Pulaski County

ROY BEARD, JUNIOR, born the son of Roy Beard, Senior, and Lilac Gaston

Beard, April 2,

1923, died on December 16,

2017. He will be reunited with his wife of over

54 years, Bonnie, who died 18 years ago.

Dad was predeceased by his brother, Bill, his sister-in-law, Nancy, and his two dogs, Pat One and Pat Two. He is survived by his sons, Rick (Joellen) and Doug (Bobbie), five grandchildren, Sean, Christie Fortenberry, Jordan, Lauren Vandiver and Anna Coon, as well as ten great grandchildren and his nieces, Jana Shafer and Melanee Yielding.

Dad was a graduate of Little Rock (Central) High School, served in the military in World War II, and while stationed in D.C. met the love of his life, Bonnie Marie Lare. The first night he met Mother, he told his friend, “I am going to marry that girl.” On December 28, 1946, they were married.

Soon after their marriage they returned to Little Rock where Dad began a lifelong career in selling electrical supplies. In 1957, Mother and Dad opened, with two other partners, All Electric Supply in the old Lee Theater at 13th and Pine where he had ushered as a teenager. After a few years Mother and Dad bought out their partners and ultimately relocated the business to its current location on Westpark Drive. The business is in its 60th year and is owned and managed by third generation, Jordan Beard, Doug’s son.

Dad’s vocation was his business, his passion was his family, and his avocations were duck hunting, swimming, music, and movies. An avid duck hunter since his high school days, Dad’s greatest joy outside of his family was his time at Bull Sprig Duck Club. As a member since 1974, he spent many happy days there surrounded by his family and his two best friends, Hal Black and Jim Mecham.

When not duck hunting Dad was, for over 50 years, religiously swimming at the Racquet Club and the YMCA. He once swam the equivalent distance of the English Channel. On his 80th birthday he swam over a mile from his lake house to an island in Lake Hamilton. In the 1960’s, Mother and Dad rented their first cottage on Lake Hamilton, where the family learned to water ski. In later years they bought a house on Lake Hamilton where they enjoyed their retirement years.

Dad’s lifelong love of music began in his early days when he played the clarinet in the high school band. Dad could name the song, the singer, and the composer of any popular song from the Big Band Era. He would not just listen to the music, but would stand in front of the stereo and conduct the orchestra or the car radio as he drove his Cadillac. His license plate was “DUCKS,” and many tattletales called his sons with tales of his speeding down Mississippi.

Movies were another area of Dad’s personal expertise. He could tell you all of the details of any popular movie from the 1930’s, 1940’s, 1950’s, or 1960’s! But no one, including Dad, could accurately recall how many times he had seen his favorite movie, Inherit the Wind. Estimates range from five to in excess of a dozen.

The consummate salesman, Dad taught every male member of the family to always look people in the eye, offer a firm handshake, and call them by name! As one of Dad’s friends remarked, “Roy Beard was the only man enthusiastic about taking out the trash.”

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at 2 p.m. in Oakland Cemetery, 2101 Barber Street, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72206. Visitation following the service will be at the home of Joellen and Rick Beard.

The family asks that memorials be made to: CARE for Animals, 5516 Kavanaugh Blvd., LR, Ark. 72207, or Pulaski County Humane Society, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, LR, Ark. 72210. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– TIMOTHY BOONE “BO” CALLAWAY, 38, of North Little Rock, formerly of Crossett, died December 18, 2017. Son of Steve and Beth Callaway. Visitation held 4-6 p.m. Tuesday at Jones Funeral Home Chapel. (www.jonesservice.com).

–––––❖––––– WALLACE ALLEN COMBEE, 46, of Little Rock, passed away December 17, 2017.

He is survived by his mother,

Tina Powell, son, Brandon, daughter, Tabatha and grandmother,

Margie Combee, all of Little Rock.

He was predeceased by his father, grandson, Yankee, and brother, Paul. Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 2242200. Wallace’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– TRAVIS MICHAEL COULTER, 41, of Little Rock Arkansas, passed away December 15, 2017. He was the son of Wayman Coulter, deceased, and is survived by his mother, Tracy Schroepfer, his uncles Terry (Connie) and Ted Schroepfer (Teresa), his cousins Matt, Chris, Tim, Tiffany and Tori, and many loving friends.

Travis was a gifted young man both professionally and personally. He was the proud owner of his own successful business Tailor

Made Promotions. He loved the hands-on work the business required, as well as the interactions with his customers and workers. Travis was very intelligent and sought to absorb as much information about anything and everything. He loved technology, music, documentaries, trying new foods and traveling. Most importantly, though, Travis was generous, kind, and caring, and loyal to those he loved. He was gifted at building and maintaining relationships, as evidenced by the many lifelong friendships he had. He always looked out for others, particularly when he knew they were struggling. Travis loved his mother deeply and that love was returned a hundred fold. For the many, many people who loved him, the world will be a sadder place.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Information will be forthcoming about a memorial service to be held in Little Rock, Arkansas. Please share your memories of Travis at www.CressFuneralService.com.

–––––❖––––– OLIVIA DAVIS, 93, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life December 15. She was preceded in death by her husbands: Napoleon Allen and Thomas Davis. She leaves to cherish her memory: son, Fred Gue, seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren; a host of other relatives and friends. Family Hour: Friday 3 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202. “A Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– Reverend WILLIE “JOE” DAVIS. Family Hour/Musical: Friday, 6-8 p.m. Home going: Saturday,

11 a.m., both at Antioch Full

Gospel Baptist

Church, 3824

Antioch Blvd.,

Little Rock. Apostle L.E.

Braggs, officiating. View entire obituary and sign online guest book at www. robinsonmortuary.com. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 MLK, Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72202.

–––––❖––––– MARVIN GWIN, 79, of North Little Rock died November 8, 2017. He is survived by his wife Rita Gwin; sons Marvin Gwin and Michael Gwin and sister Martha Gwin. Military services will be held in both Virginia and California. Donations in memoriam may be made to Arkansas Children’s Foundation, P.O. Box 2222, Little Rock, Ark. 72203. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.

–––––❖––––– TAYLOR MARIE HANDLEY of Little Rock, departed this life December 5, 2017. She leaves to cherish her memory: parents, Bryan Williams and Candice Handley. Graveside: Friday, 10 a.m. at Arkansas Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– LAKESHA HARRIS, 40 of Little Rock passed December 15, 2017. Loving memories left to children: Brent,

Bria, Brekiya, Lynette, and

Tasha; siblings: Nicholas Laster, Shermica King, and Consuella Henderson; special friend:

Dennis Powell. Visitation December 22, 2017 6-7 p.m. at Superior. Homegoing celebration December 23, 2017 11 a.m. at Mt. Olive Baptist Church 850 Atkinson North Little Rock. Superior Funeral Services 5017 E. Broadway North Little Rock (501) 945-9922. Online guestbook www.superiorfuneralservices.com. Trudean Long Brown “Providing Services Your Family Deserves.”

