Pulaski County
NITA MAE ATKINSON, 93, of Little Rock, passed away Oct. 26, 2017.
She was born
Feb. 21, 1924, in Salisaw, Okla.
She was preceded in death her husband,
Randal N. Atkinson, LCDR (Ret), three brothersin-law, one sister-in-law, and a sister, Norma. She is survived by her sons, Nathan and Robert; two sisters-in-law, Edwina and Donna; three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6-8 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 West 12th St., Little Rock. Graveside service will be Thursday, Nov. 2, at 11 a.m. at the Little Rock National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Pulaski County.
An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.
––––– ––––– BOBBY RAY “SANDY” BEAUMAN, age 70 of Little Rock, Ark., went to to be with his Savior on Oct. 28, 2017.
He fought the good fight. Bobby was a lifelong resident of Little
Rock, an avid
HOG fan and horse racer. He graduated from
Little Rock Central High School in 1964 and from UALR in 1971 with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration. In his later career, he worked for Pray Law Firm as a Debt Counselor retiring in 2010.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Wanda Beauman. Bobby leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Janet Blasingame Beauman and one daughter, Kristen Beauman Breedlove and husband Frank. Bobby was also survived by his best friend, one sister, Linda Beauman Solomon and her husband Bob of Richmond, Va. Bobby was blessed with five grandchildren, Nicholas, Zachory, Madeline, Erin (Dub) and Justin (Jessica) and two great-grandchildren, Lily and Gage and one niece and one nephew.
A visitation will be 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at Roller Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 224-8300. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017 at Pinecrest Memorial Park with Pastor Bob Solomon officiating.
Memorials shall be made to the American Lung Association, 217 W. 2nd Street, #105, Little Rock, Ark. 72201, (501) 975-0758, the American Heart Association, 909 W. 2nd Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 375-9148 and CARTI, 8901 CARTI Way, Little Rock, Ark. 72205 (501) 906-3000.
To sign the online guest book, please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
–––––❖––––– LOUISE DARE, 92, of Sherwood passed away Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017. She was born Dec. 7, 1924 in Poplar Bluff,
Mo., to William
R. and Eugenia
A. Lane Stanley.
She was a member of
Church of Christ.
She is survived by her sons,
Dennis Dare (Brenda) and Gary Dare (Judy); grandsons, Jason Dare (Kerry) and John Dare; and great-granddaughter, Sydney Dare and was preceded in death by her parents and husband, David Dare. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Visit the online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT JOHN FEAZELL, age 62 of Maumelle, Ark., passed away on Monday, Oct.
23, 2017. Robert was born June 7,
1955 in Chester,
United Kingdom.
At the age of 16,
Robert began his apprenticeship in Aeronautical Engineering which prompted a 46 year long career in aviation. During that time, he moved from the United Kingdom to the United States in 1996 and then his family in 2006. A devout man of the Catholic faith, he was a faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in North Little Rock, enjoyed gardening, cooking and going out with his family. Robert loved his dogs and was a loving husband, father, grandfather and son.
He is survived by his wife, Jackie; one son, James; one daughter, Victoria; two grandchildren, Kimberly and Kaitlynn and his mum. He is preceded in death by his father, Ronald Feazell.
A rosary will begin at 6 p.m. with a visitation to follow until 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 in the chapel of Roller Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 224-8300. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in North Little Rock with Father Ruben Quinteros as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cemetery.
To sign the online guest book, please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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JOHN KENNETH HOVEY, 65, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away on Oct. 24, 2017.
He leaves behind his wife of
28 years, Karen, his son John C. (Merisha) Hovey of Paragould,
Ark., and daughter Aimee (Chris)
Hovey of Berkeley Ill.; grandchildren CJ Penge,
Tiffany Graham, Kelsey Penge, JD Hovey and Kayden Penge; father-in-law Lawrence Ulrich; sister Mary (Daniel) Wanat and brother Kevin Hovey, and a niece and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents John A. Hovey, Margaret N. Hovey, brother Dennis Hovey, and sister Susan Hovey and mother-in-law Helen Ulrich.
John was born on July 13, 1952 in Decatur, Ill. John dearly loved his kids and grandkids and cared so much for his family, friends and animals. He was the kind of guy who would do anything for anyone. He loved collecting cars and antiques. He was an entertainer, story teller and song writer who could play any instrument. He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather and he will be dearly missed.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4 at Rodney’s in Little Rock, Ark., from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Additional celebrations will take place in Paragould, Ark., Chicago, Ill., and Neenah, Wis. Dates will be posted at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ASPCA.
As John Hovey would always say: “I will see you on the other side.”
Online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
–––––❖––––– ANGELA JONES, 53, of North Little Rock died Oct. 26, 2017. Preceded in death by father, Lester Jones, twin sister Angel Jones. Survived by mother, Helen Jones, siblings; Keith (Kimberly), Darrell, Lisa, Sherry Jones, Lori Parker. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home 4323 W. 29th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204.
–––––❖––––– HELEN “HANNA” MIRIAM KARLOVIC, of Little Rock, died on Wednesday morning, Oct.
25, 2017. She was born in
Green Bay, Wis., on June 5, 1929, to Nettie Johanna Peterson Karlovic and Martin
John Karlovic.
Her father immigrated to the
United States from what was then Austria and is now Croatia, at the age of 16. He became an American citizen later in life. Her mother’s parents were immigrants as well, originating from Norway and Denmark. The Martin Karlovic family moved from Denmark, Wis., to Pine Bluff, Ark., and eventually to a farm in Woodlawn, Ark., in
Jefferson County.
Helen was a voracious reader and a good student. Immediately upon graduation from Woodlawn High School at the age of 17, she traveled to Memphis, Tenn., and entered St. Joseph’s School of Nursing. She graduated three years later with a degree in nursing and went to work for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Memphis. She loved her time in Memphis, made many lifelong friends, and enjoyed hosting family members for visits to the big city. When her father became ill, Helen returned to Pine Bluff to assist with his care and accepted a nursing position with the VA Hospital in Little Rock. She worked primarily with neurology and neurosurgery patients.
She retired from the VA after 35 years, but promptly joined the staff of Dr. Sue Frigon in Pine Bluff. When she and her sister moved to Little Rock in 1995, Helen joined the staff of Tipton & Hurst. She worked on the sales floor at the Heights location and, just like in her nursing career, Helen was a diligent, conscientious and responsible worker. She was loved and valued by customers and staff alike.
Although Helen never had children, she claimed her six nieces and nephews as her own and enjoyed spoiling them at every opportunity. Likewise, she was devoted to her seven great-nieces and nephews and took pleasure in attending their sporting events and school-related activities. Like her father, Hanna loved animals, especially boxer dogs. She was a talented artist and produced many beautiful oil paintings. She enjoyed travel, fine dining and good wine, and will be remembered for her love of culture and the arts.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Martin John (Buddy) Karlovic of Novato, Calif. She is survived by her sister, Katherine Louise Karlovic Johnson of Little Rock; a sister-in-law, Sandra Dickey Karlovic of Novato, Calif., two nephews, Martin Stephen Karlovic and wife, Tami, of Rose Valley, Pa., and Jay Michael Johnson and wife, Elizabeth, of Little Rock; four nieces, Karla Ann Johnson of Little Rock, Stacy Lynn Johnson Hurst and husband, Howard, of Little Rock, Karen Rebecca Karlovic of San Francisco, Calif., and Katherine Anne Karlovic Ruimmerman and husband, Alex, of Truckee, Calif.; and seven great-nieces and nephews, John Robert Karlovic and wife, Carrie, of San Jose, Calif., Matthew Stephen Karlovic of High Point, N.C., Kelsey Nicole Caeser of New York, N.Y., and Conley Karlovic Hurst, Windsor Roark Johnson, Johanna Cates Hurst, and Katherine Elizabeth Johnson, all of Little Rock.
