Pulaski County
CLEVELAND BAILEY SR., 68, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life July 15, 2017. He was preceded in death by parents O.D. Guy and Bernice Bailey and a brother John North. He leaves to cherish his memory: children, Tracy, Hakeem, and Cleveland Bailey Jr., Shevy Smith, and Rapheal Coleman; siblings: Morisetta North, Bessie Bailey, Eddie North, Stella North, Cecil Mae Turner, Micheal Bailey, and Lisa Everett; 13 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a host of other family and friends. Family Hour: Friday July 28, 7:308:30 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary Chapel and Funeral Saturday July 29, 2017 11 a.m. at Mount Olive Baptist Church North Little Rock. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– MILDRED SUE GADDY BLANN of Sherwood, passed into Eternal Life on July 10, 2017. She was born in Florence, Ark., on Jan. 21, 1924 to the late James Lee and Ella Belle Crews Gaddy. She is preceded in death by her husband of 69 years Tillman Byron Blann and brothers Robert, James Lee, and Harold Gaddy. She is survived by a son, Tim Blann (Joan) of Sherwood; a brother Edmund Gaddy of Texas; a granddaughter Beverly Sue Weidner (Aaron) of Kansas City; granddaughter Barb Raney (Dustin) of Little Rock; great-granddaughters Breckon and Leighton Raney and Natalie Weidner and a great-grandson Will Weidner; and many nieces and nephews.
Sue was a Western union clerk in Dermott where she and Byron met and made their home for 61 years.
She was an active member of Dermott Baptist Church where she served as church secretary for many years. She also worked as secretary for Dermott Elementary School. In her retirement years she especially enjoyed working with the adult literacy program in Dermott. She is known for her southern cooking, immaculate housekeeping, strong work ethic and steadfast belief system. In 2005 they moved to Sherwood where they were members of First Baptist Church of Sherwood. Her hobbies included crocheting and reading.
Funeral service will be at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home on July 24 at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m., Reverend Dennis Smith, officiating. Interment will be Tuesday, July 25 at the Dermott Cemetery at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Special thanks are expressed to the caregivers at Clarity Pointe Little Rock.
Online guest register at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT BRIDGES, 70, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life July 18, 2017. He was preceded in death by: father, Robert Lee Alexander, and three siblings.
Robert leaves to cherish his memory: son,
Brian Smith; mother Blanche Alexander; siblings Odell (Glenda) Alexander, Lenest Alexander, Lavonnie (Freddie) Lee, Susie Alexander, Barbara Alexander and a special sister Jessie Alexander and a host nieces, nephews, family and friends. Family Hour: Friday July 28, 5-6 p.m. and Funeral Saturday 10 a.m. both at RMLR Chapel. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– JAMES EDWARD ECHOLS, 85, of Mabelvale, passed away July 18, 2017. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and retired as a newspaper pressman at the Arkansas Gazette after 30 years of service. He then joined the family business, Lawn Mowers Plus.
He served as a deacon at Chicot Road Baptist Church and was a member of the Gideons.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma Lawler Echols, his wife, Lola Mae Echols, and two brothers, Harold Dean Echols and Billy Martin Echols. He is survived by his sons, Jeffery Alan Echols (Stephanie), James Richard Echols (Cindy), both of Mabelvale, and Ricky Lee Echols of the Fairplay Community; brother, Ronnie Lee Echols; grandchildren, Melissa Marie Reid, Vickie Lynn Echols, James Edward Echols, Ethan Grayson Echols, Anna Grace Echols, Victoria Alexis Thompson, Alexander Shell Thompson, Aiden Scott Thompson and Ashton Dale Thompson; and great-grandchildren, Maitlyn Marie Jones, Jacelyn Anne Jones and Trei Jackson Jones.
Services will be 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 27th at Chicot Road Baptist Church.
Memorials may be made to the church at 13301 Chicot Road, Mabelvale, Ark. 72103.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court., (501) 224-2200. James’ online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– REGINALD ENOCH, 48, of North Little Rock, Ark., departed this life July 19, 2017. He was preceded in death by his mother May Lessie Williams-Enoch, siblings Elaine Martinez and Corey Harrison.
He leaves to cherish his memory his parents: C.B. and Gloria Enoch; children: Jimmy and Jermane White, Morgan Jones, Mason and Madison Enoch; siblings: Ray and Kay Dozier, Nikita Johnson, LaToshia Elston, Stevie Bryant, C.B. Enoch Jr., Angra Stubbs, and Gail Hill and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday: July 28, 2017 4-6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary LR, Funeral: Saturday July 29, 2017 11 a.m. Second Baptist Church John Barrow. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive Little Rock, Ark. 72202 “A Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– WILLIAM CLEO GUYDON JR., 70, of Little Rock died July 20, 2017. Survived by children: Tammy Guydon-James (Gilbert), Karl Guydon, DeAndrea Guydon and Bryan Guydon (Yvette); 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Visitation July 24, 2017 5-6 p.m. at funeral Home. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th, Little Rock, Ark., (501) 660-4323.
–––––❖––––– THOMAS VINCENT HARKINS (TOMMY) passed away on Thursday July 20, 2017. He was born Aug. 24, 1934 in Memphis, Tenn.