–––––❖––––– FUMIKO “HUME” HILL, 83, of Jacksonville, Ark., passed December 16, 2017.

Loving memories left to husband: Charles

Hill; children: Shurette, Winslow (Aneshia), Terry, Delonda, Dewayne (Maribel), David, and Sarah

Hill, siblings:

Yoko and Masabumi Sakaguchi; special niece and nephew: Patricia and William Summers. Funeral service December 22, 2017, 10 a.m. at Changed Life Ministries, 2200 Willow Street, North Little Rock. Superior Funeral Services, 5017 E. Broadway, North Little Rock (501) 945-9922. Online guestbook www.superiorfuneralservices.com. Trudean Long Brown “Providing Services Your Family Deserves.”

–––––❖––––– JOYCE ANN HOWARD, 81, of Little Rock, passed away December 18, 2017 with her family at her side. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Albert and Gertrude Coffin Harrison, she retired from the State of Arkansas and had a passion for genealogy.

She was a past president of The National Society Colonial Dames

XVII Century, a Daughter of the American Revolution and member of the

Eastern Star.

Preceded in death by her parents, husband, CMSgt.

Adrian Howard

(USAF, Ret.) and a sister, Myra

Hartley, she is survived by her daughters, Judy Jett (George) of Sherwood and Jennifer Frazier of Little Rock; sons, Jeff Wade (Becky) of Benton and Jerrell V. Wade of Little Rock; grandchildren, James, Amy, Anthony, Chris, Anna and Sean; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held on Friday, December 22 at 7 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), (501) 224-2200. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Joyce’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– GLEN JACKSON, 76, of Sherwood, Ark., passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family December 18, 2017 after a long battle with vascular dementia, He was born December 26, 1940 and grew up in Monticello, Ark.

Many will remember Glen from the Ladies Shoe Department at M.M.Cohn where he worked for the majority of his career. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Syble Jackson; daughters Lori Kumpuris and Elizabeth Britton (Ronny); grandchildren, Anna Russell (Andrew), Nickolas Clark, Katie Kumpuris and Alexander Lawson; great-granddaughter, Silvia Lawson; and brother Larry Jackson (Gay).

The family would like to thank Arkansas Hospice for their loving support and care. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 21, 2017 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Apostolic Church, 4313 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 6701 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. For online condolences please visit www.ArkansasCremation.com.

–––––❖––––– RICKY McCANN, 52, of Sherwood, Ark. passed December 15, 2017. Loving memories left to wife: Robyn McCann; children:

Tyler Allman,

Anna Hagar (Dakota), Jason

Wilson, Tony

Russell, Christopher Quarry, and Benjamin

Quarry; siblings:

Eddie McCann, Cleatus (Sheila) McCann, Stacey (Brenda) McCann, Rickey Dean Johnson, Lee Johnson, and Jessie (Rena) Johnson, and seven grandchildren. Homegoing celebration December 22, 2017, 11 a.m. at Superior Funeral Services, 5017 E. Broadway, North Little Rock (501) 9459922. Online guestbook www. superiorfuneralservices.com. Trudean Long Brown “Providing Services Your Family Deserves.”

–––––❖–––––

Elder LEOLA P. NORMAN, a veteran educator of 40 years passed away on December 14,

2017. She taught at Parkview and

Hall High, retiring in 1995.

During her teaching career, she received numerous awards including the Stephens Award. She was a faithful member of Cross Street Christian Church where she served as an Elder and Christian Education Chairperson. She was a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., CWF, Church Women United and other organizations.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, John Norman. She is survived by a son, John Norman, III of Little Rock, Ark.; daughter, Johnita Norman, MD; and granddaughter, Jade Norman of Memphis, Tenn.

Funeral services will be Dec. 23, 11 a.m., at Cross Street Christian Church, 1223 S. Cross St., LR, Ark. Visitation will be 6-7 p.m., Dec. 22nd, at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, LR (501) 372-1305. Memorials may be made to Little Rock Carti or LaBonheur Children’s Hospital, Memphis.

–––––❖––––– LAURA JANE OLINGER, 92 of Little Rock, Ark., went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, December 19, 2017. She was born on September 29, 1925, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is survived by her husband, George Olinger, Jill (Ted) Cyr of Lonoke, Ark., and Corrine Simmons. She is preceded in death by her parents, first husband, Robert Kiefer and a brother, Robert Simmons. Cremation arrangements are through Roller Funeral Home, 202 Stuttgart Highway, (501) 842-3939. Burial will be at a later date.

–––––❖––––– WALTER OSCO RUPLE, 92, of Sherwood died Sunday, December 17, 2017 at the home he built for his family, due to complications from Alzheimer’s. He was born November 15, 1925 in

Greenbrier, Ark., to Major and Orean Ruple.

After coming home from World War II he married the love of his life, Janice Rollow. They were married for 70 years. Walter was a jack of all trades, a world traveler and loved by all including his church family.

He was a founding member of Cherrywood Missionary Baptist Church, which he helped build.

He is survived by his wife, Ilah Janice Ruple; daughter, Vickie Huston (Mike); four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Gary Wayne Ruple.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, December 22, 2017 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, December 23, 2017 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Edgewood Memorial Park. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– WILLIAM R. “$BILL” STRIBLING was born December 15, 1947, at Atlanta, Ga., the only child of Sam and Ethel C. “Snookie” Stribling. He died December 15, 2017, at the VA Medical Center in Little Rock. He was a USAF veteran and served two tours of duty in Vietnam as a crew chief on a C-130. He was a carpenter and millwright before his retirement. He is a former member of the Arkansas Flyfishers.

Survivors are cousins, Terry, Tony and Christina Yanessa of Jackson, Tenn., Judy Larson of Florida, Gary Ostrem of California, and Joe, Marty and Tim Clements of Jackson. He is also survived by his former wife, Linda K. House of Little Rock.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in his hometown of Jackson, Tenn. Cremation arrangements are by Cremation Services of Arkansas (501) 313-5431. Please sign the online guestbook at www.cremationservicesofarkansas.com.

–––––❖––––– MONYA LITTON THOMAS, 78, of Sherwood, Ark., passed away Thursday, December 14,

2017. Funeral

Service will be held Thursday,

10 a.m. December 21, 2017 at Sylvan Hills

First Baptist Church, 9008

AR-107, Sherwood, Ark. Private burial will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Online obituary and guest register at www.SmithFamiyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– THORNTON TIPPETT, 67, of Little Rock went to be with the Lord on December

17, 2017. He was born on February 28, 1950, to the late Leroy and Ella Tippett.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Brenda Tippett; children, Turi Tippett and Latricia

Childs (James). He was a proud and loving grandfather of three: Asia Marshall, Autumn Tippett, and Caleb Childs; siblings, Hardy Tippett and Mary Tippett and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Visitation will be 6-7 p.m., on Thursday, December 21st at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305. Home going service will be Friday, December 22 at 11 a.m. at Grace Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, 3221 S. Gaines St., LR, Ark. 72206. Interment will follow with honors at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, Ark.

