OBITUARIES
Ralph Douglas Brown
Ralph Douglas Brown, 87, of Benton, died peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 22. He was born May 12, 1933, in Bauxite. Ralph lost his hearing at age 2 and attended the Arkansas School for the Deaf. He graduated at the top of his class and met the love of his life, Donna. They were married 67 years on Christmas Eve.
He learned the trade of upholstery and refinishing furniture at the Deaf School. Ralph was the business owner of Benton Upholstery for 45 years. He had a very strong work ethic and took great pride in his accomplishments. His smile and loving hugs were so special to the family and friends.
Ralph was a member of Geyer Springs Baptist Church Deaf Ministry and truly loved our Lord and Savior.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife of 67 years, Donna Brown; a daughter, Rebecca Jackson (Eric), of Benton; a son, Ralph A. Brown, of Benton; a daughter, Debbie Staggs (Randy), of Atkins; and 10 grandchildren, Eric Brown (Stephanie), Jeremy Massey (Amber), Bobby Massey (Cassie), Bryan Sims (Tyger), Rochelle Hamilton (Greg), Matt Bailey (Mary-kate), Matt Staggs,
Jim Jackson (Tami), Amanda Shepherd and Bill Jackson (Keri). He was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren and numerous family members and friends.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nine Mae Brown, of Benton; his father- and mother-in-law, Artis and Ruth Johnson, of Cave City; two brothers, Jacob M. Brown and Randall Brown; a daughter-in-law, Darlene Brown; two grandsons, Nicholas Brown and Mark Bailey; and two great-grandchildren, Marshall and Jordan Bailey.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, at Ashby Funeral Home. Please follow COVID guidelines of social distancing and wear a face mask.
Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 28, at Smith-rosemont Cemetery. Pastor Bryan Sims will be officiating.
Online guest book: www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.