A lifelong sports enthusiast and athlete Tommy was able to spend his early years honing his skills as a high school quarterback for Christian Brothers High School in Memphis, Tenn. He was recruited by Vanderbilt University where he played end. From this position he helped lead Vanderbilt to the 1955 Gator Bowl where they beat a three-touchdown favorite Auburn Tiger team 25-12. Tommy went on to represent Vanderbilt in the 1956 Senior Bowl All-Star game in Mobile, Ala. Although drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, Tommy decided to play in the CFL for the Ottawa Roughriders playing two seasons before returning to the States as the head coach for Roanoke Catholic High School in Roanoke, Va. He coached for five seasons and in his fifth and final season his team obtained a 9-1 record and the city championship. In his later years Tommy was blessed to receive many accolades including being inducted into the Christian Brothers Hall of Fame and the Roanoke Catholic High School Athletic Hall of Fame, recipient of the All American Football Foundations Bill Wade Unsung Hero Award in 2002, and along with his Gator Bowl teammates Tommy received the Significant Historic Achievement Award presented by the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2015.
In 1966 he started a new career in the investment business where he continued to coach and mentor young men and women toward success. He was affectionately known as Coach throughout the investment community. The investment business brought him and his family to Little Rock in 1979 as he was recruited to run the fixed income division of TJ Raney and Son’s. His career in the investment business lasted 36 years until his retirement from Morgan Keegan as Managing Director in 2002. Professional accolades include: Arbitrator for the NASD District 5, and Vice Chairman of the NASD Business Conduct Committee District 5.
Tommy had a deep love for sports, and investments, but his true passion was for his family: his wife of 42 years Donna and his children, Tommy Jr. (Shelly), Terri, Gary, Dan, and James (Amy). He was proud of each of his kids for their varied accomplishments and he made this known to all he encountered. He was also proud of and deeply loved his grandchildren, Tommy Harkins III, Joseph Harkins, Sarah Grace Crutcher, and Alex Harkins and great-grandchildren, Jenni Rose Harkins and Jillian Alyssa Harkins. He is also survived by his three brothers, Jerry (Mary Lou), Charlie (Marilyn) and Johnny (Georgia).
A visitation will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home located at 6313 West Markham St. in Little Rock, Ark., on the 24th of July 2017 from 5-6:30 p.m. with Rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church located at 103 North Tyler Street on the 25th of July 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Memorials can be made to Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church, Little Rock, Ark., or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenn. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ANDY STROUBE HENDRICKS died on July 18, 2017. He was 84 years old. Andy was born July 14, 1933 in Fort Wayne, Ind., but he was raised in Fort Smith, Ark. He attended St. Anne’s High School in Fort Smith, the University of
Notre Dame, and graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Business Administration. He had a rewarding thirty-year career with the Small Business Administration and was passionate about his hobby—gemology. He was an active participant in the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. He was a veteran of the Korean War. Andy was a devout member of the Catholic Church and humbly practiced his faith every day. This was perhaps the greatest gift he bestowed upon his children and grandchildren.
Andy is survived by his wife Dorothy Hendricks of Little Rock and two children, Andy W. Hendricks (his wife Julia) and Christine Mabrey, all of Little Rock. He was the proud grandfather of five grandsons: Anton Alexeev and Daniel Hendricks, both of Little Rock, William Mabrey Jr. (his wife Kara) of Fayetteville, John Mabrey of Little Rock, and Matthew Mabrey of Tulsa, Okla. He was expecting his first great-grandchild in September. He is also survived by a large, loving, extended family in Fort Smith.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Helping Hand of Greater Little Rock and to Hospice Home Care. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Hospice Home Care for the kindness, sensitivity, and genuine compassion they demonstrated while caring for Andy and for all of his family. The family also thanks the clergy, staff, and congregation from Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church for their steadfast support and prayers during this difficult time.
A visitation from 6:30-7 p.m. will be followed by a rosary held at Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church on Wednesday, July 26, 2017. A Mass of Christian Burial followed by an inurnment of ashes, with a reception after, will be held at Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church on Thursday, July 27, 2017 at 10 a.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ANNA JACKSON, 90, of Little Rock slept peacefully into eternity Wednesday, July 19, 2017. She had retired from Brown’s Packing Company and Baptist Health. She loved her family, her church, Steve Harvey’s Family Feud, and cooking. Her teacakes were loved by all who had eaten them. Left with cherished memories are her four sons, Roosevelt Tillman, Jessie Jackson (Margaret), Jerry Jackson (Connie), and Terry Jackson (Dyana); five daughters, Anna Brown (Charles), Rosetta Rivers, Dorothy Perry (Reginald), Dorothy Moore (Greg), and Magnolia Littles; 43 grandchildren; and a host of great and great-great grands.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 26, at First Baptist Highland Park, 18th and Pine, Little Rock. Arrangements entrusted to Walton GateWay Funeral Chapel, Inc., “Where Caring and Quality Come First,” 2405 So. Gaines St., 72206. Family hour will be 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, at the funeral home, (501) 3767188.
–––––❖––––– WILLIAM THOMAS JOHNSON, 89, of Little Rock, died July 18, 2017. He was born at home in Saline County, Ark., Owen Township, on
July 28, 1927. He weighed twelve and three-quarters pounds at birth. He was predeceased by his parents,
Joseph Johnson and Georgie Blunt Johnson; sister, Mary Edison; brother, Raymond Johnson, and several half-sisters, including Thelma Morgan and Trella Sparks, both of Little Rock. William served honorably in the US Army in World War II and was in Korea for over a year, much of the time on the front lines.