A family memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ruebel Funeral Home and an online guest book is available for condolences at www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– JIMMY C. KELLY, 66, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Oct. 24, 2017. Preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Earnestine Paige Kelly.
He leaves to cherish his memory: wife Geraldine Thornton
Kelly; children:
Kevin Brewer,
Teresa Gray,
Leola Stigall, Lisa Stigall, Tiffany Kelly, Yvonna Kelly, and Lisa Kelly; siblings: George, Billy Joe Kelly, Johnnie Simmons, Christine Robinson; aunt, Joy Paige, 13 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces; a host of family and friends.
Family Hour: Friday, 5-6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary. Funeral: Saturday, 10 a.m. at Antioch Full Gospel Baptist Church, College Station, Ark. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, LR, Ark., (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– MARY KATHLEEN MANESS, 85, of North Little Rock, Ark., passed away on Oct. 25, 2017. Born Aug. 28, 1932 to the late Benjamin Swafford and Lois Bradford, she was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. Her celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 with a graveside service at Salem Cemetery in Bee Branch, Ark. To express condolences and sign the online guestbook, visit www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
–––––❖––––– LIONEL McDANIEL, age 85, of North Little Rock, died Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Willie Mae McDaniel and two children. Mr. McDaniel is survived by his wife, Mildred McDaniel, four children, 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and many cousins and friends. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Cremation Services of Arkansas. (501) 313-5431. www. cremationservicesofarkansas. com.
––––– ––––– WINFRED “WINK” RAY MILAM, 60, of North Little Rock, died Thursday,
Oct. 26, 2017.
He was born to
Alfred and Betty Crumley Milam on Aug. 2, 1957 in Marshall. He is preceded in death by his father; and brother, Elvis James
Milam. Winfred was a derrick hand in the oil fields.
Winfred is survived by his mother; two sisters, Lavern Milam of Mabelvale, Mary Morrison (Harvey) of Little Rock; two brothers, Roger Milam (Deborah), Larry Don Milam both of North Little Rock; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Memorial Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark., 72116.
Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
–––––❖––––– CAROL DIANE MILLER, 60, of Sherwood died Oct. 24, 2017, following battles with cancer and heart disease.
She was preceded in death by her father,
Orville C. Miller; brother, Charles “Chucky” N.
Miller; brotherin-law, Ed Smith; and niece, Emily
Pickels.
She is survived by her mother, Mary Carolyn Miller; son, Stewart Miller (Sarah Campbell-Miller); sisters, Cathy Henry (Brad) and Debby Smith; nieces and nephews Ben Smith (Lindi), Cindy Smith and Katie Courtright (Dustin), Alex (Lauren) and Sam Hawk (Lindsay Handrick), Ryan Henry (Kate), Parker and Blake Henry and Erin Pickels; former sister-in-law Janet Pickels; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews and pets.
She was born on July 3, 1957, in Cheverly, Md., but lived in Casablanca, Colo.; Morocco; Fort Worth, Texas; and Sherwood.
Carol graduated in 1975 from Sylvan Hills High School, where she was involved in choir, art and journalism. She especially enjoyed photography. She also attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
Carol worked for the state and managed convenience stores in Sherwood and central Arkansas. Customers of those, including many long-time Sherwood police officers, remember her giving them a hard time.
Carol loved every animal, reading, cooking and baking, especially sweets for her family at holiday gatherings. She will be remembered for her quick wit and boisterous laugh. Carol was the “dancing queen;” she loved ABBA and spoke fondly of patronizing Discovery Night Club in Little Rock in the 1970s with her friend, Marc, who preceded her in death. She was a blunt person, but always tried to help others and believed in tough love, not the touchy-feely stuff.
No funeral will be held for Carol, at her request. A private celebration of life will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sherwood Animal Shelter at 6500 N. Hills Blvd., Sherwood, Ark. 72116.
To leave online condolences please visit www.ArkansasCremation.com.
–––––❖––––– HELEN W. PATTILLO, 77, of Little Rock, Ark. departed this life Oct. 27, 2017. She was preceded in death by: son, Sean Mayers; husband, Amos Harris; father, James Pattillo Sr.; mother, Hattie Pattillo; sisters, Mary Pattillo and Lucille Cooley.
She leaves to cherish her memory: children, Lori Lawrence, James C. (Stephanie) Mayers III, Charles Edward Pattillo; siblings, Catherine (Eugene) Smith, James (Pam) Pattillo; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
Visitation: Friday, noon-6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, Little Rock. Service: Saturday, 11 a.m. at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 1823 S. Cedar, Little Rock, Ark. Pastor Roosevelt Foote, officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Dr., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– WILLIAM JOEL RINKE, 64, died Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017. He was native to Little Rock, a retired attorney for the Arkansas Board of Review, and a great person. He attended Sunday School with his wife at Ironton Baptist Church and was a student of the Catholic liturgy.
Joel is survived by his wife, Mary, daughter, Claire, mother, Shirley, sister, Donna (Lonnie), as well as numerous family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, William C. and brother, Thomas Carl.
Visitation will be Monday, October 30 from 5-7 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Road). Funeral services will be Tuesday, Oct. 31 at 10 a.m. at Ironton Baptist Church, followed by interment at Ironton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Marylake Monastery, 5151 Marylake Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72206.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Joel’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– BIRDIE QUE ROGERS, 90, of Little Rock, Ark., went to be with the Lord, Thursday,
Oct. 25, 2017.
She was born
April 19, 1927 in Monticello, Ark., to the late Samuel Everett and
Willie Mae Everett. She is preceded in death by three sisters,
Minnie Mae
Block, Robzine Everett and Zeophas Lawrence; three brothers, Calvin Everett, Virgil Everett, and Leo Everett; and a special nephew, Cleophus Avery.
She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, James Rogers; her daughter, Euphase Rogers Lewis of Sherwood, Ark.; a son, James Rogers “L’il James” of Little Rock, Ark.; grandchildren, Tiffany Lewis of Sherwood, Ark. and Joseph Lewis, Jr. of Oklahoma City, Okla.
Visitation will be Monday, Oct. 30 6-7 p.m. at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305. Funeral services will be held at St. Peters Rock Baptist Church, 2201 Brown Street, Little Rock, Ark., Tuesday, Oct. 31 at 11 a.m.
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BILLY KEITH WILKINS, age 55, of Little Rock passed away on Oct. 25, 2017 in Little Rock, Ark. He was born on Jan. 9, 1962 in Little Rock, Ark., to Billy and Tressia Wilkins. He was a member of the North Little Rock First Assembly of God and worked for the United States Postal Service as a rural carrier.
He is preceded in death by his father Billy Wayne Wilkins. Billy is survived by his wife Rhonda K. Cook-Wilkins; his mother Tressia Derby Beggs-Wilkins; his children Christopher (Megan) Wilkins of Cibolo, Texas, Courtney (James) Wilkins-May of Schertz, Texas, Carson Hudson of Newnan, Ga., Caleb Wilkins and Ashelyn Wilkins both of Little Rock, Ark. He leaves behind his grandchildren Trip May, Hannah May, Madilynn May, J.P. May, Kayleigh Wilkins, Emily Wilkins, and Mackenzy Wilkins; his brother Mark Wilkins of Lake Lure, N.C.
A visitation will be held on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at 10 a.m. at First Assembly of God, 4501 Burrow Road, North Little Rock, Ark., with a funeral service to begin at 11 a.m. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark. An online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.
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JOHN DOUGLAS WILSON, 68, of Jacksonville peacefully passed away on Oct. 21, 2017. He was born April 15, 1949 in Zanesville, Ohio, to David W. Wilson and Virginia H. Wilson. He was preceded in death by both parents, his sister Sharon D. and brother David R. Wilson.