–––––❖––––– JOSEF ALBERT VILLIGER of North Little Rock peacefully passed away

Dec. 15, 2017 at the age of 90.

He was born on

April 10, 1927 in Rothenburg, Switzerland, to

Josef and Sophie Villiger and was the oldest of four children.

He was a member of the Swiss Army before coming to America in 1954 and setting up a successful ironworks business, MetalCraft Company, which he operated for over 30 years in North Little Rock. He was known for building spiral stairs and other ornamental ironworks for homes and commercial customers all over Arkansas. He also invested in real estate and managed a number of commercial and residential properties, and received a law degree from LaSalle University.

After a seven-year courtship — mainly via handwritten letters — Joe returned to Switzerland in 1961 to marry the former Agnes Schmid and bring her to the U.S. Their marriage lasted over 56 years, and their son Josef Carl Villiger was born in 1964. Joe is survived by his wife, Agnes; son Joe, daughter-in-law Debra, and beloved granddaughters Jenna and Emma of Sherwood; sisters-in-law Jackie Villiger of Tucson, Ariz., and Ursula Schmid of Switzerland; brothers-in-law Silvano Semola and Joe (Teres) Schmid of Switzerland; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Erwin Villiger and Walter Villiger; sister Garda Villiger; sisters-in-law Margrit

Semola-Schmid and Trudy Villiger; and brother-in-law Xaver Schmid.

Joe was a former member of St. Mary Catholic Church and a current member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, both in North Little Rock. Over the years, he was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving as a member of the Fourth Degree Honor Guard; German-American Club; and Elks Lodge.

Joe loved to play his accordion, work hard, dance, drink wine, and travel. He spoke three languages and continued to speak Swiss-German at home, even after being in America for over 60 years. He had a life-long curiosity for knowledge and never quit learning new things — he read constantly, taught himself how to use a Mac computer in his eighties, and regularly exercised his mind through memorization techniques. He was strong (and strong-willed!). He was tough, and yet tender, and will be deeply missed by his family and friends who will cherish his memory.

The family would like to thank Dr. Kelli Sanders and Baptist Health Hospice (including Dee Dee, Kristie, Gayle, and Mary) for their loving care. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in Little Rock or Immaculate Conception Church in North Little Rock.

A Funeral Mass, with Fr. Greg Luyet officiating, will take place Friday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m., at Immaculate Conception Church, 7000 JFK Boulevard, North Little Rock. A visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 21 from 5-7 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street, North Little Rock, with a rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Guestbook and online obituary can be found at www. smithfamilycares.com.

–––––❖––––– RONNIE WILLIFORD was born June 25, 1961 in Little Rock, Ark., to Aretha Hill and George Williford both preceded him in death. He departed this life on December 15, 2017. Service will be Friday, December 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at The City of Grace Church.

–––––❖––––– ISAAC “IKE” CAROLL WOOD, 75, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away Thursday evening, December 14, 2017. He was born September 16, 1942, to the late Isaac H. and Dolly Manord in Jonesboro, Ark.

In 1960, Isaac graduated from Jonesboro High

School, and he later earned his B.S. at Arkansas State University. He was a member of Sigma Pi Fraternity. In college, he met Vonna Bell, and they married on June 16, 1966. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 16, 2016.

After college, Ike and Vonna moved to Pine Bluff, Ark., and he began his lifelong career at Simmons Bank, where he was eventually promoted to Senior Vice President of the Commercial Banking Group. Ike retired from Simmons in 2007. Ike was an avid hunter and fisherman, but it was the fellowship with his hunting-and-fishing friends that he treasured most. He also devoted his time to volunteering at the Optimist Club and United Way of Southeast Arkansas and serving on the board of directors for the Du Bocage Foundation and Jefferson County Clean & Beautiful. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Pine Bluff.

In 2011, Ike was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In 2012, Vonna and Ike relocated to Little Rock to be closer to Paul, their son, and his family. Ike was most proud of his granddaughters, Madeline and Anna, who were the light of his life. He was their “Poppy.” After his move to Little Rock, Ike’s church membership was transferred to St. James United Methodist in Little Rock.

Ike was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac H. and Dolly Wood, and his wife, Vonna. He is survived by his son, Paul Harrison Wood, his wife Wendy, and their daughters, Madeline and Anna, of Little Rock; niece Holly Trotta and her husband David of North Little Rock; nephew Allan Hetzel of Highland Ranch, Colo.; nephew Stephen Hetzel, his wife Kristy, and their daughter Jordan of Leander, Texas; and nephew Arthur Bradley Beshears of Midland, Texas.

Paul and Wendy wish to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Presbyterian Village and Arkansas Hospice who cared for Ike.

Visitation will be on Friday, December 22, 2017, at Ralph Robinson and Son Funeral Home, 807 Cherry Street, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71601, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 23, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Reverend Mike Morey officiating. Interment will follow in Graceland Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Ike’s name to Presbyterian Village, 510 N. Brookside Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72205, or Alzheimer’s Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72205. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

Arkansas

ALEXANDER — Lynn Grafe, 60, Alexander, died Monday. Church services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 2 p.m. on Thursday at Avilla Zion Lutheran Church. Visitation will be 1 p.m. till 2 p.m. before services. Survivors, son, Eddie Pockrus, daughter, Ivy Williams, brothers, Mike and Jim Grafe. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BEEBE — Martha Ann Roland, 71, of Beebe went to be with the Lord December 18, 2017. She was born in Enola, Ark., on April 16, 1946 to the late James (Jim) and Cora Lee Roland. Martha loved family, she enjoyed her children doing things for her, even though some thought they were her favorite, she loved them all the same. Martha loved church, gospel music, eating Honey Buns, dancing, road trips, going out to eat fish and could always find something someone needed at a Flea Market. She cared about others, Martha was a house parent for adults with disabilities and Down syndrome. She loved teaching them the basic skills of taking care of themselves and their homes. Sunday morning her children; brother Don and sister Helen gathered around her and sang spiritual songs, they will always remember this as a peaceful, healing time. Her last words to her children were “I’ll see you again, I’ll be alright.”

Martha was preceded in death by her parents; brother; George “G.W.” Roland, great-grandchild; Jayden Bayles-Howell and loving companion of 14 years, Smokey. She is survived by five children, Patricia Rettig (Scott), Donna Bayles (Rick), Cindy Tomboli (Rick), Debbie McKnight (Rick) and Randy Tipton (Jennifer); three siblings, Helen Hitt, Mary Champlin, Don Roland (Alice), 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Martha also leaves two special friends, Vicky and Patricia.

