Pulaski County

VIRGIL “DALE” BRIMER, a 40year resident of Sherwood, Ark., was born in Wamego, Kan., on April 15,

1938 to Virgil T. and Edith Howe

Brimer. He died in Little Rock on

Sept. 19, 2017 surrounded by family.

He was a member of The

Church of the Word in East End, Ark. He was retired from his work, which included bus driver for Trailways, a truck driver for Kroger, and a school bus driver for Pulaski County Special School District.

He was an active participant in many organizations including being a 32nd Degree Mason with Sylvan Hills Lodge #754; CMA; Past President of North 40 Bunch, Volunteer with 15th Anniversary HOG Rally; Kansas State HOG Rally; King Biscuit Blues Festival, and a lifetime member of National HOG with 47 years, ABATE, AMA, charter member and former Director of Central Arkansas Chapter HOG, and Teamster Union 878.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Jeanette May Brimer of the home; three children, sons William Aaron “Chip” Brimer of Sherwood, Ark., and Steve T. Hall and wife Judy of New Blaine, Ark.; daughter Jamie Hall Farnam and husband Ricky of Delaware, Ark. Also, eight loving grandchildren, Aaron Keaton Brimer, Ryan Cole Brimer, Jana Elizabeth Davis, Tenesa Marie Bunch, Stevie Lee Del Busto, Spencer Cameron Hall, Jameson Montgomery Hall and Ethan Lee Farnam, and six precious great-grandchildren, Lindy Marie Adcock, Colton Alan Del Busto, Emma Yvonne Del Busto, Ivy Jade Sinohui, Cecilia Ann Bunting, and baby Farnam on the way.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sylvan Hills Lodge #754, P.O. Box 6221, Sherwood, Ark. 72124-6221.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.ArkansasCremation.com.

–––––❖––––– MICHAEL LOUIS CLOIRD, 61, of LR, Ark., departed this life Sept. 28, 2017. He was preceded in death by: mother, Margaret

Cloird; father,

Ralph Cloird Sr.; five brothers,

Monroe Walton,

Ralph Cloird Jr.,

Johnnie Cloird,

Joe Cloird, and

Walter Cloird.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory: children, Anthony Cloird, Antoinette Spencer, Lateshia Cloird, and Amanda Cloird; siblings, Perlen Berry, Aristine McDonnell, Willie Byas, Elegest Dedner, Margaret Brown, Freddie Cloird, Arthur Cloird, James Cloird; special friend and ex-wife, Dian Baker-Cloird; 15 grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

Family Hour: Friday 6-7 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, NLR. Funeral: Saturday 11 a.m. at New Hope AME Church, 1406 McKinney Road, Sherrill, Ark. Pastor Dexter McDonnell. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– LAWRENCE D. COLCLOUGH, 58, of North Little Rock, Ark., passed Sept.

28, 2017. loving memories left to parents: Bernice Henderson and Lawrence (Barbara) Colclough, siblings:

Chec Colclough (Marilyn), Deric Colclough (Lonzella), Signoret Colclough, Sharon Carter (Matthew), and Laveta Raynor (Jerome). A host of step-brothers, step-sisters, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Memorial service Monday Oct. 2, 2017 11 a.m., at 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.”

–––––❖––––– WENDELL CROOM, 76, of Little Rock, passed away on Sept. 29, 2017. He was born in Ash Flat on Feb. 3, 1941 to Wiley and Beatrice (Stewart)

Croom. Wendell was a resident of Little Rock for

33 years.

Wendell is survived by his son, Russell

Croom; granddaughter, Courtney Fisher Croom; and nephews, Steven Croom and David Croom. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Fisher Croom and brother, John Franklin Croom.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Pulaski Academy, 12701 Hinson Rd., Little Rock, Ark., 72212, in honor of Wendell Croom. Burial will be at Coffeeville Cemetery in Bradford, Ark. Online condolences at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– THOMAS A. DAVIS, 91, of North Little Rock passed away on Thursday,

Sept. 28, 2017.

Tom was born in North Little

Rock to parents Thomas Martin Davis and

Ella Ballentine

Davis on Jan.

7, 1926. Tom always loved the North Little

Rock area and never strayed far from his beloved city except for time spent serving his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII as a gunner on B-17’s in England. After attending college, Tom went to work for Southwestern Bell Telephone in 1950 and retired in 1986 with over 35 years of service.

Tom was a dedicated and tireless volunteer worker in his community, serving as Charter President of the Rose City Youth Athletic Association, member of the North Little Rock Parks and Recreation Commission for over 24 years, Charter President of the Rose City Lions Club in 1968 and treasurer of the North Little Rock Lions Club in 1996. He spent many years performing eye exams in the North Little Rock schools for the Lion’s Club and delivering “meals on wheels” for Care Link. Tom loved his family and community and he was loved and admired in return.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Herbert Davis; sister, Sybil Ruple; first wife, Berniece Davis and wife, Joann Davis. Tom is survived by his children, Linda Davis, Mike Davis and Karen (Edwin) Carter; step daughter, Nancy McSpadden; step-son, Bobby McSpadden; grandchildren Lindsey (Neal) Pumphrey, Daniel (Holly) Carter, Justin (Angie) Davis and Brian (Tisha) Davis along with eight great-grandchildren.

Tom requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the Salvation Army, NLR Lion’s Club, Care Link Meals on Wheels or Arkansas Hospice.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses and staff, especially Janet and Rose, at Arkansas Hospice for their devoted care.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road in NLR. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Please share your memories of Tom with his family at www. griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– ELNORE CHRISTINE FRANCISCO, age 92 of North Little Rock, went to her Heavenly Home on Sept. 22, 2017. She loved flowers and gardening in her yard. She loved listening to gospel music and talking about Jesus. She will be truly missed. To sign her online guestbook, visit www. dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– ROBERT L. HALL, 67, of Little Rock (Wrightsville) went home to be with the

Lord on Friday. Services pending. For more information see Wednesday’s obituary. Gillespie

& Kelly Funeral

Home 2420 Arch

St. (501) 3767892/612-5607 will be serving the Hall families. For more information, sign online guest register, send flowers or condolences and light an “In Loving Memory Of” candle www. gillespiekellyservices.com.

