We remember those we lost in 2020.

This section features obituaries that ran in the Malvern Daily Record between January 1, 2020 & December 31, 2020.

Patrick Wayne Sepulvado

Patrick Wayne Sepulvado, age 66 of Malvern, died in Hot Springs on December 28, 2019 after a brief illness. He was born on February 10, 1953 in Calhoun, Louisiana to the late Jesse Sepulvado and Helen Young Sepulvado. Reared and educated in Monroe, he had been a resident of Malvern for 32 years. Pat was a United States Army veteran and was a member of First United Pentecostal Church in West Monroe. He was a master upholsterer, and along with his wife, operated B & W Glass and Trim for many years. Pat loved to hunt for arrowheads and fossils. He enjoyed hunting and working crossword puzzles. He retired from the Arkansas Department of

Correction after 13 years. Pat is survived by his wife, Carolyn Shaw Sepulvado of Malvern, to whom he was married on December 18, 1987 (in a broom closet in the Hot Spring County Courthouse!); his children, Ben Sepulvado (Summer) and Bradley Sepulvado; Shelly Sepulvado, Tony Dunn (Stephanie) and Valerie Ahart; four brothers, Tim Sepulvado (Lou), Jerry Sepulvado (Linda), Tony Sepulvado, Sr. (Marianne), and David Sepulvado (Melissa); special sister-in-law, Linda Humes; numerous grandchildren, including Mackenzie Mitchell (Travis); and a great-granddaughter, Addison Mitchell. Pat was also preceded in death by a brother, Jesse Sepulvado, Jr. Visitation will be on

Wednesday evening, January 1, 2020 from 5 until 7 o’clock at J. A. Funk Funeral Home. Funeral services will be two o’clock Thursday, January 2, 2020 in the funeral home chapel with Brother George Vincent officiating. Interment will follow in Rockport Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers are: Travis Mitchell, Jase Humes, Justin Wells, Tony Dunn, Ben Sepulvado, and Bradley Sepulvado. Honorary pallbearers are: Evelyn Haynie, Mackenzie Mitchell, and Kacee HumesWells.

The family extends a special thanks to Dr. Timothy Webb for his care and support. Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome. com.

Paul H. Locke

Paul H. Locke, age 79 of Malvern, died Sunday, December 29, 2019 at Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehab. He was born on September 21, 1940 in San Jose, California to the late Clarence Loren Locke and Ethel Margaret Nelson Locke. Reared and educated in Edgar, Montana, he had been a resident of Malvern since 1966. He was the widower of the late Sherry McKinnon Locke, to whom he was married on August 17, 1963 at First Methodist Church, Malvern. She preceded him in death in 2012.

Paul worked at ALCOA for nearly 35 years, retiring as mobile equipment mechanic. He served in the United States Air Force for four years. A faithful member of First United Methodist Church, he attended the Jo Fisher Sunday School class. Paul had also been a Scout Master at both First Baptist Church and First United Methodist Church in Malvern. He served as president of the Malvern High School Football Booster Club in 1983.

Paul was also preceded in death by an infant brother, Thomas Locke, and a half-brother Loren Lee Locke.

He is survived by his children, Kerry Paul Locke (Sandy) of Glen Rose, and Christie Juanita Storm (David) of Lowell, Arkansas; grandchildren, Tony Storm, Joshua Locke, Jordan Locke, Zoe Storm, and Austin Storm; and three brothers, Robert, Raymond, and Charles Locke, all of Montana.

Funeral services will be at eleven o’clock Friday morning, January 3, 2020 in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church. A visitation will precede the service, beginning at ten o’clock.

Interment with Military Honors will follow in Resthaven Cemetery under the direction of J. A. Funk Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Research, or to First United Methodist Church, Malvern.

A special thanks goes to the staff at Arbor Oaks for their care and compassion for Paul.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.

Marvin T. Ellis

Marvin T. Ellis, 90, of Little Rock passed away December 29, 2019. He was born to the late William Henry and Fairy Lee Harrington Ellis on December 21, 1929, in Arkadelphia, AR. As a young man Marvin served our Great Nation in the United States Army and then had a career as a studio engineer at Channel 7. Marvin also had a love for playing Gospel Blue Grass Music.

Marvin is preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Marvin Lynn Ellis.

Marvin is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Agee Ellis; a daughter, Linda and son-in-law, Lawrence.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2020, at Lone Hill Cemetery in Malvern.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. You may leave condolences at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net.

Patricia Ann Covey

Patricia Ann Covey, age 63 of Little Rock, died Saturday, December 28, 2019 in Little Rock. She was bon on April 30, 1956 in Little Rock to the late Oscar Covey and Dorcas Vancil Covey. Reared and receiving her early education in Hot Springs, she attended Crowley Ridge Academy in Paragould and Southern Technical College. She was Pentecostal by denomination. Patricia enjoyed oil painting.

