Obituaries

Pulaski County

MARY OBERA (KEGA) HARVEY CURTIS, 95, passed away Saturday, February 6, 2016. She was born November 24, 1920 in El Paso, Arkansas to Verna Blassingame Harvey Powell and Jewel Victor Harvey. After graduating from Little Rock High School, she worked at National Old Line Insurance Company until her retirement. She was a member of the American Business Women’s Association, the North Little Rock Women’s Club and the Salvation Army Auxiliary. She was a devout Christian and a member of Park Hill Baptist Church.

Kega enjoyed traveling with friends and family. She and her husband traveled to Florida, Mexico, Spain, the West Indies, Switzerland, Hawaii and Rome. After her retirement, she took up oil painting: her favorite subjects were still-life with flowers. Kega was described as an “angel” by everyone who knew her. She was known for her kindness, generosity, compassion, her remarkable memory and her famous chocolate meringue pie.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 73 years, Thomas Malcolm Curtis and her brother, James Victor Harvey. She is survived by her niece Victoria Harvey of North Little Rock and Nantucket, Massachusetts, and Victoria’s daughter and son, Gillian Brooks Page of Boston, Massachusetts, and Andrew Stewart Cromartie of New York City, New York. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Barbara Woodyear and Polly Norell of North Little Rock and their families.

Memorials may be made to Park Hill Baptist Church, 201 East C Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116. A visitation will be held 1 p.m. Friday followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m. at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Pinecrest Memorial Park. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– PATRICIA ANN EILAND-FREEMAN, 70, went to be with her Lord on February 9, 2016. Patricia was born in Floydada, Texas, to Orba R. Eiland and Minnie Lucille Marrow-Eiland on August 22, 1945. She graduated from Lockney Texas High School in 1963 and attended Texas Tech in 1965. She worked in the cosmetology industry for 25 years and previously in the child care & hospitality industries. She enjoyed reading, gardening, pets, working, giving, loving and caring for her family & friends.

Patricia is preceded by her parents, Orba and Minnie, her daughter Amy Michelle, and her sister, Doris Melton-Eiland. Patricia is survived by her husband of 28 years, J. Stan Freeman, her brother Shannon O. Eiland of Hernando, Mississippi, her daughter Melissa Ann Eiland-Ramirez of Lubbock, Texas, her son, Nathan L. Freeman of New York, New York, and her sisters, Veda M. Smith of San Antonio, Texas, Jo Simmons of Mascoutah, Illinois, and Jacquelyn Cornett of Amarillo, Texas.

Patricia was a loving, devoted wife and mother, with a strong faith in God and with many gifts in service to her family, friends, and loved ones.

A Memorial Service will be at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home, Jacksonville, Arkansas, on Saturday, February 13, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation at http://www.epilepsy.com/make-difference/ways-give. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to St. Vincent Medical Center and Arkansas Hospice, for their care and support in her final days. Arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home & Crematory (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– SHIRLEY YOUNG FOTIOO, 87, of Little Rock, entered into eternal peace on February 10, 2016 at Good Shepherd Nursing and Rehab. Born in Lonoke on June 30, 1928, the daughter of R.L. and Mabel White Young, she graduated from Lonoke High School and Hendrix College. She was married to the late Ted Fotioo, Sr. on December 27, 1949. Shirley was a member of St. James United Methodist Church where she was active in the choir, Sunday School and volunteered on several different committees over the years. She was a 20 year volunteer at both St. Vincent’s Hospital and Aldersgate. Retired from Liberty Mutual Insurance, she also taught school at Jacksonville Elementary School and was a kindergarten teacher for many years.

Shirley had a passion and love for dance and music. Her granddaughters, Ashley, Erica and Callie gave her great joy watching them dance. She was a big basketball fan which her grandsons, Nick, Andy, Alex and Keith were able to share with her.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, Ted Fotioo, Sr. in 2011, her devoted son, Ted Jr. in 2009, and siblings, Julian Young, Bob Young, Seville Henry and Bobbie Benton. She leaves loving memories to be cherished by her loving sons, Gary and wife, Nan and Bob and wife, Debbie, along with seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, brother-in-law, Carol Henry, and sisters-in-law, Jo Young and Wanda Young.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Good Shepherd Nursing Home for the wonderful and loving care given to Shirley. Our family will always be thankful to them.

Visitation will be Friday, February 12 beginning at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. at St. James United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Siegfried Johnson. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Dr., Little Rock, Ark. 72212. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Shirley’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– ROMAN TERRELL GURDEN of Little Rock, Ark., born January 28, 2016. Passed on February 2, 2016. Survivors: parents, Rodney Gurden Jr. & Teronda Jackson, grandparents, Mr. Arthur & Anita Harris. Graveside service Friday 11 a.m. at Arkansas Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W 29th, Little Rock, Ark. 501-660-4323.

–––––❖––––– JOAN D. HILL, 79, of North Little Rock passed away Tuesday, February 9th. She was born in Hoxie, Arkansas to parents Bunk Hodge, Sr. and Estelle Jarrett Hodge on November 11, 1936. On September 7, 1957 she married the love of her life, Donnie D. Hill and remained his wife and partner for 58 years. Joan referred to herself as a Homemaker, as that was her priority, but she was also involved in an array of church and civic activities. She always looked for an opportunity to help others. Joan was a sales representative for Avon for over 42 years, attaining the top sales award in Arkansas numerous times and nationally as well. Joan was also an astute businesswoman who helped Don in running their multiple successful business ventures. She bonded with everyone she came in contact with.