He married Frances LaRose Bickle on March 22, 1947. They were married 70 years, three months and 28 days at the time of his death. She and their three children, Georgia Griffis, (John); Sandy Johnson Lind, and Glen Johnson survive him. He is also survived by grandchildren, Christi Griffis, Joey Griffis (Bethany) and Kelly Jordan (Jamie) and one great-grandchild, Sebastian Jordan.
William was a born machinist and began his career at the J. B. Cook Machine Shop as crankshaft grinder operator at the age of 17 and then worked for the Fred Mincey Machine Shop in North Little Rock. He worked for 20 plus years at International Harvester in Little Rock. In 1986, he established Rebel Rebuilders Machine Shop and ran it until his retirement.
The body will be cremated. No funeral is planned. There will be a visitation on Monday, July 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Hwy 5 N., Alexander, Ark. Everyone is welcome to come visit, reminisce, laugh, cry, catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Please share your memories of William at www.dignitymemorial. com/pinecrest-funeral-home-memorial-park.
–––––❖––––– ELIZABETH “BETTY” CAMPBELL JOHNSTON, of Sherwood, Ark., returned to her Creator on July 19, 2017. She was born Sept. 16, 1941 in Concordia, Kan.
Betty was married to her husband, Harvey, for 53 years and was a retired school teacher in the Sherwood area Elementary Schools.
She was preceded in death by her parents JC and Maurine Campbell; brother Jim Campbell; and sister Jeannie Moore. Betty is survived by her husband, Harvey
Johnston; son John Johnston; daughter Maureen Johnston; and sister Marie Ann Butler.
A Memorial “Celebration of Life” service will be held on Sunday, July 30th at 3 p.m. at First Christian Church of Sherwood in Chalice Hall.
In lieu of Flowers contributions may be made to First Christian Church of Sherwood Food Pantry where Betty was very active. Food Pantry c/o First Christian Church of Sherwood 2803 E Kiehl Ave, Sherwood, Ark. 72120.
An online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
–––––❖––––– CAROLYN JONES, 56, of Little Rock, Ark., transitioned this life on July 18, 2017. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Carolyn London; son, Terry London; father, Fred Jones.
She leaves the cherish her memory: children, Richard
London and Markita Jones; mother, Alice Scott; siblings, Loretta, Samuel, Kenneth Woodard and Jacquelyn Cox, Dwayne, Ronnie, Tim, Barren, and Darren Jones; eight grandchildren; a host of family and friends.
Visitation: Friday, July 28, noon6 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, LR.
Funeral: Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m. at Samaritan Hill Baptist Church. Pastor Bobby Acklin, officiating. Services Entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, LR, Ark., 72202 (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– Monsignor BERNARD G. MALONE, 93, died on July 19 at Parkway Village, Little Rock where he has resided since January. At the time of his death he was the oldest priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Little Rock, and first in seniority, having served 67 years of priestly ministry.
Born in Philadelphia in 1924, to Francis I. and Marie Malone, he was a part of a great influx of priests from Philadelphia to Little Rock in the 1900’s. Ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 1950, in the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, Little Rock, his assignments included associate pastor in Blytheville, St. Patrick, North Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Tontitown, Paragould, St. Mary, North Little Rock, before being named pastor of St. Mary, McGehee and the Missions of Dermott and Dumas. He was subsequently named pastor of the Churches in Paragould, West Memphis, St. Mary, Hot Springs, Christ the King, Fort Smith, and founding pastor of St. Bernard, Bella Vista. In 1985 he was appointed pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel, followed by St. Patrick, North Little Rock, St. Mary, Hot Springs, again St. Patrick, North Little Rock, and then St. Jude, Jacksonville and St. Rose, Carlisle. In 1994 he was appointed pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Marche, and finally, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Hot Springs Village. After 60 years in active ministry he entered retirement, with one brief assignment as administrator of St. Michael, West Memphis and the Mission of Sacred Heart, Crawfordsville. His re-entry into retirement was short-lived as he was named Confessor of The House of Formation, Little Rock, where he remained in faithful service until December, 2016 when he entered Parkway Village. He loved being a priest to the end of his earthly life!
He served on virtually every diocesan board, directed the Marian Year of 1987, and was appointed a diocesan consultor in 1994. Our late Holy Father, St. John Paul II named him a “Prelate of Honor” with the title of “monsignor” in 1995.
Monsignor Malone was a humble and gentle servant, self-effacing, and loved being a priest. Among his last words were those of one who proclaimed his love of God, the Church, and his joy in being able to say what a happy life he had been given.
A vigil service will be prayed on Sunday night, July 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Christ the King Church, 4000 N. Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, with Archbishop J. Peter Sartain, former bishop of Little Rock and presently archbishop of Seattle, presiding, followed by the praying of the rosary by Msgr. R. Scott Friend, Vicar General.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place, also at Christ the King Church, Little Rock, on Monday, July 24, at 10 a.m. with Bishop Anthony B. Taylor, Bishop of Little Rock, presiding. Homilist will be his nephew, Monsignor Francis I. Malone. Burial will take place at “Priest’s Circle,” Calvary Cemetery, Little Rock, immediately following the Mass.
