Obituaries

Pulaski County

WILLIAM B. “BILL” BARNARD, JR., 77, of North Little Rock, passed away October 12, 2017. Visitation will be Monday, October 16 from 5-7 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Road). Services will be Tuesday, October 17 at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Bill’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BRANDY MELISSA BEIGHT, age 34, of Little Rock passed away Thursday, October 12, 2017.

She was born and raised in

Little Rock,

Ark., on August

1, 1983 to Jack and Emma (Peters) McCallie.

She attended Parkview High

School, UCA and UALR with a Degree in Early Childhood Education. Worked as a Preschool Teacher at Grace Lutheran Early Childhood Development Center, Nanny for multiple families, but her main love was being a stay at home mom and wife. She cared fiercely for her family and wanted nothing more than to be a mother.

She worked endlessly to better the lives of young people, working with several youth organizations including Arkansas Rainbow for Girls and Arkansas DeMolay. She grew up in Arkansas Rainbow and held such titles as Worthy Advisor, Mother Advisor, State Mother Advisor, and Grand Worthy Advisor. She was also a member of the State Executive Committee and served as the ritual director of Arkansas Rainbow. Brandy also served as the Director of the Walter J Gigerich Rainbow Division of the Frank Marshall Championship Tournament in which hundreds of young men and women competed.

She also served as State Sweetheart for Arkansas DeMolay as well as being an advisor to the young men of that organization. She was also a Past Worthy Matron of Adoniram Chapter Order of the Eastern Star.

Brandy lit up every room she entered and always left her positivity and infectious smile impressed on every person she met. She lived life with purpose, love, and integrity, always putting family first. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. She lived a brilliant life of light and love, and now into that light she goes, leaving the luminous trail of love behind her.

Brandy was married for over twenty years to the love her of life Cody Beight on October 7, 2006. She was the mother of three beautiful children, Gabriella, Sawyer and Savannah. She leaves behind her mother Emma Knotts, her brother CJ Parker and his wife Cara, their children Clay, Caleb, and Caty, and her brother Tommy Parker and his wife Ashley, their children Hailey, Michael, and Will. Brandy was blessed with close friends and her Masonic family who were all extended family to her.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations be made to Arkansas Rainbow, 601 Indian Bay Drive, Sherwood, Ark. 72120; Trinity Methodist Preschool, 1101 North Mississippi Ave., Little Rock, Ark. 72207, (501) 666-2815. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Trinity Methodist Church in Little Rock. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday evening at Little Rock Funeral Home. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court, LR, Ark. 72205 (501) 224-2200. Brandy’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

Love never fails… And now these three remain: Faith, Hope, and Love. But the greatest of these is Love.

–––––❖––––– REBECCA LYNN BOBENMOYER, 47, left this life on October 7, 2017. She was born August

6, 1970 in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Rebecca attended Jacksonville

High School graduation in

1988. She is proceeded in death by her parents,

James H. and Helon B. Wright. She leaves behind her greatest joy, her son Jacob E. Bobenmoyer; a brother, James H. Wright Jr.; a sister Cynthia M. Lambertus; and her lifelong friend Dorothy DeCarlo. Her big heart and caring nature were over shadowed by an addiction that finally took her life. We loved her, but we couldn’t save her. May she rest in peace now.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Arkansas. (501) 982-3400. Online guestbook can be found at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– NATHANIEL DAVIS, JR. (COWBOY), 74, North Little Rock, passed October 9. Survivors: an aunt, five sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial service, with military honors, will be held 1 p.m., October 18 at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock. Arrangements: Watson Northcrest, North Little Rock. (501) 812-5303.

–––––❖––––– MELISSA SHREWSBURY DURDEN, 33, of North Little Rock passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2017. She was born July 21, 1984 in Hope, Arkansas. Melissa is survived by her husband, Kevin Durden; daughter, Anessa Adams; parents, Mark and Rebecca Shrewsbury; siblings, Adam, Joshua, and Veronica Forrester and Jessica Milum; and other extended family. A Celebration of her Life will be from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street. Online obit at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– EMMA DOLORES FRAZIER, 78, of Sherwood, Arkansas, went to be with her Lord on October 12,

2017. She was born in Atlanta,

Georgia on October 21, 1938.

