Pulaski County

JOE WILLIE ALLEN JR. Visitation: today, 12 noon-6 p.m., Robinson Mortuary-LR. Service: Friday, 11 a.m. at Walnut Grove Ministries, 1000 I St., NLR. Officiating: Bishop Ray Floyd. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– RICHARD JOSEPH BYRNE, 84, passed peacefully on Monday, June 19, 2017, with family at his side. Born August 13, 1932, Richard was a lifelong resident of Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended Catholic grade school and high school, graduating from Catholic High School for Boys as an all-state basketball player. He graduated from St. Louis University in Missouri, where he attended on a basketball scholarship.

He leaves his wife of 60 years, Emogene ‘Empie’ Byrne; his five sons: Ron (and wife, Ellen), of Oklahoma; Randy (and Jessica Rice), of Little Rock; Richard (and wife, Catherine), of Cincinnati; Roch (and wife Diana), of Little Rock, and Rusty (and wife, Debbie), of Little Rock. He also leaves behind 9 grandchildren (Will, John, Kate, Michael, Travis, Bailey, Darby, Holly and Kylie), who all deeply adored their ‘Zak.’ Richard was preceded in death by his mother and father, Zita and Leo Byrne, as well as his two brothers, Raymond and Robert Byrne.

Richard pursued many interests and loved knowledge for the sake of knowledge. He was a CPA and a member of the Arkansas Bar. He passed the Series 7, was a registered broker and commodity trader. Prior to falling ill with dementia, he was attending UALR music classes and was quite the pianist, composing several original pieces. He was past President of the Little Rock Jaycees, Grand Knight of the local Knights of Columbus chapter, and a member of the Irish Cultural Society of Arkansas. Richard was also a military veteran, serving in the U.S. Army.

Richard was a great provider, contributing in countless ways for his family. His incredible work ethic allowed his children to attend private secondary schooling and mostly private colleges. He instilled in his children the ability to think for themselves. He provided an excellent example of marriage. And most importantly, he provided us with the example of loving Jesus by following his Catholic faith, attending mass almost daily for the past 30 years.

Richard loved his family dearly and loved spending time with his grandkids. He especially loved traveling with the family and was always up for an adventure — including family trips to Alaska, Ireland, Costa Rica, and island-hopping in the Bahamas.

Visitation will be Friday, June 23, 2017, from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home at 5800 W. 12th Street, Little Rock 72204; followed by a Rosary Service that evening from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Funeral mass will be held Saturday, June 24, 2017, at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, at 4000 N. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Richard’s memory to Christ the King Catholic School, 4002 N. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock, Ark. 72212. To express condolences and sign the online guestbook, visit www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.

–––––❖––––– VIOLA WILSON CAPLE, 99, of North Little Rock, passed away June 20, 2017. She was born January 29, 1918 to John Wesley and Fannie Pearl McKee in Lonoke. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Claude Wilson; two brothers, Bennie and Gene McKee; and William Wilson, whom she lovingly raised as her son.

Viola had a servant’s heart which could be seen during her years at Park Hill Baptist Church and volunteering with Salvation Army. Viola had a keen sense of fashion, which she used to help the ladies at her Dress Shop she owned in Lonoke. It is said that Viola was a fierce competitor at Bridge as well.

Viola is survived by her husband of 19 years, Earl Caple; two nieces, Wanda Thompson (Carroll), Janis Hotchkiss (Rick); raised as one of her daughters, Linda Neuman (Jim); step-son Steven Caple; step-daughter, Susan Baugh; seven great-nieces and great-nephews; seven step-grandchildren; and a host of dear friends.

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m., Friday June 23, 2017, at Edgewood Memorial Park in North Little Rock. Visitation will be Thursday, June 22, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Online Guestbook: www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

–––––❖––––– CARL GRANT, 72, of Little Rock, passed away June 17, 2017. Survived by children: Quincy, Kelvin Grant, Carla Parker, Kenyatta Stewart. Visitation, June 24, 2017, 10-11 a.m. Funeral Service: Saturday, June 24, 2017 11 a.m. Both at Gunn Funeral Home. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W 29th, LR, Ark. 501-660-4323.