Pallbearers for the funeral will be Donnie Bridges, Wally Gieringer Jr., Robert Honzic, Patrick Koch, Thomas O’Connor, Joseph Pabian, and Steve Wells. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to the Seminary Endowment Fund, Diocese of Little Rock, 2500 North Tyler, Little Rock, Ark. 72217. Arrangements by Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– MARTHA JANE MEREDITH, 92, a life-long resident of North Little Rock, passed away on July 21, 2017. She was born at 1709 Main Street in North Little Rock, and delivered by Dr. William Milton Burns, for whom Burns Park was named. She later sang for Dr. Burns’ second wedding after his first wife passed away.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Conley and Ruby Wood, and a brother, David P. Wood, and the love of her life and her husband, Jimmy Meredith. At age 5 Martha saw Jimmy for the first time at age 6 singing in the church choir. She is survived by her son, J. Conley Meredith, and his wife, Charlotte D. Meredith, of San Antonio, Texas, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and many other extended family members and friends. She is survived by Emily Sauer, who for over 11 years provided love, care, support and joy that made it possible for Martha to remain in her home until her final days. Martha and Emily considered each other sisters.
She graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1942, where she was a member of the National Honor Society, and played a starring role in the senior musical, “Tune In.” The 1942 North Little Rock High School Annual predicted, “Go where she will, she will make her mark,” and that she has done by the countless lives she has touched with her beautiful singing, numerous notes and letters of affirmation bringing hope to family, friends, and even strangers across the nation.
For over 32 years she worked for the Veterans Hospital in both North Little Rock and Little Rock. In her final years of service she served as the administrative assistant to the Chief of Staff of the Little Rock Veterans Administration Hospital. Although she was a wonderful federal employee, she loved singing and music even more! With Jimmy Meredith, they made beautiful music together in church and in memorial services in North Little Rock and elsewhere. While he played the organ, she sang for weddings and funerals for family members and friends. Martha sang praises to God in an adult choir for over 65 years! She was also a wonderful cook, hostess, and gave words of reassurance and praise to everyone she met. She believed in later years that the reason she was still alive was that God wanted her to help encourage others. Even though her eyesight and handwriting were failing, she continued to send notes to those she thought needed it most up until the day she went to the hospital. Now, it is up to those of us left behind to take over where she left off to encourage others. She lived life to the fullest every day.
Visitation is at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 N. Main Street, North Little Rock, Ark., from 5:30-7:30 p.m., on Wednesday, July 26, 2017. A Celebration of Martha’s Life will be held at First United Methodist Church, 6701 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark., at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 27, 2017. In lieu of flowers donations are requested to The Wildcat Foundation: Fine Arts Program, P.O. Box 94926, North Little Rock Ark., 72190, in memory of Martha Meredith, or to the First United Methodist Church in North Little Rock, Ark. Online guestbook at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– CLARENCE HENRY “CHIEF” MORRIS, 89, passed away on Thursday, July 20, 2017. He was born on October 22, 1927 in Humphrey, Ark., to Isaac and Olee Morris. He is survived by his beloved bride of 68 years, Dorothy Jean
Morris; son
Ronald Morris (Twila); son Rev. Keith Morris (Nita); son Lynn Morris (Vanessa); daughter Marsha Perrymore; daughter Sharon Blakley; daughter Susan Baughman (Jim); 15 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren and one on the way; one sister, Annette Vail (Harvey) of Arizona; and a multitude of adoring extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers and three sisters.
To know Chief was to love him, and love him we did. His boisterous voice, countless jokes and tricks, his outrageous stories, and shameless remarks about his good looks kept us in laughter and smiles. He was a strong man, a hard worker, and a provider. He retired from Safeway with 34 years of service. He loved the land and was an avid farmer, hunter, fisherman, trapper, beekeeper, and carpenter.
Although he had many passions, his family was his treasure. He would boast with pride to anyone who would listen. If you knew him for more than a few minutes you were guaranteed his wallet would make its way from his pocket, and the worn pictures of his wife and children would emerge.
The only thing he loved as much as his family was his church. In August of 1991, he made the most important decision of his life. He followed the keys to the Kingdom, given to Peter in the book of Acts, which are repentance, baptism in Jesus Name, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. He served God and served his church from that day to his last. Oh, to imagine the stories he and Jesus are sharing now! Those knees do not hurt anymore, because he is dancing on streets of pure gold! Now he is our treasure laid up somewhere beyond the blue. ’Til we meet again on that beautiful shore.
Visitation will be held at First Pentecostal Church in NLR Monday, July 24th from 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will be Tuesday morning, 10 a.m., at First Pentecostal Church with Pastors Joel Holmes and Nathan Holmes officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Lonoke. Online guest registry at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖–––––
BOB NEAL, 78, of Sherwood passed away Thursday, July 20, 2017. He was born Sept. 15, 1938 in Mansfield, Ark., to John Allen and Cleo Marie Neal.
He is survived by two daughters, Julie Ann White (Richard) and Monika Neal-Rued and their mother, Mikki Pierce; two bonus daughters, Michele Weaver (D.J.) and Stephanie Thiemann (Kevin); grandchildren, Jack White, Pierce Rued, Tracey, and Jamie Weaver, Soren, Hudson, and Annie Thiemann; brothers, Don Neal, Jerry Neal, and sisters Corinne Harris, Judy Neal; and several extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna Neal; brother, Ted Neal; and sister, Peggy Rouse.