–––––❖––––– ELIZABETH DAVIS LANE, 82 of Little Rock passed away Sept. 27, 2017. Survived by children;

Victor (Ivory)

Smith, Bernita

Lane, Daphene Beavers,

Jalonda Lane; sister, Bernice Stewart; 10 grandchildren;

16 great-grandchildren. Family hour will be held October 6, 2017 6-7 p.m., at New Hebron MBC. Funeral Service Oct. 7, 2017 11 a.m., New Hebron MBC. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home 4323 W. 29th Little Rock, Ark. 72204.

–––––❖––––– SHIRLEY A. MAY of Little Rock passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2017. She was born on

May 21, 1937 in Lindsay, Okla.

She was the daughter of the late Opal Futrell

Hodges and

Dennis Futrell.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John A. May, of 50 years and a special son, Jimmy.

She is survived by sons, John (Anna) of Sherwood, Tim (Sherry) of Germantown, Tenn., and Jeff of Hope, Ark.; grandchildren, Angie Wilson (JD), of Texarkana, Texas, Adam May (Carolyne) of Denver, Colo., Caroline, Nick, and Elizabeth May of Germantown, Tenn., Christian and Tanner May of Benton, Ark.; great-grandchildren, Garrett May, Jack and Grace Wilson of Texarkana, Texas; and one dear sister-in-law, Margie May of North Little Rock.

She loved her family and was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She had a smile and hug for everyone. Her door was always open if anyone needed to spend the night, whether it be for days, weeks, or months. She loved to decorate for holidays and have parties. Shirley will be missed by so many, along with her family.

Visitation will be Monday, October 2 at noon with services at 1 p.m., at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home. Burial will be at Rest Hills Cemetery. Online condolences at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– LEDONNA “LYNN” MCINTOSH, 69, of Sherwood passed away on Sept. 27, 2017 in Little Rock, Ark. A Celebration of Life will be held at Journey Church, 4511 E. 43rd St. North Little Rock, Ark. On Oct. 15, 2017 at 6 p.m. A full obituary and guestbook is available at www. anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– DONALD LEWIS MELTON JR., 67, of Sherwood, died Sept. 26, 2017. He is survived by his sister, Marilyn Earles of Cabot. Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark., 72116 (501) 791-7400. www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

–––––❖––––– JOYCE MARIE OWENS, 71, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away on Friday, Sept. 29,

2017. Born Apr.

13, 1946 in Booneville to the late Raymond

& Opal (Porter) Andrews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Betty

Gipson.

She is survived by her husband John R. Owens and her children, Andrea (Clay) Lloyd of Little Rock, Ray (Ryann) Owens of Maumelle, and Tricia (Jimmy) Hilpert of Maumelle. She had five grandchildren, Ashley Roehrdanz, Logan & Lacey Hilpert, and Ayden & Riley Owens. Joyce worked for Roadway Express for over 30 years and was very active with her church, Second Baptist – Downtown serving on several committees and volunteering for anything she was asked to do. She had the opportunity during retirement to travel the world with her husband and friends, and spent countless hours with her precious grandchildren. She had a contagious laugh and a big heart for helping and feeding others. She was a friend to all she met and would do anything for anyone.

The family is very thankful for the caring nurses at UAMS and the staff at Arkansas Hospice who cared for her during her illness. Memorials may be made to Second Baptist Church, UAMS or a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be on Monday, Oct. 2 from 6-8 p.m., at Roller Chenal, 13801 Chenal Parkway. The funeral will be held at Second Baptist – downtown at 222 E. 8th St. in Little Rock on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 10 a.m. with burial to follow the next day at Oak Hill Memorial Park in Booneville at 1 p.m.

–––––❖––––– WILBERT POGUE, 91, of North Little Rock passed away to be with the Lord in Heaven on Wednesday,

Sept. 27, 2017.

He was born

Sept. 23, 1926 in

St. Charles, Ark., to Gus and Bertha Pogue.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mildred

Franks; four children, Darral, Judy, Denise and Jimmy; five grandchildren, Alon, Shane, Kimberly, Rachel and Corey; four great-grandchildren, Shaylee, Lane, Katie and Audrey; and sister, Dolly.

Wilbert shared many stories growing up in St. Charles. He loved fishing on the White River and hunting of all kinds. He was a man that could do and fix anything. Wilbert served in the United States Army during World War II. He said he was always there to help anyone in need. He did everything to make a living for his family like diesel mechanic, farm work, sand blasting, mill work, but his professional career was with the government for Federal Game and Fish. He then went on to the Corp of Engineers.

The family will greet friends at North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2, 2017. Burial with military honors will follow at 1 p.m. at Arkansas State Veterans cemetery, 1501 West Maryland Ave. in North Little Rock.

His favorite bible verse is Romans 8:38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– BOBBY D. ROHL SR., 83, of Little Rock, passed away on Sept. 20, 2017. A Memorial visitation will be held Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 at 2 p.m., in the chapel at A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main St. in Jacksonville. Bobby’s online guest book is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– MARIAN T. SAUBERS passed peacefully Thursday, Sept. 14 of mostly natural causes. She had dementia but seemed content and remained active in her later years in daily walks with her husband.

She was born in Pennsauken,

N.J., on Oct 13,

1925, the second child of five to William and Marian Gannon.

She spent her youth growing up in New Jersey, until the family moved to Philadelphia where she finished high school. After graduating she attended the Philadelphia Museum Art School where she attained the certification as an illustrator. After art school, Marian held several jobs, one being at St. Joseph’s College,

in the Field House for Athletics where she met her future husband, a young Air Force Captain & ROTC Instructor, Jerome I. Saubers. They were married Jan. 24, 1953. They started their family as well as the military tradition of relocation which took them to California, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Ohio and ultimately Little Rock for retirement. Art was always a part of Marian’s life including the watercolors of the beach, her children, interior design or the beautiful clothes she sewed. After the children were grown, she was accepted to the Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts and completed her coursework in the fine art of print making. She continued her art well into her 80s.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Saubers; two sisters, Josephine Finley and Rosemary Liddle; and four children, Resi, Noel, Pele and Mara; and three grandchildren, Amy, Timothy and Daniel. Marian was an artist, wife and mother. She will be missed tremendously by those she has left behind.