She is survived by a son John Thomas Tedford of Hot Springs; two grandchildren, Steve and Ashley Tedford; a brother, William Earl Lacy of Hot Springs, a sister, Mary Taylor of Norfolk, Virginia; niece, Amber and Patrick Taylor.

Patricia was also preceded in death by a brother, Arthur Covey.

Graveside service will be held on Saturday afternoon, January 4, 2020 at two o’clock in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Malvern, under the direction of J. A. Funk Funeral Home. A visitation at the funeral home will precede the service, beginning at one o’clock.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com..

Burta Nutt-Baker

Burta Nutt-Baker, age 95 of Malvern, died Monday, December 30, 2019 at Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehab. She was born in Houston, Mississippi on February 3, 1924 to the late Louis Clark Taylor and Linnie Lelar Chaffin Taylor. Reared and receiving her early education in Mississippi, she attended nursing school in Pine Bluff, graduating as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Burta had been a resident of Malvern since 1948. She worked as an operating room nurse at the Malvern hospital for 46 years, assisting in countless surgical procedures. A member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, she was also involved in the Order of the Eastern Star. Burta loved to knit, crochet, and sew, and enjoyed tending her flower garden. She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years and the father of her

children, Doyle Nutt.

She was the last survivor of a large family, outliving all eight of her siblings.

Her survivors include a daughter, Pat Rook of Malvern; a son, Doyle Thomas Nutt of Pueblo, Colorado; three grandchildren, Steve Rook, Bryan Nutt, and Ashley Earls; five great-grandchildren, Taylor Rook, Grayson Rook, Drake Earls, Brooklynn Earls, and Victoria Nutt.

Memorials are requested to an LPN scholarship at Arkansas State University, Three Rivers, (College of the Ouachitas), in Malvern, which will soon be set up in Burta’s name.

At Burta’s request there will be no services.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.

Jessie Mae Carrol Smith

Jessie Mae Carrol Smith, 72 of Malvern, Arkansas, departed from her earthly body on Sunday, December 29, 2019. She was born on February 18, 1947, loving parents, Booker Ted and Clara Dickerson Carrol.

Jessie Mae She is preceded in death by her aforementioned parents; one sister, Mary Carrol and three brothers: Jessie Lee Carrol, Michael Nolen and Theodis Carrol. She will be loved and missed by her two daughters, Sharon Luton (Daniel) of Malvern and Alicia Hall (Gary) of Dallas, Texas; one son, Earnest Smith Jr. of Dallas; one brother, Booker Ted Carrol Jr; one sister, Martha Dallas (Ben) both of California; eight grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

There will be a celebration of life service for Jessie Mae at 11:00 am, on Friday, January 3, 2019, at Victory Praise and Worship Church in Malvern. A visitation will be held at Brandon’s Mortuary from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, on Thursday, January 2nd. Her earthly body will be laid to rest at Mt. Moriah cemetery, in Joann, Arkansas. Brandon’s Mortuary is entrusted with professional services. An online guestbook is available at www.brandonsmortuary.com.

Patricia Sullenberger Williamson

Patricia (Patt) Sullenberger Williamson, 91, of Malvern passed away January 1, 2020. She was born December 30, 1928 in Gurdon, Arkansas to Lance G. and Mildred L. Sullenberger. She graduated from Henderson State Teachers College in 1949. Her career as a school teacher spanned 43 years beginning in 1950.

Patt took an active part in the schools where she taught serving in many additional capacities and roles as needed. She retired from Malvern High School in 1993 where she taught junior English and served as the Beta club sponsor and cheerleader coach.

She was preceded in death by her brother Lance Sullenberger, II and sister, Lila Thompson. Patt is survived by her son, Ben R. Williamson and wife, Marilyn, of Fayetteville and her daughter, Tricia Williamson of Vancouver, Washington as well as Drs. Gloria and Rodney Davis of Little Rock and their children, Madison and Morgan.

Patt enjoyed sports of all types. She was often able to combine her love to travel with her love of sports by attending many college and professional sports events throughout the U.S. She was a member and elder at First

Presbyterian Church and enjoyed serving others through various church activities.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, January 6, at Regency Funeral Home Chapel in Malvern with Reverend Courtney Bacon-Latina officiating. Attendees are welcome to wear red and white or orange and black to honor two of Patt’s favorite sports teams. Interment will be in Rose Hedge Cemetery in Gurdon.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or to First Presbyterian Church in Malvern.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home of Malvern. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com

Ruth Lee Young

Ruth Lee Young age 92 of Malvern passed away January 2, 2020 in Hot Springs. She was born December 30, 1927 in Dalark AR to Sanford H. and Ona L. Johnson Lee. Ruth was a member of Sardis Primitive Baptist Church and a homemaker. Other than her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Billy John Young to whom she was married to for 67 years; her In-laws Jim and Ethel Young; siblings; Jerry , Hiram, H.D. and Betty and Nancy.