A celebration of Bob’s life, with a reception to follow, will be held at 6:30 p.m., Monday, July 24 at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Expanded online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
–––––❖––––– ARTHUR LEE PRUITT SR., 91 of Little Rock was called home by Our Father on July 19, 2017. Preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Charles and Benny Pruitt. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Helen Pruitt; sons,
Arthur Jr., and Brian (LaRhonda); daughter, Phyllis Miller; grandson, Al Miller Jr.; two sisters, Fannie Greene and Rosemary Banks (Thomas) and a host of family and friends that he cherished. Special thanks to UAMS Heart Department. The Home going services will be Friday, July 28 at 10 a.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1200 Hanger Street, LR. Visitation: 9-10 a.m., prior to the service, at the church. Arrangements by: Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 South Chester St. Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.
–––––❖––––– ROBERT LEE SMITH, 68, of NLR, died July 19, 2017. Survived by wife, Paulette Smith, children; Robert Smith (Bobbie), Darius Smith, Oronda Holmes (Sarah), Yamiene Smith; siblings Glen, Victor, Christina Smith and Diann Chase; 17 grandchildren; 20 great-grands. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home 4323 W. 29th Little Rock, Ark. 72204, (501) 660-4323.
–––––❖––––– TARAJI SPEED of Little Rock, Ark., transitioned this life July 17, 2017. She leaves parents, Timothy Speed; mother, Nikia Evans. Graveside: Tuesday, 11 a.m. at Arkansas Memorial Gardens, NLR. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 4511 E. Broadway, North Little Rock, Ark. (501) 374-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– CONNIE M. STOKES-CROSS, 70, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life July 17,
2017. She was preceded in death by: by her parents J.T. and Jessie Patterson Turner.
She leaves to cherish her memory: spouse, Charles Cross; sisters: Betty Powell, Shirley Turner, Florinda Turner, Vanitta Dickey, Ernestine Turner, and Jacqueline Mays and a host of other family and friends. Family Hour: Friday July 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary Chapel and Funeral Saturday July 29, 2017 11 a.m. at Waters Temple COGIC. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”
–––––❖––––– DENNIS E. THOMAS passed July 15, 2017 at his home in Little Rock, Ark. Memorial Services will be Monday, July 24, 2017, 9:30 a.m., at First Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 2801 S. Spring Little Rock, Ark., Rev. Hershel Lovelace, officiating. Inurnment of ashes will be with honors at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 Maryland Ave., North Little Rock. The family will be at 2963 Maelstrom Circle Sherwood, Ark. Arrangements by: Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester St. LR (501) 372-1305.
–––––❖––––– DWIGHT WASHINGTON, 59, of North Little Rock, passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2017. He leaves to cherish his memory, children, Tantra (Carlton Jr.) Johnson, Stephanie (Maurice) Douglas, Tony
Lee, and Kiara Watson; siblings, Carl R. (Marilyn) Whitfield, Katherine Brock, Janice Brock, Demetrice Lee, Tyra Hodges, Michael Hodges, Monica Thomas, Leslie Brock, Latrina Brock, Christopher Brock and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 25, 2017, 11 a.m. at Paradise Baptist Church, 820 H. St., North Little Rock. The family will receive friends tomorrow from 6-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Professional and Personal services entrusted to Hardy Funeral Home 5300 Little Rock (501) 372-4129. To sign the online guestbook please visit www. hardyfuneralhomeinc.com. “We Care, When Caring Count.”
Arkansas
ALEXANDER — Calvin Harold Davis, 70, of Alexander, departed this world on July 10, 2017. He was a heavy equipment operator. A celebration of life will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at 11 a.m. To sign online guest book, visit www. dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– ALEXANDER — Reverend Daniel Threet, 82, of Alexander, Ark., went home to be with the Lord Friday, July 21, 2017. He was born Sept. 21, 1934 in Monarch, Ark., to Nellie Devereaux and James Threet.
Brother Dan earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Arkansas State University and a graduate degree from Golden Gate Seminary in San Francisco, Calif. He enjoyed building things, and he loved serving God for many years as a pastor, chaplain, and counselor. He was a man of benevolence and compassion: always ready to visit the sick and give aid to those in need.
He is survived by sons, Stephen Threet (Angela) of Palm Harbor, Fla., and Phillip Threet of Alexander, Ark.; daughter-in-law, Tricia Threet of Mena, Ark.; grandson, James Threet of Mena, Ark.; and sister, Sue Shay (Bob) of Ada, Okla.
He was preceded in death by parents; brothers, James and Thomas Threet; and sister, Varessa Miller.
Funeral service will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at Alexander First Baptist Church, 15320 Alexander Road, Alexander, Ark. 72002, (501) 455-1263. Burial will follow at Crittenden Memorial Park, Marion, Ark. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Monday, at Roller-Drummond Funeral Home, 10900 Interstate 30, Little Rock, Ark. 72209, (501) 455-5800.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/drummond.
–––––❖––––– ALMYRA — Billie Nance, 79, passed away Friday, July 21. Survivors are sons, David (Tinker) Atkins of Charleston, Mo., and Michael Fite of Stuttgart; daughter, Holli Atkins of Almyra; brother, Larry Livingston; sister, Barbara Smith; three grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date. www.turpin-co.com.