John was a patriot who served 20 years in the United States Army. He retired in 1990 as E7, having served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne. He also retired after 20 plus years of service from USP & FO, Camp Robinson where he was a purchasing agent for the Arkansas Army National Guard.
In life John enjoyed traveling, fishing, old westerns, Ohio State sports and time with family. He loved kids and the elderly. At Christmas he portrayed Santa and visited hospitals, nursing facilities and group parties.
Carrying him in their hearts always are Glenda J. (Scott) Wilson, his daughter, Lori D. Wilson, son Curt D. and Kathleen A. Wilson and five grandsons, Darren, Jarod, Logan, Cato and Brandon all of Jacksonville.
John will be interred with military honors at a private ceremony at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Online guestbook: www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
Arkansas
ARKADELPHIA — James “Jim” Hopkins, age 66, of Arkadelphia, died Tuesday, October 24, 2017 due to an automobile accident. Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home. Services will be 2:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30 at Third Street Baptist Church with burial in Rest Haven Cemetery. Online register at www. ruggleswilcox.com.
–––––❖––––– ARKADELPHIA — Kimberley Bunn Hopkins age 56, of Arkadelphia, died Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017 due to an automobile accident. Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home. Services will be 2:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30 at Third Street Baptist Church with burial in Rest Haven Cemetery. Online register at www. ruggleswilcox.com.
–––––❖––––– ATKINS — Houston Dee Heflin Jr., 88, of Atkins, died Friday. The funeral service will be 2 p.m., Monday, at the Shinn Chapel. Burial in Atkins City Cemetery and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation Sunday 1-2:30 p.m., at the funeral home. Online obituary/guestbook available at www.shinnfuneral. com.
–––––❖––––– BATESVILLE — Helen Davis Baker, 91, of Batesville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday,
Oct. 25, 2017 surrounded by family. She was born on Jan. 17, 1926 in Marianna, Ark., to the late Joe D. Davis and Daisy Ruth (Barnhart) Davis.
Helen was a member of the First United Methodist Church, was a past president of AARP, a part of the Kiwanis Club and actively involved with the Interclub Group, founded the Widowed Persons Group, and a member of the United Commercial Travelers. She served on the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors as well as the Chamber of Commerce. Helen founded and served as Queen Mother to the Foxy Ladies of the White River of the Red Hat Society, and was runner up in the Mrs. Senior Arkansas Pageant. She enjoyed playing dominos, bingo, and bridge. She liked to travel, cook, craft, and dance, but most of all loved spending time with her family.
She is survived by her son, Mike Baker (Cindy) of Searcy; daughter, Barbara Estes (Dallas) of Sulphur Rock; brother, Joe Davis (Kathy) of Athens, Ga.; two sisters, Billie Sue Rohrscheib (Henry) of Lexa and Bettye Garrison of Houston, Texas; three grandchildren, Lindsey Estes, Natalie Emerson (Ken), and William W. Baker Jr.; great-grandchild, Knox Emerson; as well as a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Daisy Davis; her husband John W. Baker; her son, William “Bill” Baker; seven sisters; and one brother.
Pallbearers will be the members of the Kiwanis Club.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at First United Methodist Church with Justin Ledbetter and Bob Langley officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville, under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home. Visitation will be take place at 1 p.m. at the church prior to service. www.rollerfuneralhome.com/ batesville.
–––––❖––––– BENTON — Ernest “Ernie” Frank Wild was born May 29, 1935 in Little Rock, Ark. to parents, Emma Louise Magin Wild and Ernest Sebastian Wild. He passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospice House in Bryant.
At 15 years of age (1950) he began working at the family owned bakery “Wild’s Bakery” till 1964. Ernie’s specialty was decorating wedding cakes. In 1964 he went to work for Teletype/ AT&T /Alcatel-Lucent till 1995.
He spent his early years at St. Paul’s Evangelical & Reform Church, that was later changed to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ of Little Rock. He later attended First Christian Church of Little Rock and most recently attended Geyer Springs First Baptist Church. Ernie served in numerous capacities in his church homes. He loved teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, was President of the Congregation and served on church boards and filled in wherever necessary. He was a member of several Square and Round Dancing Clubs of which he and wife Jeanette loved to dance.
Ernie was an accomplished cornet player in high school and continued his love of music. He used to say he had the distinction of singing at his mother-in-law’s wedding when she remarried at 85 years of age. However, his greatest achievement in life was a loving husband and father.
Preceding in death was his mother & father (Emma Louise Magin Wild and Ernest Sebastian Wild), his brother, Richard Allen Wild and his nephew, Robert Aaron Wild. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years of marriage, Katie Jeanette Burley Wild. Son, Ricky C. Wild and wife Samantha Wild of Fort Worth, Texas. Daughter, Nena Wild Henderson and husband Michael W. Henderson of Edmond, Okla., three grandsons Nathan E Allison (wife- Kasi), Eric N Allison (wife- Melinda) all of Edmond, Ola., and Mark E. Wild of Fort Worth, Texas. One granddaughter, Sara Elizabeth Wild of Fort Worth, Texas. Two great-grandsons and five great-granddaughters all of Edmond, Okla. He has one surviving sister, Sue Ellen Wild Seamon (husband- Merle) of Tarpon Springs, Fla.
We would like to thank Saline Memorial Hospital and Saline Memorial Hospice House for the compassionate care he received.
Memorials may be sent to Saline Memorial Hospice House or Habitat for Humanity of Benton.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017 at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home 5800 West 12th St. in Little Rock from 2-4 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday Nov. 6, 2017 in the funeral home chapel at 1:30 p.m. and burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander. Services will be officiated by Pastor Max Pyron. Please visit http:// www.griffinleggetthealeyroth. com for the online tribute.
–––––❖––––– BRYANT — Russell Duane Duckworth, 53, of Bryant passed away October 27, 2017. He was born on Oct. 28, 1963 to Sheldon and Norma Duckworth in Springfield, Mo. He is survived by his wife, Sam and two daughters; Rachel and Sammi Jo. Please share your memories of Russell at www.dignitymemorial.com/pinecrest-funeral-home-memorial-park.
–––––❖––––– BRYANT — Kenneth H. Kraft, 73, of Bryant, passed away Oct. 26, 2017. Born in Ionia, Mich., to Perry H. Kraft and Helen M. Brannon Kraft, he was a member of Parkview Christian Church.
He retired from Muswick Beverage Company. Kenneth devoted his time and talents to the Senior Center at Bishop Park on Boone Rd., where he will be missed. He was also a charter member of the Elvis Presley Fan Club.
He is survived by his brothers, Richard A. Kraft (Karen) of Benton and David L. Kraft (Sylvia) of Bryant; nephew, Kevin L. Kraft (Nicole); nieces, Shawna Brisbin (Mike) and Shayla Bailey (Erik); six great-nieces and one great-nephew; companion, Margaret Webb; and a host of other family and friends, especially the members of Parkview Christian Church.
Visitation is today, Sunday, Oct. 29 from 3-5 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (Northwest corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). The graveside service will be Monday, Oct. 30 at 1 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Kenneth’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– BRYANT — Korey Withrow, age 29, of Bryant, passed away on Oct. 25, 2017. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home. To sign online guest book, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– CABOT — Nira Katherine Fuller, age 83, of Cabot, Ark., passed away on Oct. 26, 2017. She is survived by her daughter, Lana Lawless of California Funeral arrangements are private and under the direction of Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. (501) 7917400. Online guestbook at: www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
–––––❖––––– CABOT — Samuel Singley, 86, of Cabot, Ark., died Friday, Oct. 27, 2017. He was born Dec.
10, 1930, in Little Rock, Ark., a son of the late
Samuel and Estelle (Sanders)
Singley. He was retired from the
United States
Army, and was
Baptist. He had previously served as a Deacon and led the singing, and taught Sunday school.
