Obituaries

Pulaski County

Rev. RICKY L. CALHOUN SR., 66, of Little Rock transitioned from this life on August 3, 2019. Ricky was passionate about serving people and had a passion for the funeral business.

He attended Dallas Institute of Funeral Services where he graduated as a licensed Funeral Director. His journey into the funeral business began at OT Smith Funeral Home and later on to Dubission Funeral Home. It was the late 80’s when Ricky ventured off to start Calhoun Funeral Home on Main Street in North Little Rock. As his passion grew, business grew and moved into a bigger facility in Southwest Little Rock renaming to Calhoun-Wilson Funeral Service. In 2017 he became Chief Executive of his sons’ funeral home, at Brown-Calhoun Funeral Service.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jearldine Calhoun, two children Nicole L. Calhoun, Ricky L. Calhoun, Jr. (Lorin), a bonus son Gary Brown, Jr. and seven grandchildren. Mr. Calhoun will lay in State from 1-4 p.m. at Brown-Calhoun Funeral Service 7117 Geyer Springs Rd. LR, Ark. Family Hour will be August 9, 2019 from 6-7 p.m. and Funeral Service will be August 10, 2019 at 11 a.m. both held at King Solomon Baptist Church 1304 Pine St. NLR, Ark. 72114. Professional Services Entrusted to Brown-Calhoun Funeral Service, 7117 Geyer Springs Rd., LR, Ark. 72209 501.904.6982. www.bandcfuneral.com. “Providing Families an Everlasting Service.”

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CLARA (KITTY) CLINCH, 68, of Little Rock, Arkansas departed this life Wednesday, July 31, 2019. She is survived by her brothers, James Bryant, Jimmy Bryant, sister, Jimmie Henry, special niece, Mary Sanders, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral Service, 11 a.m., Saturday, August 10, 2019, Grace Inter-City Spiritual House of Prayer Baptist Church, 1800 West 16th Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114, Rev. Edward Paige, Pastor. Family Hour 6-7 p.m., Friday, Hubble Memorial Chapel. Services entrusted to Hubble Funeral Home “Serving you with professional care since 1900,” www.hubblefuneralhome.com.

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LOUISE EMILY GILL, 88, passed away Monday August 5, 2019. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Leotis Gill. She leaves to cherish her memory her three sisters; Willamina Holloway, Edith Brown and Lilla Drayton, a niece Roslin Dixon and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 10, 2019, 1 p.m., Greater Christ Temple Pentecostal Church, 1200 Bishop Warren Drive. The family will receive friends tomorrow from 6-7 p.m. at Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, 501 East 16th Street. Professional services entrusted to Hardy Funeral Home, 5300 West 12th Street (501) 372-4129.

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NOLA MARKS HICKS, 99, of Little Rock, went to be with the Lord on Monday, August 5, 2019. A Graveside Service will be 3:30 p.m. Friday, August 9, 2019 at Kingsland Cemetery in Kingsland. Visitation will be 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to service time at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home, 306 S. Main Street, Benton (501315-4047). Please sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com ballard.

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JO BETH HUDGENS, 66, of Little Rock, passed away August 5, 2019. She was born July 5, 1953 in Monticello, Arkansas. Memorial service held at 1 p.m., Friday, August 9, Sardis United Methodist Church, 10715 W. Sardis Road, Bauxite, Arkansas. Visitation following. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

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CHARLES NORMAN RAMSEY, 75, of North Little Rock died Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at his home. Charles was born June 9, 1944 in Helena, Arkansas to Charles Edward Ramsey and Norma (Hudgins) Ramsey. He was a clerk for the Union Pacific Railroad and in the Arkansas National Guard. Survivors include his wife, Sandra (Ingram) Ramsey, one son, Matt Ramsey, one daughter, Andrea Ramsey, one step-daughter, Dana Neely. Charles was preceded in death by his father and mother. Anyone who knew Charles loved him. Visitation is 1-2 p.m. Sept. 21, 2019 at First United Methodist Church in Des Arc with memorial services immediately following at 2 p.m. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Garth Funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations made to CURE PSP. www.garthfuneralhome. com.

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ROBERT JAMES “BOB” SHELL, 88, passed away August 6, 2019. He was the 1st of two sons born to Roscoe and Gladys Shell. Bob graduated from Little Rock High at 16 and joined the Navy at 17.