–––––❖––––– AUSTIN — Lloyd Ancil Cauley, age 73, of Austin, Ark., passed away on July 17, 2017. He was born on March 19, 1944 in Little Rock, Ark., to Harvey and Sadie Cauley. He was an Engineer for GTE for 38 years in Jacksonville, Ark.
He is preceded in death by his parents, a son Lee Cauley and a brother Harvey Cauley Jr. He is survived by his children Joseph Cauley and Jenifer Cauley both of Sherwood; Randy Cauley and Rhonda Clegg both of North Little Rock. He will be missed by his four grandchildren and his sister Peggy Reynolds of North Little Rock.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Ark.
An online guestbook is availble at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.
–––––❖––––– BENTON — Sharon Ann Langley, age 62, of Benton, passed away Friday July 21, 2017. She was born Sept. 27, 1954 in Benton, Ark. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Dee Shoptaw and Virgie M. Gatlin Raper, and husband, John Otis Langley.
Survivors: sons Steven Dee Langley and John Alan Langley and wife Amber Langley; sisters, Juanita Davis and husband J.T. Davis of Friendswood, Texas; Gary Shoptaw and wife, Doris Shoptaw of Malvern, Ark.; Fonda Masters, and husband Jack Masters of Hot Springs, Ark.; and Gayla Shelnut and husband Mitch Shelnut of Benton, Ark.; six grandchildren and numerous friends and family.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Monday, July 24 at Ashby’s. Services will be Tuesday, July 25 at 10 a.m. at Ashby Funeral Home. Burial will be at Traskwood Cemetery.
Online guest book at www. ashbyfuneralhome.com.
–––––❖––––– BRYANT — Dylan D. Hamby, age 24, of Bryant, Ark., passed away July 20, 2017. He is preceded in death by his niece, Presley Faith Hunt. He is survived by his parents, Allen and Ronaeé Hamby of Bryant, Ark., and Kevin and Becky Hunt of Benton, Ark.; his brother, Devin Hunt (Nancy), nephews Jaxon Hunt, Brodie Hunt (Jones), Braxton Jones and niece Harley Hunt, all of Benton, Ark.; sister, Kenzie Hunt, of Benton, Ark.; grandparents, Diana Ramsey of Bryant, Ark., Kenneth and Peggy Hamby of Beebe, Ark., Ron and Debbie Kindy of Texas, Katherine Smith of Benton; great-grandmother, Embry Kindy of Bryant, Ark., along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.
Visitation will be held Monday, July 24th from 6-8pm at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St.; services will be held July 25th at 11 a.m. at Fellowship Bible Church, 1401 Kirk Road, Little Rock, interment at Rest Hills Memorial Park, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark. Full obituary and guest book at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
“Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9.
–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Leslie Taylor, 69, of Carlisle, passed away July 20, 2017. Leslie was born in Coffeeville, Kan., on Aug. 21, 1947 to Troy and Naomi Denson. Leslie is survived by one daughter, Sara (Vic) Seidenschwarz of Carlisle; sister, Phyllis Willingham of Texas; brothers, Mickey Denson of Hazen, Melvin (Anita) Denson of Colorado, Tommy (Diane) Bayne of Colorado, and Robert (Paula) Denson of Oklahoma; three grandsons, Tristan, Ian, and Noah Seidenschwarz, and Grammy’s special little boy, Carson and a bonus daughter, Angie Flynn; a host of nieces and nephews and many people that called her “Grammy”.
Funeral services will be Sunday, July 23, 2017 at 4 p.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church in Carlisle. Visitation will be at the church from 2-4 p.m., prior to the service. Burial will be in the Old Carlisle Cemetery. Online obituary at www.westbrookfuneralhomehazen.com.
–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Mary Jennifer Bartley, 64, of Conway passed away July 21, 2017. She was born in Russellville, Ark., June 30, 1953 to the late James and Wilma Mabry. Mary was of the Baptist faith and a teacher. She enjoyed singing and playing the piano.
Mary is survived by her husband of 44 years, Bill Bartley; daughters, Meredith Chestnut and Rebekah Bullock; four grandchildren, Whitley Bartley, Wesley Wise, Kenneth Lewis, Jacob Lewis; three great-grandchildren; siblings Sheri and Jim.
The Family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.
Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ conway.
–––––❖––––– DeVALLS BLUFF — Lenora E. Hallman, age 89 of DeValls Bluff, passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2017. She was a homemaker and a member of the Peppers Lake Church of Christ. Lenora was preceded in death by her husband, Jacob Hallman and her son, Walter Hallman. She is survived by two daughters, Lois Crawford of California and Florence Zornes of DeValls Bluff; one sister, Florence Light of Stuttgart; three brothers, Ermon “Bud” Neal of DeWitt, Paul Neal of Texas, and Stanley Joe Hallman of Beebe; grandchildren, Steven Woodall, Daniel Woodall, Tara McCoy, Donald Crawford, Joseph Hallman, Jason Zornes, and Tamara Basner; 19 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at Peppers Lake Church of Christ. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Burial will be in the Peppers Lake Cemetery. Online obituary at www.westbrookfuneralhomehazen.com.
–––––❖––––– DIAMOND CITY — Sarah Offutt Weatherford, 42, of Diamond City, died Thursday.