Survivors include 6 years of 5 generations survived by 4 generations; her children; Doug (Rhonda) Young of Malvern, Ann Thomason of Pottsville, grandchildren; Leigh Honnell of Russellville, Julie Thomason of Pottsville, Angela (Lance) Minge of Cabot, Hunter (Rebekah) Young of Benton, great grandchildren; Lauren (Jack) Reed, Wesley (Jessica) Honnell, Katie Minge, Kellie Minge, Jace Minge and Cooper Thomason, Brody Mathis and Oakley Young, great-great grandchild Braden Derrick, Lexi Honnell and Lincoln Honnell, her sister Carolyn Whaley of Carlsbad CA, sister in law Beth Lee and Kathryn Blevins and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

Funeral Service will be held Sunday January 5, 2020 at 2:00pm with visitation from 1:00-2:00 pm in Regency Chapel with Rev. Jesse Stripland and Bro. Ron Parrish will be officiating service. Burial in Macedonia Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Chris Lee, Jeff Chine, Brian Loy, Jimmy James, Bo Attaway, and Tony Jenkins. Honorary pallbearers are Buryl Attaway, Jackie Clayton, Leon Jenkins, Dr. Bruce Burton and Dr. Dylan Thaxton. A special thanks to The Crossing and their staff, Encore Nursing and Rehab Staff, Arkansas Hospice nurses, her sitters; Amanda Adams, Betty Sherman, Billie Walters, Haley Milner, Jessica Garrick, JoAnn Smith, LaShelle Jones, Teresa Haltom, Valerie Dickinson and Virginia Eddington.

In Lieu of Flowers memorial may be made to Arkansas Hospice 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock AR 72116 or Macedonia Cemetery Fund c/o Myron Crisco 1039 E. County Line Road Arkadelphia, AR 71923.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guestbook at www. regencyfuneralhome. com.

Charles Wayne Burris

Charles Wayne Burris, age 75, of Donaldson, Arkansas passed away at the Twin Rivers Nursing Center in Arkadelphia, Arkansas on Friday, January 3, 2020 following a lengthy illness resulting from Lewy body dementia.

Mr. Burris was born on May 13, 1944 in Caney, Arkansas to Elmer Jewel Burris and Livie Pearl (Simonds) Burris. He was a lifelong resident of Hot Spring County, and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Mr. Burris worked at the Reynolds aluminum processing facility in Jones Mills, Arkansas for several years then finished his career in the maintenance department at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He was an avid hunter in the Victor Hunting Club and gardener who grew delicious watermelons and blueberries.

Mr. Burris was a faithful member of Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church where he served as an usher. His favorite hymn was “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it,” and his family will fondly remember how he would often sing or whistle this familiar tune.

Mr. Burris is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Sharon Thomas Burris, and two daughters, Shanna (Anthony) Meads of Tyler, Texas and Holly (Jared) Kyzer of Donaldson, Arkansas.

He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Eva, William, Amelia, Edel, and Phoebe Meads of Tyler, Texas and Emma and Reid Kyzer of Donaldson, Arkansas.

In addition to his immediate family members, he is survived by his brother Leon (Patty) Burris and sister Melva (Bo) Boyett of Donaldson, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his brothers Hansel, Haskell, and Carl Burris as well as his sister Juanita Whitley.

Visitation will begin at 2pm until 3pm on Sunday, January 5, 2020 at Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church, with Funeral to begin at 3pm with Brothers Keith Rowton and Ronnie Hardin officiating. Burial will follow in Ouachita Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home, Malvern. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com

Carl McKnight

Carl “Pops” McKnight, age 95, of Malvern passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2020. He was born March 8, 1924, in Osceola, Arkansas the son of the late Rufus and Clara Bassett McKnight. Carl served in the United States Army during World War II. He was an avid coon hunter and enjoyed buying and selling antiques. Carl was of the Methodist faith and attended Gifford Assembly of God Church. Other than his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Irene Johnson McKnight and ten siblings.

Survivors, sons, Robert “Bob” McKnight (Belinda) of Malvern and Doug McKnight (Denise) of Shellsburg, Iowa; brother, Larry McKnight of Indianola, Iowa; sister, Carol McKnight of Sheridan, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren, Kristin, Justin, Zackary, Lauren, Ashleigh, Taylor, Cassidy, Aaron, Brooke, Emily, Stephanie, Shelby and Lindsey; twenty-five great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com.

Ronald Lloyd Pace

Ronald Lloyd Pace, age 74, of Antioch, passed away January 4, 2020 in Hot Springs. He was born July 6, 1945 in Texarkana, TX to Lloyd and Myrtle Turner Pace.

He was predeceased by his parents; one son, Ronald Sean Pace; and a sister, Janice Hendrix.

