Obituaries

OBITUARIES Information for the obituaries and funeral notices below was supplied to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Advertising Department by funeral homes.

Pulaski County

ROSE MARIE BARTSCH, 89, of Little Rock, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 17 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church in Little Rock by Msgr. Scott Friend and Fr. Erik Pohlmeier. Visitation with family will be held prior to the service beginning at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be private. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Mrs. Bartsch’s full obituary will be in tomorrow’s edition. Her online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– JAMES “JIM” EDWARD DWYER, 75, of Maumelle, passed away January 14, 2018. He was born July 25, 1942 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to Bamie and Ruth (Ray) Dwyer. He grew up in Hot Springs, and then moved to Kirby, Arkansas where he graduated from Kirby High School. He earned a BA Degree from Henderson

State College at Arkadelphia. During his years of college and early career working in the tire industry, he also raced boats to earn money to help put him through college. Jim received a swimming scholarship from Kirby High School in order to attend Henderson State and worked at the B.F. Goodrich Dealer Store in Arkadelphia to help offset his college expenses. After college, he worked in the tire industry for many years, including Firestone Rubber Company, Mohawk Rubber Company, Dunlop Tire Company and Goodyear Tire Company. He traveled many states during his time with the tire companies, eventually earning the position of District Manager and specializing in writing the tire specs for the company on the large over the road truck tires. Jim earned numerous awards for his services to both wholesale and retail tire stores. He was known for his knowledge of not only the tire industry but the automotive industry as well.

Jim opened his first tire store on Asher Avenue in Little Rock in the mid-1970s and over the next few years, opened three additional locations in Little Rock and one additional location in Pine Bluff. The last store to open was The Tire Shoppe at 5501 South University Avenue and it became his home base, eventually closing the other stores to concentrate on this store. Jim dedicated his remaining business career to the University Store which sold in 2010.

Jim married Wanda Yeargan while in college and they had two children, James Craig Dwyer and Jamie Dwyer Pipkins. Jim and Wanda divorced in 1977 and on January 1, 1982, he married Mary Coffee, who has two sons, Steven Brent Coffee and Bradley Scott Coffee. Mary and Jim lived in Mabelvale until 1998 when they bought their current home in Maumelle.

Jim leaves his best friend of 40 years and wife, Mary Dwyer; his son, James Craig Dwyer; daughter, Jamie Dwyer Pipkins; sons, Steven Brent Coffee and Bradley Scott Coffee; several grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Services are Thursday, January 18 at 1:30 p.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 12:30, at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), (501) 2242200. Entombment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr., Little Rock, Ark. 72205. Jim’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome. com.

–––––❖––––– RODNEY F. FLEISCH, 79, passed peacefully from this life January 8, 2018 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born April 8, 1938, in Hermann, Missouri, to Christian and Caroline Fleisch, who preceded him in death. Rodney attended Hermann High School graduating in 1956. He served his country for 4 years in the United States Navy and was a faithful employee of Dillard’s Department Stores for 38 years. Rodney was a devoted family man and avid golfer.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Lynne; daughter, Shelley Djurica; son, George (Stacy) Fleisch; three grandchildren, Ian Djurica, Alexander Djurica, and Lucas Fleisch; brother, Bob (Jean) Fleisch; sister, Peggy Ochsner; nieces, nephews and their families; and golfing buddies who will miss him dearly.

Family will remember Rodney in a private celebration of his life. Those who wish to remember him are asked to donate, on his behalf, to the Pulaski County Humane Society. His online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– NAZAREE CHRISTINA GATLIN-KEMP passed away Sunday January 14, 2018. She was born September 2, 1979 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was a member of Greater Galilee Baptist Church. She was a licensed cosmetologist from Regency Beauty Institute. She is survived by her daughters, Jasmine Gatlin and Kyara Kemp and a host of other relatives and friends. Home going services will be held Friday, January 19, 2018, 12 noon, at Greater Galilee Baptist Church, 2623 Lewis Street, Little Rock, Ark. Interment: Arkansas Memorial Gardens, North Little Rock, Ark. Viewing: Thursday, January 18, 2018, 1-4 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 S. Chester St., Little Rock, Ark. (501) 372-1305.