A private Mass of Intent will be held in Marian’s honor at Christ the King Church.

–––––❖––––– LILLIAN TAYLOR, 67, of North Little Rock. Survived by children, Linda

(Jerry III) Mason, Jean Gamble (Jona Ray),

Emma Mickies (Charles Williams), Shirley Gamble, Cornelius and Andrew

Moore. Funeral service noon Tuesday, Oct. 3,

2017 at Gunn Funeral Home. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home 4323 W. 29th St., Little Rock, Ark., 72204.

–––––❖––––– JEANETTE WILSON, age 64, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on Tuesday.

She was a lifelong member of First Baptist

Church, Sweet

Home. She is survived by her mother Velma Lee Mays; brother James

L. Wilson, Jr. (Deborah); sisters: Estella Wilson and Betty Williams; three step-sisters, and four step-brothers, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends. Visitation will be Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 10-11 a.m. followed with funeral service at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church,6825 Highway 365, Sweet Home, Ark.

Brown’s Christian Funeral Service (501) 244-8000.

–––––❖––––– BOBBIE DEAN WOODWARD, 86, of Little Rock passed away Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017. She was born in Wilson, Ark., on Aug. 10, 1931. She was a devoted wife of 51 years to her husband Joseph Earl Woodward. Her home was the central location for the family’s best memories. From Christmas to weekly dinners, her

door was always open to family and friends. She loved to spoil her grandchildren on yearly vacations that they always looked forward to. She was a caring woman that always made sure to help with the needs of anyone she knew. She loved to get together with family and friends to play cards and board games; Yazette always being top of the list. Taking her little chihuahua for walks with her friends and their dogs was always a favorite time for sharing stories about her family. Her life was truly nothing short of miraculous and she will be missed dearly from all that knew her.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her two brothers and one sister, Bill, Bo, and Dink. She is survived by three sons and one daughter, William (Debbie) Woodward, Jimmy (Julie) Woodward, Darrel Woodward and Pam Rankins. Also survived by eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 2, at Wolf Cemetery with Bro. John Chapman officiating. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: harrisfuneralhomes.net.

–––––❖––––– CHARLES ALLEN ZAJAC, 62, of Marche, passed away Friday, Sept. 29, 2017. He was a retired Carman for Union Pacific.

Charles loved being a grandfather.

His mission in life was taking care of his family.

He is survived by his mother, Barbara Blanchard Zajac of Maumelle; two daughters, Kim Zajac of Maumelle and Misty Wortman of Marche; three granddaughters, Sydney Strecker of Perryville; Reagan Wortman of Maumelle; and Karsyn Pannell of Marche; brothers, Stanley and Mark Zajac of Marche; sister Karen Cogan of Port St. John, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Alois T. Zajac and his wife, Vicki Zajac.

Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service. Burial will be at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary, 7025 Jasna Gora Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72118. Online guest registry at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

ALEXANDER — Mary Ruth Cook Bidwell, 89, of Alexander, Ark., passed away on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. She was born in North Little Rock on Aug. 16, 1928 to Earl and Vona Ruth (Brockington) Cook.

She is survived by her children, Vona Lee Thompson (Thomas Edward) of Perryville; Cyrenea Sue Mehefko (Larry) of Warner Robins, Ga., and Dreama Maria Sorsby (Dr. Stephen) of Alexander; grandchildren, Thomas, Jr., Teri Elen, Andrea, Daniel, Sean, Jason, Cyrenea Kay and Lincoln; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and sister, Martha Earlene Cook Autry. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Cyreneus Benjamin Bidwell, brother, Milton Earl Cook Jr. “Jimmy” and great-grandchild, Ashley.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mary’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Robert Dewayne “Bob” Bumgardner, 70, of Benton, Ark., passed away on Sept. 28, 2017.

Visitation will be held on Oct. 2 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home, Benton, Ark. A memorial service for family members will follow from 1–2 p.m.

Bob was born on Nov. 13, 1946 in England, Ark., to William Z. and J. Marie (Miller) Bumgardner. Following his high school graduation, he was a student at the University of Central Arkansas until his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He served proudly during the Vietnam Conflict and received his discharge in 1969. After his discharge, he resumed his studies at the University of Central Arkansas. It was during this time that he met and married Reita Norris on Oct 2, 1970. After receiving his M.Ed from Ouachita Baptist University, he taught HS English and Journalism for the Department of Defense Overseas Schools in Naples, Italy and Aviano, Italy. An avid reader and lover of history, Bob enjoyed living in Europe and took advantage of any opportunity to travel to a new place. He was fond of saying that he “always had to see what was over the next hill”.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he is survived by his wife Reita Bumgardner (née Norris), two sons, William and April Bumgardner of Zionsville, Ind., and Eric and Keirsten Bumgardner of Georgetown, Texas, and five grandsons: Jack, Alexander, Sean, Samuel, and Gabriel, as well as a sister, Debbie Petty (née Bumgardner) of Searcy, Ark., and a brother, Randy Bumgardner, of Orlando, Fla.

Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Donald Melvin Gattin Sr., 72, Benton; died Sept. 28, 2017. Survivors: wife, Donna Gattin; son, Donald Gattin Jr.; brother-in-law, Tony Floyd (Belinda) and niece, Leigha Jones (Cody). Private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials, Shriners Hospitals or St. Judes Children’s Hospital. Guestbook, www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Thelma Lynn Shellnut, 78, of Benton, Ark., passed away Sept. 29, 2017. She was born Jan. 14, 1939 in Texas. Memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 2, at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church, 402 Shenandoah, Benton, Ark. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– BONO — Dewayne Smith, 70, of Bono, passed away, Friday, Sept. 29, 2017. Funeral service will be Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017, at 2 p.m. at Roller Farmers Union Funeral Home. Officiating, Freddie Jones. Burial will be at Mt. Zion Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 5-8 p.m. Online guestbook: www. rollerfuneralhomes.com/Jonesboro.