Joan loved to garden, growing and protecting an abundance of crepe myrtles and thrift in her yard every year. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in North Little Rock, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years. She was also a member of the Florence Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Bunk Hodge Jr., Darrell Hodge and Dempsey Hodge. She leaves behind her cherished family; husband Donnie D. Hill, daughter Kim Tipton and son-in-law, Charles Tipton; grandchildren Joshua Tipton, Sr. and wife , Becca, Jacob Tipton and wife, Ashlynne and Lacey Tipton Spradlin and husband Erik; great-grandchildren Joshua Dean Tipton, Jr., James Matthew Tipton, Isabella Annmarie Tipton and Temperance Ruth Carrol Spradlin; brother, Billy Ray Hodge and wife Pat and sisters Elaine Casten and Patricia Cupples along with many loving friends, nephews and nieces.

A visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday in the chapel at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1516 Parker St., North Little Rock with burial following at Rest Hills Memorial Park. Memorials may be given to St. Mary’s Church in North Little Rock. Please share your memories of Joan with her family online at www. griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– MARY HUMPHREY, 52, Little Rock, Ark., departed this life January 31. Funeral: 11 a.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016, Greater Works Christian Church, 3517 Asher Avenue, Little Rock, Ark. Visitation 6-7 pm, Friday, February 12, 2016 at the church. Interment: Mt. Zion Cemetery (College Station community), Little Rock, Ark. Services entrusted to Larry G. Acklin Funeral Homes, Inc. 8821 Colonel Glenn, Little Rock, Ark. 501-565-1800. www.larrygacklinfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– IRMA RUTH JOHNSON, 87, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on February 8, 2016. She was preceded in death by: son, Rev. Tyrone Johnson; grandsons, Demingo Johnson and W.C. Wallace. She leaves to cherish memories to children, Vera Wallace and Sandra Adams; sister, Beulah Brinkley; seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. Service: Saturday, 2:30 p.m. at Greater Works Christian Church, 3517 Asher Ave., Little Rock, Ark. Pastor Michael Clayton, officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, LR (501) 3710111. Sign online guest book at www. robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust.”

––––– ––––– QUEEN ESTHER JOHNSON, 62, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on February 8, 2016. She was preceded in death by: brother, Rev. Tyrone Johnson; nephew, Demingo Johnson. She leaves to cherish memories with children, Tarvaois Carroll and Chablis Carroll; siblings, Vera Wallace, Sandra Adams; four grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. Service: Saturday, 2:30 p.m. at Greater Works Christian Church, 3517 Asher Ave., Little Rock, Ark. Pastor Michael Clayton, officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, LR (501) 371-0111. Sign online guest book at www.robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– JAMES H. “JIM” LAUX, 72, of Sherwood, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2016 from complications of ALS. He was born June 26, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri, grew up, worked and spent most of his life in Illinois. After meeting his loving wife, Lennie, at a dance in Nashville, Tenn., in 1997, Jim moved to Arkansas in 1998 to marry Lennie. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and a special friend to Brother Ken and the wonderful brethren of Park Hill Baptist Church.

Jim graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Accounting, was a CPA, and spent most of his career in finance, ending as a Financial Advisor. He served in the Missouri Army National Guard.

He enjoyed golf, dancing, playing bridge, playing guitar, and reading. He was a past president of the Little Rock Bop Club and the American Bop Association, and he and Lennie taught swing dancing for many years. He and his wife, Lennie, are members of the American Bop Association Hall of Fame.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert Laux, and sister, Kathy McCoy. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Lennie; daughters Jill Schubert and her husband and son Christian and Hunter, of Maryville, Ill., and Tiffany Keller and her husband and children Joel, Lila, and Bram of Chicago, Ill.; mother Johanna Laux of Carlyle, Ill.; brothers, Roger Laux of San Jose, Calif., Ken Laux of Greenville, Ill., and Steve Laux of Swansea, Ill. In addition, he is survived by seven step-grandchildren and four step-children, Kim Phillips, Todd Taylor, Shawn Taylor and Shane Taylor, all of Arkansas.

The family is grateful for the wonderful support of the church and dance community friends and friends from around the country. Memorials may be made to ALS Association of Arkansas, 1200 Walnut, Suite 2309, Rogers, Ark., 72756. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016; followed by funeral services at 11 a.m., at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. at Providence Cemetery, Pine Bluff. Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– MARILYN “SUE” PIGGEE, 67, of Little Rock, departed this life on Feb. 6, 2016. Family hour Friday Feb. 12, from 6 til 8 p.m. Funeral Services will be held Feb. 13, 11 a.m. with both services at Greater Second Baptist Church, Geyer Springs. Arrangements provided by Premier Funeral Home 1518 S. Battery, Little Rock, Ark.

–––––❖––––– CARROLL ROATH POSEY SR., 91, of Little Rock, went home to be with the Lord on February 10, 2016. Born September 14, 1924 in North Little Rock to Carroll Amos Posey and Angie Henson Posey Rea, he was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of Crystal Hill Baptist Church.

He is survived by his loving wife, Christina; children, Nancy and Gordon Apple, Dolores and Bill Burns, and Carroll and Cindy Posey; sister, Sadie Varnell; eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be Friday, February 12 at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. at Crystal Hill Baptist Church, officiated by Bro. Larry Ballard, followed by interment at Crystal Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Crystal Hill Baptist Church, 18823 Crystal Valley Rd., Little Rock, Ark. 72210.

Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Mr. Posey’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– FLOYD HERMAN PRATER, 87, of North Little Rock passed away Monday, February 8, 2016. He was born January 7, 1929 to the late George and Norma Prater. He was a member of Mt. Sinai #749, Free and Accepted Masons, retired from Colonial Baking Company and was a self-employed businessman.

He is survived by his son, Kenneth Prater (Sandra), of Jacksonville, Arkansas; daughters, Vonda Pratt (George), of La Jolla, California, Becky Cinader (Dan) of Ortonville, Michigan and Karen Pike (David) of Farmington, Arkansas; an honorary daughter, Kay Hart; grandchildren, Kyle Prater (Christy), Whitney Ivey (Spencer), Jacob (Nikki), Matthew and Luke Cinader, Grace and Audrey Pike; great-grandchildren, Ava Prater, Nolan Cinader, Shepherd Ivey, and Lilyahna Ophelia Cinader (due February 19, 2016). He was preceded in death by his wife, Maggie Ophelia Douglass Prater; brothers, Lloyd, Louie and Treber Prater and his sister, Claudine Bruton.

Memorials may be made to Baptist Health Hospice, 11900 Colonel Glenn Road, Ste. 2000, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210-2820 or Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 800 Marshall Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202.

A visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at Zion Hill Baptist Church. Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

––––– ––––– A strong Christian, a devoted wife, a loving Mother and a great friend, we said goodbye to CAROLYN ANN PURNELL of Maumelle, Arkansas on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Baptist Health Hospital in Little Rock. Carolyn was born and raised in Greenville, Mississippi, however, had been a long time resident and active member of the Maumelle community, recently retiring from Crye Leike Realty.

Carolyn leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, R. Hugh Purnell;

daughters, Patti Blasingame and Susan McLaughlin; their husbands, Keith and Scott and five grandchildren, Brantley, Zachary, Marli, Blake and Trent all of The Woodlands, Texas. She also leaves many other relatives and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, David Carver and Geneva Kirk Toler; her sister Clarisse; and her brother David.

Memorial services will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211, (501) 224-8300 with visitation at 1 p.m. prior to the service. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

–––––❖––––– WILFRED LEON SENTER SR., 61, of Little Rock, transitioned Feb. 6, 2016. Family hour will be Friday, Feb. 12, 2016, 6-7 p.m. and services will be S aturday, Feb. 13, 2016, 11:30 a.m. Both services will be held at Holy Cross Baptist Church, 4800 W. 12th St., Little Rock, Ark. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202. (501 376-4800).

–––––❖––––– CYNTHIA RENEE SMITH, 55, of Hensley passed away peacefully February 7, 2016. She leaves to cherish her memory her father and mother Lavoy and Dorothy Smith, son, Rodney Ford; five sisters, Judy Moorehead, Lindella Withers, Towanda Smith, Teresa Johnson and Vita Carter; three brothers Eugene Hinton, Donnell Harris and Lavoy Smith. Family hour will be Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6 til 7 p.m. and funeral service will be Saturday, February 13, 10:30 a.m. with both services at New Haven United Methodist Church Hensley, Ark. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202.

––––– ––––– NANCY O’BRIEN STEEL died Sunday, February 7, 2016 in Little Rock. She leaves behind a brother, Sean O’Brien (Jane), four children, James A. “Jay” Steel, Jennifer Steel (Chris Attig), Joanna Wagner (Dan), and Julie Steel (Dr. Greg Engstrom). She is also survived by six grandsons, Alex and Max Walter, Thomas Wagner, Gus and Oliver Engstrom, and Fritz Attig, a nephew, Sean Nathan O’Brien and numerous other family and friends.

Nancy was born to James and Alice O’Brien in Indianapolis, Ind. on October 23, 1945. The eldest of three, she was a graduate of Little Rock Central High School and married Joe B. “Stan” Steel in the spring of 1963. Following the death of her parents, Nancy and Stan raised her younger brothers, Jimmy and Sean

O’Brien, as their own.

Nancy had a sharp mind and a quick wit. She remained feisty and determined throughout her life. She never lost sight of what was important to her, and passed on to her children her passion for justice, precision, efficiency and a love of words. She worked hard and expected no more from others than she demanded of herself.

During a journalism career spanning 25 years, Nancy began as a newspaper copywriter, then reporter, and eventually worked her way to Features Editor of the Southwest Times Record (now Times Record) in Fort Smith. Nancy won numerous awards for the paper, and in 1999 edited Insight 2000, a history of Fort Smith.

In 1986, Nancy, along with her daughters, initiated litigation which resulted in a permanent injunction to ensure the freedom of religion for school children in Van Buren. The case has precedential value and has been cited throughout the country.

“Remembering Nancy” will be held Friday, February 12, 2016, beginning at 6:30 p.m., at the River City Bistro, 7320 Rogers Avenue, Suite 7, in Fort Smith. In recognition of Nancy’s appreciation for glitz, all are invited (though not required) to wear animal print, flashy jewelry, and/or magnificent shoes.