He was a 1963 graduate of Norphlet High School, worked for Sears for many years as a repairman and was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Belinda Pence Pace; one daughter, Rhonda (Stefan) Panasenko of Bismarck; six grandchildren, Chelsea (Chans) Thomas of Antioch, Seana (Daniel) Strother, Cristina Labbate, Valerie (Aaron) Smith, Natalie Garner, all of Texas, and Colton Panasenko of Bismarck ; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Pam Hearne of Fort Smith; two sistersin-law, Diana (Butch) Keen of Story, and Karen (Stanley) Phillips of Hot Springs; and two brothers-in-law, Joe (Freddie) Pence of Antioch and Brian Pence of Little Rock.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 11 at 2:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 132 Malvern Rd in Caddo Valley.

Arthur Frank Schneider

Arthur Frank Schneider, a devout Jehovah’s Witness died on Monday, December 30, 2019. He was 90.

He was born June 27, 1929 to the late Frank (Carl) and Mary Schneider in Slater, Mo.

Arthur was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He excelled in mathematics and was given a full scholarship to study accounting. Instead he chose a career as an electrician. He worked for over 50 years at Anthony Timberlands. He enjoyed using his electrical skills to not only help family and friends but also to help build Kingdom Halls all over the state. Arthur brightened everyone’s day with his jovial mood and witty jokes.

Arthur was baptized August 9, 1941 in St. Louis, Mo. He served as Elder at the Malvern Congregation. All who knew him, knew about his love for and faith in Jehovah God. He was an auxiliary Pioneer dedicating 90 hours a month to preaching and teaching the Bible.

He married his first wife, Verna Letha Harmon on October 6, 1952. They were married for 55 years. They had three children, Iona Dye, Norman Schneider (deceased), and Susan Dugan. They were married until her untimely death in 2007.

He married his second wife, Dorothy Leona Jenkins on June 15, 2013. They remained together united in their strong Christian faith until he passed.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three siblings, Eugene Schneider, Eva Meyer, and Naomi Bailey; daughters, Iona Dye and Susan Dugan (her husband, Larry); daughter-in-law, Leona Marshall; seven grandchildren, Sandra Pierce (her husband, Brad), Brandon Dugan, Daniel Dugan (his wife, Sandra); five great-grandchildren including, Austin, Aiden, and Alexei Pierce.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 11, 2020 at 12:30 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, 611 Collie Road, Malvern.

Paul Robert Hill

Paul Robert Hill was born on October 9, 1936, to the late Simmie and Luberta Hill in Mountain Pine, Arkansas, and his homegoing was on January 4, 2020.

Paul is survived by his dedicated and faithful wife, Easter Hill- children David Ray Hill and Estralita Carmichael of Pueblo, CO, and Lasonia Gail Hill of Flint, MI, seven grandchildren – a host of great-grandchildren, two sisters- Joyce White of Kansas City, MO, and Dr. Janie Hill Hatton (Isaac) of Milwaukee, WI, and Sister of Love, Dr. Etta Jo Hill of Atlanta, GA.

Upon his marriage to Easter, he was loved by a bonus of family that includes: bonus children, Jerry Burkes, deceased (Janice), Calvin Cooper (Toni McDowell), Robert Smith and Kimberly Smith, 14 bonus grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and sisters and brothers of love.

Brandon’s Mortuary is entrusted with professional services. The family will be receiving friends at 8638 Highway 270 East, Malvern. His full obituary and online guestbook are available at www. brandonsmortuary. com.

Alice Nanette Johnson

Alice Nanette Johnson, 55 of Seattle, Washington, was born to the union of Pastor Woodrow Johnson and our beloved Freddie Mae Watson Johnson on June 22, 1964. Last breath taken on November 30th, 2019.

She leaves to cherish her memories one son DeAndre Cooper (Melodi), one daughter Agena Jones Castillo (Erik) and six grandchildren; Jaqai Roger, Kaytana Wheeler, Tylar Jones, Taylea Sanford, Ny’Ecia Jones- Castillo and Dezmond Jones-Castillo. She also leaves four siblings Steven Johnson, Las Vegas, Sabrenna Lee (Charles), Little Rock, AR, Hazel Johnson, Malvern, AR and Frederick Johnson, Raleigh, NC along with a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives and special friends.

Preceding her in death was her loving devoted mother, Freddie Mae Watson Johnson along with her grandparents, Fred Watson, Sr., George and Georgia Mae Sherman, and Alvin Sr. and Mary Moore Johnson.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 11, at 11:30 AM, at New Director Missionary Baptist Church, in Malvern. For her full obituary and online guestbook: www.brandonsmortuary.com.