Dolores enjoyed spending time with family, camping, fishing, traveling and spending time outdoors. In recent years she enjoyed visiting and fun activities with her new friends at Parkstone Place Retirement Center.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, after celebrating 56 years of marriage. Loving memories are left to her four daughters and their husbands, Pam Haverly, Teresa and John Hill, Lorrie and Rick Carter, Selina and Ritchie Wood; brother, Ted and Carol Robinson; sisters, Pat and Dean Nervig, Linda and Bill Yucha; seven grandchildren: Steven (Meagon) Haverly, Chris (Caitlin) Knight, Sarah (Levon) Parker, Jennifer (Chris) Bruce, Justin (Angie) Carter, Jessica (Jesse) Travis and Joshua Hill; and 13 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Dolores’ life will be held on Monday, October 16, 2017 at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home at 2 p.m. Burial will immediately follow the funeral service at Rest Hills Memorial Park. An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– EARLENE WEIR FULLER, age 81, of Jacksonville took her heavenly flight on Friday, Oct. 13, 2017.

She was met on the heavenly shore by her parents J.W. and Pernecie Weir, her husband of 57 years Wendell Fuller, daughter Gay

Mundy and son

Danny Fuller.

She is survived by her much loved granddaughter Tabitha Evans (Jason) of Gravel Ridge; three great-grandchildren Madyson and Aiden Evans of Gravel Ridge and Milo Alverio of Jacksonville along with a host of extended family and friends.

Earlene was a very special lady. She loved her family so much and God was always first in her life. She was very involved with her church. She was one of the charter members of First Free Will Baptist Church, where she served as Sunday School Secretary for 50 years or more. She always loved going on trips and shopping. She always took care of everyone else over herself. She loved to cook and you never left her house hungry.

She will always be remembered as a beautiful, precious and kind angel.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Sherwood Nursing and Rehabilitation and the staff of Kindred Hospice for taking such special care of her.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Earlene’s memory to Crossroads Freewill Baptist Church building fund, 1401 West Main St., Jacksonville, Ark., 72076 or Gideons International, P.O. Box 75, Jacksonville, Ark., 72078.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home with Bro. Ron Scott officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 at the funeral home.

Arrangements entrusted to Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home, (501) 982-2136.

Online guestbook: www. mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome. com.

–––––❖––––– JOYLEA B. GALLOWAY GEORGE, 83, of North Little Rock, went to be with her Lord Oct. 12,

2017.

She was born

Dec. 15, 1933, in North Little

Rock, to Charles and Julia Galloway. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arnold D. George Jr.; one brother, Hermon Galloway; and two sisters, Bernus Price and Helen Moehrig.

Joylea graduated from Little Rock Central High School. She retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield after 28 years. She was a member and devoted Sunday school teacher at Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock, for many years.

A prolific craftsman, she was most gifted in needlework; creating extraordinary works which she lovingly gave away to family and friends. One with nature, she inspired nature’s blooms as nature inspired her; and from garden to table, she sustained us all. A remarkable mother, supportive spouse and a very tender grandmother, she will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by one daughter, Judy Lucius of Wilson, Ark.; three sons, Arnold “Skip” (Rosanne) George of Lakeville, Minn., Anthony (Paula) George of Waupaca, Wis., and Jonathan (Melissa) George of Benton, Ark.; eight grandchildren: Glenn Gamble, David Gamble, Julie George, Jackie George, Brandon Lucius, Aaron Lucius, Joshua George and Maggie George; and by two great-grandchildren, Josie Gamble and Maverick Lucius.

Visitation will be Sunday, Oct. 15, from 4-6 p.m. and funeral services on Monday, Oct. 16, at 10 a.m., both at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock. Interment will follow at Edgewood Memorial Park in North Little Rock.

Joylea gave generously of her time and resources to the less fortunate. A donation in her name, to the benefit of a worthy charity, would properly honor her memory.

An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– BERNICE BLUE JACKSON, 88, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away peacefully on

Oct. 9, 2017.

She is survived by her children,

Charles Harris,

Debra Blue (Ronnie) Brown, Michael Blue, Sharol Jackson, Leonard Blue, Jackie

Blue, Darryle Jackson, Nancy

Holmes, Carl Gilmore, Elder Henry (Lois) Garry, Flossie Washington, Dorothy Lilly, Minnie (James) Copper, James Brown, Eldoris Brown and Jeffrie Brown. Home going services will be held Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, 11 a.m., at First Baptist Church, 901 Calhoun St., Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Elmlawn Cemetery. Family visitation: Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, 6-7 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St. Little Rock, Ark., (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖––––– RANDY L. JACKSON, 54, of North Little Rock, Ark., passed away on Oct. 8, 2017. He was born July 13, 1963 in North Little Rock, Ark. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his fiancée, Angel Hunter of North Little Rock.

Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– DONALD LEWIS MELTON JR., 67, of Sherwood, died Sept. 26, 2017. He is survived by his sister, Marilyn Earles of Cabot; two nephews, Ronald and Randy Earles; and two great-nephews, Cameron and Caleb Earles. Graveside Service will be 2 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 at Rest Hills Memorial Park in North Little Rock. Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, Ark., 72116 (501) 791-7400. www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

–––––❖––––– DIANNA KAYE NASH, 74, of Maumelle, Ark., went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Oct.

1, 2017. A memorial service will be held at

1 p.m., Tuesday,

Oct. 17, 2017 at

Pulaski Heights

United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her son,

Michael Ryan Hilton, and is survived by her daughter, Gabrielle Amanda Nash, her mother, Jean H. Hall, her brother, Dennis Gene Hall, and her extended family in Arkansas.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.ArkansasCremation.com.

–––––❖––––– LUCILLE NICKELSON, 96, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Oct. 10, 2017.

Family Hour will be Friday 10-11 a.m. and Funeral starting at 11 a.m. both at First Baptist

Church 811 S.

A. Jones Drive

North Little Rock, Ark., Rev. William L. Robinson pastor. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive Little Rock, Ark., 72202, (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust”.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELL SETTLERS, 60, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Oct. 11, 2017. Preceded in death by his father Alonzo Settlers. He leaves to cherish his memory daughter: Porsha Settlers; godson

Ahran Washington; goddaughter Lynett Simpson; mother Vinita Settlers; siblings: Ronald (Val) Settlers, and Rhonda Tappin. Family Hour Friday Oct. 20, 2017 5-6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary and Funeral Saturday Oct. 21, 2107 11 a.m. at Moody Chapel AME. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive Little Rock, Ark. 72202 (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust”.

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In loving memory of RAY SEYLLER, 87, who passed away Thursday at 12:20 a.m., at home in his sleep. He has returned to God until Judgment Day. He leaves behind seven daughters, 15 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren and his present wife of 12½ years, Carleen Seyller. Preceding in death are wife, Laurel Seyller, and son Ray Seyller Jr. Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. www.boydfuneralhome.net.

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JUDY E. SMITH, 75, of North Little Rock passed away Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017. She was born March 14, 1942 in Laurel, Miss., to Mattie Christine Russell.

She is survived by her husband, Tim Smith; son, Mark Duboise; grandchildren, Amber German (Robert), Corey Shumate (Emily) and Tommy Duboise (Jenna); and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother; and her daughter, Diana Payne.

Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– WANDA K. SMITH, 69, of Little Rock, passed away on Oct. 12, 2017. She was born on March 7, 1948 in Russellville to the late

Jasper Ragsdale and Doris Ragsdale Daniel. She is also preceded in death by her husband, “Woody” William Smith.

She is survived by her children: Paulette Shuffield, Sandy Kietzman, Bill Smith, Ronnie Smith, Jimmy Smith, and Scott Smith; 25 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters: Pat Waldo, Elaine Daniel; two nephews; special friend, Mark Larsen and many cousins and friends.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Roller Drummond Funeral Home,

10900 I-30, Little Rock. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorail Park. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 16 at the funeral home.

Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/drummond.

–––––❖––––– CHRISTOPHER THOMAS TARRANTS passed away on Oct. 12, 2017. He fought a hard fight for over a year and a half.

He survived by his mother Valerie Rawdon; his brothers Nathan and Dustin Tarrants; his sister-in-law Nikita Tarrants; his children Haley, Christian, and Damon; his nephews and niece. Chris also chose and was fortunate enough to be survived by an amazing person he also called mom, Bertha Nichols, along with her children and grandchildren.

Chris was the happiest with a guitar in his hand a joke on his mind. He had the ability to make you laugh until you cried or make you smile until your cheeks hurt.

He had a heart of gold, a gift for forgiveness, and a desire to put everyone else’s needs before his. He will forever be missed and loved.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park. Online guestbook: www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

Arkansas

ARKADELPHIA — Hayden Blake Spells, 18, of Arkadelphia went home to the Lord Wednesday,

Oct. 11, 2017.

Hayden was the sweetest most caring young man to have ever walked this earth. Anyone that had the pleasure of knowing him was truly blessed. He was a graduate of the 2017 class of Arkadelphia High School, where he received an advanced diploma, was part of the DECA and FBLA groups and a past member of the Badgers basketball, football and baseball teams.

He was currently a Freshman attending Southern Arkansas University majoring in Computer Science.

He is preceded in death by his grandfather Thomas Jacobs who is married to Nancy Jacobs who resides in Arkadelphia, Ark. He is survived by his loving parents Tina Green of Arkadelphia who is married to Robert Green and Darrell Spells of Lavaca who is married to Tish Spells. His loving siblings Paula Spells, Brenna Spells and Ethan Green. His grandparents George Spells and wife Kaye Spells of Huttig, Craig and Peggy Welborn of Arkadelphia and Laymond Green and Peggy Walker of Arkadelphia.