A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2017 in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark. A Celebration of Life will follow Thursday morning, December 21, 2017 at 10 a.m. in the chapel. Burial will follow in Lonoke Cemetery. Please share your memories of Martha at www.GriffinLeggettRestHills.com

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Mildred Holiman Morehead Brown, 95, of Benton, Ark., passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2017, at Saline Memorial Hospice House in Bryant, Ark., surrounded by family. She was born in Fenter, Ark., on April 1, 1922, to Henry Lee and Flossie Segers Holiman.

Mildred was a long-time employee of Sterling Department Store and bookkeeper for Huey & Morehead Garage both in Benton. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Benton. Mildred and her late husband, Francis Morehead, helped establish and grow Calvary Baptist Church of Benton for many years and later helped grow Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant. Mildred especially enjoyed working with and teaching teenagers in these churches.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Janis Morehead Jordan (Jim) of Hot Springs Village; six grandchildren, Tracey Morehead and Rod Morehead (Karen) of Benton, Keri Jordan Bone (Mike) of Little Rock, Brian Morehead (Andrea) of Benton, Matt Jordan (Crystal) of Hot Springs, and Mark Morehead of Little Rock; nine great-grandchildren, Nicki Morehead, Rodney Morehead, Kennedy Morehead, Jordie Bone, Abby Barlow, Tucker Otwell, Grant Morehead, Jayden Morehead, and Will Jordan; and several nieces and nephews. Mildred was preceded in death by her husband of 57½ years, Arthur Francis Morehead, who was the love of her life; her second husband, Charles William “Bill” Brown, who was her good friend and companion; two sons, Wayne Morehead of Hot Springs and Steve Morehead (Cindy) of Little Rock; and four brothers and three sisters.

Pallbearers will be Rod Morehead, Brian Morehead, Matt Jordan, Mike Bone, Rodney Morehead, Jim Cook, Jim McClintock, and Dan Ivy.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday in the chapel of Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Ark., with Dr. Rick Grant officiating. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. at Ashby’s and continue until service time. Entombment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Ark.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your favorite charity, First Baptist Church of Benton, Ark., or Saline Memorial Hospice House. The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to Four Seasons Assisted Living and Saline Memorial Hospice House for their loving care of our mother and grandmother. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Howard F. Bryan, 91, of Benton died December 18, 2017. He was born on February 27, 1926 in Redfield, Ark., to Wallace and Rose Ausburn Bryan. He was preceded in death by his parents, seven brothers and two sisters. He is survived by three children. He was a WWII veteran serving in the Navy on the USS Maryland. There will be no service. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation. com. –––––❖––––– BENTON — Terry W. Kuykendall, Doctor of Optometry, age 70, of Benton passed away December 19, 2017. Born June 27, 1947 in Little Rock, he was the son of Ralph Kuykendall and

“Sunny” Fendley Kuykendall. A

1965 graduate of

Little Rock Central High School,

Dr. Kuykendall attended Henderson State University, Memphis State University and was a graduate of Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. He owned and operated Kuykendall Optometric Clinic for 42 years. He was a member of First United Methodist of Benton. He enjoyed horse racing, hunting, the lake and sports. He was very active with his grandchildren, especially their sports. Terry coached his son in youth baseball from ages 5 to 15, winning a state tournament in 1993 traveling to the Little League Regionals. He loved his family dearly. Terry stayed connected with friends from High School , Optometry School and over 40 first cousins He and Sandra traveled with friends to Las Vegas, Saratoga, New York, Florida, California and many other places. They took the oldest grandson on a special trip every summer.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of 48 years Sandra Pruitt Kuykendall. One son, Kris (Miranda) of Benton; one daughter, Tracy of Tulsa, Okla.; brothers, Dana of Little Rock and Dr. Scott of Clarksville; grandchildren, Alex, Kayla, Kourtney, Tanner, Keeley, Kash, Kline;nieces Courtney, Coco, Darbie.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, December 21 at First United Methodist Church in Benton, Ark. Rev Ben Crismon officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 6-8 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made First United Methodist Church 200 N. Market St., Benton, Ark. 72015. To sign the online guestbook please go to www. GriffinLeggettHealeyRoth.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Mark Adrian Thompson, age 63, of Benton, unexpectedly went to be with his Lord on

Sunday, December 17, 2017.

He was born

April 16, 1954 in Longview, Texas. Mark was a graduate of the Architectural School at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He went on to earn his masters in engineering at the University of Colorado. His professional life was dedicated to design manager projects for the U.S. Corps of Engineers and Jacobs Engineering Firm, formerly Carter-Burgess. Mark was a wonderful architect and was currently project manager at Bureau of Engraving & Printing in Fort Worth leading a team of engineers and architects that handled structural, electrical & mechanical architectural processes. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Benton, Society of American Military Engineers, Arkansas State Board of Architects and the American Institute of Architects.

He was preceded in death by his father, Claude Thompson; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Olice McMaster & Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Thompson and the mother of their three sons, Joyce Thompson. Mark is survived by his wife, Laura A. Thompson of Benton; five sons, Michael Thompson (Cinnamon) of Frisco, Texas, Brian Thompson (Jessica) of Maumelle, Christopher Thompson of Little Rock, Ryan Redding of Benton and Zachary Redding (Marcelene) of Oxford, Mississippi; daughter, Rachel Dull (Brad) of Alexander; his mother, Marjorie McElhannon; brother, Paul Thompson (Linda); two sisters, Marsha Hedge and Claudette Smith (James “Smokey”); five grandchildren, Owen Sawyer, Eden Redding, Adley Dull, Layla Thompson and Collins Thompson and multiple nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Celebration of Mark’s life will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, December 22 at Ashby Funeral Home.

Family Comments: Mark was kind-hearted and generous to a fault. He loved his Lord, his wife, his mother, his children, his step-children and all his family with his whole heart and soul. Mark will be greatly missed.

On-line guest book at www. ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Carroll Jay Williams, age 71, of Benton, passed away on December 19, 2017. He was born on

May 23, 1946.

A celebration of life will be held at Dial and

Dudley Funeral

Home on Friday, December 22,

2017 at 11 a.m.

To sign online guest-book, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BIGELOW — Maxine Frances Wood Smith, age 91, of Bigelow, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, December 16, 2017. Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, December 21, at Seventh-Day Adventist Church of Conway. Private burial will be at a later date. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online Guestbook: www. harrisfuneralhomes.net.

–––––❖––––– BISMARCK — Sarah Carolyn Caver, age 81, of Bismarck, Ark. passed from this earth peacefully on December 18, 2017, She was a devoted sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, and member of the Bismarck

United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her two loving sons, John

Caver and wife

Stacy of Hot Springs, Ark. and Paul Caver of Houston, Texas, six grandchildren, John Caver Jr. of Lewisville, Texas, Jillian Munday and husband Bryan of Lewisville, Texas and Drew, Flip, Joy, and Chapel Caver of Houston, Texas. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Jo Ryan and husband Lester of Lexington Park, Md. and her brother, Jeremiah Crowley and wife Myra Kaye Crowley of Tyler, Texas. She had many adored nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Consistent with her life’s work of serving others, Sarah Carolyn has asked that in lieu of a memorial service donations may be made to the Bismarck United Methodist Church. Sign Sarah’s Tribute Wall at www.ruggleswilcox.com.