–––––❖––––– PHYLLIS A. GRIFFITHS, 64, of North Little Rock, died June 19, 2017. She was born October 30, 1952 to Thorwald and Mildred Thorne in Little Rock. She is preceded in death by her parents. Phyllis worked at AT&T for over thirty years before retiring.

Phyllis is survived by her three daughters: Lauren Griffiths, Cara Griffiths and Katie Griffiths, all of North Little Rock; five grandchildren: Amari Beckton, Alayah Beckton, Lana Martinez, Greyson Penn, and Hazel Penn; and one brother, Frank Thorne of North Little Rock. She enjoyed gardening, raising canaries, and her beloved dog, Oakley.

Funeral Service will be at 2 p.m., Friday, June 23, 2017, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Burial to follow at Edgewood Memorial Park in North Little Rock. Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

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JACK DOYLE ISON of Sherwood was born on July 12, 1930 in Gravel Ridge, Arkansas, to the late John and Florence Ison. He passed away on June 20, 2017 at the age of 86.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Bessie (Brady) Ison. He is survived by his family whom he loved dearly: two daughters, Cindi Willis (Jerry) and Lisa Smith (Brad); three grandchildren, Staci Miller (Trei), Kaci Burnett (Caleb), and Taylor Smith (fiancee Stephanie Mantell); four great-grandchildren, Jaydison and Madelynn Miller, and Caden and Colby Burnett; one brother, Ross Ison, and one sister, Jamie Harrell (Leo); and a host of dear friends at the Hays Senior Center. He was also preceded in death by his infant son, Jeffrey Doyle Ison; his parents; three brothers, Tom Ison, George Ison, and Jimmie Ison; and one sister, Emogene Brothers.

He was a member of the Plumbers & Pipefitters Union Local 155 for 69 years. After proudly serving his country during the Korean War, he spent the majority of his working years at Westinghouse. He retired in 1995 and was a caregiver to his wife for many years. His joy was his family and he never missed an opportunity to show up, speak up, and cheer us on.

After several hours spent searching for the right words to describe our hero, we simply want to say that he was our rock, our strength, and an example to all of us. We will miss him every second of every day. Job well done, Daddy.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, June 23, 2017 at Friendship Baptist Church in Sherwood. Burial will be in Edgewood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– JESSIE L. JOHNSON, 91, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away on June 14, 2017. Preceded in death by two daughters, Elizabeth Pendleton and Jessie Farrow. Her loving survivors include: children, Emma Finley (Charles, Sr.), Delias Brown, Erma Davis and Willie Keys; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other loving relatives. Home going services will be Saturday, June 24, 2017, 12 noon, at Macedonia Baptist Church, 1723 East 3rd St., LR. Interment will follow at Rest In Peace Memorial Gardens, Hensley, Ark. Family visitation: Friday, June 23, 2017, 6-7 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖––––– AUGUST “GUS” FRANK KAPLON of North Little Rock, passed away June 21, 2017, at the age of 81. He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and eleven brothers. He worked at Vestal’s Greenhouse and the VA Hospital as a groundskeeper.

Uncle Gus loved everything about the outdoors and gardening. He was always outside in the summertime. He was known for his green thumb in his green house, garden, and his amazing ability to raise the most bountiful fruits, vegetables, flowers, bushes, and trees. He loved all things unusual and tropical, from his peacocks to assorted plants, and unusual vegetation. He always raised chickens, guineas, and ducks. He was full of laughter and love for his family. When he was inside he watched AETN Channel 2 for the latest cooking recipes, gardening techniques, or home improvements ideas.

The family would like to thank the staff for the excellent care and service provided by both Robinson Rehab Center and Hospice Home Care.