He is also survived by his great-grandmother Pat Giles of Arkadelphia. Hayden was a beautiful soul that was called home early. He will be dearly missed by all those who loved him.

Life of celebration services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, October 16, at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home. Online register available at www.ruggleswilcox.com.

–––––❖––––– ATKINS — Peggy Lou Britton, 69, Atkins, died Thursday. The family will receive friends from 5-6 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home. Burial will be private in Shiloh Cemetery north of Atkins. Arrangements are by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www. shinnfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– BATESVILLE — Mary Nadine Martin, 80, of Batesville died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. Funeral services, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, at 2 p.m. at the Qualls Batesville Funeral Service Chapel. Burial in the Campground Cemetery located at Bethesda. Visitation, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Albert Junior Jeffcoat, 75, of Benton, passed away Oct. 12, 2017. He was born to the late Clarence and Onie Jeffcoat on March 22, 1942, in Benton, Ark. A graveside service will be held at Hicks Cemetery on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, at 2 p.m. To sign online guestbook, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– CABOT — With profound sadness, we must announce the passing of our beloved Elizabeth Grace McHargue-Layton (Hobbs) on

Oct. 2, 2017.

She was preceded in death by her Mother and Father,

Jean and Steely McHargue of

Cabot, Ark. Survivors are her children, Robin, Stephen, and Abigail Hobbs, her brother, James McHargue, and nine (yes nine!) grandchildren. Memorial services will be closed to the public. Online guestbook: www. mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome. com (501) 982-2136.

–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Nora Jean Thrasher, 57, of Carlisle, passed away on Oct. 14, 2017. Survived by her daughters, Jennifer Gustus (Jeremiah), and Shawn Corley (Barry Payne); sisters, Julia Campbell (Tim) and Rita Green (Rodney). Graveside services Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 10 a.m. at Carlisle cemetery. Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville. Online guest book available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– CROSSETT — Velma Frances Teutsch, 71, of Crossett, died Friday, Oct. 13, at her home. She is survived by her husband Joe of Crossett; along with six children, 24 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. There are no services planned. Please go meddersfuneralhome.com for complete obituary. Local arrangements by Medders Funeral Home.

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DES ARC — Shelby Jean Williams, 80, of Des Arc died Monday, Oct. 9, 2017. Survivors: one daughter, four sons, one brother, one sister, nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, one greatgreat-grandchild. There will be a memorial service Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, at 10 a.m. at Garth Funeral Home Chapel. www.garthfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– EMMET — Funeral for Lucy Mendez Smith, 38, Emmet, 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, at Calvary Baptist Church. Burial Rose Hill Cemetery, Hope. Visitation 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, until service time on Sunday at Calvary Baptist Church, Hope. Arrangements Brazzel/Oakcrest The Funeral Home, Hope, Eddie Brazzel, Director. Online guestbook: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– GREENBRIER — Raymond Henry Sublett, 79, of Greenbrier, died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. Visitation will be Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, 6-8 p.m. at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Greenbrier. Funeral service will be Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, at 10 a.m., in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in the Antioch Cemetery. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier.

–––––❖––––– HICKORY RIDGE — Roy Hayden Stevenson, 90, of Hickory Ridge, died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, in Wynne. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, at the Hickory Ridge Church of Christ. Interment will follow in Lewis Cemetery. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, at the church. thompsonwilsonfh.com.

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HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Jimmy Dale Church, 53, of Hot Springs Village, formerly of Swifton, died Thursday. Survivors: wife, Stacey; mother, Wilma Church (companion, Julian); children, Chad Church, Scott Church, Heather Arnold and Brittany McComb; sister, Michelle Fisher; six grandchildren; three nephews. Visitation: Jackson’s Funeral Home, Sunday, 2-5 p.m. Arrangements: Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home. www.jacksonsfh.com.

–––––❖––––– JORDAN — Mary Jane Brasher, 75, of Jordan, Ark., died Oct. 13, 2017 in Mountain Home, Ark. Funeral arrangements are visitation Monday Oct. 16, 2017 at Jordan First Baptist Church at 9 a.m. with funeral service following at 10 a.m. Under the direction on Eddie’s Family Funeral Home.