Bob married Ginny Brooks on April 7, 1973. They have five children. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Butchie. He is survived by his children, Linda (Mark) Squires, Vicki Doss, Scott, Cathy (Terral) Gammill, and Allison (John) Nelson; grandchildren, Christy, Mandy, Josh, John Mark, Bridgette, Lacey, Robert, Claire, Andi, Emma and Brooklyn; 8 great-grandchildren.

Bob joined The Baldwin Company as a timekeeper in 1950. His work ethic and eagerness to learn the business propelled him up through the company in just about every roll. In July of 1983, he promoted to President of The Baldwin Company and later that year changed the name to Baldwin & Shell Construction Co. He was actively involved in the Association of General Contractors, both locally and nationwide and was selected as a Lifetime Director of AGC, the most highly respected trade organization in the construction industry. He took the company to one of the top 400 construction companies in the country as documented in Engineering News Record. The significance of this achievement is that all the work was performed within the boundaries of the State of Arkansas!

His passion for his community and helping others allowed him to serve on countless boards. He and Ginny developed a love for families dealing with Alzheimers disease and one of his proudest accomplishments is building the Ginny and Bob Shell Alzheimer’s Center at Parkway Village. He also served on the board of Alzheimers Arkansas, Centennial Bank, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 50 for the Future, to name a few. His love for Baptist Health allowed him to serve on the Foundation Board for 25 years.

With all of his awards, accomplishments and affiliations, he was most proud of being a husband and father. He made the choice to only take construction work within the state so he could be home every night for dinner and would never miss one of his kids’ games or events. His love for travel took he and Ginny all over the world. He was an avid Razorback fan and voracious reader. Also a faithful friend, he and his best friend Jack Ramer had lunch every Thursday for over 50 years!

He accepted Christ at 20 when he went to church with his inlaws. He always said that decision changed his life. He was a devoted believer and he was not shy about making that known. He often began speeches with how the Lord had blessed him and that by tithing his income, the Lord continued to bless him with more. He modeled servant leadership and was humble and kind to all he came in contact with.

A Memorial Service celebrating Bob’s life will be held at 3:30 p.m., Friday, August 9, 2019 at Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 N. Shackleford, with a reception following. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 8 from 5-7 at Roller Chenal Funeral Home. A private family burial will be held earlier.

Memorials may be made in Bob’s name to Immanuel Baptist Church, Alzheimers Arkansas or World Services for the Blind. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal. –––––❖–––––

ARDIMESE SHERMAN born May 5, 1921 in Eagle Bend, Miss., to the late William and Joanna Dabney. She was called home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 5, 2019 surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Ardimese was devout Catholic and faithful member of St. Helena of the Cross Catholic church. Later, she became a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church until her death. She was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Steve Sherman and did not have any children.

She is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: Archie Little John, William Dabney Jr., four sisters: Aretha Dabney, Lela Mitchell, Millie Tyson, Etta LittleJohn and husband Steve Sherman.

She leaves to cherish her memory a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, and friends Funeral services will be Saturday August 10, 2019, 11 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church 1421 E. 2nd st. North Little Rock. A rosary will be said from 6 til 7 p.m. at the funeral Home. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark.

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STEPHEN EARL STATEN, 69, passed away Sunday, August 4, 2019 at his home in Little Rock. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Saturday, August 10 at Greenwood Delta Funeral Home in Greenwood, Miss., with interment in Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery near Holcomb, Miss. Rev. Dennis Gossett will officiate. Visitation is from 1-2 p.m. prior to the service.

Steve was born August 17, 1949 in Starkville, Miss., to the late Nancy and Lee Staten of Stuttgart, Ark., and was a graduate of MS State University. He had lived in Memphis, Stuttgart and Dallas before settling in Little Rock where he spent the past 25 years. He was an avid reader who never met a stranger. He was also a retired business manager.

He is survived by his sister, Michele Ives of Wheatley, Ark.; two brothers, Bob Staten and his wife Lynn of Little Rock, Ark., Craig Staten of Lexington, Miss.; and six nieces and nephews, Jennifer Baugh (Chris), Jacqueline Fowler, Clint Butcher (Machelle), Brooke Bryan (Cory), Robert Staten, Parker Staten and a host of other family and friends.