–––––❖––––– ROBERT EUGENE GREEN, 79, of Little Rock passed away Sunday, January 14, 2018. He was born December 8, 1938 in Nashville, Tennessee to Edward and Myrtle Newman Green. He retired from Hugg and Hall Equipment Co. as a parts analyst, served in the United States Air Force and was a member of Orion Missionary Baptist Church. Bobby enjoyed golfing and working in his yard. He enjoyed his grandchildren and spending time with them.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Patricia Rodgers Green; two sons, David Green of Jacksonville, Ark. and Brian Green (Robyn) of Devon, Pa.; grandchildren, Adian Green, Devon, Pa. and Amber Green of Jacksonville, Ark.; stepson, Hank Singley IV; step-grandchild, Hank Singley V, both of Little Rock; three siblings, Phillip (Judy) Green, Howard (Felice) Green and Dennis (Sheila) Green, all of Tennessee; and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Charles, James, Elmer, Ricky, Michael and Wayne Green.

Private burial in Ashland City, Tennessee at a later date. Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– NATHANIEL GRIFFIN JR., born October 20, 1947 in New Orleans, Louisiana passed from this life on January 9, 2018. He was born to the late Nathaniel and Ethel Nickerson Griffin. Nathaniel served honorably in

the United States Air Force. He loved going fishing with his cousin Donald. He is also preceded in death by his sister Emelda Bottoms. Nathaniel is survived by his siblings, Irene (Willie) Griffin-White, Lawrence Honore, Debra Ellis, Paulette Honore, Glenda Honore, Veronica Hawkins, Gail (Alvin) Anderson; special cousins, Donald Wesley and Shirley (Otis) White; special aunt Emelda Brooks; special uncle Howard Nickerson; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2018 from 9-10 a.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Arkansas with funeral services to follow at 10 a.m. Burial will be at 12 noon at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas with Air Force honors. His online guestbook is available at www. anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– LaFERN KING, 83, of Jacksonville, passed away January 14, 2018. She was born August 22, 1934 in Enola, to the late Barney and Willie Heffington. LaFern was a teacher at Dewitt for 15 years; and retired after 22 years at Pulaski County Special School District. She was a member of the Church of Christ. LaFern is survived by her sister, Martha (Don) Walker, niece, Tammy (Billy) Estes, nephews, Jerry (Wendy) Walker, John (Susan) Walker, and Jamie Heffington; several great nieces and nephews, and many more family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, and brother, James E. Heffington. Funeral Service will be at 1 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2018 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway with Burial following at Crestlawn Memorial Park. Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ conway.

–––––❖––––– W. CHARLES MARAK, SR., age 93, husband of Joyce Frazier Marak, died January 14, 2018. Born in Little Rock to the late William H. and Emily Orlicek Marak, he graduated from Little Rock High School in 1942. He became affiliated with the Pulaski Heights Methodist Church after joining Boy Scout Troop 12. Some of his earliest memories were the summertime activities at the Boys Club when he was a member of the “Knot Hole Gang” and attended L.R. Travelers games for free. As a youth he also enjoyed spending time with relatives fishing and hunting in Hazen and “helping” at his Aunt’s bakery in Searcy. A WWII veteran, Charles served in the Army Air Corps as a Navigator on a B-24 heavy bomber with the 450th Bomb Group in Italy. He was awarded several medals including the prestigious Air Medal for the 21 missions he flew. He donated many items he collected while in the Army Air Corps to the “Wings of Honor Museum” in Walnut Ridge. Charles received a B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Arkansas in 1949 where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.

He became a Registered Engineer in 1952. He was a Life Member and served as a local and State officer of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers. He started his engineering career as a Hydrologist with the Little Rock District Corps of Engineers. During the middle 1950s, he was the Chief Engineer over the design of the facilities for the reactivated Ardmore Air Force Base in Oklahoma. He and his family then returned to Little Rock, where he became a Construction Examiner with the Federal Housing Agency. After working for FHA, Charles became a Civil Engineer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, working as a designer of foundations and wall stability for Arkansas River Locks and Dams. He developed the criteria for a typical lock and dam, constructed on rock and silt. During the 1960s and 70s he was Chief of the Automatic Data Processing Center utilizing computer facilities for processing engineering, finance and accounting applications. A first generation Bendix G-15, used for engineering only, was replaced by a second generation GE-225.

He was an active volunteer with the Arkansas AAU Swimming Association, and served as an AAU Swim Meet official for several years in the 1960s, when his children were competitive swimmers.