–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Deborah Sue Cleaver, 68 of Lonoke, Ark., passed from this life on Oct.12, 2017. She was born in Kokomo, Ind., on Jan., 13, 1949. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service. Online guestbook, www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — James “Jimmy” F. Farber Jr., 54, Malvern, passed away Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. Survivors: wife Tonya; son Derek (Hannah) Farber; daughter, Kimberly Farber; grandson Cole Allen Farber. Visitation: Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, 5 p.m., Reyburn Creek Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral: Monday Oct. 16, 2017, 10 a.m., Reyburn Creek Missionary Baptist Church. Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– MORRILTON — Earnest Allen “Jimmy” Loyd, 88, of Morrilton, died, Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 70 years Syretha Chambers Loyd. Funeral services: 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16, at Harris Chapel. Burial: Ada Valley Cemetery. Family will receive friends 2-4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Arrangements by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook:www. harrisfuneralhomes.net.

–––––❖––––– PARIS — Nelda Gray-McMahan, who resided in Paris, Ark., passed away Wednesday,

Oct. 11, 2017, in Charleston, Ark.

She was born

Aug. 26, 1929, in

Paris to the late Thomas Gray and Mary Agnes (Bradford) Gray.

She was 88 years old. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Simone Earnheart.

Nelda was a watercolor artist and has shown in galleries in Arkansas, New Mexico and one in Essex, Maine.

She taught an art class at the Paris library for 10 years, painted the first butterfly poster for the Butterfly Festival, which is held each year in Paris, and was a member of American Women in the Arts. She was a 1947 graduate of Paris High School and attended Hendrix College in Conway.

After living away for 55 years, she returned to Paris to be with her aging mother.

She was a volunteer for Paris Chamber of Commerce for 10 years and voted 2007 Volunteer of the Year. Nelda was a member of Paris Christian Center.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Oakwood Cemetery in Paris, with Bro. Angelo Florenciano officiating. A public memorial service will be announced and held at First United Methodist Church in Paris at a later date. Services are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home in Paris.

Nelda is survived by two daughters, Michele Abraham of Little Rock and Suzanne Rodriquez of Granbury, Texas; two sister, Gwen Newkirk of Helena and Tommie Gray of Albuquerque, N.M.; five grandsons and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paris Christian Center or to First United Methodist Church in Paris.

Public viewing will be from 12-8 p.m. Friday night at the funeral home.

A special thank you to the staff of Greenhurst Nursing Center in Charleston for the love and care that was shown and given to our mother and grandmother, Nelda Gray-McMahan.

To pay an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.

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PINE BLUFF — Betty Lou Chrisman Craig, 91, of Pine Bluff, died Saturday.Survivors: son, Mark Craig and his wife, Lori; and grandson, Will Craig.

Visitation: Sunday afternoon, Oct. 15, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. at Robinson’s.

Private graveside services: at a later date in Dexter, Mo. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

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PINE BLUFF — Irma Jean Vanlandingham Nix, 84, of Pine Bluff, Ark., went to be with Jesus Thursday,

Oct. 12, 2017, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Little Rock.

She was born

May 4, 1933, in

Grant County, to James Clayton and Masil

Moore Vanlandingham.

Mrs. Nix was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She had been an active member of Oakland Baptist Church and later was a supportive member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

Mrs. Nix enjoyed sewing, needle work, crossword puzzles, and playing the piano. She also served as a Girl Scout leader. Mrs. Nix loved watching church services and enjoyed the old time gospel music. She was an avid Bible reader.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Creed C. Nix Jr. whom she married on Aug. 17, 1952, in Grant County; a daughter, Sheila Ann Smith and her parents.

Survivors include daughters, Carol Moore of White Hall, Cheryl Layson (John) of Little Rock; grandchildren, Amy Tripp (Todd), Collier Moore (Kara), Matt Moore, Clay Layson (Tulika), Jake Layson (DeeDee), Mike Layson (Tanya), Stephanie Shirley (Amon) and Allison Covington; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters, Frances Chavis of New Hebron, Miss., and Lynda Hollinger of Prattsville.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, in the Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors with Reverend Neal Hollinger officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time at Robinson’s.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Michael Dilbeck, who lovingly cared for her and her beloved fur-baby, MIssy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 904 Autumn Road, Suite 500, Little Rock, Ark. 72211, or Jefferson County Humane Society, P.O. Box 2233, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71613.

Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

–––––❖––––– PLAINVIEW — Ellis Hugh Higgs, 73, of Plainview passed away Wednesday, Oct. 11,

2017. He was born Oct. 19,

1943 in North

Little Rock, Ark., to Charles and

Ruby Edmonson Higgs. He served in the

United States

Army during Vietnam and earned a Purple Heart.