Beatrice “Bea” Schales

Beatrice “Bea” Schales, age 73, of Donaldson passed away Monday, January 6, 2020 at Encore Nursing and Rehab. She was born January 29, 1946, in Goodwin, Arkansas, the daughter of Lee Autry and Pauline Wooten Christy. Bea was of the Baptist faith. She loved fishing, gardening, flowers and birds. Other than her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Richard Allen; grandson, Kevin Braswell and two siblings.

Survivors, husband, Edward Schales of Donaldson; son, Zane Allen of Hot Springs; daughter, Rita Keys (Greg) of Blue Ridge, Texas; sister, Etta French of Moro, Arkansas; four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Services will be Sunday, January 12 at 2:00pm at Regency Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to service. Burial will follow at Ouachita Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home,

Malvern. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com.

Margaret A. Burris

Margaret A. Burris, 78, of Malvern passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at home surrounded by her family. She was born December 4, 1941, to the late Clifton Cecil and Effie Marie (Dunkin) Bozeman.

Reared and educated in Malvern, she graduated from Ouachita Tech, where she became an LPN. She worked at the Malvern Hospital until she retired in 1987. Margaret enjoyed gardening, quilting, crocheting and numerous other crafts. She enjoyed reading a good western and she especially enjoyed reading and studying her bible, as she was a Christian by faith. Married on December 9, 1967, to the late Junior YZ Burris, they made their home in Malvern. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Harold Bozeman and Richard Bozeman; sisters, Deloris Talley, Shirley Young and Earlene Delassio; son, Charles Burris; daughter, Elizabeth Burris; grandson, Ryan Joyner; granddaughter, Brandi Petriek; nieces, WyDena Sutton, Teresa Johnson and Suzen Cooper.

Left to cherish her memory, sister, Marilyn (Gary) Stone; sons, Daniel and Billie Joyner of Leola, David and Tammy Joyner of Giedon, MO and Randy and Trina Burris of Oklahoma City, OK; 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 13 from 6:00-8:00pm at Regency Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, January 14 at 10:00am at Regency Funeral Home with Brother Scott Efird, Brother Jerry Don Burris and Brother Adam Gooding officiating. Burial will follow at Lower Antioch Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tyler Mantooth, Mark Morrissey, Buddy Robbins, Zach Frazier, Tony Frazier and Jacob Dickerson. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Stone, Gary Stone II, James Korsmo, Brandon McKinney and Micah James.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home, Malvern. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com.

Earnest Taylor

Earnest Taylor, 91, of Malvern passed away on January 10, 2020. He was born on October 31, 1928 to Earnest and Madie Simmons Taylor. Earnest was a family man who knew his calling was to preach the gospel. He was a pastor of many churches in the area but retired from Unity Missionary Baptist Church in Bismarck.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Odell Lane.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Dean Taylor, his son Larry Taylor; daughters, Sharon Malnar and Brenda Davis; grandchildren, Lezlee, Stephanie, Jamee, Blake and Jacob, also 7 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm at the Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church in Malvern with Mark Thornton officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 13, 2020 from 6-8:30 PM at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel. Pallbearers are Hunter, Andrue, Blake, Jacob, Robert and Taylor. Interment will be at Neighbors Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in

Malvern.

Guest may leave a condolence at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net.

Myrtle Evanell Saunders

Myrtle Evanell Saunders, 89, of Arkadelphia passed away on January 10, 2020. Nell was born to the late Clarence and Gracie Crisp Rominger on September 2, 1930, in Prince George’s, Maryland.

Nell is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Rominger & Gracie Crisp Rominger; and her husband, Carroll Saunders.

Nell is survived by her children, Diane Siegel (Michael) of Apex, NC, Donna Jines, of Apex, NC, and Leston Saunders of Hot Springs, AR; grandchildren, Jennifer Siegel (Daniel) Gonzalez, Amber Siegel (Kyle Williams), Danny Coburn, Jeremiah Saunders; great-grandchildren, Michael and Matthew Williams, and Hayden Gonzalez; and one sister, Dora Kelly.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, at Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel in Malvern. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Pallbearers will be Jennifer Gonzalez, Leston Saunders, Amber Siegel and Danny Coburn. Honorary pallbearers are the Staff @ Courtyard Gardens in Arkadelphia. Interment will be at Neighbors Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. You may leave condolences at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net

Opal Tucker Dixson

Opal Tucker Dixson, 85, of Traskwood, Arkansas passed away at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock on January 11, 2020. She was born on November 27, 1934 to Ted Tucker and Dorothy Brown Tucker. Opal was a homemaker, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

Opal was preceded in death by both parents and her husband, Wesley Dixson whom she was married to for 61 years; daughter, Geneta Bell; Sisters, Shirley Ross and Margaret Pennington.