After retiring, Charles and Joyce enjoyed bream fishing at the Lakeside Country Club. They also got a lot of pleasure from their travels, including two Caribbean Cruises, one Alaskan Cruise, and many car trips traveling from one coast to another. They visited their daughter’s family in Ft. Myers, Florida for over 30 years. They also made many trips to St. Louis, Denver, Los Angeles, San Diego and Dallas visiting their other daughter. While in California they visited his relatives in the Los Angeles and San Francisco areas.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents and a younger brother, Gerald A. Marak. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Joyce; a son, Bill Marak (Susan) of Saline County; two daughters, Jan Posch (Michael) of Orlando, Florida and Kay Marak of Little Rock; a granddaughter, J’aime Posch Dell (Steven) of Orlando; and two great-grandsons, Steven and Jameson Dell, also of Orlando.

Services will be Thursday, January 18 at 10:30 a.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Little

Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Road), followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery. Dr. Jeffery Hampton will officiate. Memorials may be made to Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Charles’ online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– TERRY McNAIR, 57 passed January 11, 2018. He was born on October 14, 1960 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Terry is survived by his three siblings, Daphnia Martin (Darrell), Greg McNair and Johnny McNair (Jo). Arrangements are entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Online guestbook, www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– WALTER EUGENE PATE, 67, of Little Rock, died Saturday, January 13, 2018. Visitation from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Funeral service at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at the funeral home. Interment at Romance Cemetery in Romance, Ark. Online guest book www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/Conway.

–––––❖––––– ROBERT FRANK SPARKS, age 89, of Little Rock, passed away Thursday, January 11, 2018, at St. Vincent’s Infirmary in Little Rock. He was born April 12, 1928, in Hope, Arkansas, to the late John Stanley and Mary Ellis Sparks. Mr. Sparks graduated from Sheridan High School in 1946 and was an All-District football player. On August 6, 1951, he married Jeanette Soloman in Danielson, Connecticut. Mr. Sparks served in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1954. He was a member of Lorance Drive Church of Christ and of the Shower Trail Deer Club.

Left to cherish his memory, wife, Jeanette Sparks of the home; daughter, Darlene (Larry) Williams of Little Rock; grandchildren, Mechelle (Tony) Mitchell of North Little Rock and Phillip Wade of Sacramento, California; great-grandchildren, Sarah Wade and Tyler Brown.

Memorial services are 11 a.m., Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at Lorance Drive Church of Christ in East End with Brother David Sweet officiating. Cremation arrangements are by Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan. (870) 942-3231. www.buiefuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– THOMAS DON WEBB, age 67, of Little Rock, passed away Sunday, January 14, 2018. He was born in Conway on October 28, 1950, to Donald and Floy Webb. He was a United States Vietnam Army Veteran and was previously employed with American Restoration Tile. This career path was a joy because it gave him an artistic outlet he had never been able to obtain.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his father, Donald, and friend and cohort, Bryan Byrd. Survivors include his mother, Floy Webb of North Little Rock; his wife of 41 years, Sandi Lynch Webb; three children, Russ Webb and wife, Kim of Mayflower, Ron Webb and wife, Vernidean of North Little Rock, and Kris Bunten and wife, Diane of Little Rock; three grandchildren, Bailey Webb, Autumn Webb, and William Thomas Bunten; brother-in-law, Ron Lynch; sister-inlaw, Lou Williams; best friend, Merle Shook; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

A time of visitation will be held Friday, January 19, 2018, from 2-4 p.m. at Trapnall Hall, 423 East Capitol Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas under the direction of Arkansas Cremation. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to any local Vietnam Veteran charity of your choice. For online condolences, please visit www. arkansascremation.com.

–––––❖––––– WILLIAM “ALEX” WHITE, 31, of North Little Rock, was taken from us way too soon on January 12, 2018. He was born on January 29, 1986, to Errol and Karen Dahlgren White in Little Rock. Alex is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Mary and William Dahlgren.

Alex absorbed information like a sponge and could converse on any issue. Always up for a debate, Alex was very knowledgeable on many topics. He was very quick-witted with a unique sense of humor. He is known for being able to make light of any situation.

