Obituaries

LITTLE ROCK — OBITUARIES Information for

the obituaries and funeral

notices below was supplied

to the Arkansas Democrat-

Gazette Advertising Depart

ment by funeral homes.

INDEX Some obituaries may appear in certain editions of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and not in others. This list shows the names of all people whose obituaries are in at least one edition. For obituaries not in this edition, please see our website, Arkansas Online, at arkansasonline.com/obituaries/.

PULASKI COUNTY

Archie B. Allen, 83, of Wrightsville.

Lorraine Easterling Boone, 73, of Little Rock.

Lela Brannon, 82, of North Little Rock.

Geraldine Chandler, 90, of Little Rock.

Clarence R. Chapman, 94, of Little Rock.

Charles Graves, 84, of Maumelle. Macie Bell “Bertha” Emry Johnson, 76, of North Little Rock.

Sheila Tolbert Lassus, 50, of Little Rock.

Frankie Lee Ray, 69, of Jacksonville.

Jean A. Savage, 86, of Little Rock.

Omar Tahiri, 24, of Little Rock.

Barbara Jean White, 62, of Jacksonville.

Joseph Wilson, 32, of Little Rock.

ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS

ALTHEIMER Alma L. Harris, 80.

BRYANT Marion Peyton, 58.

CLINTON Jack Whillock, 88.

CONWAY Max E. Stacy, 80.

CROSSETT Sammy Glen Sharp, 71.

GRANGE Jo Ann Bradley, 48.

GREENBRIER Randy Medlock, 46.

GREERS FERRY Athalee Wood Cothren, 86.

HAMPTON Carroll Jett Hannegan, 44.

HARRISON Effie Horton Long, 91.

HASTY Sharon Wallin, 58.

HOPE Mildred D. Mitchell, 94.

HUMPHREY Deirl Arvel Marshall, 84.

LAKE VILLAGE Katherine A. Casali, 79.

LESLIE Willie Mae (Hennessee) LeMarr, 91.

MAGNET COVE John Edward Canady, 75.

McRAE Elmer “Buddy” Morrow, 84.

MORRILTON R.J. Williams, 87.

MOUNTAIN HOME Mary Louise Chollar, 73.

Donald Gesme, 94.

Wallace Mueting, 86.

Frieda Schmidt, 91.

MURFREESBORO Leona Pearl Laurent, 88.

NORPHLET Scott Crittenden, 38.

PARIS Willene Rogers, 86.

PINE BLUFF Mark Aytch, 58.

Tenye Serio Mizell, 85.

Marguerite Rodgers, 92.

James Weldon Smith, 63.

PORTLAND Gary Earl Cochran, 66.

SEARCY Inez Hounshell, 81.

Kirk Manor, 68.

SHERIDAN Leona Phillips Witherow, 86. VILONIA Miriam L. Pitts, 55.

OUT-OF-STATE

ELTON, La.

Virgie H. Badon, 91.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.

Billy Ray Nash Sr. , 68.

MEMPHIS Lucious Lee Ivory, 78.

Berniece Baker White, 91. EDCOUCH,Texas Cleon Carter, 71.

Pulaski County

ARCHIE B. ALLEN, 83, of Wrightsville, Ark., departed this life April22, 2011.

Family hour: Today, 6-7 p.m. at Virginia Baptist Church, Wrightsville. Funeral Service: Saturday, 11 a.m. at Antioch FGBC, 3824 Antioch Blvd., College Station, BishopKenneth L. Robinson Sr., Eulogist. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Little Rock, (501) 371-0111. Sign online guestbook at www.robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust.”

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Mrs. LORRAINE EASTERLING BOONE, 73, of Little Rock wentpeacefully to be with the Lord on April 23, 2011.

Funeral services will be Saturday, April 30, 2011, 1 p.m. at Awareness Center International (formerly Trumpet in Zion), 900 S. Pine St., LittleRock, Ark. The family will receive friends today from 5:30 p.m. till 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Services entrusted to Premier FuneralHome, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202, (501) 376-4800. “Only Heaven Can Serve You Better!”

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LELA BRANNON of North Little Rock passed away Tuesday, April26, 2011. She was born in Alread, Ark., March 8, 1929.