Funeral Service will be 11 a.m., Saturday, June 24, 2017 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, with a Rosary beginning at 10 a.m., burial will be at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cemetery. Online obituary and guestbook at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– LEOTIS MATTHEW MACON SR., 87, of Little Rock, Ark. peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on Saturday, June 17, 2017. He was born July 23, 1929 to the late Matthew Macon and Zeola “Lola”

Roselle Kelly. He attended Sweet

Home Junior

High School and was a graduate of Dunbar High School. Leotis was an inspiration to all who knew him. His greatest passion was his family — his loving devoted wife and children. He instilled in his children Christian values, importance of God, family, education, hard work, integrity, and security.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Ruby L. Macon; three sons, Leotis Matthew Macon Jr., William Elliott Macon and Daryl Douglas Macon Sr.; one granddaughter, Leigh Michelle Macon; siblings, Gracie Norene Macon Watson, William Macon, Herbert Macon, Nona Macon Hickman and Olivia Macon.

He is a faithful member of St. Mark Baptist Church. He was also a member of Harris Temple Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent. In addition, he was a member of Greater Second Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He worked for many companies and drove across country as well as the state of Arkansas totaling almost one million miles over a 45 year period. He received numerous awards acknowledging his expertise and earned the respect of fellow workers. He retired from ABF September 28, 1993. He was very fond of singing and never met a stranger.

He leaves to cherish his memories: children, Sheryl Yvonne Macon Martin Berger, Ruby Fern Macon Heard (Louis II), Donald O’Brien Macon (Linda), Daniel Bernard Macon (Shanda), Shaun Rachelle Macon Williams, Dwayne Macon (Robyn), and Dwyaun Macon (LaTonya); one daughter in-law, Deloise Ann Macon; grandchildren: Yvonne Renae Heard, Louis Heard III, Brien Matthew Macon (Portia), Shannon Yvette Heard, Veronika Gail Macon, Tiffany Monique Macon, Shala Rachelle Boykin, Brittany Shanielle Macon, Tierra Cherelle Macon, Daryl Douglas Macon Jr., Brandon Daryl Macon, Tyler Thomas Williams, and Layla Marie Macon; sisters, Arzelia Macon Barnes and Zeola Macon Knox; sisters-in-law, Mable Hall Moore, Ida Hall, and Rose Worthy Hall and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Family hour June 22, 2017, 6-7:30 p.m. Homegoing celebration June 23, 2017, 11 a.m. both held at St. Mark Baptist Church, 5722 W. 12th Street, Little Rock. Superior Funeral Services, 5017 E. Broadway, North Little Rock (501) 945-9922. Online guestbook www.superiorfuneralservices.com. Trudean Long brown “Providing Services Your Family Deserves.”

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Bro. BOOKER THOMAS MINOR of Maumelle passed on June 13th. He was born the eleventh child to the late Dossie and Julie Minor on December 11,

1935 in Louann, Arkansas. Survivors; wife of

21 years, Sadie (William) Minor.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Sarah Powell February 6, 1960 to this union two daughters; Valorie Givens (Texas) Patricia Minor, from his union to Sadie he inherited son; Michael (Shaunda) Cooney both of Little Rock, one brother; Robert Minor (Michigan); grandchildren; Crystal and Christopher Givens (Texas), Bianca and Bailey Cooney (Little Rock) and Cameren Givens who preceded him in death. One great grandchild; Cadien Givens (Texas). Family hour 6-8 p.m. Friday, Watson-Northcrest, 1801 Maple St. 812-5303. Funeral; 11 a.m. Saturday at Rock of Ages Missionary Baptist Church. Interment; Arkansas Memorial Gardens.