Alex is survived by his parents; sister, Taylor White of North Little Rock; paternal grandparents, Vernon and Ethel White; his beloved dog, Brock; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Alex was a 2004 graduate from North Little Rock High School and then earned his BS Degree in History and Political Science from UALR. He currently worked as a Customer Care Representative with Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Celebration of Life will be 7 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2018, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Visitation will be one hour prior. Online Guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

–––––❖––––– SHARON GAIL WILKERSON, 70, of Little Rock died Friday, January 12, 2018. She was born February 7, 1947, in Malvern to the late Clyde Lamoin Tripp and Jesse Lee Dunn Tripp. Mrs. Wilkerson worked as a medical transcriptionist, most recently for Baptist Health Neurological Associates. She loved cats and supported the Humane Society. She was loyal, caring and devoted, a talented pianist and she loved to sing.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Wilkerson was preceded in death by a brother, Lemoin “Buddy” Tripp. Mrs. Wilkerson is survived by her sons; Paul (Brande) and Ron Wilkerson, grandchildren; Faith, Heidi and Landon Wilkerson and a brother, Scott Tripp.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made in Sharon’s name to the Humane Society of Pulaski County at http://www.warmhearts.org/donations. A memorial service will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, January 19, 2018, at Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guest book at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

Arkansas

ATKINS — Mamie Berkemeyer, 82, of Atkins, died Saturday, January 13, 2018. Services: 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 17, at St. Mary Catholic Church in St. Vincent with Jim Carfagno leading the Rosary and Rev. Ernest Hardesty celebrating the funeral Mass. Interment: Elmwood Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

––––– ––––– BAUXITE — Marion Riley Gatlin, Jr., 79, Bauxite, died January 10, 2017. Marion was born June 10, 1938, in Arkadelphia. He was retired from Alcoa and a US Army Veteran. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Gatlin, an infant son, and a brother. Survivors: sons,Tony, Michael, and Chuck Gatlin; 11 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Cremation was entrusted to Ashby Funeral Home. Online guest book at www. ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BEEBE — Katherine Elizabeth Merriweather Bise Ballard, age 88, of Beebe, went to be with The Lord Sunday, January 14, 2018. She was born December 6, 1929, to Jesse and Rosie Merriweather. Katherine was her happiest just taking care of her family and her home. She was especially fond of her grandchildren and celebrating the family birthdays. She loved the Lord and was very active at Open Arms Assembly of God in Beebe.

Katherine is survived by her husband of thirty six years, Carthel Ballard; sons, Robert Wayne Bise and wife Margaret, Phillip Ballard and wife Margaritta, Tony Ballard and wife Angie, Jimmy Ballard; daughter, Angie Gibbons and husband Dale; brothers, Kenneth and Jimmy Merriweather; sister, Vicky Valentine; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Chester Bise of thirty one years; sons, Ronald Dale Bise and David R. Ballard; brothers, Pat, Doc, Bob, and Duck Merriweather and sister, Jean Sherman.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Patricia Finley and Kathy Turner and Arkansas Hospice. Family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Open Arms Assembly of God, Beebe with a Celebration of Life to follow at 2 p.m. and burial in Chapel Hill Memorial Park in Jacksonville. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– CABOT — Mearlon Boyd Noah, Sr., 78, of Cabot died Saturday, January 13, 2018. He was born January 1, 1940, in Heber Springs to the late Chauncey and Delpha Foust Noah.

Mr. Noah was a kind, generous man with a strong will and determination. He loved to dance and watch westerns and was happiest with the little things in life.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Noah was preceded in death by his wife, Mattie Noah. Mr. Noah is survived by his sons: Mearlon, Jr., David and Randy Noah, all of Cabot, siblings: Rachel Marlar of Heber Springs and Randy Noah of California, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501)843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Shelly Ann (Ingram) Clubb, age 45, of Conway, Ark., passed away at her home on January 13, 2018. She was born February 14, 1972, to Ricky Lynn Ingram and Judy Lyn (Reynolds) Ingram in Conway, Arkansas. Shelly graduated from Searcy High School in 1990 where she was a member of the band as an extraordinary French horn soloist. She was a licensed dental hygienist. Above all, Shelly was a devout Christian who knew, believed, and lived God’s word. Her Holy Bible was never far from her side. Her heart of gold was open to all and she gave it willingly to all she knew, and was loved by many in return. Her family was dear to her, especially her two daughters, who were the light of her life. She was smart, generous with everything she had, resourceful, and filled with the light of love. That light was Shelly. She was a talented cook and dedicated homemaker, played the piano, enjoyed her pet puppies, and loved watching the Razorbacks. She could be anything from a mischievous tom-boy to a lady of elegance and pure class. She heard music in a special way and had insights of it that were truly an amazing grace.