–––––❖––––– BRYANT — Myrtle Sue Peck Barr, 84, went home to meet her creator Sept. 23,

2017. She was born Nov. 6,

1932 in Weslaco, Texas, to the late William Harold and Lucille McAdams Peck.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother,

Bill; sister, Peggy; and her daughter Valerie Barr. She is survived by her husband, James Barr; sons, James Barr Jr, and Terry Barr; daughter, Paula Barr; one granddaughter, Crystal Barr; and one great-granddaughter, Valerie Balentine.

In lieu of a memorial service, we are asking those who knew her best to post their memories on her timeline and on her memorial page at Pinecrest Funeral Home, so that we can all remember her together.

In addition, over the last year or so, Myrtle was ill and was unable to donate to a charity that she believed in, The St. Labre Indian School in Ashland, Mont. If you truly wish to remember her, we are requesting that people make donations to this charity in her name. St. Labre Indian School, P.O. Box 216 Ashland, MT. 59003-9989. (stlabre.org). To sign the online guestbook go to www. pinecrestmemorialpark.com.

–––––❖––––– CLINTON — William “Bill” Crumley Jr., 86, of Clinton, passed Sept. 28, 2017. Visitation was Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017 at the Roller-McNutt Funeral Chapel from 6-8 p.m. Funeral Service is at Burnt Ridge Community Church on Oct. 1, 2017 at 2 p.m. Arrangements are under the care of Roller-McNutt Clinton, Ark. Online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Owen W. Moon, 83, of Conway passed away Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017. He was born Nov. 19, 1933 to Ray and Pearl Moon.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Moon; his parents; and sisters, Ray Ellen Odle and Maudie Moon Dickens. Owen is survived by his son, Bill (Marsha) Moon; daughter, Ruth Smith; three grandsons, Curt Nix, Ryan Moon and Matthew Smith; one granddaughter, Holly Warren; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 at Amboy United Methodist Church, in North Little Rock, Ark. Burial will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amboy UMC. Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– FORREST CITY — Oral Winston Edwards, 87 of Forrest City, Arkansas, passed away September 29, 2017. He was born November 25, 1929, to Jesse and Grace Ahlf Edwards near Rector, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Christine Austin Edwards. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two brothers – Leslie Edwards of Memphis, Tennessee, Robert (Bobby) Edwards of Marianna, Arkansas; two sisters – Ernestine McCartney and Cleatis Bowman, both of Las Vegas, Nevada; and a loving brother-inlaw and sister-in-law, Ben and Katherine Hickey of Forrest City. He is survived by one sister, Marie Legault of Richardson, Texas. He is also survived by one son – Steve Edwards and wife Laura of Marianna, Arkansas, and one daughter – Susan DeRossitt and husband Jim of Forrest City. Loving grandchildren – Ashley Rowton and husband Paul of Harrisburg, Arkansas, Leigh Nance and husband Coe of Jonesboro, Arkansas, and Steve Edwards Jr. of Marianna, Arkansas. Frank DeRossitt and wife Beth of Bentonville, Arkansas, and John DeRossitt of Orlando, Florida. Papa also leaves great-grandsons – J.P. Rowton, William Rowton, James Nance, Ben DeRossitt and Wyatt DeRossitt.

Oral was a self-made man.

Born to humble beginnings in the Hopewell community outside Rector, Arkansas, his father was a barber and the entire family worked their 40-acre farm to provide a living. His family had lived in a big tent while they built their home. It was constructed by family members with the help of neighbors. Oral was born at home just after the new home was completed. Both of his grandmothers were present for the birth. Oral attended a tworoom schoolhouse in the Hopewell community until 8th grade. He then attended and graduated from Rector High School, walking four miles to school.

Shortly after graduating high school he moved to Blytheville, Arkansas, where he took a job as an accounting clerk at Arkansas-Missouri Power Company. He also took a part-time job on Saturdays working for Hays Store in Blytheville. It was there that he met the love of his life, Christine Austin. She was a bank cashier and worked a second job on Saturdays at Hays Store. Christine had also come from humble beginnings. She was raised in Blytheville. Her father worked for Bush’s Canning Company and sharecropped 40 acres. The similarities of their upbringings made them appreciate the finer things in life while understanding the challenges of the working family.

It was also at Hays Store that Oral learned to appreciate and enjoy the grocery business. In 1958, he took a job as assistant manager in a Liberty Cash Supermarket in Millington, Tennessee. After spending nearly two years there he was offered the opportunity to manage a grocery store in Kennett, Missouri. He was a great store manager and after a couple of years he joined with some partners in a new store being built in growing Forrest City, Arkansas. In 1962, he and Chris loaded up their kids and made their final move to Forrest City.

Arriving in Forrest City as an energetic 32-year-old, he immediately became involved in the chamber of commerce and industrial development. He was a hard worker and the new store quickly became a success. East Arkansas was growing and along with a couple of partners he began opening more stores. The company they founded, GES Inc., eventually grew to 16 stores in Arkansas and Mississippi. These stores currently operate as Edwards Food Giant and Edwards Cash Saver stores. Oral was a mentor to many young men who later started their own grocery stores. For years, they would call him for advice about how to handle a situation in their own stores.

In his later years, Oral could usually be found straightening the KoolAid section. He wanted to keep the cheapest price in town on Kool-Aid because it meant a family of shoppers would notice. He also liked to straighten the spices and seasoning pouches. If a customer bought one of those items, they would also have to buy meat to go with it. Oral was always looking for a deal on something that he could offer to his customers at a lower price. In his younger years he loved to go to the Scott Street Market in Memphis and haggle with growers and truckers for the lowest price on a truckload of watermelons or cantaloupes. Oral never met a stranger, and shortly after he met you he would make you feel like a million dollars. His leadership skills and knowledge of the grocery business led him to be one of the charter board members and founders of the Arkansas Retail Grocers Association. Oral was presented the Arkansas Retail Grocer of the Year award by Governor Bill Clinton in 1987. He and Governor Clinton became friends, and he became a confidant and adviser to the governor. He and Chris traveled to the White House to visit President Clinton on several occasions.