Pallbearers are Clint Butcher, Robert Staten, Parker Staten, Cory Bryan, Bobby Wofford and Chris Baugh, Mike Cooper will serve as an honorary pallbearer. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, St. Jude Children’s research hospital or the charity of donor’s choice. An online guestbook may be signed at www.greenwooddeltafh.com. Greenwood Delta Funeral Home 1008 Sgt. John Pittman Dr., Greenwood, Miss. 38930.

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ANNA ULLRICH, of Little of Rock. The story of a life well-lived isn’t told in words. It’s told by the laugh lines on a face, the love that is shared freely and generously with family and friends, the memories made and treasured with children and grandchildren and perhaps, above all, the way folks feel when they are with you. The life of Anna Bertha Ihle Ullrich was exceptional, yet simple, as she lived a life measured not by material things, but by love and good deeds, and the desire to always nurture and care for those around her. A well-lived life by every definition.

Born October 8, 1925 in the small town of Paris, Ark., Anna grew up on a farm, where she learned the values of family and a strong work ethic. These beliefs were her moral compass, providing a rich foundation for the family she built with the love of her life, Anthony Ullrich. The couple was blessed with a beautiful marriage that lasted for 70 years, setting an example for generations of Ullrichs.

As Anna and Anthony’s family grew, so did her involvement in local organizations and activities. She proudly served the local Girl Scouts as a troop leader, where she made a lasting impression on many young girls’ lives, taking them camping, hiking, teaching outdoor cooking skills and doing countless arts and crafts.

Anna also worked as a cook in the school cafeteria at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Little Rock for more 10 years. She loved cooking a variety of foods, but had a special love for homemade cakes, pies, noodles and dumplings. She also had a strong love for sewing, embroidering and crochet. She made her children’s clothes and the most beautiful wedding dresses for several of her children’s weddings. Later in life she took up crochet, creating baby blankets, afghans and hot mats for family, friends and neighbors as well as hundreds of hats for cancer patients.

A woman of tremendous faith, Anna was an active member of the Catholic Church at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in Little Rock for 62 years. She was involved in many ministries including the Ladies Alter Society, the choir, fund raising, and funeral dinner services. Upon spending time in Texas to be closer to family, her faith only grew stronger, and she developed a great love for her new Holy Cross Catholic Church family in The Colony.

Observing nature and its glory gave Anna much joy, as she saw beauty in all of God’s creatures — especially flowers and birds. Her favorites were the White Rose and the Cardinal, or as Anna would say “Red Bird.” Cardinals are a symbol of love and good deeds, and her family knows that when they see one of Anna’s beautiful “Red Birds,” they know she is near and watching over them.

Anna was preceded in death by her father, Leo Ihle; and mother, Bertha Ihle; brother, Charles Ihle; two daughters-in-law, Phyllis Ullrich and Darlene Ullrich; and two granddaughters, Linda Ullrich and Stephanie Ullrich. She is survived by her loving husband, Anthony Ullrich; five children, John Ullrich of Rosebud, Ark., Gilbert Ullrich of Prescott, Ark., Paul Ullrich of Texarkana, Ark., Cathy (Ullrich) Swiderski (Ed) from Chester, N.H., and Betty (Ullrich) Jones (Kerry) of The Colony, Texas, and her kid sister, Mildred (Tiny)(Ihle) Stehle. In addition to her children, Anna leaves behind 10 grandchildren: Angela Noggle (Jimmy) from Rose Bud, Ark., John Michael Ullrich (Eve) from Portland, Ore., Tonya Munnerlyn (Darren) from Humphry, Ark., Jamie Berger (Shawn) from Searcy, Ark., David Swiderski (Brittney) from Wells, Maine, Alyssa Swiderski from Chester, N.H., Parker Jones from The Colony, Texas, Logan Jones from The Colony, Texas, as well as eight great-grandchildren.

Visitation is Friday, August 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home, followed by The Rosary at 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church on Saturday, August 10 at 10 a.m. followed by a graveside burial at Forest Hills Cemetery.

A memorial Mass will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in The Colony, Texas. Donations in Anna’s memory may be made to the Anna Ullrich Memorial Fund at Holy Cross Catholic Church in The Colony, Texas, which will be used for a dedication stained glass window. Please visit www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com for the online guest book.