She is survived by her sons, Leslie (Connie) Dixson, Jimmy (Beverly) Dixson; daughter, Marilyn (Steve) Squyres; Brothers, Paul Tucker, Jackie Tucker, Sisters, Betty Dixson and Susie Norwood. Opal leaves behind eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at 2:00 PM at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel. The Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 from 6pm-8pm at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern, AR. You may leave a condolence at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net

Joyce Ann Cotten

Joyce Ann Cotten, 66, of Malvern passed away on January 12, 2020, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Joyce was born to the late John “Alvie” Ferrell and Edna Mae McInvale on August 6, 1953 in Owensville; AR. Joyce had a big heart and loving, and caring soul that reflected in her everyday life. She will be truly missed by her family, her Happy Hollow Full Gospel Church family, and anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Joyce is preceded in death by her parents; and a sister,

Deborah Ferrell-Farrer.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Rev. Wayne Keith Cotten Jr.; her children, Charlie Wilkinson (Sheila) of Alexander, AR, Christy Esquivel (Dino) of Olathe, KS, Catina Winberry (Blacc) of Malvern, AR, Ashley Graham (Scott) of Hot Springs, AR, and Keitha Fleeger (Cory) of Greenbrier, AR; her siblings, Kenneth Ferrell of Paragould, AR, Karen Overton of Owensville, AR, Carolyn Campbell of Huntsville, AL and Russell Wilkes of GA. She also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 16, 2020, at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel in Malvern. Visitation will be from 6-8 pm Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at the Atkinson Chapel. Interment will be at Big Creek Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. You may leave condolences at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net

Beverly “Diane” Williams

Beverly “Diane” Williams, age 67 of Malvern, died Monday evening, January 13, 2020 in Little Rock. She was born in Malvern on July 27, 1952 to Manuel Doss and Ruby Garner Doss. Reared and educated in Malvern, she was a retired paraprofessional

reading aid at Malvern Elementary School, and worked many years at First Baptist Church Children’s Center. Diane was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and treasured spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She enjoyed working in her flower beds, helping her husband build birdhouses, and working all types of puzzles. Diane was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Bob Williams of Malvern, to whom she was married on December 31, 1970 in Hot Springs; by her children, Jennifer Burks (Andrew), Amy Clements (Jeremy), and Wendy Folds (J. R.), all of Malvern; her parents, Manuel and Ruby Doss of Malvern; two brothers, Ricky Doss (Theresa), and Dennis Doss (Sherri), of Malvern; seven grandchildren, Alicia Hughes (Cody), Deven Clements (Mary), Daniel Riggan, Olivia and A. J. Kidder, Caroline and Mary Kate Folds; by five great-grandchildren, Cannon and Lakeley Hughes, Ellie and Genevieve Clements, and Braxton Riggan; by a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews; and by two longtime friends, Lori Voss and Charlesa Black.

Diane was also preceded in death by a grandson, Bo Dillon Kidder.

The family will receive friends at J. A. Funk Funeral Home on Friday evening, January 17, 2020 from five until seven o’ clock.

Funeral service will be at one o’ clock Saturday afternoon, January 18, 2020 in the funeral home chapel with Brother Billy Bartlett officiating. Interment will follow in Shadowlawn Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Kinney and Charlesa Black, Deven Clements, Daniel Riggan, Tommy Overton, and John Doss.

Online condolences may be made via jafunkfuneralhome.com.

Henry Leon Wright Henry Leon Wright, age 94, of The Woodlands, Texas passed away Saturday, January 11, 2020. He was born May 31, 1925, in Malvern, the son of the late Joseph Milas and Ethel Belle Cunningham Wright. Henry earned a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree from the University of Arkansas, served in the United States Army and worked as a civil engineer for Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America. He was a member of the Bridgeport Lions’ Club, Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce and Gideon’s International. Henry was also a member of The Woodlands First United Methodist Church. Other than his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Jean Tomlinson Wright; son, Timothy Leon Wright; brother, Jay Hugh Wright; sisters, Audrey Wright Wheat, Ruth Wright Goodman and Fannie Dora Wright.

Left to cherish his memory, son, Kent Michael Wright of Spring, Texas; daughter, Tonya Wright Brackett (husband, Bart) of The Woodlands, Texas; grandchildren, Lezlie Brackett Herm (husband, Kyle) and Shannon Wright; great-grandchildren, Sloane Herm, Lane Herm, Eden Herm and Farris Assaf; nephew, Monroe Wheat and nieces, Polly Wheat Kizer and Carolyn Wheat Jones.

Visitation will be Friday, January 17 from 5:007:00pm at Regency Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will be Saturday, January 18 at 1:00pm at Big Creek Missionary Baptist Church with Brother Mark Thornton officiating. Burial will follow at Big Creek Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Travis Wright, Clay Wright, Kyle Herm, Casey Jones, Jeff Jones and Neil McKnight. Honorary pallbearer will be Monroe Wheat.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home, Malvern. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com.