He is survived by his five children, Kathy Farnsworth of California, Kay Thompson of Sherwood, Leslie Singley of Cabot, Brenda Singley of Sherwood, Deana Reece and husband David of Danville; sisters, Betty Lou Curtis of Alexander, Sue Caldwell of Little Rock; grandchildren, Lee Rodgers, Parker Reece, Mando Castillo, Scott Rodney, Tyler Thompson, Loren Dixon, Jordan Evans; several great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017. The family will receive friends and family from 1-2 p.m., in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark. 72117. Entombment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers and customary condolences, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or at 800-805-5856.
Please share your messages of love, comfort and support with the family at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
–––––❖––––– CABOT — Margaret Ann Smith, 61, of Cabot passed from this life on Thursday,
Oct. 26, 2017.
She was born
Friday, June 15,
1956 in Porterville, Calif. to
Carl Wilson and
Ruby Reaves Wilson. In addition to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister, Margaret spent her professional life caring for others as an LPN.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her husband of 42 years, Alan Smith; children Robert Smith and wife Dorian of Cabot, Michael Smith and wife Misa of Cabot; grandchildren Maya Smith, Kenya Hill, Carly Smith, Katie Smith and one on the way. Other survivors include sisters Linda Haney of Cabot, Peggy Portell and husband Simon of Jacksonville and Glenda Costello and husband Greg of Mayflower, along with a host of extended family and friends.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home chapel. Interment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Arrangements entrusted to Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. (501) 982-2136. Online guestbook: www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– CALDWELL — Willie B. Wade, 73 of Caldwell, Ark. passed on Oct. 23, 2017. Visitation: 6-7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 3 at funeral home.
Funeral: 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at Mount Sinai
Baptist Church.
The body will lie in-state from
10 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Willie B Wade Memorial Scholarship. Guestbook www. samuellvanceandsons.com. Arrangements by Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors of Malvern (501) 337-0100.
–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Our little ray of sunshine Amanda Deaton went to be with her Savior this day Oct.
25, 2017. Amanda was born
July 20, 1981 in
Little Rock, Ark.
She worked for Greenbrier Public Schools. She leaves behind her children Christopher and
Taylor Cloe, her brother Jamie, her sister Kristy, mom and dad and a host of nieces-nephews and many relatives and people that loved her. Many thanks to everyone that prayed and cared for her.
Come and celebrate her life with us November 4, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Point Of Grace Baptist Church, 767 Highway 64B Conway, Ark. Brother Eric officiating. Cremation services are by Wilson Robison Funeral Home of England, Ark.
–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Kimberly Temple passed on Oct. 13, 2017 following a sudden illness.
She was born on
Feb. 9, 1967 in
New Iberia, La.
Kim grew up in
Ashley County and has many friends there.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Bobby
N. Temple Sr. and Alma Forgey Temple, and by both paternal and maternal grandparents. She is survived by brothers, Bobby N. Temple Jr. of Oklahoma City, Okla., and W.A. Temple of Conway, Ark. Many times in life we are blessed with people that may not be blood kin, but the family bond is there. She leaves to cherish her memory, sisters, Lori Floyd, Barbara Craig, Debbie Ammons and Leah Welch. Special friends, Isreal Webb and Randal Harris. Kim raised and loved many furry friends through the years, they were her children. She loved music, cooking and fishing. Arrangements handled by Bishop-Crites Funeral Home in Greenbrier. A memorial service will be held at a later date, yet to be determined. “We All Shine On.”
–––––❖––––– DeWITT — Robert “Bob” Brown, 66, died Oct. 27. He is survived by his wife Ann; three daughters; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and three siblings. Visitation will be Oct. 30 from 1-2 p.m. at Essex Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. with burial following in Bonners Chapel Cemetery. www.essexfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– DeWITT — Billy Paul Bullock, 78, of DeWitt peacefully ended his earthly journey on Oct. 27, 2017. Billy was born April 24, 1939 in Stuttgart to Robert and Lina Baxter Bullock. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Wayne Bullock and son David Bullock.
Survivors are his wife Louise Bullock of Hot Springs; daughter Sue Bullock of Hot Springs; son Danny (Lisa) Bullock of Stuttgart; sisters Bobbie (Marvin) Bullock of Pine Bluff, Louise Orman of DeWitt, Gayle Murphy of Warren; brother A.G. (Betty Sue) Bullock of DeWitt; grandchildren Kenzie Bullock, Kaleb Bullock, Emma Bullock, Hannah Bullock, and Zach Bullock.
He was a member of New Life Fellowship Church of DeWitt.
A memorial celebration, officiated by Bro. Billy Ullrich and Bro. Joe Johnson will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 at New Life Fellowship Church. Burial will be private by Essex Funeral Home of DeWitt. Billy Paul had requested in lieu of flowers memorials be made to New Life Fellowship Church, P.O. Box 386, DeWitt, Ark. 72042, or Van Camp Cemetery, c/o DeWitt Bank & Trust, P.O. Box 71, DeWitt, Ark., 72042. www.essexfuneralhome.com.
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DES ARC — Troy Allen Wallace, 67, of Des Arc died Friday. Survivors include his wife, Wanda, two sisters, Wadena Ramsey, Carolyn (Bob) Schmidt, one brother, Howard (Gail) Wallace, nieces and nephews. Visitation 1-2 p.m. Sunday at Garth Funeral Home with funeral services immediately following at 2 p.m. Burial in Hazen Cemetery. www.garthfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– EUDORA — Christine Marie Morgan, 52, of Eudora, passed away Thursday. Survivors, her husband, Jerry Morgan, two sons, five daughters, one brother, two sisters, 18 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and host of friends and other family. Memorial service is Sunday, 2 p.m. at Ross Van Ness Community Church in Eudora, Ark. Guestbook online www.bishopkingfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– FLIPPIN — Memorial Services for Jan “John” Boonstra, 81, of Flippin, Ark., will be 11 a.m., Nov. 4, 2017 at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel-Mountain Home. John died Oct. 15, 2017. An owner/operator of Boonstra Mobile Homes, survived by son, Henry and daughters, Diana and Mary. Visit an online obituary/guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
–––––❖––––– FORDYCE — James Harry Phillips, Jr., Colonel, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(Ret), 90, of
Fordyce, died at
St. Vincent Hospital on Wednesday, October 25,
2017.
Colonel Phillips served with distinction in three American wars including six offensive campaigns. He enlisted in the Army in 1946, interrupting a promising football career, and joined the 11th Airborne Division in the Army of Occupation in Yokohama, Japan. The 11th Airborne put his football skills to use, and Colonel Phillips helped the team win the Pacific Championship in Shanghai against the Navy team that year. He served as a rifle company commander in Korea from 1953 to 1954 and as commander of the 20th Engineer Battalion Combat in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. A highly decorated soldier, Colonel Phillips was awarded a Silver Star and Bronze Star for valor in Korea, as well as a Purple Heart. In Vietnam he was also awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He received 13 other war and peacetime distinctions.
Colonel Phillips’ peacetime postings included a role as military attaché to Pakistan from 1965 to 1967 and Army staff in the office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations in the Pentagon from 1968 to 1970, where he was instrumental in developing coordinated nuclear policy for the United States Military. He served as Brigade Commander at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri from 1971 to 1974 and as Secretary for the Mississippi River Commission in Vicksburg, Mississippi from 1975 to 1979.
After retiring from the Army, Colonel Phillips served as the Executive Director of the Arkansas Waterways Commission from 1980 to 1993. In 2010, he was inducted into the Arkansas River Hall of Fame. Colonel Phillips retired from public service in 1993, moving to Fordyce, Arkansas, where he directed his attention to the restoration of the historic 1904 Wynne Phillips House and the Dallas County Museum. As projects manager for the Dallas County Museum, he restored the 1907 McKee building in Fordyce, the 1883 Nutt-Trussell Building, and the 1884 Bank of Fordyce building. Colonel Phillips was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Fordyce, the Fordyce Rotary Club, the Fordyce Country Club, and a past president of the Fordyce Chamber of Commerce. Colonel Phillips continued to serve on the board of the Dallas County Museum until his death.