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MARGARET SUE WILLIAMS, age 95, of Little Rock, Ark., formerly of Warren, Ark., died Sunday, August 4 at the Comfort Hospice Care in Little Rock, Ark. Graveside services 2 p.m. Saturday, August 10, Oakland Cemetery by Frazer’s. Burial in Oakland Cemetery. Visitation before the graveside Saturday at Oakland Cemetery, www.frazerfuneralhome.com.

Arkansas

ARKADELPHIA — Velma Malinda Adcock Biven, 90, of Arkadelphia, died on August 6, 2019. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 9, 2019 at Shiloh Cemetery with Jeremy Bell officiating. Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia. Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the online guest book.

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AUSTIN — Margie M Davis, 72, of Austin, Arkansas passed from this life on August 6, 2019. She was born in Paris, Arkansas November 17, 1946 to the late Opie and Elva Ballinger.

Margie is survived by her husband of 51 years, Cletus Davis; two daughters Susan Hedin (Tim), Rashelle Hyslip (Jim); three grandchildren Christy Conrad (Jason), Mitchell Stafford, Jonathan Bryant; six great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.

A celebration of Margie’s life will be held on Friday, August 9, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Assembly of God in Little Rock, Arkansas. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Her online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

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BATESVILLE — James Roy Row Jr., 88, of Batesville was called to his heavenly home on Tuesday, August 6. He was born in Batesville on August 22, 1930 to James Roy Row, Sr. and Floy Inez Tibbles Row.

Roy was a veteran of the United States Navy and served in the Korean War, he spent many years as owner and operator of the business that was originally begun by his father – Row Auto Parts. After retirement, he served with the Arkansas State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers. Since 1953 he has been a 32nd degree Master Mason and has enjoyed many years with his Masonic brothers. He was with the White River Shriners and at one point was a clown. His children loved to play with the clown suit, especially the large shoes and colored wig.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Peggy Ruminer Row; one daughter, Alice R. Comer of Little Rock; one son, James L. Row of Batesville; one niece, Ann Marie Thompson; one nephew, Billy Thompson; and several great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by both parents and a sister, Royce Marie Thompson.

Pallbearers are Gerald Nash, Steve Davis, Rick Shaw, Richard Ashcraft, Terry Weaver, and Bill Dugger. Honorary pallbearers will be Tom Martin, Brother Joe Dry, Gene Talburt, Claud McCord, and Mitch Moffett.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, August 9, 2019 at Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville and officiated by Bobby Bennett, Master Mason. The service will include a traditional Masonic ceremony by his Masonic Brothers. www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/batesville.

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BEARDEN — Clifford Eugene Mosley, 79 of Bearden died Tuesday August 6, 2019 at Ouachita Nursing and Rehab in Camden. Born January 14, 1940 at Bearden, he was the son of the late Lewis Mosley and Lorenia Coston Mosley. He was a material controller at General Dynamics, and an Air Force veteran.

He was preceded in death by his parents and five sisters. He is survived by his wife, Lois Mosley of Bearden; children, Kenny Lee of Mt. Home, Ark., Kim Coburn of Bearden, Jeffrey Lee of Bearden; sister, Wanda Brazil of Benton; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one greatgreat-grandchild; and his nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday at Barnes Cemetery. Special thanks to the caregivers at Silver Oaks and St. John’s Place. Special thanks to Kindred Hospice, and to everyone for their prayers and support. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.

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BENTON — Jeremy Thomas Daughenbaugh, 31, went to meet God August 3, 2019. He was lovingly met in heaven by his father, Jackie Daughenbaugh; sister, Jacquelyn Blundell; four grandparents; and many aunts and uncles.

Jeremy leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother, Delina Wooten; sister, Stevie Blundell; brothers, David and Ronald Holder; a host of nieces and nephews who adored him; and many more family members and friends who love Jeremy and will miss him always.

Jeremy loved to fish and spend time outdoors. He was always willing to help anyone in need.

An outdoor memorial service in his honor will be set at a later date. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

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BRADFORD — Johnny Bratton Scritchfield, 69, of Bradford, departed this life Sunday, August 4, 2019. He was born February 26, 1950. He is survived by his daughter, Maranda Dunegan; two grandchildren, Tyler Dunegan and Ascher McClure. Cremation arrangements by Bradford Memorial Funeral Home. www.bradfordmemorial.com.