–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Tommie Lois Coats Harper, 74, of Carlisle, passed away December 19, 2017 at Chambers Nursing Home in Carlisle. Tommie was a retired receptionist for the State of Arkansas, a member of the Center Point Missionary Baptist Church and very active at the Immanuel Baptist Church in Carlisle.

Tommie was preceded in death by her parents, T.B. and Ferol Coats and husband, Robert Harper, Jr.. She is survived by her son, Timothy Harper of Hazen; her daughter, Sarah Cathrine Gray of Scott; brother, Don Coats and wife, Judith of Cabot; three grandsons, Samuel, Ross, and Lane Harper and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday at Immanuel Baptist Church in Carlisle, followed by burial in the Center Point Cemetery.

–––––❖––––– CLARKSVILLE — Lela English, 95, of Clarksville, died Monday, December 18 at Johnson County Health in Clarksville. Funeral will be at 10 a.m., December 22, at Lee’s Chapel Assembly of God. Burial in Annie’s Chapel Cemetery by Humphrey Funeral Service. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, at the funeral home. Online obituary available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– COLUMBUS — Funeral for Shirley Bobo, 2 p.m. Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Columbus Baptist Church, Columbus, Ark. with Bro. James Stewart officiating. Burial Columbus Cemetery. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Brazzel/Oakcrest Funeral Home Hope, Ark. Arrangements: Brazzel/Oakcrest The Funeral Home Hope, Eddie Brazzel, Director. Online register: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– CROSSETT — Margie I. Johnson, 94, of Crossett died December 17, 2017. Services will be Dec. 20, 2017 at 2 p.m. with visitation starting at 1 p.m., North Crossett First Freewill Baptist Church. Services entrusted to Jones Funeral Home of Crossett. (www.jonesservice.com).

–––––❖––––– DAMASCUS — William “Bill” Newman, 92 of Damascus, passed on December 18. 2017. Visitation is Wednesday, December 20, 2017 between 6-8 p.m. at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Ark. Funeral is 1 p.m., Thursday, December 21, 2017 at South Side Baptist Church. Interment will be at Trace Ridge Cemetery in Chimes. Online guestbook at rollerfuneralhomes.com/ clinton.

–––––❖––––– FAYETTEVILLE — Nolan Eugene “Gene” Williams, Ph.D., of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, December

18, 2017, at Butterfield Trail

Village. He was born August 2,

1923, in Buckeye, Madison

County, Arkansas, the son of

Nolan L. and Rubie A. Williams. Gene grew up in Westville and Haskell, Oklahoma. As a youth, he worked in his Dad’s canning company to earn money to buy his first car which he soon traded in for a diamond engagement ring for his childhood sweetheart, Madelyn.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his beloved wife of 64 years, Madelyn Englert Williams. Gene was the eighth child born to Nolan and Rubie, and his sisters and brother also preceded him in death: Mabel, Irene, Evelyn, Shirley, Maxine, Christine, and Luther. Survivors include his two daughters, Janet Roessler (husband Rick); Susan (Mayes) Carney (husband, Allen), all of Fayetteville; his four grandchildren, Jennifer Schultz (husband Fred and son Bill) of Bloomington, Ind..; Kristin Higgins (sons Will and Drew) of Fayetteville; Meredith Brunen (husband, Kyle and sons, Jude and Beau) of Spartanburg, S.C.; and Andrew Mayes of Fayetteville. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their children.

Gene received his BS and MS degrees from Oklahoma A&M University, now Oklahoma State University, and his Ph.D. in accounting from the University of Texas. He dedicated 36 years of service (1951-1987) to the Accounting

Department and Business Administration College at the University of Arkansas where he was a professor and holder of the Walter B. Cole Chair of Accounting. In 1957, he was appointed head of the Accounting Department, a position that he held for 14 years. Under his leadership, the department developed a doctoral program. Gene was a Certified Public Accountant in Arkansas and Oklahoma.

In 1972, he received the Distinguished Achievement Award for Teaching from the Arkansas Alumni Association. His reputation as a “rigorous but fair” professor is remembered by many accounting professionals who looked to him as both a mentor and colleague. His contributions reached far beyond the University to state, national, and international levels. Gene served as vice-president and member of the Board of Directors of the American Accounting Association; member of the Council of American Institute of CPAs; treasurer, secretary, and president of the Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy; and president of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy. He taught accounting in the University’s European graduate program in management in both Germany and Spain and was a visiting professor at several universities.

Gene was a dedicated Christian and member of Central United Methodist Church. He served on the Administrative Board and many other Central committees. He was a devoted Sunday School teacher in the “Walking through the Bible” class and was known for his ability to recite from memory the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew.

The accolade “member of the greatest generation” is truly fitting for Nolan E. Williams. He received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medals for his exemplary service in World War II in the Battle of the Bulge, a critical Allied victory in the closing days of World War II. He offered his life and nearly gave it for his country and would do it again if called upon.

A memorial celebration is scheduled for Friday, December 22 at 10 a.m., Central United Methodist Church, 6 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 72701, with Reverend Tony Holifield officiating. The family will receive guests at the church following the service. The service of burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 1106, Fayetteville, Ark. 72702), Butterfield Trail Village Foundation (1923 E. Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville, Ark. 72703), or the University of Arkansas Foundation - Nolan E. Williams Lectureship, (Walton College Office of Development, RCED 217, 1 University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703).

Somewhere the bass boat is already in the water, and Gene has been reassured for the fourth time, “Really, there’s no limit here. You can catch as many as you want for as long as you want. You’ve earned it. You are in a place now where the catching is eternally as good as the fishing.”

–––––❖–––––

FORT SMITH — William David Hardin, 62, passed away on December 18, 2017 at his mother and stepfather’s home lovingly surrounded by family and friends. He fought a brief and courageous battle with bile duct cancer.

David was born in Fort Smith, Ark., to P.H. “Hugh” Hardin and Nadine Strang Hardin. He was a graduate of Southside High School in Fort Smith, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas and The University of Arkansas Law School in Fayetteville. While in law school, he received the MediCo Legal Prize in 1982 awarded for outstanding work in medical legal studies. After law school, David joined his father’s law firm, Hardin, Jesson and Dawson before opening his private law practice.

David was a lover of music, passionate about medical research, had a wonderful sense of humor and was a good friend to all. He was a son, brother, father and grandfather. David was so proud of his children and their accomplishments. He will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.