Oral was raised in a community with only one black man so he really never understood the racial problems that were beginning about the time he arrived in Forrest City. He always wanted to treat everyone equally. To him the grocery business was the people pleasing business and that applied to everyone. He wanted to sell a quality product at a fair price. He was the first white merchant in Forrest City to put a person of color at a cash register. That was met with some resistance but he became known as a man who was fair to everyone.

As the business grew, Oral became involved in many civic and business organizations. He was a director for many years at Planters Bank & Trust in Forrest City. He felt that his biggest accomplishment at the bank was starting Saturday banking in Forrest City. He was a proponent for the working man and felt the bank wasn’t making their services available to folks that worked for a living. He became a director of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and was one of only two Lifetime Directors ever named by that organization. He served as a commissioner on the Mississippi River Parkway Commission for many years and enjoyed meeting with other commissioners up and down the river with hopes of improving the area. Even in his later years Oral was still involved in community affairs. He was recognized as Citizen of the Year by the Forrest City Area Chamber of Commerce in 2016.

He and Chris came up poor but neither of them realized it. They both came from loving families and didn’t want for anything. Oral never attended a day of college but became chairman of two different college boards. He was a director and chairman of the East Arkansas Community College board for many years. He was the driving force in building the Fine Arts Center, and the stage bears his name. He finally got his college degree when EACC awarded him an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree.

He was also a director and chairman of the board of Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences in Memphis, Tennessee. The Baptist hospital organization in Memphis was very important to Oral. He served on the Board of Trustees as well as the corporate board for nearly 30 years. He also served on that organization’s foundation board.

Oral and Chris were always trying to help others. They started two different funds in the Baptist system. At the college they started the Christine and Oral Edwards Scholarship Fund to benefit needy students going into health care professions. As Oral spent time around the Baptist Hospital system he saw many people who were staying with loved ones but didn’t have money to eat. The fund that he was most proud of was The Christine and Oral Edwards Endowment Fund. The purpose of this fund is to dispense cafeteria food vouchers for needy families through the chaplain’s office.

In Oral’s early years in Blytheville he was a member of the Arkansas National Guard. He left the National Guard as a 2nd Lieutenant when he moved from Blytheville. In 1957, while a guardsman, his unit was ordered to Little Rock by Governor Orville Faubus. The purpose was to keep peace and block black students from entering Central High School. Oral did not want to participate in this but had no choice. Luckily his unit had no confrontation. Approximately 40 years later he attended a gathering which honored the Little Rock Nine. He took that opportunity to personally apologize to several of them about that day in Little Rock.

Oral and Chris had read about the world in their early years and wanted to see it. They traveled extensively across the country and the world. They visited places considered unsafe today such as Morocco, Egypt, Iran, Russia, and many other countries. Their life was not without excitement. While staying at the MGM Hotel in Las Vegas in 1980 the hotel caught fire. It is the second-worst hotel fire in U.S. history, and 85 people perished. Chris kept hearing sirens and realized the hotel was on fire. They ran down the hall knocking on doors and were credited with saving several lives.

Oral’s hobbies were working in the stores, gardening and collecting antiques. He admired nice things and one day spotted a Boehm porcelain bird piece that he liked. Chris later bought it for him and he became a collector of the Boehm figurines. He later met Helen Boehm, owner of the Boehm studios, at an art show. They became good friends, and Oral and Chris traveled with her on several excursions. While traveling with Mrs. Boehm they met Prince Charles and Princess Diana on two different occasions. They thought that was a pretty big deal for a couple of folks from Arkansas. They also traveled with Mrs. Boehm to Russia. They were present when she presented a Boehm American Eagle to Mrs. Gorbachev. It was the first item from the United States to be displayed in the Russian National Museum after the Cold War.

Oral helped lots of folks over the years. If they didn’t have money for groceries he would give them food until they could pay. Many people have said that their families would have starved to death without him. His stores employed thousands over the nearly 60-year existence. Many young people had their first job working in his grocery stores. When the food pantry was started in Forrest City he was a big supporter and continued that support for many years.

Oral’s life changed dramatically in 2011 when he had a near fatal auto accident. He was in full arrest at the scene and was revived. He spent four days in a coma and months in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. He emerged weak but determined and spent the remainder of his years confined to a wheelchair. He still maintained his great attitude and continued to motivate and help others. He loved people and insisted on dining out regularly at area restaurants so he could visit with folks. In later years, Oral enjoyed coffee every morning at Burger King where a regular group met and told stories and bragged on their kids. This was the third morning coffee location that he had frequented, and he often joked that he had outlived two other groups.

When the Edwards family first moved to Forrest City they quickly found a church home at First Baptist Church. This was an important part of his life and even after his accident, he always wanted to be at church on Sunday. His best friends in life were the members of the Adult Four Men’s Sunday School Class.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m., Monday, October 2nd, at First Baptist Church in Forrest City. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, October 3rd, at the church. Burial will follow at Forrest Park Cemetery. Stevens Funeral Home of Forrest City in is charge of arrangements. Honorary pall bearers are the Adult Four Men’s Sunday School Class and Food Giant Store Managers and Supervisors. The family requests that any memorials be made to The Christine and Oral Edwards Endowment Fund at Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation or The Christine and Oral Edwards Scholarship Fund at Baptist College of Health Sciences in Memphis. Either may be sent to: Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation, 350 N. Humphreys Ave., Memphis, Tenn., 38120; or to the St. Francis County Food Pantry, P.O. Box 3157, Forrest City, Ark. 72336.

–––––❖––––– GRAVELLY — Charlotte Caroline Biggs, age 85, of Gravelly passed away Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017. Funeral service: 2 p.m., Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 at the Gravelly Mulberry Freewill Baptist Church. Visitation: 6-8 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 1, at the funeral home. Burial: Parks Cemetery. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home Danville.

–––––❖––––– GRIFFITH SPRINGS — Voy Edward Weatherford Sr., 82, of the Griffith Springs Community died Friday. Graveside services are 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017 at New Owen Cemetery at Griffith Springs with Bro. Elmer Byerly officiating. There will be no formal visitation. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www. griffinfuneralservice.net.