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CROSSETT — Jesse Lemoyne Putney, 67, of Crossett died August 2, at JRMC. Homegoing Celebration 1 p.m., August 10, at Living Word COGIC, 2109 S. Main St, Crossett. Visitation: 7-9 p.m., August 9, at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy 52 W, Crossett. For full obituary go to meddersfuneralhome.com or call (870) 364-6171.

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DERMOTT — Bessie Mae Jones, 71, of Dermott died July 28, at home with her family. She leaves to cherish her memory three sons, Demetrius Jones of Bowie, Md., Marvin Jones of McGehee, Bobby Kilpatrick of Dermott; three brothers, Jimmy Jones of Newport News, Va., Ben Jones Jr. and Daryl Douglas of Dermott; four sisters, Ida Coley and Francis Jones of Chicago, Ill., Deathreal Cleveland and Alma Coppedge of Dermott; a loyal and trusted friend of over 40 years, Bobby Kilpatrick Sr. of Dermott; 13 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren. Family hour: 6-7 p.m. Friday at Calvary #1 Baptist Church, 1001 West Hazel, Dermott. Funeral Service, 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Paul Baptist Church, 415 West Iowa Street. Dermott, (870) 538-3645. Services entrusted to Dillard Funeral Home, 210 North Trotter Street, Dermott. (870) 538-5505.

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DeWITT — Dennis Denton “Dink” passed away Monday, July 29, 2019. He was born April 18, 1954 in Brinkley, Ark. Survivors include his sons Brian and Kyle Denton; four grandchildren; siblings, Carroll and Don Denton and Mary Ann Simpson. Services at Forks LaGrue Baptist Church in DeWitt, Saturday, August 10, 10 a.m. www.essexfuneralhome.com.

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DONALDSON — Jimmy Dale “Jim” Smith, age 80, of Donaldson passed away August 6, 2019. Graveside services will be 10 a.m., Saturday August 10, 2019, at Ouachita Cemetery. Arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. Sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

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DRASCO — Ronnie Cooper of Drasco, Ark., passed away peacefully at home on August 3, 2019 after battling cancer for a year.

Ronnie was born May 19, 1953 in Batesville to Ulies (Sonny) and Inez (Rounds) Cooper and was preceded in death by his mother, Inez and brother-in-law, Jamie Spinks. He is survived by his wife of 44 years Karen; two sons, Corey Cooper (Sara) of Searcy and Brett Cooper (Amber) of Drasco; grandson, Alex; granddaughters Ava, Emma, and Adelyne; father Sonny Cooper of Concord; two brothers, Ricky Cooper (Liz) of El Paso and Randy Cooper of Concord; father and mother-inlaw, Herman and Lavonne Killion of Drasco; sister-in-law, Judy Spinks of Drasco; and brotherin-law, Mickie Killion (Linda) of Drasco, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Ronnie began a cross country truck driving career at the age of 19 with Julian Martin and then spent over 20 years hauling heavy equipment for Rock Products. He finished out the last years of his career a year ago by hauling logs for Ernie and Josh Murphree of Greers Ferry. Ronnie enjoyed driving anything with wheels, golfing, boating on Greers Ferry Lake, talking to old friends and new acquaintances, and spending time camping with his family. He was an active member of Concord United Methodist Church where he added much laughter to potluck dinners, fellowship gatherings, and sometimes even the service itself.

Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2019 at Family Funeral Service in Heber Springs, Ark., with a celebration of Ronnie’s Life following at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either Concord Methodist Church, c/o Steve Long, Pastor, P.O. Box 127, Pleasant Plains, Ark. 72568 or River Valley Log-A-Load for Kids, Benefiting Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 1213 West 4th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72201. Arrangements Family Funeral Seervice. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.

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HEBER SPRINGS — Jo-Ann (Pohlner) Carmack, 75, passed away Monday. Survivors: daughter Kelly (Matt) Pohl, Pea Ridge; granddaughter, Kacie Polh; sister, Sue Jane Morrison, Jonesboro; nephew, John (Teresa) Morrison, Humbolt, Tenn.; nephew, Hayden Morrison, Jonesboro; niece, Ann (Brad) Crawley, Jonesboro; aunt, Macie Hughes, Jonesboro. Visitation: Thursday, Family Funeral Service, 6 to 8 p.m. funeral service Friday, First Baptist Church of Heber Springs, 2 p.m., burial: Cleburne County Memorial Gardens. Family Funeral Service. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.