She is survived by her husband, Clayton Clubb of Conway; two daughters, Madalyn Rose Gross, and Ashley Elizabeth (Libby) Gross, of Searcy; stepdaughter, Sydney Clubb, and stepson, Hayden Clubb, both of Beebe; father, Ricky Ingram (Hettie) of Enola; mother, Judy Henard (Mike) of Searcy; sister, Shannon Donnow (Jeff) of Enola; sister, Sandy Hollman (John) of Searcy; brother, Mickey Henard (Alicia), of Searcy; grandmother, Ava Nell Ingram, of Conway; nieces and nephews: Kylie and Kacie Bragg, of Enola; Isaac and Abigail Hollman, of Searcy; Lynley and Kellan Henard, of Searcy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Sunshine School, Searcy, Arkansas. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. Funeral services will be Thursday, January 18, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Marcus Hill Cemetery in Enola. www. powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Polly M. (Springer) Satterfield made her journey home on Saturday, January 13, 2018. Born August 15, 1927, to Emmett and Katie Springer in Conway, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Laynie Satterfield, and her sister Addie Jane Hughes. She is survived by her sisters, Rosa Shirley (Coy) of Mayflower; Mozell Gunter of Conway; Virginia Ausbrooks (Bill) of Mayflower. Brothers, Emmett Springer (Virginia) of Conway; John L. Springer of Conway; brother-in-law, Leon Satterfield (Barbara) of North Little Rock. Children Diane Welsh (Ed) of Conway; Sandra Spears (James) of Benton and Jerry Satterfield (Jill) of Concord, North Carolina. Five grandchildren, Mike Welsh (Gina) of Conway; Patrick Welsh of Conway; Crystal Satterfield (Travis Maines) of Mount Holly, North Carolina; Kelly Peppard of Benton; Kari Spears (Tim Henderson) of Fayettville. Three great-grandchildren, Jesse Satterfield of Aurora, Colorado; Ella Peppard of Benton; Josie Peppard of Benton and many nieces and nephews.

She was retired from the Arkansas State Hospital’s Mental Health Division after 32 years. She was a member of the Fuller Chapel Primitive Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

One of her favorite things to do was to keep everyone supplied with peanut brittle, pecan pies and coconut pies. She also had a green thumb, as everything she planted would grow into a beautiful flower.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Salem Place Nursing Home and Kindrid Hospice for taking such great care of Polly.

Services will be on Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway, Arkansas. Visitation will be at 12 noon with a service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask memorials be made to Kindred Hospice in her honor. Mail donation check to: Kindred Hospice Foundation, 3350 Riverwood Parkway, Suite 1400, Atlanta, Ga. 30339 or by phone call toll-free at 855-951-6150.

–––––❖––––– DES ARC — Jimmie Eldon Bryant, 67, of Des Arc, Arkansas, passed away, January 12, 2018. He was born on July 9, 1950, to the late Veldon and Helen Bryant. Cremation arrangements are under the trusted care and direction of A Natural State Funeral Service, in Jacksonville. Online guest book available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– EL DORADO — John Schuler McKinney Benson Sr., 90 of El Dorado, passed away Friday, January 12, 2018, in Little Rock, Ark. He was born on February 20, 1927, to Ralph N. and Carrie S. Benson in El Dorado, Ark. He attended El Dorado public schools and graduated from Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Ga. He was appointed and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. in 1949. After graduation he served active duty in the Korean War on a mine sweeper. Before leaving the service he obtained the rank of Lieutenant.

John Schuler returned to El Dorado and in 1950, started a long career at Ritchie Grocer Company. He became President and Chairman of the Board before retiring in 2013, after 63 years of service to the company.

As an active member of the community he served on a number of civic organizations. He served as President of the El Dorado Boys Club, Chairman of the Union District of the De Soto Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, President of the Rotary Club, Director and Vice President of the Union County American Red Cross, Chairman of the Auditorium Commission, Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Justice of the Peace.

His favorite pastime activities included duck hunting, music, reading, travel, snow skiing, tennis, horses and his “farm” where he spent many hours raising ducks, geese and swans. He always had a work project going and those who ventured down to the farm, whether family or friends, were soon put to work. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church since 1927.