A memorial service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 706 Xavier Street, in Fort Smith, Arkansas at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2016. Friends and family are welcome to attend either or both events. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– LILLIE MAE TOLBERT born July 3, 1930 joined her heavenly father on Feb. 2, 2016. Family hour will be Friday, Feb. 12, 2016 from 6 til 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be Saturday, Feb. 13, 11 a.m. at New Hebron Baptist Church 7615 Woodson Rd. Little Rock, Ark. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home 1518 S. Battery St. Little Rock, Ark. 72202.

–––––❖––––– JOE WHERRY III, 82 of North Little Rock, Arkansas departed this life Tuesday, February 9, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Johnnie Wherry, three children, Yolanda, Eric, Valarie, brother, Archie Wherry, sister, Verl Reddick, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral Services, 11 a.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 850 Atkinson Street, North Little Rock. Family Hour, Friday, 6-7 p.m., at church. Funeral Services entrusted to Hubble Funeral Home, 3743134. “Serving you with professional care since 1900.”

Arkansas

ARKADELPHIA — Mother Elsie Mae Snowden, 87, of Arkadelphia passed away on February 2, 2016 at Twin Rivers Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born on August 17, 1928 to the late Benjamin J. Lawrence and John Anner Brownlee.

Survivors include: one daughter, Lillie White of Arkadelphia, Ark.; two sons, Ben DeLoach (Barbara) of Memphis, Tenn. and Gary DeLoach (Rhonda) of Jacksonville, Ark.; two daughters-in-law, Michelle DeLoach of Jacksonville, Ark. and Elizabeth DeLoach of Hope, Ark.; 15 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren and a host of special cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church where Dr. Lewis A. Shepherd is pastor. Superintendent Ron Matheney will serve as officiant and Superintendent Leroy Williams will serve as eulogist. Visitation will be Friday, February 12, 2016 from 12 noon to 5 p.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home and family hour from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Tate Temple Church of God in Christ. Burial will be at Piney Grove Cemetery under the direction of Mitchell Funeral Home. The online guestbook is available to sign at www.mitchellfuneralservices.com.

––––– ––––– AUSTIN — Dell Robert Hicks, 70, after a long hard-fought battle with cancer, slipped away into Our Heavenly Father’s Arms on February 10, 2016 at his home in Austin. Dell was born to Robert “Bob” and Reva Horne Hicks on December 15, 1945 in Richfield, Utah. He was a 1964 graduate of Grace High School in Grace, Idaho. As a young man, he served in the United States Army and spent the rest of his years in construction work. Mr. Hicks was a longtime member of Indianhead Lake Baptist Church in Sherwood. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a daughter, Teresa Hartin.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Glenda of Austin; three daughters, Tanya Staggs, Mischelle Oliver (Ronnie), all of Stephenville, Texas, and Jennie Blaty (Richard), of Austin; two brothers, Ron Hicks (Terry) of Richfield, Utah and John Hicks (Jennifer) of Central Valley, Utah; two sisters, Kate Ashbaker (Steve) of Layton, Utah, and Judi Cook of Richfield, Utah; 10 grandchildren, Tori Lewis of Lubbock, Texas, Paige Brown (Ray) of Cabot, Remington Oliver (Whitney), Brawnson Oliver (Chenille), all of Stephenville, Texas, Will Thomas (Chelsee) of Manhattan, Kansas, Rachael Hartin of Dallas, Texas, Mandy Clark (Brandon) and Robert Watson (Jessie), all of Cabot and Timothy Watson (Vanessa) of Walker, Louisiana. Dell also had 12 great-grandchildren and many more loved ones that will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, February 12, 2016 with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Johnstown Memory Garden Cemetery in Jackson County. Arrangements are by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www. moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BALD KNOB — Anfant Dale Holt Sr. 64, died Tuesday. Survivors include his wife, Melinda Holt; sons, Clifford and Anfant Holt, Jr.; siblings, Dempsey, Charlie, Debra, Patricia, Betty, Willene, Georgia and Glenda; a granddaughter, Charity Lynn Verneal Holt and many friends. Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Powell Funeral Home Bald Knob-Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– BAUXITE — Steven Patrick Poteet, 52, of Bauxite passed away Tuesday, February 2, 2016. He was born in Houston, Texas on November 12, 1963 and is survived by his parents Russel Poteet (Lois) of Conway and Mildred “Micki” Poteet of Little Rock. Steven enjoyed the outdoors, going to his friend’s cabin, riding 4-wheelers, hunting and playing Xbox, but his greatest enjoyment was the apple of his eye, his granddaughter, Aydriana. Steven is also survived his children: Andrew Patrick and Destiny Angelia; granddaughter, Aydriana Lynn; and brother, Glen Poteet (Edward Mooney). A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.

–––––❖––––– BEEBE — Heather Danielle Stroud, 29, of Beebe, Arkansas, was born December 19, 1986, at Little Rock, Arkansas, to Robbie Stroud Jr. and Denise (Campbell) Stroud, and she died Monday, February 8, 2016.

She graduated Beebe High School in 2005, and Hendrix College in 2009, with a Bachelor’s degree in Allied Health. She was a student at Pulaski Tech pursuing her nursing degree. Heather worked for UAMS in the Emergency Department. She had worked as an EMT since 2008, a year before she graduated college.

Heather is survived by her parents; her grandmother, Joan King; aunts, Debbie Linkous (Jim) and Connie Stroud; uncle Roger Campbell (Patty); cousins, Riley, Dustin, Destin and Caitlyn; special great aunt, Louise Baskin; and her four legged friend, Rookie. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Robbie and Olga Stroud; step-grandfather, Milford King; and uncles Gary Campbell and John Stroud.

Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Memorials may be made to JDRF Diabetes Foundation, 26 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10004. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday, February 12, 2016, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. Cremation arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Gregory Dean Ford, 50, of Benton, went to be with the Lord on February 9, 2016. He was born to Ralph and Carolyn Ford on November 28, 1965 in Festus, Missouri. Gregory grew up in Cherokee, Alabama taking guitar lessons at Fame Studio in Muscle Shoals. He loved playing the guitar and piano, reading, and the color purple. Gregory was an alumni of Cherokee High School, Bethel Baptist College and the University of Arkansas. He was a member of the Arkansas Songwriters Association and the Nashville Songwriters Association. Gregory played at The Bluebird in Nashville and on Beale Street in Memphis. He loved his church, playing in the orchestra at Geyer Springs First Baptist in Little Rock and driving church buses at Bible Baptist Church and Foothill Baptist Church. Gregory also loved to support missionaries around the world.

After graduating from high school, at the age of 18, he joined the Air Force. Gregory was stationed at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, Incirlik AB,Turkey, Little Rock AFB, Arkansas and March AFB, California. He retired from Arkansas Air National Guard in Little Rock. During his time in the service Gregory enjoyed traveling to Turkey, Germany, Greece, Spain, England, Japan, and Gaum. He also took trips to Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic.

Gregory was preceded in death by his parents and his grandparents; James “Everette” and Ona Bell Ford and Robert and Leta Wornowsky. He is survived by his loving wife Jacqueline; four children, Starla Hester (Daniel), Shawna Kyles (Matthew), Zachary Ford, Mark Ford; four siblings, Charles “Chuck” Ford, William “Bill” Ford (Kelly Ann), Randel “Randy” Ford (Debbie), Patricia “Patty” McDonald (Charles); and three grandchildren, Landen, Lydia and Sophia.

A visitation will be held Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6-8 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home, 10200 Hwy. 5 N., Alexander, Arkansas. Funeral Services will be Saturday morning, February 13, 2016 at 10 a.m. in the chapel with Will Kennedy officiating.

In Lieu of flowers the family request making donations to Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church Missions Program, 460 Cedar St., Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, in memory of Gregory. Please share your memories of Gregory at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.

–––––❖––––– BRINKLEY — William Smith, 61, of Brinkley passed on February 5th. Survivors: three children, Raymond, Loretta, and Sharon; three grandchildren; seven brothers: Ivory, Kinnie, Jerry, Cleveland, Larry, Jonas, and, Prince; and seven sisters: Laverne, Shirley, Jewel, Mabel, Margie, Janice, and Arnobia. Visitation: 1-6 p.m. Friday at Watson Northcrest, 1801 Maple, North Little Rock. 812-5303. Funeral: 1 p.m. Saturday at Brinkley Convention Center with the family hour starting at 12 noon.

–––––❖––––– CABOT — Robert “Eddie” Coleman, age 77, of Cabot went home to his Savior and his wife Marie on Tuesday, February 9, 2016. He was born October 27, 1938 in Wynne, Arkansas to the late Reverend J.H. (Henry) and Marcia Coleman. Eddie was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Cabot and a member of the Gideons International for over 47 years. He will always be remembered as a loving-husband, father, grandfather and trout fisherman. He was dedicated to the ministry of the Gideons, especially the jail ministry which he felt was his calling to help those who needed the gospel of Jesus Christ at their lowest points in life.

He was preceded in death (38 days) by his devoted wife, Marie. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Lisa Jones (John) of Cabot; his son, Kevin Coleman (Sheila) of Quitman; grandchildren, Lauren and Jordan Jones of Cabot, Mallorie Butcher (Will) of Cordova, Tenn., Lance Martin of Bartlett, Tenn., Maddie Johnston and Samuel Coleman of Quitman, and one brother, John (Karen) Coleman of Cabot.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Faith Baptist Church in Cabot. Interment will follow in Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to Gideons International, Cabot Camp, P.O. Box 212, Cabot, Ark. 72023 or www.gideons.org. Arrangements by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www. moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Carl J. Garrich of Carlisle died February 8, 2016 peacefully at his home at the age of 97. Carl was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Gloria Ward Garrich, his mother Pauline Dolny Garrich, his father Mike Garrich and his sisters Marie Garrich Hamel and Frances Garrich Senko.

Carl was a lifelong farmer and began farming in 1941. Carl was active on many levels including being past president of the Lonoke Farm Bureau, president of the Lonoke Grain Dryer, and serving on the Riceland Foods executive committee. In 1971 Carl began growing organic rice and became one of the largest growers in the country. He took great pride in recalling that he was the first farmer to produce 200 bushels of rice per acre in Arkansas.

In 1946 he married Gloria Jean Ward and they had one child, Stephanie. Carl is survived by his daughter Stephanie Garrich McGhee, her husband Dr. Timothy McGhee and five grandchildren, Christopher Stephen McGhee, Michael Stuart McGhee, Matthew Mattimore McGhee, Bridget McGhee Wiggins and Zachary Michael McGhee as well as 8 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Mr. Bob Skarda, Mr. William Skarda, Mr. Danny Smith, Mr. Christopher McGhee, Mr. Michael McGhee, Mr. Matthew McGhee and Mr. Jason Smith. There will be visitation at St. Rose of Lima Catholic church in Carlisle at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 12th, with a funeral mass at 10:30 a.m.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Mrs. Alice Smith who was his primary caregiver for the last 16 months. We would also like to thank Mrs. Louise Grayson and Mrs. Helen Holoman for all they have done to help Mr. Garrich over the years. A special thanks to Ellen Woodyard who was Carls’s Hospice nurse for all of her love and care for him. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to either St.Rose parish or Baptist Hospice. online obituary at westbrookfuneralhomehazen.com.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Aline Stroud Smith, 80, of Conway died Tuesday February 9, 2016. She was born May 14, 1935 in Damascus, Ark. Funeral Service: 10 a.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel Conway. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Friday, February 12, 2016. Interment at Springhill Cemetery. Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/conway.