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HEBER SPRINGS — John Lewis Eskew, 75, of Heber Springs died August 6, 2019. Survivors: wife, Mary Eskew; sons, Mitchell (Lesha) and Mark (Kay); grandchildren, Marissa Anee’ and John Eskew (Sarah); great-grandchild, Daniel Oliver Eskew. Memorial Service: 2 p.m., Monday, August 12, Waychoff Center 320 Trailwood Drive Heber Springs, Ark. Online Obituary: www.heberspringsfuneralhome.com.

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JONESBORO — James Delbert Long, 67, of Jonesboro, passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2019. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 10, at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home at 2 p.m. with Brother James Moore and Danny Taylor officiating. Visitation will be from 12 noon – 2 p.m. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/Jonesboro.

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LONOKE — Rev. Paul Nellum, 85, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2019. At an early age, he became a follower of Christ and was a member of New Zion Baptist Church. He accepted his call into the ministry at the age of 23 and served as pastor of Jerusalem, Elm Grove, Mt. Cannan and New Zion. He loved singing and was one of the founding members of the Zion Five.

In November 1955, Paul married Alberta Coleman and in 1956 they selflessly accepted the joy of raising his late sister’s children. Together with their own they reared 17 children.

Along with pastoring, he began working in the construction field as an independent contractor and later worked for Nabholz Construction for 15 years prior to retiring at the age of 80.

Loving memories will be carried on by his remaining family: wife: Mary Reed Nellum; children: Essie Johnson, Norma (John) Curlett, Alice Rufus, Paullester Walker, Leeo (Mary) Nellum, Louise Scott and Collins Ray Nellum.

Visitation: Friday, August 9, 2019, 5-7 p.m. at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke, Arkansas. Service: Saturday, August 10, 2019, 11 a.m. at Richwood Church of God and Christ, 220 Cherry Street, Lonoke, Arkansas. Service entrusted to Boyd Funeral Home.www.boydfuneralhome.net.

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MALVERN — Murl Hobbs, age 85, of Malvern passed away August 6, 2019 at Baptist Health Medical Center, Hot Spring County. He was born February 1, 1934 in Russellville, Ark. to Jay and Ava Tanner Hobbs. Murl was of the Assembly of God faith and was a heavy equipment operator in construction. Murl loved his family and loved to fish. Other than his parents he was preceded in death by Asberry Hodge, siblings Helen Burris, William Hobbs, Dewey Hodge and Dewayne Hodge.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years Wilma Hobbs of Malvern, to whom he married on July 7, 1952, his children: Tommy (Annette) Hobbs of Midway, Jay (Velma) Hobbs of Little Rock, and Wanda Shepherd of Hot Springs, grandchildren, Joy (William) Allen of Scotland, T.J. (Megan) Hobbs of Malvern, J.R. (Vesna) Shepherd of Hot Springs, great-grandchildren; Jade Allen, Bethany Allen, Christie Raye (Boone) Hyatt, Mason, Rachel, and Mylee Hobbs, Addison and Jett Reid, Jase and Jax Shepherd, David, Mykalynn, Walker, Quinten and Abby Hixon and one sister, Ava Lou Spurlin of Malvern.

Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Friday August 9, 2019 with visitation one hour prior to service, at Regency Funeral Home with Rev. Gene Huskey officiating. Burial will be in Cooper Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Harold Caradine, Josh Burris, Danny Hobbs, and Joe Hobbs, David Hedges, and Kevin Baker. Honorary pallbearers, Jim and Jerry Don Burris and Junior Clouse and a special thanks to Dr. Joe May. Arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. Sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

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MORRILTON — Sandra Raney 56, Morrilton, died Tuesday, August 6, 2019. Survivors: mother: son: three daughters: one brother: one sister: five grandchildren: former husband. Visitation: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., Thursday, August 8. Funeral Service: 10 a.m., Friday, August 9, funeral home chapel. Arragements by Bob Neal and Sons – Morrilton, 501-354-1638. obituary/photo/guestbook: www.bobnealandsons.com.