He is survived by his children, Jeff Higgs and Deborah Boheman; brother, Dale Higgs; sisters, Dean Davis, Christine Manley, Beverly Thomas, Debby Howell, Weeda Jones and Janet Cook; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Charles, Mickey and Gary Higgs.

Graveside service with military honors will be at 1 p.m., Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock.

Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– POYEN — Logan Kirksey, age 9, Poyen, passed away Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017 after a four-year battle with cancer.

Survivors, mother Carrie Allen and fiancée Dustin Bennett; sister, Emma Grace Sexton; grandparents: Rodney and Tammy Allen, Debbie and Kevin Carson, Leslie and James Baxley.

Visitation, Monday Oct. 16, 6-8 p.m., Regency Funeral Home. Funeral, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m., Regency Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– QUITMAN — Windell Monroe Duncan, 64, of Quitman, went to be with the Lord Oct. 12, 2017. He was born Nov. 24, 1952 to the Late William Lawrence and Trudy Irene Duncan. Windell retired after welding all his life. He enjoyed horses, hunting, and spending time with his family and friends. Windell is preceded in death by his parents, and grandson, Bryland Smith.

Windell is survived by his son, Jason Chad Duncan; daughters, Danyiel

Kristen Smith

(John), and Jessie Charboneau; grandchildren, Daylee Ann and Kendall Sue Duncan, Drake Victory, Bryson, Bradley, and Bryant Smith, Audie and Edison Charboneu; and many other family and friends.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Greenbrier. Funeral Service will begin at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Sardis Freewill Baptist Church in Damascus. Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Quitman.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Sardis Freewill Baptist Church in Quitman. Online guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier.

–––––❖––––– ROSSTON — Graveside service for Mr. Riley Kemper, age 69, of Rosston will be 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, at Corinth Cemetery in Bodcaw, with Bro. William Laughard officiating. Arrangements are by Brazzel/Oakcrest The Funeral Home of Hope, Eddie Brazzel, Director. Guest register: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Larry Taylor, 71, of Russellville passed away Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017. The family will hold a private burial at a later date. The online obituary and guest book are available at www.russellvillefamilyfuneral. com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Estelle Lillian Yarb, 77, of Russellville, passed away, Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, at her home in Russellville. Arrangements are private and under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service. Internet obituary and online guest book are available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– SCOTLAND — William Joseph “Billy Joe” Clay, 37, of Scotland, Ark., went to Heaven to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Oct. 7, 2017.

He was born on

Jan. 24, 1980, in Springdale,

Ark., to Bob and

Brenda Clay. Billy was preceded in death by his sister, Leisa Michelle Clay. He is survived by his parents, Bob and Brenda Clay, his brothers, Jeff Clay and Darin Clay, his nieces Haley Dodson, Nikki Clay, Taylor Thompson, and Ashlyn Thompson and his nephews, Hayden Clay, Dakota Clay and Hayden Thompson.

Billy graduated from Bryant High School, and received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from UCA in 2005 where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Billy enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2000 and completed boot camp at Fort Benning, Ga., where he was awarded the title of Soldier of the Cycle. His first overseas tour of duty was in the Sinai in 2001, where he was awarded the Chief of Staff’s Outstanding Conduct Award for risking his life as he saved two of his fellow soldiers. He was again activated for duty in 2004 where he saw extensive combat in Iraq. He received numerous medals for his acts of courage in combat.

Billy was an avid hunter. He loved his duck dog and buddy, Ranger, who preceded him. Billy loved his family and friends very much, but none quite as much as his mother Brenda, whom he called his Angel.

Visitation will be held Monday, Oct. 16, 6-8 p.m., at A Natural State Funeral Service located at 2620 West Main St. in Jacksonville. Funeral services will be Tuesday, October 17, 1 p.m., at North Little Rock Veteran’s Cemetery located at 1501 W. Maryland in Sherwood.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Arkansas, (501) 982-3400. Online guestbook can be found at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Martin F. Gentry passed away October 11, 2017 in Searcy, Arkansas. Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. October 15, 2017 at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home in Searcy with Funeral Services being held at 10 a.m. October 16, 2017 at the Faith Assembly in Searcy. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– SHERIDAN — Lester Jewell Bratton of Sheridan, Arkansas, was born January 22, 1927 in Sheridan, Arkansas, the son of the late

Jewell F. and

Mae Reynolds

Bratton. He was a member of

First Landmark

Baptist Church in Sheridan, and was in the US Army, having served in the Korean War. Mr. Bratton died Monday, October 9, 2017 at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock at the age of 90.

He was the oldest member of the Sheridan Lions Club, having joined in 1960, and being an active member ever since. He held every office, participated in every fundraiser and has been an example to many young members who followed through the years. He was always dedicated to serving his community and helping others.