A lifelong Arkansan, Colonel Phillips was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on July 19, 1927, the son of Dean Allen Phillips Denham and James Harry Phillips. Although he was awarded a football scholarship at Clemson University, following his enlistment in the Army of Occupation, Colonel Phillips finished his education with a BSBA degree from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville in 1950 where he met his wife, Agnes Wynne, and accepted an ROTC commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army upon graduation that year.
Colonel Phillips is survived by his wife of 66 years, Agnes Wynne Phillips and his sons James Harry Phillips III and wife Susan Wesley Phillips of Little Rock, Raymond Wynne Phillips, M.D. and wife Marian Levy Phillips of Naples, Florida, and Douglas Allen Phillips and wife Willow Cowart Phillips of Atlanta, Georgia. His grandchildren are Sarah Catherine Phillips Gutierrez and husband Jorge Gutierrez, Rachel Dean Phillips and husband Joshua Bregy Saltman, Anna Elizabeth Phillips, Laura Rose Phillips and Douglas Allen Phillips, Jr. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren. He is remembered by his family and friends as a brave soldier, hero and advisor who cared deeply about the well-being of his country, his community and his family.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7).
A visitation will be held at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 3, 2017. The memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Fordyce at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2017, and a military graveside service will be held at Oakland Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the Dallas Country Museum (P.O. Box 703, Fordyce, Ark., 71742) or to the First United Methodist Church (104 East Fourth Street, Fordyce, Ark., 71742). Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.
–––––❖–––––
FORT SMITH — Sister Elizabeth Rossi, 91, of St. Scholastica Monastery passed away on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was welcomed by her parents,
Paul and Jane (DeSalvo) Rossi on April 16, 1926 in Center Ridge, Arkansas. She entered the monastery in 1943. She made her monastic profession June 24, 1946. She taught school for fifty-six years in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. She served her monastic community in a variety of ministries including Subprioress, and Monastery House Coordinator. She was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters, Sister Mary Paul Rossi, OSB, Annie, Josie and Madeline Rossi; and two brothers, Tony and Angelo Rossi.
Vespers will be Monday, October 30, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at the Monastery Chapel. Funeral Mass is 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at St. Scholastica Monastery Chapel with Father Les Farley presiding. Burial will follow in the Monastery cemetery under the direction of Ocker-Putman Funeral Home of Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Sister Elizabeth is survived by her monastic community; her brother, Pete Rossi and his wife Jeanette; her sister, Bernadine Rossi Noll; and several nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are A.J. and Angela McGuigan, Kaitlyn Stell, Taylor
Polk, Preston Honeycut and Ralph Noll. In lieu of flowers please make memorials to St. Scholastica Continuing Care Fund, P.O. Box 3489, Fort Smith, Ark. 72903. Online tributes may be made at www.ockerputmanfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– HARDIN — Robert “Bob” Michael, 76, of Hardin, died Thursday. Survivors: son, Kenneth (Carole); brother, Caroll; sisters, Alma Carroll, Doris McCombs, Helen Caplinger, Arlene Harris; grandchildren, Allen Michael, Chancellor Miller, Tristan Miller and Ashlynn Miller. Services: 10 a.m., Tuesday, in Robinson’s Chapel. Interment: Jones Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, 9-10 a.m. at Robinson’s. www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.
–––––❖––––– HEBER SPRINGS — Carolyn Ann Byrd, age 63, passed away Wednesday. Survivors: daughter Frances Lang-Skinner (Brian); son Ronnie Lane; sister Anna Sayre-Parrott; brother Jimmy Lane; step-sister Pam Parrott; step-mother Betty Allen Parrott; grandchildren Yollissee and Asher. Funeral Sunday 2 p.m. Family Funeral Chapel. Burial Mt. Olive Cemetery. Family Funeral Service. www.dwightfamilyfuneral. com.
–––––❖–––––
HOT SPRINGS — Bob “Sody” Arnold (born Robert Clark Arnold), 74, left his Hot Springs home, surrounded by family, and walked into the arms of his
Savior on Friday, October 27,
2017. He left this
Earth satisfied with a life well lived, having first gifted his family a legacy of unconditional love and service.
Born on Oct. 6, 1943, to R. Myron Arnold and Glena Deaton Arnold in Camden, Ark., Sody is now reunited with his parents and his big sister (and best friend), Carolyn Arnold Batson, in Heaven. He leaves behind his wife, Laurie Nelson Arnold; his son, Dr. Jay Arnold (Jessica) of Hot Springs; his daughters, JaNan Arnold Davis of Maumelle, and Jill Arnold Fletcher of Cabot; his treasured grandchildren, Elizabeth, Emme, Ella Fu, Alli, and Tyce, and dozens of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom he considered family. Sody was always the family historian, the center of happiness, and the unwavering protector of his family. He was a “fixer” of all things broken, an artist of many mediums, and he loved having a “project” on which to work. He directed that his obituary should celebrate the fact that our family “always had the best time.”
Nicknamed “Sody Pop” because of his family’s long affiliation with the soft drink bottling industry, Sody’s personality was as bubbly and refreshing as the soft drinks he bottled at the Arkadelphia Beverage Company.
Sody grew up in Arkadelphia and, in his youth, he was particularly active in baseball and football. He was a proud member of the 1956 State Champion Little League Baseball team. He was an Eagle Scout and deeply internalized the Boy Scout principle of serving others, which he followed throughout his life. He graduated from Henderson State Teacher’s College where he was a member of Theta Xi Fraternity; a member of the football team; and participated in ROTC, where he was recognized as an excellent Marksman. Although his dream was to be a pilot in the Air Force, he sacrificed that dream for the good of his family when it was necessary for him to step in and help with the family bottling business.
Sody Arnold never met a stranger. In 1976, in his first political campaign, he unseated an incumbent and was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives. He served Clark County in the legislature into the 1990’s and was the longest serving member of the House of Representatives from Clark County. He was trusted and appreciated by all of his colleagues and was never confined by partisan politics. He loved the State of Arkansas and was humbled to be a part of state government and a friend of so many notable men and women with whom he served. He always used his business associations and his position in the Arkansas Legislature to help anyone he could, without regard to who they were or where they were from. He believed in people and could see potential in each person. In addition, he was active in supporting many charities including the Arkansas March of Dimes, Easter Seals, the Arkansas Lung Association, Wildwood Center for the Performing Arts, the Arkansas Cancer Society, and the Hot Springs Humane Society.
Arrangements are being handled by Ruggles Wilcox Funeral Home in Arkadelphia, Ark. Visitation with the family will be held on Wednesday, November 1, 2017 from 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service celebrating Sody’s life and legacy will be held the following day, Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to the charity of your choice. Online register is available at www.ruggleswilcox. com.
–––––❖–––––
HOT SPRINGS — Don Cassil, 72, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017 after a short battle with cancer. Don graduated from the University of Arkansas where he majored in Advertising and Marketing. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, where he served as vice president.
Don’s love of people granted him numerous opportunities in life. He had a successful advertising business and was involved with many non-profit organizations and political campaigns. In
1995, he moved to Hot Springs and considered it his hometown.
Don never met a stranger and if he knew you, he would refer to you as “a good friend of mine”. He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary club.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Nancy Cassil, his son, Kyle McKennon Cassil, and his brother, Jerry Cassil. Don is survived by his wife, Paula; son, Brad Cassil of Dallas; daughter, Jennifer York (Mark); granddaughter, Caroline of Maumelle; and stepchildren, Joey and Shane Hart.
Services will be held 10 a.m. Monday at the First United Methodist Church in Hot Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the FUMC Hot Springs open arms food pantry.