Preceding him in death are his parents; three sisters, Mary Eleanor Buckley, Helen Lee Cox, Caroline Calder; and a son, Ralph Lee Benson. Survivors are three sons, John Schuler McKinney Benson, Jr. (Andrea), Stone Schuler Benson, and William Lee Benson, all of El Dorado. Three grandchildren, John Schuler McKinney Benson III (Celeste) of Columbia, S.C., Mary Eleanor Gathright (Clint) of El Dorado, and William Garrett Benson of Little Rock, and two great-grandchildren, Eleanor Kathryn Larson and Isaac Shackleford Larson of El Dorado, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at Young’s Funeral Directors. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2018, in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church with Mike Dumas officiating. A private family interment will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018, under the direction of Young’s.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington D.C., 20090-6011. An online guest registry will be available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– ENGLAND — William Leon Hearn, 90, died on January 14, 2018, in England, Arkansas. He was born on April 1, 1927, to William and Tennie Hearn in Red Wine, Arkansas. He was a plumber by trade and owned his own plumbing company. He loved to fish, hunt and mow yards.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille Hearn and daughter, Sherry June Hearn. He is survived by sons, Larry (Sissy) Hearn and Bill (Jana) Hearn both of England, Arkansas; daughter, Barbara (Mike) Mashburn of Sherwood, Arkansas. Also six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 16th 2018, at 1 p.m. with graveside service at 2 p.m. both at Mulberry Cemetery of England, Arkansas. Wilson Robison Funeral Home of England, Arkansas in charge of the arrangements.

–––––❖––––– GREENBRIER — Tincy Trawick Ward, 90, of Greenbrier went to be with the Lord on January 13, 2018. She was born February 19, 1927, at Gravesville, to the late Elmer and Ester Cullum Trawick. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hubert Ward; five brothers, Ray, Fred, Kay and Jimmy Dale Trawick and Ken Cullum; two sisters, Margie McElroy and Macie Weaver; and daughter-in-law, Deb Ward.

Survivors include two sons, Doug Ward and Jeff (Judith) Ward of Greenbrier; three daughters, Donna (Charles) Norman of Little Rock, Jeanie (Bill) Buice of Greenbrier and Tracy (Mark) Ferrell of Conway; seven grandchildren, Chuck Norman, Jacob Buice, Joshua Ward, Randi Ferrell, Mitch Ferrell, J.W. Ward and Emily Ward; one great-grandchild, Ruth Ward; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was a long-time member of General Baptist churches in Shirley and Greenbrier. “I believe that Love, not time, heals all wounds.”

Services will be held on Wednesday, January 17, at 10 a.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 9 a.m., at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Greenbrier. Rev. Sam Brown will officiate. Interment will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Settlement Cemetery in Shirley.

Pallbearers are Chuck Norman, Jacob Buice, Joshua Ward, Mitch Ferrell, J.W. Ward and Steve Trawick. Honorary Pallbearers are Charles Norman, Bill Buice, Mark Ferrell, Toby Ward, Rick Ward, Chris Ward, Tommy Trawick, Richard Trawick, Kevin Trawick, Tim Trawick, Leo McElroy, and Michael Weaver.

Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mrs. Ward’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– HOT SPRINGS — Dale Hilton, age 67, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away on January 12, 2018. He was born on August 17, 1950, to the late Ralph and Ellene Hilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Arkansas. An online guestbook is available at www. anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– LEWISVILLE — Doris Elaine Dickey, age 73 of Lewisville, Arkansas, passed away Sunday, January 14, 2018. Mrs. Dickey was born April 16, 1944 in Sparkman, Arkansas to Sidney Ray and Edna Williams Sims. She was a Pastor’s wife for over 50 years and served the Lord through Medical Missions for over 20 years.