Jeffrey Allen

Jeffrey Allen age 55 of Malvern, passed away Monday, January 13, 2020. He was born October 14, 1964 in Kalamzoo, MI to William and Barbara Ballard Allen. His father preceded him in death as well as his brother, Fred Allen.

Jeffrey was a graduate of Girard High School in Girard, KS. He was a CNA and a former employee of Sykes Company in Malvern.

Survivors include his parents, Barbara and Freemon Jordan of Malvern; his brothers, Jimmy Allen, Gary Allen, and Robert (Alvina) Allen; a host of extended family and friends.

No formal service will be held locally. Jeffrey’s earthly remains will be laid to rest in Girard Cemetery, Girard, KS.

Guest registry is at http:// www. carriganmemorial. com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.

Arlandist McCollum

Arlandist McCollum was a man of faith, integrity and held in high esteem by all who knew him. A man who gave the words “work ethic” a whole new meaning. He put in an honest day’s work and expected an honest day’s pay. At times, the pay did not always match the work and dedication he gave General Motors. For example, falling through a hole in the floor 30 feet from one floor to the next at Grey Iron Foundry or having a splatter of hot liquid iron melt his overalls into his shoulder fusing the material to his skin or the asbestos inhaled over the years complicating the breathing difficulties of an asthmatic. Arlandist always dusted himself off and kept working, literally. He served General Motors for 42 years never once taking a sick day nor being late for work and was recognized by GM for that achievement.

In his earlier years, Arlandist worked at Kutcher’s gas station where he was given the nickname “Mack” and became acquainted with many of the residents in the City of Saginaw. For several years, he worked at Kutcher’s and General Motors often changing from one uniform to the next.

Arlandist professed his love for Christ and accepted Him as his personal Lord and Savior and united with the Davis Creek Baptist Church at an early age. He has always LOVED the LORD and was an avid church goer from the time he could walk until the time he was hospitalized. He has always been active in his church. He has been a part of the Bethel A.M.E. Church family serving in various roles since the late 1950s including but not limited to singing in the choir, Usher Board, Steward Board, Class Leader, Sergeant at Arms for Pastor Huggins, Pastor Robinson, Pastor Bowman, Pastor Saunders and more recently serving in whatever capacity needed for Pastor Dennis Laffoon; over 50 years of service to Bethel A.M.E. Church. He was also a member of the trim and light the candles committee often arriving early to perform his duty to the church. Arlandist was a prayer warrior! Boy, Oh Boy could he pray. He was often called to lead the church in prayer during services and went into the homes, hospitals and nursing homes to pray for the sick and shut in. He was always happy to help wherever he could be of service.

Arlandist never met a stranger. He always greeted everyone with a warm smile, a joke reminding you how much weight you gained or a hug to lift your spirits. Arlandist was a loving husband to Julia (Jeanette) McCollum for 64 years and loving father to his five children Fred, Barry, David, Victor and Jacqueline; all of who survives him.

Arlandist started his life in a small town called Prattsville about 40 minutes south of Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born June 3,1929 to Fred McCollum (deceased) and Willie Faye McCollum (deceased). He was the firstborn son to the couple as well as their third of six children; sisters Gladys (deceased), Lela (deceased), Earnestine (deceased), Joe Willie McCollum of Prattsville, AR and Dr. Rev. Nathaniel McCollum of Malvern, AR. Arlandist started working at a very early age. As signs of the times, back then everyone worked in some capacity to contribute to the family household. It was not all work and no play for Arlandist. He loved roller skating and had his eyes set on major league baseball. Everyone in the family played baseball. His dad was pitcher. His uncles Ben, John, Oscar and Albert all played as well as his two younger brothers. Arlandist, “Baby-Man,” played second base, shortstop and third base.

Arlandist was married in 1955 to Jeanette (Johnson) and they moved to Saginaw, Michigan where he had heard jobs were plentiful and his career with GM began. Arlandist departed this life on December 30, 2019. He will be forever cherished by those who loved him. He leaves behind a loving family; wife, Julia (Jeanette) McCollum; four sons, Fred, Barry, David, Victor; and one daughter, Jacqueline McCollum. He has seven grandchildren; Barry McCollum, Jr., Eric Bell, Danielle ( McCollum) (& Leon) Gipson, Patrice McCollum, Michelle McCollum, Justin Brent-McCollum and Xavier McCollum. Three great-grandchildren, Zaine Austin Bell, Addison Watson and Alexander Tra’Von Beverly, Jr; two brothers-inlaw’s, Ollie (& Mary) Montgomery and Apostle Bobby (& Prophetess Mary) Johnson and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a Home Going Celebration at Davis Creek Baptist Church, in Prattsville, at 2:00pm, on Saturday, January 18, 2020. A visitation will be held that afternoon at the church, from 12:30 - 2:00pm. His earthly body will be laid to rest at Philadelphia Cemetery, in Prattsville.