David was preceded in death by his father, P.H. “Hugh” Hardin and sister, Tara Hardin Black. He is lovingly remembered and survived by his mother, Nadine Hardin Miller, and husband, Bob Miller of Fort Smith; companion, Janett Nicholson, of Fort Smith; daughter, Dr. Ashley Hardin, and her husband, Daniel Rachman, and their daughter, Elle, of Dallas, Texas; son, Michael Hardin, of San Diego, Calif.; two sisters, Betsy Hardin Rayle, and husband, Bert, of Dallas, Texas; and Dr. Lori Hardin, and husband, Mike Willis, of Dallas, Texas; nephew, Jeremy Hardin Black, of Austin, Texas; nephew, Albert Rayle, and his wife, Megan, of Steamboat Springs, Colo.; niece, Elizabeth Rayle, of New York City; Janett’s daughter, Heather Nicholson Sampson, and husband, Rob, and their children, Ashlynn and Ryan; stepbrother, Mike Miller, and wife, Kathy, of Fort Smith; stepsister, Marcia Miller Clement, and husband, Duke, of Fort Smith; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. David is also survived by the mother of his children, Karen Costallos, of Kemah, Texas.

The family would like to thank the wonderful people that cared for David; his oncologist, Dr. Tony Flippin; the doctors, nurses,

staff and hospice at Mercy Hospital; the wonderful and loving caregivers from Home Instead; and Magda Guzman, a long time devoted friend of the family.

A Celebration of David’s life will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church, Fort Smith. The family will be greeting friends after the service in the Narthex of the church. Cremation and services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. 15th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 72901 or www. fsfumc.org and the Community Rescue Mission, 310 North F Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 72901 or www.fscrm.org where David was a member of the Board of Directors and his stepfather, Bob Miller, founded 37 years ago. Online condolences may be sent to www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– GLENWOOD — Sherry Dawn Herron, 58, of Glenwood passed away on December 16. She was born January 7, 1959 in Hot Springs, Ark., to the late Robert Arndt and Eloise Sorrels-Free.

She is preceded in death by her sister Alisa Free and brother Darren Arndt. She is survived by her children, Shonna Fason, Brandy Fason, Chris Herron and Tiffany Herron; her siblings, Debra Dunfee and Richard Free, Jr.

A private family memorial service will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark. Online guestbook is available online at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– HACKETT — Marian Janette Allard, 90, of Hackett died December 18, 2017. A graveside service to be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Fort Smith National Cemetery under the direction of Booneville Funeral Service. (479) 675-3392. Online guest book www.boonevillefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– HAMBURG — Billy Mark Swan, 59, of Hamburg, died Sunday, December 17, 2017. Funeral service: 10 a.m., Thursday, Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Carlock Cemetery. Visitation: 6-8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home of Hamburg, Ark. Online guest book at www.jones-hartshorn.com.

–––––❖––––– HATTIEVILLE — Barbara E. Adams, age 91, of Hattieville, Ark., died Monday, December 18, 2017. Funeral: 2 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2017 at Harris Chapel. Burial: Adams Cemetery in Lanty by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Visitation: Thursday, December 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

–––––❖––––– MARSHALL — Logan Anthony Gallagher III, 70, of Marshall died Dec. 4. Logan was a Vietnam War Veteran of the US Army. Survivors: wife, Angela; children, Logan IV, Amber, Kasie and Lacy; 13 grandchildren; sister, Patricia. Arrangements: Roller-Coffman/ Marshall. Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23, Harriet Assembly of God Church. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/marshall.

–––––❖––––– MARVELL — Harold Preston Henderson, 87, died Sunday. Survivors: spouse, Mary Brady Bryant Henderson, two step-children, several step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives. Visitation: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Funeral: 11 a.m. Thursday both at Marvell United Methodist Church. Burial: Cypert Cemetery. Arrangements, Bob Neal & Sons-Brickell Funeral Home, Marvell. Obituary/Guestbook: www.bobnealandsons. com.

–––––❖––––– MAYFLOWER — John Vernon Purvis, 94, of Mayflower, passed away December 17, 2017. He was born January 25, 1923 in Throckmorton,

Texas, to John

M. and Alma O.

Gilbert Purvis.

He grew up in

Kilgore, Texas, and graduating from Kilgore

High School before enlisting into the Army Air Corps and serving in Europe during World War II.

He was the Crew Chief for the B-17 bomber “Nora”, among others. He was very proud of his accomplishments of keeping Nora and her crew flying 25 missions without a breakdown. He also served in Russia, France and Africa. He retired from the Air Force in 1966 after serving in various locations in the United States as an instructor, and Japan. They bought a farm and moved to Center Ridge, Ark., and finally to Mayflower where he and Catherine bought a house on Lake Conway. They enjoyed fishing and dachshund dogs. He had several in his life time, each one named “Freddy.” His favorite was one that loved to fish as much as he did.

John was preceded in death by his parents and only sister, Louise Carroll of Center Ridge, Ark. and his wife of 52 years, Catherine Johnson Purvis. He is survived by dear friends and caregivers, Terry and Judy McGuire and their family, of Mayflower, Ark., and countless friends around Mayflower, Center Ridge and Morrilton as well as golfers in central Arkansas.

To keep busy he helped Rick and Janice Bates of Mayflower in their Bait Shop business and Mark Brown at Pine Valley Golf Course in Sherwood, Ark., for

years. Through those years he met and became friends with hundreds of people.

John loved the Lord, and his church (Solgohachia Baptist Church). He enjoyed golfing and fishing immensely as well as teaching others the game. He played for over 70 years and got his first hole in one after 50 years of playing. He was an avid reader especially the newspaper and WWII history books.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 21, at 1 p.m. with funeral services at 2 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Funeral Home, 1751 Dave Ward Drive, Conway, Bro. Dennis Corder officiating. He will be laid to rest beside his wife, Catherine Johnson Purvis at Mayflower Cemetery following the service. An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettconway.com.

–––––❖––––– NEWPORT — Nadean Humphreys, 92, of Newport departed this life Tuesday, December 19, 2017. She was born September 9, 1925 to Barney and Ollie (Woodman) McCoy and was a member of Cherokee Church of Christ. Mrs. Humphrey’s along with her husband was owner of one of Newport’s finest restaurants, Fred’s Grill, from 1947 until 2004. She enjoyed reading, flower gardening, working crossword puzzles, and spending time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Fred Humphreys; her parents, and two sisters, Ella Williamson, and Berneva London. Her survivors are one son, Freddy Humphreys and wife Linda of Newport; one brother, Bobby McCoy of Grubbs; one sister, Virginia Odom of Newport; one granddaughter, Kendra Murphy and husband Devin of Memphis, Tenn.; and one grandson, James Humphreys of Newport.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Friday, December 22, 2017 at Dillinger Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:308 p.m. Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Dillinger Funeral Home. Arrangements by Dillinger Funeral Home. www.dillingerfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– REDFIELD — Chestene Croy Bruce, 80, of Redfield, Arkansas died Tuesday. Survivors: sons, Steven, Robert, Charles; daughter, Myra; brother, Ronald (Wilma); four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren. Funeral: 2 p.m. Thursday, Orion Missionary Baptist Church. Burial: Orion Cemetery. Visitation: at the church 1 until 2 p.m. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Sheridan (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Wilma Caldwell, 76, Russellville, died Tuesday. Visitation: Thursday morning

from 8:30 a.m., until service time. Funeral service: 9 a.m., Thursday Shinn Chapel. Burial: 3 p.m., Thursday in Piggott Cemetery and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www. shinnfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Donald Henry Pyatt, 72, of Russellville, died Sunday, December 17, 2017. Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Rest Haven Memorial Park in Russellville. Arrangements are under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service. Internet obituary and on-line guest book are available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — A graveside service for Bobby Patton, 83, of Searcy is 1 p.m., Wednesday, Central Cemetery, Lexa. Survivors: wife, four daughters, five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, other family and friends. Service directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena.