Mrs. Dickey was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Rev. Joe Dickey; sister, Vada Cox; and one grandchild, Sidney Zumwalt. She is survived by one son, Dr. Kevin Lynn Dickey and wife, Sherri of Thermopolis, Wyo.; one daughter, Christi Zumwalt and husband, Charlie of Lewisville, Ark.; one sister, Frances Ray of Sparkman, Ark.; six grandchildren, Eli Dickey, Will Zumwalt, Charity Zumwalt, Luke Dickey, Seth Dickey, and Silas Dickey; and loved and cherished by several nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to the staff at Heather Manor Nursing Home as well as the staff that cared for her at Wadley Medical Center in Hope, Ark. Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 2018 at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Stamps, Ark. with Rev. Charlie Zumwalt, Dr. Kevin Dickey, and Rev. Gaylon King officiating. Interment will follow at Sparkman Cemetery in Sparkman, Ark. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at the Smith Funeral Home in Stamps. Online registration is available at www.aosmithfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Donald Adams, 71, of Lonoke passed away on January 13, 2018. He is survived by his sons Donnie Jr. and Chris Adams; grandsons, Andrew and Drake Adams; brothers, Danny, Thomas and Sammy Adams; sisters, Ellen Winchester and Linda Adams-James and a host of family and friends. Cremation arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. www. boydfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– MARSHALL — Mardell Hogue Gray, 82, of Marshall died Saturday. Survivors: husband, Ellison Bruce Gray, sons, Darrell & Rusty Gray, six grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren, brothers, Ricky & Jim Hogue. Services: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Roller-Coffman/Marshall. Visitation: 12-1 p.m. preceding service. Burial: Canaan Cemetery. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ marshall.

–––––❖––––– MCCRORY — Mrs. Vastie Binford, 98, died Saturday, January 13, 2018, in McCrory. No services are planned. Arrangements by Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home.

–––––❖––––– MCCRORY — Lester Hankins, age 65, of McCrory died January 14, 2018. Survived by mother, one son, two daughters, one brother, one sister, 10 grandchildren, one great-grandchild. Visitation: Tuesday, January 16, 5 to 7 p.m. Rhodes McCrory Chapel. Funeral: Wednesday, 2 p.m. Rhodes Chapel. Burial: Johnson Cemetery.

–––––❖––––– MONTICELLO — Fleta Madden Collins, age 71, of Monticello passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Belleview Nursing and Rehab Facility in Monticello. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with Rev. Buddy Lemons officiating. Burial to follow in Green Hill Cemetery. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.

–––––❖––––– MORO — Rev. Carl Ray Huling went to be with the Lord at his home in Moro, Arkansas, January 11, 2018 at the age of 86. He was born April 27, 1931 in Moro, to the late Ray Huling and Lillian Traylor Huling. He was an Ordained Minister with the United Pentecostal Church for over 50 years.

Carl is survived by his wife of 65 years, Hazel (Vondran) Huling, three daughters, Durenda Owens (Jackie), Valerie Foster (Steve) both of DeValls Bluff and Carla McCool (Jeff) of Lapeer, Michigan, eight grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. One sister, Joyce Roberts (Ray) of Marianna, two brothers, Abraham Huling (Mary) of Moro and Larry Huling (Grace) of McMinville, Tennessee. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Sylvester Huling and two sisters, Margaret Sutterfield and Adele Sutterfield Rodgers.

Funeral services are 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Harvestland United Pentecostal Church in Moro, Arkansas. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Church.

II Timothy 4:7-8, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

Arrangements handled by Bishop-Crites Funeral Home in Greenbrier, 501-679-4400. www.bishopcritesfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– MOUNTAIN VIEW — Susan M. Chasteen, 69, of Mountain View, Arkansas passed away on Monday, January 15, 2018 in Mountain View, Arkansas. Please contact Roller Crouch Funeral Home in Mountain View, Arkansas at 870-269-3210 in regards to the arrangements.

–––––❖––––– OKOLONA — Anna Dell Rutherford, 86, died January 14th, 2018 at her home in Burtsell, Arkansas. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 17 from 1 p.m. till service time at 2 p.m. at the Center Grove Methodist Church, Okolona, Arkansas. Interment will follow in Center Ridge Cemetery, under the direction of Herndon-Fuqua Funeral Home of Gurdon.

