Center in Springdale and restoration of the Lafayette Building in Little Rock.

James was a distinguished member of the Construction Specifications Institute being elected national Vice President in 1983-84 and was recognized as a Fellow in 1986. He served as President of the Arkansas Society of Professional Estimators in 1986 and was awarded its life-time service award in 1987. James also held leadership roles in the Associated General Contractors of Arkansas.

James loved his family, his work and his ever loyal buddies Jimmy Hooten, Doug Henson and Hank Johns. James was a devoted fan of Razorback football and Oaklawn. He was a music enthusiast endlessly tapping his feet to John Prine, Merle Haggard, and any bluegrass show he could find on AETN. While living in Fayetteville, he was Poppa Jim to Graham and his loyal side-kick Leo and their time together always brought stories of love and laughter.

As his passing was imminent James spoke these words to Shirley, “I’m going to get me a sailboat and sail up to the clouds.” For sure, James chose a windy day as he was always looking for adventure in soaring winds and high seas. Smooth sailing, James B.

The family will hold an informal memorial on Oct. 22 in North Little Rock (details to come).

–––––❖––––– KINGWOOD, Texas — Graveside service for Rona Kerr, 48, of Kingwood, Texas, a native of Little Rock, 2 p.m., Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at DeAnne Cemetery, Prescott, with Rev. Jerry G. Westmoreland officiating. Visitation, 1 p.m. at Brazzel/Cornish Funeral 1196 Hwy 371 West Prescott. Arrangements Brazzel/Cornish The Funeral Home, Eddie Brazzel, Director. Online register: www. brazzelfuneralhomes.com.