–––––❖–––––

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Billie B. Lefler, 83 of Hot Springs Village, passed away on

Monday, Sept. 25,

2017.

Major General

Bill B. Lefler was born in Rawlins,

Wyo., on Oct. 20

1933. Bill grew up in Clinton, Ark., where he was active in sports church and his community. He attended Hendrix College from 1951-1953. While at Hendrix, He met his future bride, Carolyn Ellis. They were married in 1955. He graduated from the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry in 1956 and was commissioned in the Army in 1956. During his military career of over 34 years, General Lefler distinguished himself as a clinician, teacher, administrator, and leader. He held a wide variety of important command and staff positions culminating in 1986, when he was selected as the Assistant surgeon General for Dental Services and the 20th Chief of the Army Dental Corps and promoted to Major General. Following his retirement, General Lefler joined the staff of the American Dental Association as Assistant Executive Director for the Division of Legislative Affairs and director of the Washington, D.C., office of the American Dental Association. In January 1995, General Lefler moved back to his home state of Arkansas. He practiced dentistry at Cordoba Center Dental Clinic (now Lefler Dental) from 1996-2013.

He served on numerous boards and committees such as the Boys and Girls Club and the Donald W. Reynolds Center for aging. He was proud in helping to get recognition for Hot Springs Village as a volunteer community of the year for Arkansas in 2000. The governor appointed him as the initial Chairman of the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission. Bill was an active member of the village United Methodist Church, where he was on the pastoral council, sang in the choir, played in the band, and taught an annual bible study class for 17 years. He was involved in many organizations. Some of them were VFW, MOAA, Evening Lions and Cedar Mountain Singers where he was the Master of Ceremonies. He was well known for telling corny jokes. If he wasn’t a member of an organization, he was always seen in the audience enthusiastically supporting them.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Carolyn, daughter Tracey Salter (Jack), sons Dr. Tom Lefler (Cindy) and Dr. Mark Lefler (Katherine), eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

General Lefler was a man of passions-family, friend’s community, and country.

The celebration of his life will be 11 a..m., Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Village United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers the family request gifts to be made to the Village United Methodist Church, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, or Intrepid Fallen Hero’s Fund, (www.fallenherosfund. org). Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home. For online condolences visit at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– HUNTER — Vickie Daniel, 55, died Thursday. Survivors: husband, Terry Daniel; son, Jamey (Mona) Daniel; daughter, Kerri (Chris) Cobb; father, Edward Ingle; sister, Debbie (Boyd) Riba; grandchildren, Melinda and Glady Daniel, Michaela Cobb. Visitation 6-8 p.m., Sunday, Bob Neal and Sons Chapel, Brinkley. Services 2 p.m., Monday, First Baptist Church, Hunter. Interment Hunter Cemetery. Guestbook www.bobnealandsons. com.

–––––❖––––– JUDSONIA — Billie Griffis, 81, died Friday. Survivors: husband, Clois Griffis; sons, Roger Griffis (Karen) and Larry Griffis (Onita); grandchildren, Kristi Tippy (Michael) and Lindsay Reynolds (Aaron); five great-grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren.

Visitation: Monday, 6-8 p.m., Powell Funeral Home-Bald Knob. Services: 10 a.m., Clearwater Baptist Church. Interment: Providence Cemetery. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Betty (Griffin) Sherrod-Park, Msgt (Ret) USAFANG passed away Sept. 25, 2017. She was born Dec. 17, 1939, in Keo, Ark. Betty graduated North Little Rock High School in 1958. She retired from the Air Force after serving 25 years.

She is survived by two sons, Pat Sherrod and wife Debbie of Magalia, Calif., and Anthony Sherrod and wife Sherry of Lonoke; two grandsons, Larry and

Billy Sherrod; one granddaughter,

Krystal Griffis; six great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, 7724 Landers Rd., North Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758541, Topeka, Kan. 66675-8541.

Online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Eldon N. Freeman, 85, Malvern, passed, Sept. 29, 2017. Visitation: Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, 5-7 p.m., Regency Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Service: Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, 2 p.m., Regency Funeral Home Chapel. Burial at Francois Cemetery. Arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Kenneth W. Pierce died on Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017. He was born on Aug. 2, 1961. He was survived by three siblings, an aunt, an uncle, nieces, nephews, and many cousins, as well as his best friend forever. Arrangements entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.arkansascremation.com.

–––––❖––––– NASHVILLE — Mary Linda Clingan Jones’ graveside services will be Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017 at 2 p.m., in Ozan Cemetery in Bingen, Ark., with Bro. David Blasé officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Nashville Funeral Home. You may send the family a sympathy message to Nashville Funeral Home on Face Book.

–––––❖––––– NEWPORT — Dr. K. Wade Falwell Sr., M.D. of Newport, Ark., departed this life on Thursday, Sept.

28, 2017, at the age of 60. He was born March 9,

1957, in Bradford,

Ark., the third son of Kent Falwell and Dorlene

(Smith) Falwell.

Dr. Falwell spent his growing up years alongside his three brothers in Bradford. He left Bradford High School following the completion of his junior year in 1974 to pursue a career in medicine. Dr. Falwell earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s in Chemistry in 1982 from Arkansas State University. He began medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences graduating in 1987. Dr. Falwell served his residency in family practice from 1987 to 1990.

Returning home, he began working at Newport Hospital and in 1992 opened Dr. Wade Falwell, M.D. Family Practice. He gave 25 years of care to many patients who considered him not only their doctor, but also, a friend. Dr. Falwell was well known for his strong work ethic. He not only worked as a dedicated full time physician, but, he gave his evenings and days off to farming, one of the great loves of his life. Dr. Falwell’s love of the outdoors extended to his great enjoyment of hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Bradford Baptist Church.

Dr. Falwell’s greatest love in life was his family. He and Miss Debra Pigg married on Aug. 2, 1974, enjoying 43 years, three children, and five grandchildren together. Dr. Falwell will be remembered by many for his tremendous work ethic and his devotion to his patients, but, by those who loved him most, he will forever be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, dad, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend.