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PINE BLUFF — Mr. Michael Rene Thomas, 59, of Pine Bluff, Ark. passed on Tuesday, January 9, 2018. Funeral services will be 12 noon, Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Pleasant Grove Church in Grady by Rev. Harold Shirlee. Interment will be in Pleasant Grove Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, Ark. www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

–––––❖––––– POTTSVILLE — Arlo Gustav Irmer, age 80, of Pottsville, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Sparks Medical in Fort Smith. He was born July 5, 1937 in Charleston, Neb., and was the son of the late Bruno J. and Irene (Flauss) Irmer. He was a retired U.S. Air Force Tech Sergeant, and a retired Electrician from the Pulaski County Special School District. He was a member of the Pottsville First Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers and one sister. Survivors include his wife, V. Lore’e Irmer of Pottsville; two sons and their wives, Thomas F. and Brenda L. Irmer of Russellville, Mark A. and Brenda (Bree) L. Irmer of Pottsville; two brothers, Al Irmer and Walt Irmer; one sister, Carol (Irmer) Real all of Nebraska; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at the Pottsville First Baptist Church with Bro. Jim Huffman officiating. Burial will be in Rest Haven Memorial Park in Russellville. Visitation will be held Tuesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cornwell Chapel in Dardanelle.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Pottsville, P.O. Box 153, Pottsville, Arkansas 72858. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Thomas Cleburne Vining Jr., 78, of Russellville, died Saturday, January 13, 2018. He was born February 7, 1939. The graveside service was 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at McFadden Cemetery and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– SEARCY — B. Mae Wilkins, 95, died January 13 at her home in Searcy. She was born July 3, 1922 in Romance. Visitation will be Thursday, January 18 at 10:30 a.m. Funeral Service will be Thursday at 1 p.m., both at the Powell Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– TYRO — Bro. Larry Eugene Wilkerson, age 67, of Tyro passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Baptist Health Center in Little Rock, Ark. Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with Rev. Zan Pierce and Rev. Tony Wells officiating. Burial will follow in Tyro Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. prior to service time. Online guest book www.stephensondearman.com.

–––––❖––––– WEST MEMPHIS — Della Nicholson Waddel, 81, died Saturday. She is survived by two sons; Kent Waddel and Joey Waddel, and two grandchildren; Michelle and Savannah Waddel. Funeral Services will be 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Bob Neal & Sons Funeral Home in Brinkley, with interment in the Hunter Cemetery. Obit/guestbook/bobnealandsons.com.

Out-of-state

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Carl Alan Phillips, 39, passed away on 1/8/18 in California. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl D. and Betty R. Phillips both of NLR, and two brothers, Ronnie & Rickie Phillips. Survivors include: four sisters, and four children, Cassidy 15, Cadence 13, Bradley 12, and Shyla, 6.

–––––❖––––– PAEONIAN SPRINGS, Va. — Jack Curtis Hammett Jr. of Paeonian Springs died in Leesburg, Virginia on New Year’s Day 2018. Jack was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on December 29, 1939 to Barbara Aileen Hammett (1917-2017) and Jack C. Hammett (1916-1987). He grew up as an Eagle Scout, enthusiastic amateur radio competitor (K4VV), and graduated from Little Rock Central High School. Jack was married to his high school sweetheart, Carol Ann (nee Raines) Hammett of Little Rock, from December 27, 1961 until her death in 2000.

Jack was a graduate of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville and earned a doctoral degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. He served with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Okinawa (1965) and Vietnam. He continued on active duty with the U.S. Army Signal Corps for over 20 years, contributed to the original ARPANET and numerous other advanced communications projects, and achieved the rank of Colonel. He then joined Science Applications International Corporation as a senior vice president and group manager for over a decade. Jack also developed an amateur multi/multicontest radio station and served as an active member and past President of the Potomac Valley Radio Club.

Jack was married to Sharon Long of Shreveport, Louisiana from 2002 until his death. Sharon remained his loving partner during his senescence with Alzheimer’s disease and survives him. Jack also leaves his beloved family of two daughters, Laura H. Millard (Charles B.) of Frederick, Maryland and Lisa H. Price (Jon) of Indiana, Pennsylvania; three grandchildren, Charles B. Millard, Joshua C. and Caleb L. Price; his step-daughter, Karen Costello of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, his step-sons Bobby Long of Apex, North Carolina and Thomas Clay Long of Jacksonville, Florida; nine step-grandchildren; the family of Jeanne (nee Raines) and Jim Ayars of Clovis, California; and many friends and fellow service members.

A Celebration of Jack’s life will be held at St. James’ Episcopal Church, Leesburg, Va. on Saturday, January 20 at 12:30 p.m.

–––––❖––––– EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — Dr. William Coulson of Eau Claire, Wis., formerly of Little Rock, Ark., died Saturday, January 13, 2018. Arrangements are with Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home, Eau Claire, Wis.