Survivors: husband, John “Skinny” Weatherford; her parents, Jimmy Rex and Kay Offutt; uncles and aunts, Ray and Pam Offutt, and Lynn and Claudia Offutt Gray.
Service: 2 p.m. Monday in Robinson’s Chapel. Visitation: Monday, 1-2 p.m. at Robinson’s.
Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com
–––––❖––––– JONESBORO — Dan Buckley, 69, of Jonesboro, Ark., and formerly of Lafayette, La., passed away July 12th from heart complications with his son and daughter by his side. Born on August 10, 1947 in New Orleans, La., to Bob and Edna “B” Buckley, Dan grew up with his two sisters (Betty and Kathy), brother (Mickey), and three cousins (George, David, and Julie). Together, they created amazing childhood memories and terrorized the surrounding neighborhoods.
Dan attended East Jefferson High School where he played on two district championship teams and was named All-District and honorable mention All-State. This caught the eye of Arkansas State Head Coach Bennie Ellender and Offensive Line Coach Bill “Bull” Davidson. Dan signed on to play for Arkansas State where he started at different positions for each of his four years. He played and lettered at defensive tackle in his first year. He also played offensive guard, but found his true calling when he was moved to center. It was at this position he would be named a two-time All-Southland Conference first team member, Outstanding College Athlete in the New Orleans area, and most notability to the 1969 AP All-American team. It was at Arkansas State where he found his next family (Zolp, Hubba, Ron, and Clovis, just to name a few) and he met his future wife and mother of his kids, Kay Meade.
During his stay at Arkansas State, Dan opened his first restaurant, The Purple Onion. After college he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit with a string of restaurants and bars. From Taco Hut and the Study Hall, to Shaky Jake’s, Grant Street Dancehall, and Thib’s. After Jonesboro he made Lafayette home for several years creating a wonderful group of family and friends (Charlie, Del, Camille, Mike, Serge, The Fantasy Football group, Curley, Mr. Milton, and countless others).
Finally, Dan moved back to Jonesboro late in life to be closer to family. There he started working for Southern Management Company where he met his next family (Jackie, Jera, Fred, Christy, Beverly, Grayson, and the rest of the crew). It’s here where Dan held his first desk job. It took a little transitioning for him, but he fell in love with his job and the people.
Dan is survived by his daughter, Brooke; son and daughter-inlaw, Brian & Renee; two granddaughters, Barrett & Campbell; two sisters, Betty and Kathy; former wife and husband-in-law, Kay & Bruce Williams; their son Matt; cousin/best friend and wife, George & Janie Krennerich; and five nieces and nephews, Erika, Kyle, Shan, Stacy, and Tracy. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Bob and Edna “B”, and brother, Mickey.
In lieu of flowers, make a donation to your charity of choice, spend a little extra time with your kids or grandkids, or just buy someone a drink. To sign the online guest book visit www. mooresfuneralchapel.com.
–––––❖–––––
LEXA — Graveside service for Sharon L. Arnold, 59, of Lexa is 11 a.m., Monday, Odd Fellows Cemetery, West Helena. Survivors: two daughters, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, three siblings, very special friend, other family and friends. Service directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ westhelena.
–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Karen Colleen Mathews, 54, of Malvern, Ark., got her wings on Wednesday
July 19th, 2017. Daughters Kassandra Carter (Shawn) of
Magnet Cove, Arkansas, Karissa Maguffey (Dennis Wayne) of Dewitt, Arkansas. Visitation July 24th 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Family Hour 6 p.m.-8 p.m. both at the funeral home. Services Entrusted to Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors of Malvern, “The Epitome of Service,” (501) 3370100. Online Guestbook: www. samuellvanceandsons.com.
–––––❖––––– MALVERN — John Matthew Whitwell, 43, of Malvern passed away on Thursday July 6, 2017 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born on October 9, 1973 in Harlingen, Texas.
He is preceded in death by his mother Allidel (Steele) Whitwell. Matt is survived by his father John S. Whitwell of Hot Springs; sister, Misty Michele Heck and her husband Doug; one nephew, Aaron Heck; one niece, Allison Heck; and his girlfriend and caregiver Kelly Scott.
Matt was outgoing, very kind, and loyal to all who knew him. He never knew a stranger and was always there to help. He enjoyed fishing and loved animals. He was a loving son, brother, uncle and friend.
The Family will be hosting a celebration of Matt’s life on Saturday, July 29th at 10 a.m. at Benton First United Methodist Church, 200 Market Street, Benton, Arkansas, 72015. Memorials in his honor may be made to the church. Cremation Arrangements are under the care and direction of A Natural State Funeral Service, in Jacksonville. www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.
–––––❖––––– MARSHALL — William Conover, 72 of Marshall, Arkansas, in the Thola Community died Friday. Survivors: children, Daniel Conover, Matthew Conover, Clayton Conover, Mike Garcia, Jacquelynn Lecomte, Heather Conover & Elizabeth Craighton, 17 grandchildren & two great-grandchildren. Cremation by Roller-Coffman/Marshall. All services will be private. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/marshall.
–––––❖––––– MENA — Dollie Mozelle Wilhite, age 94, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, July 21, 2017 in Mena. Funeral services will be Monday, July 24, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation is Sunday, July 23, 2017, from 3-4 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home in Mena.