Dr. Falwell was preceded in death by one brother, Barry Falwell, on Nov. 6, 2007.

He is survived by his wife, Debra (Pigg) Falwell of the home; two sons, Dr. K. Wade Falwell Jr., and wife, Autumn, of Batesville and W. Craig Falwell, and wife, Alesha, of Newport; one daughter, Druanne Falwell of Newport; five grandchildren, Craig Falwell, Jr., Sophie Falwell, Wade Falwell, III, Henry Falwell, and George Falwell; his parents, Kent and Dorlene (Smith) Falwell of Bradford; two brothers, Kenny Falwell and wife, Carol, of Newport, and Greg Falwell of Bradford; many nieces and nephews; Druanne’s care giver, Lorrie Tubbs; and many other family and a lifetime of friends.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Rick Siler, Bruce Smith, John Tubbs, John Pigg, Tommy Young, and Levi Carlton. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Falwell’s office staff.

Friends may visit at the funeral home Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, from 3-5 p.m. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Billy Goodwill officiating. Interment will follow in Coffeyville Cemetery, Possum Grape.

To light a memorial candle, leave a condolence message, or view the guestbook, please visit our website at www.jacksonsfh. com. Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.

–––––❖–––––

PINE BLUFF — Lawanda Ann Bennett Finley, age 74, of Pine Bluff, died Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017. Funeral services will be Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 2 p.m., at Fuller Hale-South Funeral Chapel. Visitation will be Sunday from 2-4 p.m. at the funeral home. For complete obituary information and online condolences, please visit FullerFunerals.com.

–––––❖––––– PORTLAND — Marvin James Thompson, 62, of Portland passed away at his home Sept. 22, 2017. He is survived by his wife, son, and grandson. Graveside services will be held Oct. 7, 2017 at 10 a.m., at Jennie Cemetery under the direction of Bishop-King Funeral Home of Lake Village. Sign online guestbook www.bishopkingfuneralhome. com.

–––––❖––––– SCOTT — Jimmy Lee Guess, 34, of Scott, died Friday, September 29, 2017. He was born to Harold and Susanne

King Guess on

January 14, 1983 in Bakersfield,

Calif. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents; and maternal grandfather.

Jimmy was a great father, son and awesome brother. He was a 2001 graduate from England High School. Jimmy is best known for having a heart of gold.

Jimmy is survived by his two daughters: Makenzie Paige and Morgan LeeAnne Guess both of Scott; his parents; three brothers: Chad Guess of Scott; Michael Guess of Republic, Mo., Danny Guess of England; Aunt Ginny Brooks; two uncles, J.R. Flowers, Tim King; his Gringos Motorcycle Club family; and a host of family and friends.

Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at Roller-England Funeral Home, 202 Stuttgart Highway, England, Ark. 72046 (501-842-3939). Burial will follow at Mulberry Cemetery in England. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Christmas Caravan, 18808 Hillridge Road, Mabelvale, Ark. 72103. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/england.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Velma Olive Amyett, 94, of Searcy, died September 28. Visitation at 10 a.m. followed by the Funeral Service at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 2, at the Powell Funeral Home Chapel in Searcy. Interment at Providence Cemetery, Judsonia. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Betty Smith Gibson, 85, of Searcy, went to be with her Lord and Savior September 30, 2017 at her residence. She was born October 23, 1931 at Bishop, Texas, to the late Jim and Elizabeth Hankins Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Sheppard.

She married Robert Gibson August 30, 1952 at Corpus Christi, Texas; he survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Margaret Ireland (Dwight) of Searcy, and Robin Honey (Keith) of Kasane, Botswana; two sons, Robert Gibson Jr. (Cristey) of Damon, Texas, and Johnathan David Gibson (Patricia) of Austin, Texas; one sister, Faye Brown (Larry) of College Station, Texas; eighteen grandchildren; and fifteen great grandchildren; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Sunday, October 1, 2017 at West Point Cemetery. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Services have been entrusted to Sullivan Funeral Care of Kensett. Phone: 501-7423621. Condolences: www.SullivanFuneralCare.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Riley Morris Huffstutler went to be with the Lord after suffering fatal injuries in a tractor trailer accident in Hempstead County, Arkansas, September 23, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Lucille Huffstutler of Kennett, Missouri. He is survived by his sons, Garett Huffstutler, his wife Callie, James Ricky Lee Jr., both of San Diego, California. One daughter, Haley Graham, her husband Wesley, two grandchildren of Springdale, Arkansas. Four brothers and their wives, Russell and Joan of Garfield, Arkansas, Jerry and Cindy, Don and Kay of Cullman, Alabama, Mark and Lori of Memphis, Tennessee, along with numerous other family members and friends. A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — Charles (Charlie) K. Weir, 82 of Searcy, Arkansas, passed away on September 29, 2017. Visitation 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Monday, October 2, 2017 at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home. Funeral Services at 10 a.m. October 3, 2017 in the Funeral Home Chapel. Interment at Walker Cemetery. For online guest book, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– SMACKOVER — Rev. Leon T. Dixon, Jr., 49 of Smackover, passed away

Friday, September 29, 2017 at his residence.

Born March 9,

1968 in Little

Rock, he was the son of Leon Thomas, Sr. and

Loretta Yarberry Dixon. Leon was a graduate of Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Okla., where he received both his B.A. and Master’s degrees.

From 1988-2006, Rev. Dixon served at Barnett Memorial, Perryville, Cornerstone, Benton, New Hope and Grace Churches of the Nazarene. In 2006 he transitioned to the United Methodist Church and served in Junction City and Glenwood before becoming the pastor of Smackover and Silver Hill United Methodist Churches.

Leon was preceded in death by his mother. Survivors include his wife of 24 years, Rebekah Dixon of Smackover, along with his son, Robert Thomas Dixon and daughter, Anna Marie Dixon. Also surviving are his father, Leon Thomas Dixon, Sr. (Shelby); one brother, James Thomas Dixon (Tammy); a sister, Teresa Renee’ Fowler (Roger); his mother-in-law, Angela Brackman; and brother-in-law, Adrian Brackman. Leon is also survived by nieces and nephews, Dalton (Morgan), Baylee, Ashleigh Ann, and Gentry and a special god-daughter, Sadie, along with a host of family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, October 1 at First United Methodist Church in Smackover with funeral services to follow Monday morning at 10 a.m. in First United Methodist Church of Smackover.