Guests may register at www. caruth-hale.com.
–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Michael Kent, 58, of Lonoke died October 28, 2017. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th, Little Rock, Ark., 72204, (501) 660-4323.
–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Whitney Kate LaGrone, 22, of Malvern, passed Friday, October 27, 2017. Visitation 1 p.m. Monday, October 30, 2017 at Regency Funeral Home with the Funeral Service 2 p.m.; Bro. Bobby Goodnight and Justin Gilmore officiating. Cremation arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– McCRORY — Gary Cotham, 63, of McCrory died Friday. Survivors, daughter, Ginger Cotham of Texas; two sisters, Deborah Skinner of McCrory and Donna Waggle (husband James) of Ward; one grandson; one great-granddaughter. Thompson-Wilson McCrory Funeral Home in charge of arrangements with private services at a later date.
–––––❖––––– NASHVILLE — Vernon F. Hutchins, age 84, of Nashville, Ark., passed away Sunday,
Oct. 15, 2017, in Ashdown, Ark.
He was born
April 17, 1933, in England, Ark., to the late Mitchell
Lee and Ida Jane Hutchins.
Preceding him in death were his brothers Wesley, Royce, Troy, Dale and Aubrey Hutchins; his sister, Viola Houser; and one great-granddaughter Faith.
His survivors include his beloved wife of 60 years, Patsy Smart Hutchins of Carlisle; three daughters, Sonia Garrison and husband, David, of Colorado, Mona Hardin and husband, Kenny, of Nashville, Ark., Taran Hutchins and husband, Coach Brad Beerwinkel, of Houston; and only son Toby Hutchins and wife, Pam, of Friendship. He will be greatly missed by his 10 grandchildren of whom he was so proud – Jeremiah Garrison, Seneca Garrison, Amanda Garrison, Marcus Garrison, Lana Halter, Devin Robinson, Haley Helm, Jeremy Ring, Jason Ring, and Gary Ring; and 10 great-grandchildren. He has one surviving brother, Clark Hutchins and wife, Geraldine; and sister-inlaw Caroylin Hutchins; and a ton of very special cousins, nieces, and nephews. Pamela Hamilton became a special member of Coach’s family during the last two years of his life as his caregiver, walking and singing partner, milkshake getter, bird watching buddy and doing anything else she could to make him happy.
For everyone that knew Vernon Hutchins, you knew him as “Coach” and fulfilling his last request won’t come as a surprise. When Coach was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, he decided to donate his body to science and always said he didn’t want a funeral, he would rather the money be used to help somebody. We are honoring his request and sharing this short story of his life in place of his funeral.
Vernon was born and raised in England, Ark., along with six brothers and one sister. Vernon hated school so much he decided to quit at the age of 17 and join the Marines (which is funny because he spent 43 years coaching/teaching and loved every minute of it). After serving three years, he hitch-hiked home and finished high school then headed to Henderson State University. During the next four years he fell in love with Patsy Smart and found his passion for football/track.
After graduating college at Henderson, Vernon and Patsy married and over the next several years they had four children (Sonia, Mona, Toby, and Taran). Luckily, we all enjoyed the life of a coach’s family, which involved attending lots and lots of football games, track meets, basketball games, moving every 3 or 4 years, and meeting many lifelong friends. Coach would be upset if we didn’t mention the valuable role Patsy played in his life. She was the one that made it possible for him to fulfill so many of his coaching dreams. She always took care of the kids, spent hours mending football uniforms, ran the house on a shoestring budget, and most of all made a wonderful home for our family. Our parents were both saved during their first year of marriage and together they set a great example for our family.
Coach spent the next 43 years coaching at Iowa Park, Texas; North Little Rock, Ark.; Stamps, Ark.; Commerce, Texas; Canton, Texas; Camden, Ark.; Arkadelphia, Ark.; Russellville, Ark.; Ashdown, Ark.; Fouke, Ark.; Mt. Pleasant, Texas; Richmond-Rosenburg, Texas; Dierks, Ark.; and finished up volunteering at Henderson State University. During those years he enjoyed many successful years and several not so successful years but he loved each and every long, hard day. Coach was a part of many championships, earned awards, and was inducted into the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame, which all meant a lot to him, but the hard practices and watching the players and runners improve and develop was always his favorite part.
We would like to mention some of achievements Coach had a part in because he worked so hard trying to improve every team he coached and himself as well. Stamps – Track 1964 State Class B runner-up and Class B State Champions in 1965, 1966, 1967 and 1968. He was named outstanding Track Coach in 1966 and 1968. At Camden High School, he coached two Class AAA State Champions in 1973 and 1974. He was the AHSCA Outstanding Track Coach in 1973 and 1974. In 1976 he was named District V Track Coach of the Year. In 1992, he coached Fouke to the Track Class A State Runner-up. In 2002 he was surprised with the honor of being inducted into the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame. There were lots of winning football seasons and honors as well.
If you were one of his players you probably got tired of hearing words like Pride, Dedication, Commitment, Believe, etc. but he believed if you worked hard enough and did your best – win or lose – you had something to be proud of. The most important part of his job was trying to make sure his players carried those beliefs and principles with them. Coach also believed that as a Christian he had a responsibility to share his faith in God with his players and we pray that many of them carried that with them as well. Over the years, there have been many players that took the time to call or visit Dad and Mom and these visits really meant the world to them.
Another passion our parents enjoyed was taking some of the worst houses in town and bringing them back to life – partly out of necessity but mostly because they loved it. During their 60 years of marriage, they enjoyed remodeling over 35 houses. Every town we moved to they would find an old run down house that needed some love and between the two of them they would turn it into a beautiful home for our family and then they would sell it and start over again (we think they were the original Fixer Uppers). It was important to our Dad for us to spend time with our extended family as well. We went on lots of camping trips and vacations with his brothers’ and sister’s families unless we were in the play-offs. Thanksgiving and Christmas were always spent with our extended families. Every year we have a huge family reunion at his grandparents’ old home place which is one of his favorite places and where our family is placing a special bench in his honor.
Coach always made sure our family had a church home in every town we lived in. He served as a deacon in several of the churches. He always wanted to be a contributing member of the choir and although he made a very joyful noise unto the Lord most of the song leaders asked him if he would just lip sync. We always enjoyed long car trips because Mom and Dad would always sing the whole way. After retiring and settling back in Arkadelphia, he and Patsy joined Gideons International where Dad spoke at many churches explaining their mission and raising money to provide Bibles in colleges, hotels, nursing homes, etc. Our family made many very special friends who have remained dear and close to our hearts.
Alzheimer’s has a way of bringing the things that were the most important in your life and leaving the others behind. Most of us would think that Coach would have sat and watched football game after football game, track meets, and golf but over time he didn’t even remember what football was or that he ever loved the game. What he did remember was that God loved him and was going to take care of him. We were very fortunate that God allowed Coach to get the kindest spirit as his Alzheimer’s progressed. He appreciated everything anybody did for him, loved having Patsy by his side, watching birds, looking at the beautiful flowers and trees, taking walks, and he never got tired of eating his vanilla ice cream. After a while he didn’t remember who we were but he still remembered who God was and up until a few weeks ago he would still say his prayers.
Our family would like to thank every player, parent, coach, school staff member, and even his critics that we met through the years for letting our Dad live his dream. He made it possible for us to have a great life and tons of wonderful memories. A special thanks goes to our mother who has been completely dedicated to Dad. She has tirelessly and lovingly took care of him during his illness and we will always be grateful.
While looking through lots of old newspaper articles and yearbooks we came across an article written by Kelly Blair in 2002 that we feel pretty much sums
up Coach, “I’m just an old country boy that loved to work, and I think I was able to instill a good work ethic in all the teams that I had. I see a lot of them who have been very successful in life after school. I think that is why God called me to the ministry, and I think coaching is ministry.”