In 1960, he helped organize the American Legion baseball program in Sheridan. He managed and coached the team for over 10 years. He also, along with his wife and son, traveled as a Bird Dog Scout for the Cardinals. He retired from International Paper Company, Woodlands Division, and then owned a forestry consulting business for over 20 years. He enjoyed hunting, and watching any kind of sports, especially the Razorbacks.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of over 63 years, Johnnie Blackerby Bratton; sisters, Gladys Reaves and Loreze Waddle; brothers, James Bratton, Evan Bratton, Hershel Bratton; and a grandson who died Oct. 4, 2017, Tyler Bratton. Survivors: son and daughterin-law, Alan and Michele Bratton of Belleair, Florida; grandsons, Brian Bratton and Jason Bratton; and a host of nieces, nephews, church family and friends.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at First Landmark Baptist Church in Sheridan with Bro. Shawn Hill and Bro. Doney Blackerby officiating. Burial will follow at Grapevine Cemetery in Grapevine. Visitation will be Monday, at the funeral home, from 5-7 p.m. Pallbearers are his nephews: Byron Blackerby, Thomas Blackerby, Joe Ellis Blackerby, Vance Blackerby, Larry Hedden, Wayne Taylor, Joe Lynn Waddle and Russell Waddle.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sheridan Lions Club, P.O. Box 311, Sheridan, Ark., 72150 or Grant County Museum, 521 Shackleford, Sheridan, Ark., 72150. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan, (870) 9421306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.

–––––❖–––––

ST. VINCENT — Louis Charles Gottsponer, Sr., of St. Vincent, Arkansas, passed away

Friday, October

13, 2017, at CHI

St. Vincent Hospital Morrilton.

He was 78.

Louis was born at home February 2,

1939, in St. Vincent, one of nine children born to Joe and Carrie Vetter Gottsponer. He graduated high school at Sacred Heart School in Morrilton, and then served in the U.S. National Guard. He married Mary Frances Clifton on October 27, 1962, and they raised their five children in Morrilton and St. Vincent. During his career, he worked as a welder, managed a cotton textile mill, managed the service department at a car dealership, managed a family truck wash, and was a cattleman and landowner. He had a great love for horses, hunting, fishing, and a variety of outdoor activities, especially gardening.

Louis was a lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church in St. Vincent, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and Usher, and served several terms on parish council boards. He was a member of 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus Father Arthur B. Chaisson, Council #10908 and a member of the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Father William M. Beck, Assembly #2081. He loved and served his community in several capacities, including volunteer firefighter, school board member and, most recently, Justice of the Peace for Conway County.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Francie Gottsponer, of the home; three sons: Louis C. Gottsponer, Jr. (and his wife, Cathy) of Madison, Indiana; Jim Gottsponer (and his wife, Marilyn) of Fayetteville; Mark Gottsponer (and his wife, Cindy) of Scotland; two daughters: Michelle Warren (and her husband, Lucky) of Morrilton; and Angie Gottsponer, of Addison, Texas; one brother, Herman Gottsponer of Morrilton; two sisters: Theresa Owens of St. Peters, Missouri, and Clara Acklin of Morrilton; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A rosary service will be held at 5:30 p.m. with Deacon Steve Mallett and Father Jim Burnie officiating, followed by visitation until 8 p.m., on Monday, October 16 at Harris Funeral Home in Morrilton. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, October 17, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 11 Kaufman Lane, in St. Vincent with Father Jim Burnie and Deacon Steve Mallett officiating, followed by a lunch at the church hall. Burial will be at St. Mary Parish Cemetery. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

–––––❖––––– STUTTGART — Vina Treat Mayall, 80, peacefully ended her earthly journey on Oct. 13, 2017 at Baptist

Health Medical Center in Stuttgart, Ark.

Over the last two years, she faced numerous health issues with grace, dignity, and unbelievable strength.

She is survived by her husband, of 61 years, J.C. Mayall; her two daughters: Terry (David) Simpson and Connie (Gary) Hudson, all of Stuttgart. She was Mimi to the loves of her life, her three grandchildren: Cara (Brad) Coleman of Mountain Home, Drew (Lauren) Jacobs of Stuttgart, and Patrick Hudson of Fayetteville; and her four great-grandchildren: Whitten Coleman, Ford Coleman, Mason Jacobs, and Jacie Ann Jacobs.