–––––❖––––– CROSSETT — Clarence Lee Burnett, 73, of Crossett died February 7, at ACMC in Crossett. Funeral Service 1 p.m., Thursday, at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy. 52 W, Crossett. Military honors at Sims Cemetery. Visitation: 11-1 p.m. before service. For full obituary go to www.meddersfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– EL DORADO — Levenia Johnson Reifsteck, 77 of El Dorado, passed away, Tuesday, January 19, 2016, at her residence. A memorial service will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, February 13, 2016, at the family residence at 5833 Calion Hwy. in El Dorado. www.youngsfuneralhome. com.

–––––❖––––– FURLOW — Virginia Ann Cole of Furlow went to Heaven on February 9, 2016. She was born April 29, 1955 in Hillsborough, Ohio. She is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Sue Simmons, and brother, Johnny Simmons. Virginia was joint pastor at Faith Community Church in Furlow. She loved music, traveling and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Elmer Cole; son Daniel and wife Lindsey; grandchildren, McKenzie, Bailee, and Harper; brothers, Bud Simmons and Harvey Simmons; sisters, Billie Collins and Wanda Lewis.

Visitation for Virginia will be Thursday, February 11th from 6 to 8 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service Chapel. Funeral Service will be Friday, February 12th at 1 p.m. at Faith Christian Center on T.P. White Drive in Jacksonville. Interment will follow at Concord Cemetery in Furlow at 3 p.m.

–––––❖––––– GREENBRIER — On Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Our Lord transitioned Mary Sulina McNabb from her earthly home into His Holy presence. Mary was born December 25, 1925 in Earle, Ark. to the late George and Clara Nelson Miller. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, James Sulina; sister, Betty Cyr; and brother, G.W. Miller.

Mary held many jobs in her life, but none could compare to the ones she loved at Central High School where she worked for 28 years. First she worked as the band secretary, then the head of the attendance department, and lastly as the registrar. She later moved to the Little Rock School Board Office and retired from there. After retirement she volunteered in the cancer unit at the V.A. Medical Center. Mary enjoyed music and dancing and seeing shows in Branson. She especially loved family gatherings with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Steven McNabb of Greenbrier; son, Michael Sulina of Ft. Smith; daughter Jamie Presley (Don) of Conway; two grandsons, Scott Presley (Denise) of Austin and Steve Presley (Jackie) of Conway; two great–grandchildren, Lake Presley of Conway and Ashton Presley of San Marcos, Texas; four step-great-grandchildren, David Hazeslip (Sheri) of Cabot, Jessica Shirley (Sam) of Cabot, Justin Vanderveer of Conway, and Lauren Vanderveer of Conway; one step-great–great–grandson, Hagen Alexander; three sisters, Margaret Baker of Alabam, Ark., Ruth Wright (Charles) of Greenbrier, and Nelda Horn (Roger) of Benton; and two brothers, Fred Miller of Wynne and Larry Miller (Becky) of West Memphis.

Visitation will be 1 p.m., Friday, February 12, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church in Greenbrier and funeral service will start at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier.

–––––❖––––– GURDON — Patricia McCoy, 67, Gurdon, passed Saturday. Survivors: her family: Rouvenda and Nathaniel Sims, Lencola Robertson, Kimberly and Rockine McCoy, Henry Williams, James Marshall, Clemmie Hance, Fred Ogburn, Scotty, David and Frank McCoy, 14 grandchildren. Funeral: 11 a.m. Friday, Kingdom Authority Christian Ministries. Services by Williams Funeral Home. Sign guestbook: http://www.funeralsatwilliams.com/.

–––––❖––––– HARDY — Clara Jo Viner Carter, 82, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2016. She was a lifetime member of Hardy United Methodist Church where the funeral services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Survivors include her son, Franklin of Fort Smith and brother, Jim of Little Rock.

–––––❖––––– HENDERSON — Dene Baker, 80, of Henderson, Arkansas passed away February 8, 2016 in Mountain Home. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 1 until 3 p.m. Saturday, March 5, 2016 at the Elks Lodge in Mountain Home. Arrangements are by Roller Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/mtnhome.

–––––❖––––– HOUSTON — Mary Lou Eve Milligan, 81, of Houston, Ark., peacefully departed this life the 8th of February, 2016. She was the youngest of 15 children, born January 13, 1935, to Charles and Sofia (Blackburn) Schaaf, Markville, Minn. Mary Lou will be remembered as a funny, friendly, feisty lady, who loved her family very much. She loved laughing, dancing, fishing, crafts, the outdoors, especially the numerous hummingbirds that would flutter outside her windows. We will miss her sense of humor, wit, and compassion.