In lieu of flowers Coach Hutchins would be honored by gifts to any of your favorite charities or one of his: Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (www.fca.org), Gideons International (www2.gideons.org), Global Gates(www. global gates. info ), or your local Hospice agency.
–––––❖––––– NEWPORT — Madge (McCoy) Bullard, 91, of Newport, died Friday. Survivors: son, Jerry Bullard; one daughter, Marie Ann Gibbons; two brothers, James and Ronnie McCoy; one sister, Mary McCoy McKee; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren. Visitation at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home, Monday, 12:301:30 p.m. Graveside service: 2 p.m. at Maple Springs Cemetery. www.jacksonsfh.com.
–––––❖––––– NEWPORT — Mary Margaret Poole, 56, of Newport, Ark., passed away Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017. She is survived by her son, Robert “Robby” Poole of Russellville. A private service will be held at a later date. www. heberspringsfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– OPPELO — George Fredrick Paquette, age 70, of Oppelo Ark., born June 21, 1947 to the late Evelyn Hannaford and late Melvin A. Paquette in Detroit Mich., passed away Oct. 26, 2017 in Russellville Ark. Survivors: Wife Clara, three Sons, two Daughters. Services privately held, Arrangements by Rosewood Cremation & Funeral www.rosewoodcremation.com.
–––––❖––––– ROGERS — Doctor Purcell Smith Jr. died peacefully Oct. 27, at Mercy Hospital in
Rogers, Arkansas following challenges with prostate cancer, lung problems and age related difficulties.
Despite undergoing numerous treatments for cancer and other health problems for the past 15 years, his recent days have been calm, comfortable, and full of loving family. He had recently celebrated his 63rd wedding anniversary with his beloved wife Joan. They lived in Rogers, Ark., for the last two years. He enjoyed an afternoon with a good book, Joan’s delicious cooking, visiting his family just down the street, hearing from family near and far, an evening martini, and a good game of gin rummy.
He was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Purcell Sr. and Adelaide (Corley) Smith on Christmas Day 1928. He attended Forest Park Elementary, where he made lifelong friends. He graduated from Little Rock (Central) HS in 1946, Hendrix College in 1949 with a BA in Chemistry, and had been president of his senior class, ranking second scholastically. He attended U of A Medical School, obtaining his Medical Degree in 1953. He entered the Air Force and did his internship at City Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, where he met and married Joan Alexander of Appleton City, Mo., and became beloved by her farming family. He then reported for active duty and they were stationed at a base outside Fairbanks, Alaska, for two years where his son Purcell III, was born. He then completed a residency in Internal Medicine and a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1960. His daughter Cynthia Ann was born while there.
They then moved back to Little Rock where he joined his mentor Dr. Alan Cazort (who had treated him for his own allergies as a child), in the Arkansas Allergy Clinic where he practiced for the next 35 years.
His professional life was marked by his love for and service to his patients. He also served his professional peers with his leadership activities. He was a member of the Pulaski County Medical Society, acting as president in 1974. He was a long time member of the American Medical Association (AMA) and was a 12 year Arkansas delegate to the national AMA Organizational meetings, and was president of the Arkansas Medical Society for 1981. He was also a president of the UAMS Caduceus Club. He was a fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and was a member of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
He and Joan were long time members of Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock where they had served as Elder and Deacon. They volunteered in public schools, at The Stewpot, and The Rice Depot. They were members of the Country Club of Little Rock and were avidly interested in golf. He never played as well as he would have liked, but enjoyed the good walks nevertheless. He also enjoyed wine, and smoked an occasional cigar until it became clear that they were not helping his health.
They enjoyed traveling, often to AMA meetings, as well as to the beach, or skiing with family. They also traveled extensively with their son, daughter-in-law, and friends. He was affectionately known as Dandy to his Grandchildren, one of those mispronunciations of G randy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his wife Joan; his children Dr. Purcell III and wife Susan; Daughter Cynthia, and husband Dr. Thomas Youngblood; two grandchildren: Joan (Youngblood) Dorsey and husband Mike, of Palo Alto, California, and Matthew Youngblood of Oakland, California, as well as two great-grandchildren: Nora and Ella Dorsey. He is also survived by his brother Morgan, and nephews Mark and Morgan Jr. Smith of Little Rock. Additionally, he will be missed by Dr. Gustavo Zubieta, his exchange student ‘son’ of La Paz, Bolivia.
He will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Rogers at 1901 S. 26th Street, Rogers, Ark., 72758, at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31st.
In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The First Presbyterian Church of Rogers Foundation, or to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance at pda.pcusa.org.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Dr. Smith’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– TILLAR — Marilou Douglas, 89, of Tillar, Ark. passed away Oct. 26, 2017, in Monticello, Ark. Born
Jan. 31, 1928, in Winchester,
Ark., and was the daughter of the late S.O. Abston and Verdie Abston. Her husband, W.W. “Wayne” Douglas and her parents S.O. and Verdie Abston, beloved brother, James W. Abston, five sisters and grandson Ronald Christopher Douglas preceded her in death.
Marilou was a member of First United Methodist Church of Tillar, past president Garden Club, past president Tillar School PTA, Methodist Women’s League and Jefferson Community Friends Club.
Survived by two sons, Ronald Douglas and wife Sherry of Dumas, Ark. and Robert Douglas and wife Debbie of Dallas, Texas; grandchildren, Sam Douglas, Brennan Douglas, Mary Martinez, Abby Skipwith and husband Wes; and great-grandchildren, Blake Douglas, Christopher Martinez and Cole Skipwith and so tenderly cared for and loved by, Reola Tanner.
Visitation held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at Griffin Funeral Home Chapel in Dumas. Funeral services held at 1 p.m. Friday at Tillar United Methodist Church with Dr. Tandy Hanson officiating. Interment following in Jefferson Cemetery.
If desired, memorial donations may be made in the name of Marilou Douglas to the First United Methodist Church of Tillar.
Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Home, Dumas, Ark., guestbook at www.griffinfh.com.
–––––❖––––– VILONIA — Jay Brixey died Thursday, Oct. 26. Survivors: wife: Kelli Brixey; Children: Phylicia Motley, Brooklyn Spicard (James) and Seth Brixey; parents Bill & Rita Brixey; Brother: Lynn; Sister: Jacki Middlesworth; two grandchildren. Memorial services: 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at the funeral home. Arrangements by Bob Neal and Sons Funeral Home, Morrilton. www. bobnealandsons.com. and Advocacy Center, a beautiful 20,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Activity Center. Envisioned by the Commissioner himself, the Center serves as a living testament to and legacy of his service to Huntsville and Madison County, Ala. Commissioner Harrison had become affectionately known as “The People’s Commissioner” by many who knew and interacted with him.
As County Commissioner, Bob was an active member of local, state, and national government organizations, including being elected Second Vice President of the National Association of Black County Officials (NABCO) and Subcommittee Vice Chair (Law Enforcement Committee) of the National Association of County Officials (NACO)’s Justice and Public Safety Steering Committee. Throughout his life he was actively involved with numerous civic and charitable organizations. He was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
Robert leaves to mourn his devoted wife and sweetheart of 51 years, Dr. Izora P. Harrison; daughter, Lynda and husband, Edward Gaines and their children, Amberly Brooke, Ashlyn Synclaire and Harrison Edward; and son, Michael Robert and wife, Chandra Renee Harris and their daughter, Hannah Mackenzie Harrison.
The Harrison family will greet guests from 6-8:30 p.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 at the Royal Chapel of Memories at 4315 Oakwood Ave., Huntsville, Ala. 35810.
Funeral service for Commissioner Harrison will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Progressive Union Missionary Baptist Church at 1919 Brandontown Road, Huntsville, Ala. 35816. Interment will be in Valhalla Memory Gardens. Commissioner Harrison will lie in repose two hours prior to funeral time.