Vina was born on Dec. 16, 1936 in Yellville, Ark. She was the only child born to Melvin and Mabel Treat. She was a 1954 graduate of Clinton High School. Throughout the years, she continued to stay in contact with her high school girlfriends. They had a special place in her heart. In 1956 she married her sweetheart and love of her life. They moved their family to Stuttgart in 1967. Vina, an experienced abstractor, worked for Mrs. Lillian C. Young. She also worked for Shields Horst Realty and Arkansas County Title Company, where she retired in 2004.

She will be remembered for her thoughtful consideration of others, kindness, and loyalty to her family and friends. She took great pride in everything she did. Her attention to detail, research skills, and kindness to others were her strengths.

She loved her family, which brought the greatest joy in her life. She was devoted in caring for her parents, her mother-inlaw, and her husband when they were ill. She would light up when her grands and great-grands were around. She dearly loved her aunts, uncles, and cousins. Until her health declined, she attended annual family reunions and embraced those special times with family. She was an inspiration to all who knew her and devoted to her family. She was the rock and foundation of her family and her legacy of love and faith will live on through them.

Her family at First Christian Church strengthened her faith and allowed her to practice it in her own quiet way. Her friends in her Sunday School Class and CWF were her buddies with whom she shared many special moments of love and laughter.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Chris Morgan, Stacy Reeves, Amanda White, Annie Hatch, the nurses and staff at Baptist Health Medical Center, and Michelle with Arkansas Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 in the fellowship hall of First Christian Church, 10th & Main, in Stuttgart, with the Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. Graveside services will be at 4 p.m. at Clinton Cemetery in Clinton, Ark.Memorials may be sent to First Christian Church, 921 South Main St., Stuttgart, Ark. 72160.

Please go to www.turpin-co. com to sign the online guestbook.

–––––❖––––– SWIFTON — Carolyn Johnson of Swifton, 81, died Thursday. Survivors: sons, David Johnson, Perry Johnson, Russell Johnson, and James Goza; brothers, Calvin and Felix Love; sister, Fern Riley; 17 grandchildren. Visitation: Sunday, 2-5 p.m. Funeral: 10 a.m. Monday, Abiding Faith Pentecostal Church Interment: Swifton Cemetery. Arrangements: Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home. www.jacksonsfh.com.

–––––❖––––– WARD — Betty Lee (Jackson) Moore of Ward, departed this life Oct. 12, 2017. She was born Jan. 23, 1937 in Bradford, Ark., to the late William and Lucy (Willis) Jackson. Visitation Bradford Memorial Funeral Home Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 from 6-8 p.m. Graveside Services Monday, October 16, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Heard Cemetery.

Out-of-state

GRANT, Fla. — Marie F. Whitfield Willett (McClaren), 87, died Oct. 10, 2017 at her residence in Grant, Fla.

She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother and was one of the first massage therapists to practice in Little Rock, Ark. Marie graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Academy, Little Rock, Ark., and attended the University of Arkansas. She was an avid golfer and a member of the Women’s Club in Little Rock. She loved dancing and was a member of the Ballroom Latin

Swing Association and other dance groups.

She was a member of Our Lady

Holy Souls Catholic Church, Little

Rock, Ark.

Marie was a 19-year survivor of breast cancer. Survivors include daughter Ann Kirk and son Charles E. Willett both of Grant, Fla.; grandchildren Reed (Susannah), Cory (Mickey) and Taylor (Micah) Willett; brother Oscar M. Whitfield, Jr. of North Little Rock, Ark.; step-sons Douglas and James McClaren of Rome, Italy; step-daughter Frances Baker of San Francisco, Calif., and many more loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Oscar M. and Cecilia (Zimmerman) Whitfield, her husband James L. McClaren and brother Walter Whitfield.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

–––––❖––––– PENSACOLA, Fla. — USAF Ret. Major James Turner Edds Sr., 83, Pensacola, Fla., passed Oct. 10, 2017. Visitation Tuesday Oct. 17, 5-7 p.m., Regency. Services Oct. 18, 2 p.m., Regency. Interment with military honors at Lono Cemetery. Arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– RENO, Nev. — James “Jim” Stollie Pruitt Jr. went to his heavenly home on Aug. 29, 2017, surrounded by his loving family and pastor. He was born in North Little Rock, Ark., on June 7, 1937, and grew up in Smackover. He was a 1955 graduate of Smackover High School, where he was a stand-out football player. Jim moved to Reno, Nev., in 1982.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, J.S. and Mary Hild Pruitt. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Kathryn Ward York Pruitt of Reno, Nev.; brother, Charles (Linda) of Little Rock, Ark.; son, Rick (Diane) of Sparks, Nev.; daughter, Robin, of Boca Raton, Fla.; step-daughters, Denise York Young (Roger) of Alpharetta, Ga., and Donna York Dean (Larry) of Arlington, Texas; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.