–––––❖––––– SYLVANIA — Gene Allison, 84, of Sylvania, Arkansas went to be with the

Lord December

19, 2017. He was a retired dairy farmer, a business manager for the Labor Union Local

1282, and owner and operator of Sylvania Nursery. He served his country as an Army veteran of the Korean War. Gene was a member of Sylvania Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and loved all his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Allison of Sylvania; one son, Rodney (Jo Beth) Allison of Caddo Gap; one daughter, Kay (Bill) Spence of Greers Ferry; one grandson, Matt (Trista) Spence; and one great-granddaughter, Jaci Spence. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Evelyn Allison; two sisters, Bonnie Wilson and Christine Thornton; and a grandson, Clay Allison.

Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral will be 10 a.m. Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home with burial in Sylvania Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– TOAD SUCK — Geraldine “Jane” Ivy Buchanan-Burns, 93, of Toad Suck, Ark., went to be with the Lord Monday, December 18, 2017. She was born December 2, 1924, in Jonesboro, Ark., to the late Charles and Betty Cox. Geraldine was also preceded in death by her first husband of 45 years, Ottie Buchanan; her husband of 22 years, Bill Burns, and her children Bob, Tom, Billy, and Diane Buchanan.

Jane devoted her life to her family. She enjoyed seeing her children grow up. Jane was known as an easy going, friendly person who loved to visit with people daily as she sat on her front porch swing. She was very artistic and was an avid seamstress who loved to make quilts and crochet.

Left to cherish her memory is her loving family, son, Kennith Buchanan, grandson, Bobby Clay Buchanan, great-grandchildren, Abigail and Nicholas Buchanan, and sister, Martha Graft.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Funeral service will be Friday, December 22nd at 10 a.m. at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home with interment to follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway. Online guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/conway.

–––––❖––––– WARREN — Corey McClain, age 39, of Warren, Ark. died Monday, December 18th at his home. Graveside services 10 a.m. Thursday, December 21st at Oakland Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Visitation: 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 20th at Frazer’s Funeral Home. Burial in Oakland Cemetery. Online guestbook: www.frazerfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– WARREN — Kathryn Reynolds McMurry Reaves, age 99, of Warren, Ark., died Monday, December 18. Funeral service 1:30 p.m. Thursday, December 21, at Frazer’s Chapel. Visitation 12:30 p.m. until service time Thursday, December 21, at Frazer’s. Burial in McFarland Cemetery, Banks, Arkansas, by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Online guest register www.frazerfuneralhome.com.

Out-of-state

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Gary Stephen Elliott, 56, of Thousand Oaks, Calif., passed away at his home October 31, 2017 surrounded by family. His death ended an 8.5 year journey against the odds, following complications due to a cardiac arrest in 2009.

Gary was born April 9, 1961 in Little Rock, Ark., to Donald and Nancy Odle Elliott. He attended the NLR Public Schools, graduating from Ole Main in 1979. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1984 from Washington University, St. Louis, Mo. While there, he met and married the mother of his two children, Brandon and Leah Elliott. Their mother, Lisa Brooks Elliott, sadly passed away earlier this year. Gary’s quest for making a meaningful difference in medical research led him to Thousand Oaks in 1989 where he began a 20-year career doing what he loved for Amgen, Inc. — stretching his scientific mind by conducting experiments while listening to an eclectic array of music in the Flow Cytometry Lab.

After raising his two young children as a single father, on October 14, 2002, Gary met and married Mia Franks and together with her two sons, Brandon and Kameron, became a husband and father who never ran out of fun things to do.

At the young age of 27, Gary was diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disease, dermatomyositis, and his life was forever physically challenged. However, he remained the proud outlier, defying the odds, and continued to persevere for 29 years. He will be remembered by family and friends as a devoted loving son, amazing husband, father, brilliant scientist, avid fisherman and resilient human being. He spoke his mind, challenged the mainstream and had an uncanny wit matched with a wonderful sense of humor. The word,

“can’t” was always met with an inquisitive challenge.

Gary is survived by his wife, Mia, of 15 years; son Brandon; daughter Leah; and Mia’s sons, Brandon and Kameron, who he loved as his own. He is also survived by his family in Arkansas, mother Nancy and her husband, Bill Smith; brothers, Richard and Danny Elliott; sister, Donna Batte, plus many nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his father, Donald Elliott, and grandparents Harry and Dorothy Elliott and Ed and Tommie Odle. He is also survived by his children’s nanny, Rosie Rincon of 26 years, and her husband, Ritchie, and their son, Michael Rincon, who all played a part in the care of Gary for many years. Gary was a member of Forty Seventh Street Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Ark.

A memorial celebration of Gary’s life was held on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at the Westlake Village Inn Lakeside Room. At Gary’s request, he was cremated and a private, family ceremony was conducted at sea on Monday, November 13 at the Anacapa Island (his favorite fishing spot) where his ashes were buried.

For those wishing to carry on Gary’s passion for supporting discovery science, donations may be made to: The Discovery Center for Science and Technology, 107 N. Reina Road, #150, Newbury Park, Calif. 91320.

–––––❖––––– NAVARRE, Fla. — Phyllis Lynn Malone “Phyl Whyl”, 47, departed life on Wednesday, December 13,

2017 in Navarre,

Fla., with her family by her side. Phyllis leaves to mourn her passing; husband, Jerry Malone; six children: Ashley

Jones, London Smith, Braylon Foreman, Lailah Malone, Jacob Malone, Morgan Jones; eight siblings, Jacqueline Wyrick, Charles Jones, Travis Ferguson, Glennis Allen, Rekena Purdiman, Gwynne Purdiman, Hope Young and Ollie Jones. Visitation: Friday, 6:157:15 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, LR. Service: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. at The Worship Center C.O.G.I.C., 418 E. 49th St., NLR, Ark. “Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– DULUTH, Ga. — Mildred Jackson Cobb, 103, formerly of Little Rock, died peacefully Tuesday December

5, 2017 at Country Gardens Assisted Living facility in Duluth, Ga. She was born in Lonoke,

Ark., February

20, 1914, the 6th of nine children, including two brothers and six sisters.