–––––❖–––––
PRIM — Johnny A. Carlton, 76, passed away Thursday. Survivors: wife Joyce; sons Boyd (Gina) Carlton, Jason Carlton; daughter Debbie (Kenny) Perry; brothers Austin (Ruth) Carlton, Jerry (Verna) Carlton, Tony (Velma) Carlton; sister Earnestene Stubbs. Visitation Sunday 6-8 p.m. Hilltop Holiness Church, Funeral Monday 10 a.m. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.
–––––❖––––– STAMPS — Hazel Helen Huggins May, age 93, passed away Thursday, July 20, 2017, at the Wadley Regional Medical Center. Mrs. May was born July 22, 1923 to Arthur and Ethel (Nichols) Huggins. She attended Stamps Church of Christ; she always enjoyed life and was a wonderful mom and grandmother.
Mrs. May was preceded in death by her parents; son, Arthur Hovarter; husband, Owen May; and grandson, Kevin Stringer.
She is survived by her daughters, Virginia Stringer of Floydada, Texas, and Debbie Jetton and husband, Edward of Benton, Ark.; daughter-in-law, Sandra Hovarter of Stamps, Ark.; six grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, July 23, 2017, at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel on Thomas Street, with Douglas Hovarter officiating. Burial will follow at the Falcon Cemetery, under the direction of Smith Funeral
Homes of Stamps, Ark. Visitation will be held Sunday, beginning at 1 p.m. until service time.
Honoring Mrs. May as her Pallbearers will be Eric Stringer, Rex Lenard, Tyler Downs, Trent Downs, Trey Downs, and Mike Sellers.
Online registration is available at www.aosmithfuneralhome. com.
–––––❖––––– WHITE HALL — Juanita Carter, 91, of White Hall, Ark., passed away July 20, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents Ben & Ada Daniel, 10 siblings and husband of 48 years, Joe Carter.
Juanita taught for the White Hall School District for 37 years and was a member of First Baptist Church, White Hall.
Survivors include son, Wayne (Kay) Carter of East End; daughter, Ann (Johnny) Brigham of Dumas; brother, Billy Pat (Gloria) Daniel of Dumas; grandsons Trey (Jessica) Brigham of Bryant, Jody (Clarissa) Carter of East End, and Jeremy (Amy) Carter of Bailey, Colorado; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be Monday, July 24 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church, White Hall. Visitation will be one hour before the service in the church lobby.
Online register at www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.
Out-of-state
CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla. — Larry Joe Lankford, affectionately known by many as “Larry Joe,” passed away peacefully at his home in Crawfordville, Fla., on Thursday, July 20, 2017, at the age of 74. He was born in Bee Branch, Ark., on May 27, 1943. He was a master carpenter who constructed homes from Shreveport, La., to Little Rock, Ark., and many small towns nearby. He moved to Crawfordville in 1994, and he continued his work in the construction field until his retirement in 2006.
Larry is survived by his wife of 30 years, Gail Lankford; his four sons, Larry Lankford Jr. (Tammy) of Higdon, Ark., Lynn Lankford of Conway, Ark., Nathan Lankford (Taylor) of Salisbury, Md., Justin Lankford (Carrie) of Crawfordville, Fla. He is also survived by his mother Louise Lankford of Bee Branch, Ark., his six brothers, and two sisters, all living in Arkansas. He also has seven grand children and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father Vernon Lankford, and his daughter, Lawanna Pate.
Private family services will be held at a later date.
–––––❖––––– GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Father Raymond Bruck of Grand Rapids, Mich., entered eternal life July 19, 2017. He was born in Perry, Ark., on Jan. 19, 1929, the son of Joseph Bruck and Mary Rump. Preceded in death by his brothers Joe and Ted Bruck. Survivors: sister, Dorothy Craig, numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services: 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017 at St. Elizabeth Cemetery in Oppelo, by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Oppelo, Ark. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.
–––––❖––––– SPRING, Texas — Donald David Dhonau, 86, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2017. Born on May 23, 1931 in Magnolia, Ark., to Lloyd and Lucille Dhonau, he was raised in Little Rock, Ark., and has been a resident of Spring, Texas, for over 40 years.
Don graduated from Little Rock High School in 1949 and earned his bachelor’s degree in Geological Engineering from the University of Oklahoma in 1953. Following graduation, he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as an artillery officer until 1956. Upon his discharge, he worked for Humble Oil Company/Exxon as a geophysicist for thirty years, travelling the world. Don was a talented artist and also enjoyed genealogy and playing golf in his retirement.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bobby Dhonau, and his wife of 53 years, Sherry Griffin Dhonau. He is survived by his three sons, eleven grandchildren and their spouses: Howard Dhonau and wife Julie Garcia of Fond du Lac, Wis., and their children Seth Dhonau, Will Dhonau, Hannah Dhonau, and Henry Dhonau; Todd Dhonau of Little Elm, Texas, and his children Travis Dhonau, Erin and Bain McEldowney, Emily Dhonau, and Taylor Dhonau; Craig and Stephanie Dhonau of Tomball, Texas, and their children Jill and Ben Little, Ned and Jenna Dhonau, Meg and Landon Martin. Don is also survived by his great-grandson, Johnny McEldowney and close friend, Patricia “Pat” Pratti.
A memorial service celebrating Don’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017 at Klein Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel, 9714 FM 2920 Tomball, Texas 77375, with burial following.