Brandon’s Mortuary is entrusted with professional services. Arlandist’s online guestbook is available at www. brandonsmortuary. co m.

Virginia D. Rushing

Virginia D. Rushing 98, of Malvern passed away on January 16, 2020. Virginia was born to the late Ross Ricker and Pearl Martha Johnson Ricker on January 25, 1921, in Frankfort; IN. Virginia served our Great Nation in the United States Army Nurse Corp. She was inducted into the Army at Camp McCoy, WI in June 1943. She served in the 35th Field Hospital and in the European Theater in North Africa and Italy before she was discharged at Camp Siebert, AL in 1945. Virginia was a registered nursed and spent most of her life helping others. She was involved in many organizations throughout her life that included American Nurses Association, Green Thumb Designers Club, and the Junior Service League. Virginia also had many hobbies that she loved to do such as flower arranging, sewing, quilting, painting and reading.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Ross and Pearl Ricker; her husband, Dr. James Autry Rushing; a daughter, Martha Rushing Carrier; and a brother, Don Ricker.

Virginia is survived by her children, James “Jimmy” Rushing Jr. (Cynthia) of Marshall, TX, and Gail Rushing of Malvern, AR; her grandchildren, Eric Carrier of Malvern, Hunter Rushing of Marshall, TX, Devon Rushing of Marshall, TX and Mark Blalock of Malone, TX. She also leaves behind two sisters, Mary Finch, Julia Newhouse; several great-grandchildren and many others who will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be on Sunday, January 19, 2020, from 6-8 pm at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel in Malvern. Funeral Services will be on Monday, January 20, 2020, at 2:00 pm at the Atkinson Chapel with Bro. Billy Bartlett officiating. Interment will be at Resthaven Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. Guests may leave condolences at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net

Patricia (Tressa/Trisha) R. Hughes

Patricia (Tressa/Trisha) R. Hughes age 67, of Malvern passed away Saturday January 18, 2020 in the Happy Valley Health and Rehab. She was born December 25, 1952 in Providence, Kentucky the daughter of Clarence Martin and Rachel Reynolds Hughes. She was a flight attendant for American Airlines for 30 years, and was of the Baptist faith. She loved her family, her cats, and enjoyed family ancestry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers, Jimmy and Johnny Hughes.

Survivors are her brother, Rodney Hughes (wife Maxine) of Malvern, sisters Mary Jane Dishman (husband Bobby) of Lake Villa, Illinois, Sharon Covey of Malvern, Joanne Crutchfield (husband David) of Malvern and Lisa Boles (husband Danny) of Donaldson, Sister-in-law, Brenda Hughes of Salem Missouri, and numerous nieces and nephews as well as a host of friends and extended family.

Funeral will be at 2:00PM Tuesday January 21, in the Regency Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Eric Ivy officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Rodney Hughes, Greg Hughes, Randy Littles, Tommy Littles, Chris Boles, Hunter Boles and John McDaniel. Honorary pallbearers are Tracy and Tony Hughes.

A special thank you to the Elite Hospice and Happy Valley nurses and staff and special caregiver Sandy Sanders.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guestbook at www. regencyfuneralhome. com

Edith Jacqueline ‘E.J.’ Thomason

Edith Jacqueline ‘E.J.’ Thomason, born May 13, 1972, of Malvern, went to be with the Lord on January 16, 2020. She was survived by her significant other Mick Murphy, her parents - Carole (Steve) Porter and Tom (Pam) Thomason, Sr., her son Dylan (Crystal) Thomason, her siblings - Loren Thomason, Tom Thomason, Jr., and Angel (Bradley) Hoch, nephews Austen and Owen Hoch, a plethora of cousins, family and friends, and her favorite fur-baby Marble dog.

Visitation will be held at Atkinson Funeral Home, 126 East Second St, Malvern, AR 72104 on Tuesday, January 21 from 6pm-8pm. Graveside services will be held at Shiloh Church of Christ Cemetery, 37 Deer Park Rd, Amity, AR 71921 on Wednesday, January 22 at 2pm.

Guestbook at http://www. atkinsonfuneralhome.net

Lowell Dean Swearingen

Lowell Dean Swearingen, age 68, of Hot Springs, AR, passed away on December 29, 2019, in his home surrounded by family. He was born on April 11, 1951, raised in Malvern, AR.

He graduated from Malvern High School in 1969. He worked in the family business, ' The Leader Store' in downtown Malvern, which his parents’ ran for 35+ years. Then he continued on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Henderson State University, followed by a Master’s Degree in Social Work from UALR.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Pauline (Robertson) Swearingen and his sister, Sue Shumaker.

Lowell is survived by his wife, Darci Swearingen, his four children and in-laws, Jennifer and Bryan Campbell, Bryan and Amy Swearingen, Lauren and Tory Hardin, Daniel and Blake Swearingen, and six grand