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NEWPORT — Shelley Ford Evins, 77, of Newport died Monday. Survivors: daughter, Kimberley Evins Montgomery; granddaughter, Madison Grace Montgomery; sister, Norma Jo Madden; niece and nephews, Keith Madden, and Stanita Taylor. Visitation: Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Funeral: 10 a.m. Friday at Holden Avenue Church of Christ. Arrangements: Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home. www.jacksonsfh.com. Full obituary details will appear in tomorrow’s edition.

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PETIT JEAN MOUNTAIN — Fern Bess, age 90, of Petit Jean Mountain, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2019. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Monday, August 12, at the Petit Jean Cemetery with Bro. Bill Scroggs officiating. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

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PRATTSVILLE — Lesley Dunn, 76, of Prattsville, Arkansas died Monday. Funeral: 11 a.m. Thursday, August 8, 2019 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Jacobs Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 a.m. until service time. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan. (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.

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RUSSELLVILLE — Willene Cunningham Bradford Dale, age 89, of Russellville, formerly of Plainview, died Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at Stella Manor Nursing Center in Russellville. She was born August 19, 1929 at Plainview, Arkansas to the late Ervin and Mae Smith Cunningham. She attended the River Park Church of Christ in Russellville, she was a licensed insurance sales agent, and she retired as an office manager at Hoyt Dale CPA in Russellville, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Lorene Farris and three brothers, Flavel, Lloyd and “Smokey” Cunningham. Survivors include her children, Ronald Bradford of Dardanelle, Dolores Bye of Centerville; stepdaughter, Debra Hawkins of Russellville; three grandchildren, Bryan Robinson (Jessica) of Russellville, Marissa Wells (Tyler) of Wooster, Lee Fox Diekroeger of Jefferson City, Mo., and three great-grandchildren, Brylee Robinson, Piper Wells, Briar Wells and her husband of 45 years, Hoyt Dale of Russellville.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, August 9, 2019 at Cornwell Chapel in Dardanelle with Mr. Tommy Oakes officiating. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery in Plainview. Visitation will be held Friday, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the chapel prior to the service. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com.

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RUSSELLVILLE — Mrs. Hattie Louella Halbrook Wise, age 88, passed away August 5, 2019, in Russellville, Arkansas. She was born March 24, 1931, in Zion, Arkansas, a daughter of the late Vera Opal Smith and Dalton Clyde Halbrook.

Hattie was preceded in death by her sweetheart and husband of 55 years, George Robert Wise, Sr., her grandson, Austin Owen, as well as her four siblings, (Marcus Halbrook, Elwanda Shofner, Wendell Halbrook, and Clyda Otwell). She had four children and considered their spouses as members of the family — George and Barbara Wise of Little Rock, Arkansas; Chloe and Jim Lieblong of Russellville, Arkansas; Tricia and Mark Owen of Collierville, Tennessee; and David and Robin Wise of Fayetteville, Arkansas. She also had nine grandchildren (Amelie Wise, Oliver Wise, Wesley Owen, Austin Owen, Justin Lieblong, Jordan Lieblong, Jay Lieblong, Charles Wise, and Dalton Wise) and four great-grandchildren (Nash Lieblong, Vada Lieblong, Della Lieblong, and Milly Lieblong). She also leaves many friends who will sadly miss her.

She had a strong Christian faith and was a long-time member of First Baptist Church in Forrest City, Arkansas, and a recent member of First United Methodist Church in Russellville, Arkansas.

She attended Arkansas College (now Lyons) in Batesville, Arkansas. She took great pride in her career as a teacher in the Forrest City public school system, where she touched the lives of thousands of young people, many of whom reached out in later years to thank her.

She loved her family more than anything and rarely missed one of her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s sporting events, birthdays, school events, and graduations. One of her great joys in life was making people happy by baking and decorating cakes and cookies for special occasions and holidays. She has passed that skill down to her daughter, Chloe and granddaughter, Amelie.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, August 10, 2019, at First United Methodist Church in Russellville, Arkansas. The family will receive friends at the church immediately following the service.

A graveside service will follow at 4 p.m., at Forrest Park Cemetery in Forrest City, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, George, by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

The family asks that memorials be sent to one of the following: First Baptist Church in Forrest City, 507 N Rosser St, Forrest City, Arkansas 72335, First United Methodist Church in Russellville, 304 S Commerce Ave, Russellville, Arkansas 72801, Special Olympics, 1133 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036-3604 or Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home, 220 John Babish Ln, Russellville, Arkansas 72801. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.