She was a savvy businesswoman and owned a dress shop, Mildred Cobb’s, for 25 years in the Heights district of Little Rock, Ark. She enjoyed all the social events in Little Rock, was an active member of her church and until the age of 91, volunteered her time to teach children how to read, and delivered Meals on Wheels. She moved to Georgia 11 years ago to live with her daughter.

Mildred will lovingly be remembered for her great sense of humor, her faith and love of family and sense of fashion. She traveled all over the world, collected antiques, loved to read and serve the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, her daughter, Diane Daisy Cobb Eastabrooks, sonin-law, Philip Eastabrooks and grandson, David Eastabrooks. She is survived by two grandsons, Steve Eastabrooks (Kristin), Jeff Eastabrooks (Dana), granddaughter-in-law, Anna Eastabrooks, granddaughter, Sherri Layman, six great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandsons and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 29 at 1 p.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park. A reception for family and friends will be held immediately after the service at 24 Rosaires Way, Little Rock.

–––––❖––––– SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — James Robert Steiner was born June 28, 1944, in Smith Center, Kan., at the hospital now known as Ingleboro Mansion, to John Maurice

Steiner and Anastasia (Curry) Steiner. Jim had three older siblings: Susan Mary, John Thomas, and

Richard Lawrence. Two younger sisters were born after Jim: Ann Irene and Kathryn Marjean. Jim grew up in Lebanon Kan., a member of the Independence Evangelical United Brethren Church. He was a Cub Scout, delivered papers, and did farm chores along with his brothers, Jack and Dick.

In high school, he was a member of the football team, playing center during his junior and senior years.

He loved music, going to dances, and singing along with his favorite country music singers. He had a quick wit and was always ready with a humorous quip. Whether it was football or wrestling with his brothers, he would never give up. This trait served him well in his later years as his health declined.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Linda Mulkey, on September 14, 1962. To this union, three sons were born: Gregory Joe, Kelly Ray, and Curtis Dwayne. Jim always enjoyed watching his boys in sports, particularly wrestling. He also loved the antics of three boys just being boys. Jim and Linda divorced in 1977.

Jim worked as a laborer in various farm situations: Cuprem Corp., Hastings Pork, Rich White Farm. He drove over-the-road for Pioneer Seed.

Jim married the love of his life, Debra Utecht, in September of 1995. In the following month, October 1995, Deb was diagnosed with cancer and was treated with chemotherapy and radiation. She was declared cancer- free in December of that same year. On Valentine’s Day 1996, the cancer had metastasized in her brain and was too far advanced for treatment. Deb passed from this life on March 7, 1996, leaving Jim devastated.

Jim lived with his son, Greg, in San Diego, Calif., Oklahoma, and Arkansas. He worked as a small engines mechanic for RSC Rentals until his retirement. He moved to Hutchinson in 2013. He lived in a rental house for a time and then moved into an apartment in South Hutchinson. When his health did not allow him to live alone, Jim moved to Mennonite Manor-Graber House in 2017, where the care was excellent and it was home for Jim, until his passing on December 17, 2017.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-inlaw, Paul Dickey and his wife. He leaves his children: Greg and wife Angie, Kelly and wife Loretta, Curtis and wife Marti; stepdaughter, Tracy Karr; his grandchildren, Nick and wife Amanda, Morgan, Wyatt, Elliott, Esther, Abigail, Ethan; step-grandchildren, Jordan Smith, Kolbin Stonerook, Jimmy, Kristi and Ben Wilcox, Sara Willis; his great-grandchildren, J.W. Willis, Veda, Harlo and Nick Wilcox, Andrew Hinsley, Bella and Ollie Wilcox; his siblings, Susan Dickey, John T. and wife Gloria, Richard and wife Delta, Irene and husband Randy Baumann, Kathy and husband Robert Brogden; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Cremation has taken place. There will be no public services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kindred Hospice or Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kan. 67501.

–––––❖––––– BELTON, Texas — James Arold Crowder, 78, of

Belton passed away on Monday, December 18, 2017 in

Belton. A graveside service will take place at

Walnut Grove Cemetery in Ferndale, Ark., on Sunday, Dec.

24 at 3 p.m.

James was born on May 6, 1939 in Tupelo, Miss., to Clyde and Avis Emmaline Crowder. He graduated from Joe T. Robinson High School in 1957. James served eight years in the Arkansas National Guard. He also worked for AT&T in Little Rock for many years before retiring.

He married Cleda Crowder and she preceded him in death.He moved to Belton in 2015. James was also preceded in death by his parents, his twin sister, Ruthie Guida, and his brother, Jerry Crowder.

James is survived by a son, Jon Crowder of North Little Rock, Ark., three daughters, Cindy Douglas of San Antonio, Lisa Crowder of Belton, and Pamela Verdin of Baton Rouge, La., nine grandchildren, Kylie Crowder, Jaime Crowder, Zachary Poole, Jessica Poole, Alex Hardnet, Matthew Hardnet, Stevie Ray Crowder, Madison Crowder, and Stephanie Shire, as well as six great-grandchildren.

Dossman Funeral Home in Belton is in charge of the arrangements.

–––––❖––––– DALLAS — Jarrod Dwaine Rose, age 35, of Dallas, Texas, formerly of Hermitage, Ark., passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Thursday, Dec. 14,

2017. He was a kind and loyal young man who loved his family with all his heart and soul.

A resident of

Dallas, Jarrod was born on Feb. 2, 1982, in Monticello, Ark., to parents Teresea Trussell Rose Morgan and Dwaine Everette Rose. He grew up in Euless, Texas, where he graduated from Trinity High School in 2000. He was a talented craftsman who put his special skills to use remodeling numerous homes and offices in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Jarrod enjoyed spending time with his children, playing video games, watching football and viewing movies and other shows on Netflix.

Jarrod was preceded in death by his elder brother, Eric John Rose; maternal grandparents, John B. (JB) and Bernice Trussell; paternal grandparents, Maurice and Shirley Ayers; and Luther Max and Audrey Rose. He is survived by his mother, Teresea Morgan, and step-father, David Morgan, of Bedford, Texas; father, Dwaine Rose of New Waverly, Texas; fiancée, Kimberly Pearcy of Dallas; daughters, Kaitlyn Elizabeth and Madison Leigh Rose of Dallas, Kylie Skye Rose of Arlington, Texas; and bonus son, Christopher Alexander Puntos of Dallas; brothers, Technical Sergeant Mikael Rose of Kusan AFB, South Korea, and wife, Sarah, of Sydney, Australia; Adam Rose and wife, Jennifer, of Huntsville, Texas; bonus sisters, Sista’ Holly Woodruff and Laura Courchesne of Coppell, Texas; trusted mentor and business associate, Jim Claytor; along with numerous loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation 12:30 p.m. until service time, Saturday, December 23 at Frazer’s Funeral Home. Memorial Service 1:30 p.m. Saturday, December 23 in Frazer’s Chapel. Burial in Pattsville Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Online Guestbook at www.frazerfuneralhome.com.