Visitation in Little Rock will be held Monday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at New Hope Church of the Nazarene, 5519 Atwood Road, Little Rock with funeral services to be held on Tuesday, October 3 at 10 a.m. at New Hope Church with interment to follow in Olive Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 500 W. 7th St., Smackover, Ark. 71762; Silver Hill United Methodist Church, 2038 Silver Hill Loop, Mt. Holly, Ark. 71758; or to New Hope Church of the Nazarene, 5519 Atwood Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72206. An online registry will be available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– STUTTGART — Carroll Jess Evans, 81, of Stuttgart passed away Friday, Sept. 29,

2017, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Carroll was born Feb. 15,

1936, in Des

Arc to Jess and

Aliene Evans.

He was a Christian man with a deep and abiding faith in Christ. He was a longtime member of Southside Baptist Church in Stuttgart where he served as a Deacon. His passions in life were his family, quail hunting and the St. Louis Cardinals.

Carroll was a businessman in Stuttgart. He owned M/C Electric, which specialized in industrial electrical work, for 34 years where he established a strong and loyal client base built on integrity and trust. After retiring and selling his business, he built and operated Casscoe Hunting Club where he provided guided quail hunts for hunters all over the country.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Marvin and Merle Evans.

Survivors are his loving wife of 59 years, Rosa Mae Evans; daughters Pam Maddox (Mickey) of Carlisle and Caroline Raines (Mark) of Cabot; two grandchildren, Jessica Maddox and Ryan Raines; sister, Loretta Davis (Woody) of Cabot; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral services, officiated by Bro. Gregg Greenway, are 1 p.m. Monday at Southside Baptist Church with burial following in Lone Tree Cemetery. Visitation is 2-4 p.m. Sunday at Turpin Funeral Home. His family requests memorials be made to Southside Baptist Church, P.O. Box 424, Stuttgart, Ark. 72160; or the do- nor’s choice. Please go to www. turpin-co.com to sign the online guestbook.

–––––❖––––– WEST POINT — Walter Black, 87, of West Point, passed away Sept. 27, 2017 at

Unity Health in

Searcy. He was born Jan. 2, 1930 at West Point to the late William and Elizabeth Dothard Black.

Mr. Black was a member of St.

John Missionary

Baptist Church and worked for Union Pacific Rail Road. He loved to farm, and raised his own farm animals. He will be remembered for his love of singing and dancing. He married Rogean Hart Black in August of 1953 at Kensett; she preceded him in death in 1976. He was also preceded in death by one daughter, Gail Robinson; two sons, Willie and Dean Black; grandson, John Issac Williams; three brothers and five sisters. He is survived by four daughters, Jolean Young (Doug) of Beebe, Rose Williams (Johnnie) of Little Rock, Jean Black of West Point, and Theresa Jones of Kensett; two sons, Robert Black of West Point, and Eric Black (Keela) of Kincaid, Kan.; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and one great-great-grandchild.

Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 6, 2017 at Centennial Missionary Baptist Church in Kensett until the funeral hour at 1 p.m. Cremation will follow funeral services. Services have been entrusted to Sullivan Funeral Care of Kensett. Phone: (501) 742-3621. Condolences: www. SullivanFuneralCare.com.

–––––❖––––– WHITE HALL — Bobby J. Roberts Sr., 80, of White Hall passed away, Sept. 28,

2017. He was born Aug. 7,

1937, to the late

Robert Lee Roberts and Maxine

Bowlin.

After 37 years of service, Bobby retired from International

Paper where he worked in finishing and shipping. Nicknamed “BR549”, he served as president of the Local Union 1731.

In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia Anderson; one brother, Olen Akines.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Harriet Ann Honsinger Roberts; son, Bobby James Roberts Jr. (Angela); daughters, Beth Michael, and Carla LeGros; son-in-law, Gil Anderson; grandchildren; Jason Michael (Brenda), Samantha Michael, Justin Roberts (Libby), Derek Roberts (Jessica), Dusty Anderson (Anjuli), Sam Anderson (Hannah), Susan LeGros and Josh LeGros; nine great-grandchildren; brothers, Dugan Roberts, Troy Roberts, and Arlie Akines; sister, Susan Schrek; numerous other family members and friends.

Services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday Oct. 3, 2017, at Ralph Robinson and Son, with visitation beginnings at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com

Out-of-state

SEATTLE, Wash. — Michael Curtis Ditzig died on September 11th at age 61.

He was born September 9,

1956 in Malvern,

Ark.; grew up in Benton, Ark.; and moved to

New York City when he was 21.

He had recently moved near Seattle, Wash., but his heart never left New York.

He is survived by his husband Enrico Del Signore and great dane Miss Acey in Washington; sister Leslee (John) Spraggins in Michigan; brother Jim (Mary) Ditzig in Arkansas; nieces Lindsey, Lacy, Lauren and Blythe; his godchildren Stella, Nicholas, Genevieve and Andrew; several great-nieces & nephews. Mickey will be remembered by friends and family for his outgoing personality and joy for life. He lived big and related it even bigger. His Southern charm was well alive in his flair for storytelling. A self-taught pianist and organist, he loved to play while others sang.

Mickey’s career in New York started with SCM Corporation, ERISCO (a Dun & Bradstreet company), Concord Financial Group, Bisys, YES Network, and SES World Skies. He enjoyed joining companies in their early stages and helping to bring them to success.

He served as president of the University of Arkansas Alumni Association for the New York Chapter. He was also board member for Cable Positive, New York chapter, which led him to his involvement with AIDS Service Center (now Alliance for Positive Change). He also served for the Animal Rescue Foundation of the Hamptons for several years.

A service in Manhattan is pending. You are welcome to visit Michael’s guestbook at www. flintofts.com; look for Ditzig.