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STAR CITY — Zetty Jane Raney, 65 of Star City, passed away Monday. A Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Griffin Funeral Chapel with Garry Dutton officiating. Visitation is 10-11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.

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VAN BUREN — Bob Vandergriff, 93, of Van Buren passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2019 in Fort Smith. He was an insurance adjuster for Light Adjustment Co. for many years before opening up his own company. He is survived by his wife of 73 years Betty; his son, David; sister-inlaw, Barbara; numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, August 10, 2019 at Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren. Family will visit with relatives and friends on Friday, August 9, 2019 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements and cremations were under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren.

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WARREN — Joseph Edward Rice, age 80, of Warren, Ark, died Tuesday, August 6, at JRMC. Funeral service 10 a.m. Friday, August 9, at Frazer’s Chapel. Burial in Gravelridge Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home. Visitation: 9 a.m. until service time Friday, August 9, at Frazer’s. Online guest register www.frazerfuneralhome.com

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WEST MEMPHIS — Mark A. Mittag, West Memphis, Arkansas. Roller-Citizens of West Memphis.

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WYNNE — William Jesse Hunt, 70, of Wynne died Tuesday, August 6, 2019, at his home. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, August 8, 2019, at Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home. Funeral services are 10 a.m., Friday, August 9, 2019, at the funeral home. Interment in Halk Cemetery.

Out-of-state

GERMANTOWN, Tenn. — Dr. Raymond Clarence Jeffers, Jr., 60. It is with deep sorrow that we inform you of the death of the beloved husband and father, Dr. Raymond C. Jeffers Jr., 60, of Germantown, Tennessee passed on Saturday, August 3, 2019.

Dr. Raymond Jeffers Jr. graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Science in 1986 and completed his Internal Medicine internship and residency at the University of Missouri at Kansas City, Mo. in 1989. He practiced Internal Medicine from 1992 until 2018 primarily in the Memphis area.

He leaves to cherish his memory: a loving wife, Lelita Jeffers; three children: Riko (Deonca) Jeffers of Dallas, Texas, Richmond and Ryan Jeffers of Germantown, Tenn.; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three brothers; a sister; an aunt; nieces; nephews and a host of cousins, friends and colleagues.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday August 10, 2019 at 12 noon at Indiana Street Baptist Church, 1114 Indiana Street, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71601. Burial in Cedar Grove Section of Graceland Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. A Memorial Service will be planned in Memphis, Tenn. at a later date.

Visitation will be held on Friday August 9, 2019 from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home, 2704 Commerce Circle, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71601. His body will lie in-state Saturday 11:15 a.m. until the start of service.

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FRISCO, Texas — Norma Ballou Schmidt, age 76, of Frisco, Texas passed away on August 3, 2019. She was born on September 27, 1942 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Mildred Louise (Trussell) and George Henry Ballou. On June 7th of 1975, Norma married Dale LeRoy Schmidt in Dallas, Texas. Norma worked as an Accountant. Norma is survived by her son, Brad Schmidt and his wife, Kara of Frisco, Texas; two grandchildren, Braden Schmidt and Macie Schmidt; sister, Virginia Peterson and her husband, James of Plano, Texas; brother, Donald Ballou of Cabot, Arkansas; three nieces, Sherry Nappi, Susan Weatherford and Laura Langstaff; nephew, David Ballou; mother-in-law, Sally Schmidt of Little Falls, Minnesota. Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Schmidt. Private Funeral Services are held under the direction of Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 8520 Main Street, Frisco, Texas 75033. To convey condolences or to sign an online registry, please visit www.tjmfuneral.com.

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HOUSTON, Texas — Mitchell Adam Hayes, 41 of Houston, formally of Bauxite, passed away on August 6, 2019. Adam was born on August 4, 1978 in California.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Holmes and brother, Scott Hayes. Adam is survived by his father, Phillip (Teresa) Hayes of Bauxite, brother, Christopher Blake Hayes of Little Rock and step sister, Sara McKelroy, two nieces and one nephew; best friend, Brendan Mikeska, and his beloved pets, Prissey and Joey.

Chapel Memorial services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 10th with Chaplain Dan Flora officiating. Visitation will be 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. before services. Friends and family comments: To know Adam for a day was like having known him for a month, a month was like a year and a year was just a day. Online guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.