–––––❖––––– ENNIS, Mont. — Capt. Richard E. Anderson. Richard, Dick or Capt. Andy, as he was best known as, passed away Oct.
22, 2017. He was born in North
Little Rock, Ark.,
March 8, 1926, to Victor Earnest Anderson and
Lillian Josephine
Griffith. His journey through life was a long one, and with an abundance of experiences. He grew up with his three siblings, oldest sister Maude, younger sister Mary, and his little brother Tom, in North Little Rock, graduating from North Little Rock High School and joining the Army Air Corps upon graduation 1944-45. World War Two was over shortly after, whereupon he entered college, receiving a degree in civil engineering from the University of Arkansas in 1949. He joined the United States Navy as an Ensign in 1952, and married Mary Ann Fitch of Carlisle, Ark., whom he met in Washington, D.C. in 1953. He proceeded to receive his masters in Environmental Engineering from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He advanced through the grades to Captain in 1968 retiring in 1974. He was Vice President of Ocean Resources, Inc Houston, Texas until 1977, manager of maintenance and operations Holmes and Narver, Inc., Orange, Calif. 1978, President of Northern Resources, Inc., Billings, Mont. 1978-81, owner and operator of Anderson Ranches, Pony, Mont. 1982-1989.
He was a former partner and remained a good friend of Bill Palmer of Red Lodge, Mont., through their connection in a land and cattle business that they formed and ran for several years, with a vision way before their time. Dick’s passion for Montana and love of the land he ranched on, preceded him throughout the rest of his life.
Lt. Richard E. Anderson with the Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps, served as executive officer of Detachment Bravo, the Navy’s wintering party which manned seven Antarctic science stations throughout 1957-58 in Antarctica, chosen on the basis of professional capability, maturity and physical fitness, he took part in the second phase of the Navy’s Operation Deep Freeze. While serving in Antarctica, he was in a helicopter crash sustaining severe burns over his body. Unable to get him to a hospital in the states due to the Antarctic winter, he stayed there, nursed by the small staff. Within a
few months, he was flown to the Naval Hospital Bethesda, Md., where he was finally healed of his wounds.
In 1964, while serving at the United States Naval Ammunition Depot Bangor, Bremerton, Wash., Dick received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal. Witnessing an automobile accident in which a gravel truck hit the rear of an automobile which landed in a ditch and burst into flames, Lieutenant Commander Anderson, along with a companion, immediately went to the assistance of the woman driver of the burning vehicle who was trapped in the flaming wreckage. Breaking the window on the driver’s side, Lt. Commander Anderson entered the vehicle through the window and partially effected the rescue of the unconscious victim before he himself was almost overcome by the dense smoke. Along with his companion, they completed the rescue. By his prompt and courageous actions in the face of great personal risk, he was directly instrumental in saving the life of the woman. His selfless efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander Anderson received the Silver Star in 1965 for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as commanding officer of the United States Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Nine near Da Nang, Vietnam.” During the night, his battalion was suddenly struck by intense mortar and automatic weapons fire delivered by insurgent Viet Cong forces. Disregarding his own safety, Commander Anderson courageously moved to his command post and in doing so was wounded in the leg by mortar fragments. Ignoring his painful wounds and the incessant fire, he took direct control of the execution of his effective defensive plan. He moved about the camp, directing the care and evacuation of the wounded, encouraging his men. He resolutely rejected treatment of his wound until all other known wounded had been treated.
Other awards and honors include the Legion of Merit with Combat V, Meritorious Service Award, Purple Heart and Anderson Peninsula named after him in Antarctica.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann (Fitch) Anderson originally of Carlisle, Ark.; his sister Maude Wright of North Little Rock, Ark.; and his brother Tom Anderson of Sherwood, Ark. He is survived by his daughters and their families Vicki and John Shampeny, of Manhattan, Mont., and Anita and Kane Quenemoen of Clancy, Mont.; sister Mary Ann Kimberlin of Hot Springs, Ark., niece Wista (Larry) Jones of Maumelle, Ark.; sister-in-law Donna Anderson of Sherwood, Ark.; nephew Todd (Olivia) Anderson of Beebe, Ark.; and the Stan Keaton family of Benton, Ark.; and the Mart Thaxton families of Carlisle, Ark.
An extension of extreme gratitude from the Shampeny family goes out to Dick’s doctor, Dr. Marks of Ennis, Mont. and the nursing home staff at the Madison Valley Manor, whose complete kindness, and exceptional care made his transition from this life to his next adventure, gracious and respectful.
The wonderful family and friends in his life, made his last years memorable, and we thank you.
Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. dahlcares.com.
–––––❖––––– CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Mr. Earl Holmes III, 43, of Charlotte, N.C., passed Oct. 11, 2017. A Graveside Service will be 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, 2017, in St. Luke Cemetery by Rev. R.L. Tisdale. Services entrusted by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Visitation will be Sunday, 4-6 p.m., at Brown Funeral Home.
–––––❖––––– MEMPHIS — Nancy Howe Campbell was born to Robert and Maude Cain Howe on Dec. 3, 1934, in Stuttgart, Ark. She attended public schools there until her graduation from Stuttgart High School in 1952. Her life in Stuttgart provided countless memories of many friends, horseback riding, playing basketball, and enjoying the innocent freedom found in a small town of that era.
Nancy moved with her family to Helena, Ark., in 1952 and began her undergraduate studies at Hollins College in Roanoke, Va., later transferring to and graduating from Southwestern College, now Rhodes College, in Memphis, Tenn. She then attended the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, Va., where she met Jim Campbell who was studying to become a Presbyterian pastor. They married and served churches in Natchez, Miss., Wynne, Ark., and Memphis, Tenn.
Close to Nancy’s heart was her work with Dalmatian rescue – organizing and participating in transports, finding adoptive homes, and claiming many as her own. She was an accomplished pianist, avid tennis player, and a devoted member of the P.E.O., an international Philanthropic Educational Organization dedicated to helping women pursue higher education. Nancy served as a P.E.O. chapter president numerous times, as a trustee for the International Peace Scholarship for three years, and on the State Board of Tennessee in multiple positions from 1985-1992. Nancy also cherished the community she found in multiple choirs over the span of her life, especially during her later years in the choir of the First Unitarian Church in Memphis.
Nancy will be missed by numerous friends and by her family who loved her deeply. She is survived by her son Rob Campbell, her sister Peggy Webster, her brother Joe Howe (Rena), her nieces Laurie Perry (Steve), Nan Connell (John), Jamie Deaton, and Caitlin Howe, her nephew Connor Howe, as well as her four great-nieces, a great-nephew and their families.
Predeceased by Robert and Maude Cain Howe and Jim Campbell, Nancy died in Memphis on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 3 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church, the Church of the River, in Memphis.
–––––❖––––– ALVIN, Texas — Howard Stiers passed away surrounded by his family on
Oct. 16, 2017, at his home is
Alvin, Texas, at the age of 82.
Howard and his wife, Mary, recently celebrated 63 years of marriage. They enjoyed traveling together, loved to dance, and spend time with family and friends. Howard was preceded in death by his parents and son, Howard Jr. (“Pete”). He is survived by his wife, Mary; daughter, Angela and husband, Dan Clay; son, Steve Stiers; grandsons, Andrew Stiers and Jeremy Clay; and two great-grandsons. Condolences may be mailed to P.O. Box 1785, Alvin, Texas 77512.
–––––❖–––––
PORT NECHES, Texas — Robert Curtis Evans, 64, of Port Neches, Texas, formerly of Lake Village and Hamburg. Survivors, two sons, stepdaughter, stepson, stepmother, two brothers, brother-in-law, four nephews, two nieces, and four grandchildren.
Visitation for friends and family, Nov. 1 from 5-7 p.m. at Bishop-King Funeral Home in Lake Village. Guestbook online www. bishopkingfuneralhome.com.