Mary Lou leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband, and soulmate of 50 years, Harold Milligan of Houston Arkansas, daughters, Marie Gates & Jeannie Frizzell, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, two brothers, one sister, one sister-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary Lou will always been remembered as a beloved wife, momma, grandma, gran-nana, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, devout Catholic, and proud St. Croix Chippewa Indian. She is preceded in death by her parents, seven brothers, four sisters and her brother-in-law.

In lieu of flowers please donate money in her memory to the Arthritis Foundation at https://donate.arthritis.org/site/apps/ka/sd/ donorcustom.asp?c=pkI2KfMUItF&b=8324237&_ga=1.102647304.8 42844522.1455050215. A Memorial Service will be Friday February 12, 2016 at 3 p.m. at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Online guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– HUMNOKE — Cinderella “Cindy” Vent Bowlan Carter, age 74, of Humnoke, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at Baptist Health Medical Center of Little Rock. She was a lifelong resident of Southern Lonoke County and a retired farmer. She was a former president and active member of Carlisle Altruistic club and a member of the Hamilton Baptist Church. She ran her planting interests with an iron fist and beautiful smile, be it the farm or her beloved rose bushes. She was well known for a lovely yard and home.

Cinderella was named by her oldest brother Carl Andrew Vent. Carl had been promised the chance to name his fifth sibling if it were a girl. When Cindy was born Carl held his mother to her word and named his only sister “Cinderella” after his favorite book. Her beauty lived up to her name.

She was born March 19, 1941 to Vester and Hazel Mayher Vent. She married Jack Martin Bowlan, May 15, 1959 and was married 38 years until his death in 1998. They had two children, Teresa and Steven. She was married to her loving husband R.B. “Bud” Carter on January 7, 2008 and is survived by him. She is also survived by her daughter. Teresa Bowlan Cash and her husband Dee of Vilonia; her son. J. Steven Bowlan of Little Rock; two grandchildren, Derek Cash of Pensacola, Florida and Erica Cash Bullard and husband Cody of Stuttgart; two brothers. Paul (Jean) Vent of Carlisle and Lee (Carolyn) Vent of Clarendon; sisters-in-law, Freda Vent of Pine Bluff, Blanch Bowlan of Carlisle, Mary Lee Vaught of Houston, Arkansas and Angela Vent of Jacksonville, Arkansas; two stepchildren, Barbara (Pip) Terry of Humnoke and Brad (Lasha) Carter of Stuttgart and a lifelong best friend Mary Nell King of Humnoke; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her first husband Jack; parents, and brothers, Carl, J.J., Robert, and George Vent.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Funeral Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, February 12 at Hamilton Baptist Church, 4362 Hamilton Loop Rd., Carlisle, Ark. Interment will follow at Hamilton Cemetery. Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. www. boydfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Ruthie T. Hunter Evans, 61, Malvern, passed February 4, 2016. Survivors: sons: Perry McCauley, Jasper and Derrick Evans, Johnny Hall; nine grandchildren; siblings, Pat Nunn, Mary Whitaker, Sandra Jones, Royal and Odis Hunter. Service: 11 a.m. Saturday, Pleasant Hill A.M.E. Church, Arkadelphia. Services by Williams Funeral Home. Sign guestbook: http://www.funeralsatwilliams.com/.

–––––❖––––– MONROE — Sissy Meacham, age 65, died Tuesday. Survivors, husband, Kirby “Smo” Meacham son, Joseph (Meghan) Meacham; daughter, Amber (Christopher) Evans; grandchildren, Evan Meacham, Alyson and Jordan Evans; great-grandchild, Addison Evans; brother, Mike Baker. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Bob Neal & Sons, Brinkley. Graveside services 2 p.m., Friday, Oaklawn Cemetery, Brinkley. Guestbook www.bobnealandsons.com.

–––––❖––––– MOUNTAIN VIEW — Leroy “Roy” Brown died February 9, 2016. Survived by his wife, Marjeta and one son, Roy Lee. The visitation is Thursday, February 11, 2016, from 1-2 p.m. at Roller Coffman Chapel in Mountain View, Arkansas. The funeral service will follow the visitation beginning at 2 p.m. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/mtview1.

–––––❖––––– RISON — Devin Wayne Duncan, age 46, of Rison, Ark. (Herbine Community) died Tuesday, February 9th at his home. Funeral services 10 a.m. Friday, February 12th at Bethel #2 Church with Rev. Wade Peddy officiating. Burial Prosperity Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Visitation: 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. Thursday, at Frazer’s. www.frazerfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Lyman Harris, PhD, 68, died February 9, 2016. Come and go celebration at Fat Daddy’s in Downtown Russellville from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday. Arrangements by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Contributions to Dr. Lyman Harris Scholarship Fund, Arkansas Tech Foundation, 8820 Tech Lane, Russellville, Ark. 72801. Online obituary/ guestbook www.shinnfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Rosa Odessa Dupuy, 84, of Searcy, Arkansas, died Monday, February 8, 2016. She retired from The Shoe Factory in Searcy after working 40 years. She was a Baptist, and a woman of many talents: artist, seamstress, carpenter, and electrician. There was never a task too large or small. She was an animal lover and doctored many animals.

She is survived by two sons, Randy H. Martin, and L.D. (Linda) Martin; one daughter, Marsha Kay Martin, all of Searcy; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Rosa was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Dupuy; her father and mother, Robert and Dona Ellis; seven brothers; two sisters; and one grandson.

Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, with burial in Glover Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Born in Black Rock, Arkansas on 9-6-1929, Billy Duan Verkler, 86, of Searcy, Arkansas finished his race on Sunday, 2-7-2016, when he was carried home by the Spirit of the Lord. Billy Verkler, Ph.D, was an example of Jesus, loving every person unconditionally. He was an outstanding father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, mentor, counselor, teacher, preacher, elder, and friend. Although he has left this earth, his life work has, and will continue to have, a positive legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Searcy Children’s Home, or the White County Literacy Council. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– STAR CITY — Robert “Bob” Samuel McBryde Sr., 80, of Star City died Wednesday. Funeral Services are 10 a.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church in Star City. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at Griffin Funeral Service. Burial at Leek Cemetery. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.

–––––❖––––– WARD — Edward “Eddie” Haslip, age 67, of Ward, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord February 6, 2016. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com. A certified Veteran’s care provider.

–––––❖––––– WYNNE — Herman Ballmann of Wynne died Sunday. He is survived by wife: Loretta, three sons, three daughters, two sisters, 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Visitation; Thursday, 5-7 p.m. at Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home, Rosary; 7 p.m. Funeral; 10 a.m. at St. Peters Catholic Church in Wynne. Interment following in Cogbill Cemetery.

Out-of-state

PHOENIX — Juereta Roberts Smith, 76, of Phoenix, Ariz. departed this life on February 6, 2016. She was the daughter of the late William L. Roberts and Margaret Gill Roberts Thomas.

She is survived by one son, Malcolm (Mary), of Anthem, Ariz.; one grandson, Maxwell, one granddaughter, Ella, three brothers, Terrence Roberts (Jeanie) of Pasadena, Calif., William E. Roberts of Pascagoula, Miss.; Jerome Roberts of Long Beach, Calif.; two sisters, Beverly Rhodes (Billy) of Little Rock, Ark., Margaret Daniels of Carrollton, Texas and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins… As well as Many dear and cherished friends.

A memorial/celebration service will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 2 p.m. at 31910 N. Foothills Drive in Phoenix, Ariz.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the following charities: The Salvation Army, UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders, St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, Habitat for Humanity, or C.A.R.E International

Juereta was admired for her intellect, big heart, inclusive nature, charitable soul, and the difference she made for so many. She will be greatly missed.

–––––❖––––– MIAMI — Marilyn Baird Newkirk, formerly of Little Rock, Ark. and Tulsa, Okla., and currently of Miami, Fla., passed away unexpectedly and peacefully beside the love of her life on Friday, January 29, 2016.

She was born to Newton P. Baird and India Benson Baird on April 29, 1930 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She received an associate degree from Hendrix College and did further studies in Speech Communications at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She was a member of the 20th Century Club in Little Rock. Among her greatest joys was being the mother of her three children. After her youngest child was in school, she began her career working for the Laser Law Firm.

In 1985, she reconnected with her teenage love, Bob Newkirk. They were married on November 24, 1989 in Little Rock and she moved to live with Bob in Tulsa, Okla. She enjoyed 24 years in Tulsa, continuing her career there in health insurance administration and developing her second career as a public speaker. She gave many wonderful presentations over the years, including “The Healing Power of Humor,” for which she was featured in various periodicals. Marilyn was renowned for her many book reviews, a talent that she enjoyed and continued until her death. She was a member of PEO, Friends of the Library in Tulsa, and active in the United Methodist Church. Marilyn and Bob’s sense of adventure took them on many interesting travels and brought them to Miami in 2013. Marilyn never met a stranger and always made others feel special. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word for all. She left an imprint on the hearts of all she met.

Marilyn is survived by her husband and soul mate, Robert W. Newkirk; her children Cindy McCall Talbert (William), Jay B. McCall (Rena) and Carolyn McCall Squires (David); stepchildren Melanie Newkirk Trook (Larry) and Mark Grady Merritt (Alex), nieces Janet James (David), and Summer Williams; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, February 6, 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables, 536 Coral Way, Coral Gables, Fla. 33134. In lieu of flowers, her wishes were for donations to be made to First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables.

–––––❖––––– FLINT, Mich. — Deolar “Dee Dee” Aubrey, 79, of Flint, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2016. She leaves to cherish her memory: her children, Gary Mitchell, Barry Dean Mitchell (Elnora), and Dr. Joyce Hafeeza Piert; siblings, Michael Adams, Eddie Jean Leak, Margarine Adams, and Colleen Adams. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 13, 2016, 12 noon at Hardy Funeral Home Memorial Chapel. A visitation will be held tomorrow from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Personal and Professional services entrusted to Hardy Funeral Home, 5300 West 12th Street, Little Rock (501) 372-4129. To sign the online guestbook please visit www.hardyfuneralhomeinc.com. “We Care, When Caring Counts.”

–––––❖––––– ST. LOUIS — Mavis Jordan Mays, 92, of St. Louis, Missouri, died Saturday, February 6, 2016. She was a retired geriatric nurse. She was born in Wattensaw, Arkansas on May 10, 1923, to the late Henry and Willene Hester Jordan.

She is survived by her husband, Charlie Mays; two daughters, Beverly Cownover of New Mexico and Jackie Gumbert of California; two sons, Henry “Skippy” Hunter of Texas and Billy Joe Steinmetz of Kansas; ten grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; and seventeen great-great-grandchildren; and many cousins and friends from Arkansas.

Visitation will be 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, February 13, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. Saturday, at Wattensaw Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.