–––––❖––––– NICKIE NICOLE NATION, 45, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on June 19,

2017. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Hill Sr.; and brother, Robert

Hill, Jr. She is survived by her mother, Clara Deloney (JD) of Olive Branch, MS; husband, Darryl Shell; one son, Nikko Nation; daughters, Daveonna Shell and Shanitra Shell; grandchildren, Camoree Pettis, Camee Thorpe, Bralin Green and Bentley Green all of Little Rock, Ark.; two brothers, Gregory Hogue of Little Rock, Ark., and Dedric Nalls (Pam) of Dumas, Ark.; two sisters, Keitha Phillips of Windsors, Conn., and Nickie Jones (Shawn) of North Little Rock, Ark.; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, June 24, 2017, 11 a.m., at St. Peters Missionary Baptist Church, 3518 West 7th St., Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Rest In Peace Memorial Gardens, Hensley, Ark. Viewing: Friday, June 23, 2017, 2-4 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖––––– ROBERT PERISEREALERTS, 62, of Little Rock. Funeral services Saturday, 1 p.m., Visitation: 12 noon. Greater New Freedom Baptist Church 3900 W. 12th St. Gillespie & Kelly Funeral Home, (2420 Arch, (501) 376-7892/6125607) will be serving the Periserealerts families. Sign online register, send flowers/condolences, light “In Loving Memory Of” candle. www.gillespiekellyservices.com.

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Mrs. GRACIE MAE ROSS, age 94, of Little Rock died peacefully in her sleep on June 15, 2017 at home. She was born on April 15, 1923, in Lonoke, Arkansas, the only daughter of Lille Mae Madden and C.D. Lenox. She worked in private homes for most of her career but later retired from Jacuzzi Brothers Inc. after fifteen years of service.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her foster sister Willie Mae Neely of North Little Rock, Arkansas. four children: Rosemary Jones of Chicago, Illinois, Fred (Velma) Pruitt, Jr., of Florida, Sultana (Nazeer) Khabeer, of Los Angeles and Linda Ross-Williams, of Fontana, California; fourteen grandchildren: Donald Ford, Carrey Pruitt, Ryan Pruitt, Carol Banks, Renea Banks, Monroe McKinney, III, Shannon McKinney, Ameerah Khabeer, Jerry Tucker, Jr., James Taylor, Jr., Dr. Secora Lambert, Dr. Shuntay Taylor, Era Taylor-Long, Esquire and Marine Staff Sergeant Jameel Taylor; great grandchildren: Marcus Ford, Aisha Vance, Dominic Wilson, Jasmine Tucker, Sylver Franklin, Jasmine Tucker, John Lambert Jr., Ahmad Taylor, Nia Long, Aniya Long, James Ross Long, Jamilah Taylor, Jaden Long and Nina Long. She was also blessed with two great-great-grandchildren, Aiden Wilson and Sylvan Franklin.

Funeral Service, 10 a.m., Monday, June 26, 2017, Hubble Memorial Chapel, 1213 East Washington Avenue, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114. Following the service Gracie will be laid to rest on with her husband, Eugene at 12 noon at the Little Rock National Cemetery, located at 2523 Springer Boulevard, Little Rock, Ark. 72206. Family Hour, 5-6 p.m. Sunday, June 25, 2017. Funeral Services entrusted to the legacy, Hubble Funeral Home. “Serving you with professional care since 1900”, www.hubblefuneralhome.co.

–––––❖––––– JOHN M. THOMPSON, 75, of North Little Rock passed away June 20, 2017. He was born June 26, 1941 in Fordyce to parents, Hugh and Cozetta Thompson, who preceded him in death along with his brother, Jerry Thompson.

He is survived by two brothers, Hugh A. Thompson Jr. (Peggy) of Greenbrier and David Thompson (Pam) of North Little Rock; three nieces, Jill Johnson (John) of Little Rock, Cindy Sorrells (G.W.) of Marion, Megan Thompson of North Little Rock and a nephew, Trevor Thompson (Stephanie) of Sherwood.

Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Saturday June 24, 2017 at Oakland Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.