She is survived by her sister, Grace Gilson; a brother, Troy Jones, both of North Little Rock; two sons, Larry Felton of Guy,Ark., and Jimmy Felton and wife Lynne of Scotland, Ark.; daughter, Carla Holt and husband Eddie of Heber Springs, Ark.; her special friend, Johnny Story; 22 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Monday, May 2, 2011, at Salem Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, May 1, 2011, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, (501) 791-7400. Online guestbook wwwrollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

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GERI CHANDLER died on Feb. 7, 2011, at the age of 90. Her love forthe Lord, for music, for volunteering, and for her family, friends and church gave her great joy and purpose during her life.

Born on Aug. 28, 1920, in Columbus, Ark., she soon movedwith her family to Little Rock, Ark., where she grew up. After graduating from Little Rock Central High School in 1938, she received a B.A. from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, where she was a member of Tri Delta sorority. In 1957, she received a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Colorado in Boulder. During her 43-year teaching career that spanned six states and three countries, she taught in Arkansas; Washington, D.C.; Maryland; Oklahoma; Colorado; California; Japan; France; and West Africa.

When the 25-year-old wife of Geri’s brother, Hendrix, suddenly became totally blind due to an accident, Geri’s compassion motivated her to become certified in teaching the blind. From that life turning point until her retirement in 1986, she taught blind and visually impaired students, preparing and inspiring them to live successful lives.

Since Geri always believed in serving others, she immediately began volunteering in Little Rock, following retirement. She read the newspaper for the blind over the radio and tutored for the Literacy Action Program. The Oasis, Decorative Arts Museum, genealogy section of the public library, and the Arkansas Cancer Research Center were other places where Geri chose to give of herself and her time.

She enjoyed creating needlework gifts, which she generously gave to friends. Touring in several overseas countries and taking elder hostel classes in the U.S. were enlightening to Geri. She maintained season tickets to the Symphony and participated in weekly Life Quest studies. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional honorary society of women educators. She was active in the Westover Hills Presbyterian Church, serving as an elder, singing in the choir, studying in Bible classes, and participating in Presbyterian women’s organizations.

She is survived by a niece and her husband, Peggy and Neal Smith of Pensacola, Fla.; and by a nephew and his wife, Robert and Emiko Chandler of Henderson, Nev.

Geri’s memorial service will be held Sunday, May 1, 2011, at 2 p.m. at Westover Hills PresbyterianChurch in Little Rock.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Westover Hills Presbyterian Church, 6400 Richard B. Hardie Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72207.

Special appreciation is given to the wonderful staffs at Homestead Village and Covenant Hospice in Pensacola, Fla., who cared for Geri during the last months of her life.

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CLARENCE R. CHAPMAN, age 94, of Little Rock, Ark., went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 27, 2011.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, May 2, 2011, at Roller-Drummond Funeral Home, 10900 Interstate 30, Little Rock, Ark. 72209, (501) 455-5800. Friends will be received at 1 p.m. prior to the service. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/drummond.

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CHARLES “CHARLIE COUPON” GRAVES, 84, of Maumelle fellasleep in death Wednesday, April 27, 2011. He will be missed by many. Born Feb. 28, 1927, in Little Rock, Ark.

Devoted husband and father, the life of any gathering, pillar of any group hewas with, and always strived to be a good Christian. Deacon and active member of the Emanuel Baptist Church, a Mason. With success being measured in faith and friends, Charlie had been a rich man throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, sister and one grandson. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mildred Lucille; five children, David Graves (Helen) of Bauxite, Pam Graves of Benton, Judy Parker (Rick) of Rotonda, Fla., Susan Humbrecht (Jerry) of Conway, and Jeanna Graves of Kelco, Wash.; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; niece, Paula Morris of Scott, Ark.; Phyllis Rogers and family; and many others that were made to feel like his family.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Huson Funeral Home, 6400 Mabelvale Pike, Little Rock, Ark. Funeral Services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Huson Funeral Home with burial to follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park Cemetery in Alexander, Ark. Sign an online guestbook at www.husonfuneralhome.com.

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Mother MACIE BELL “BERTHA” EMRY JOHNSON, 76, of North LittleRock departed this earthly life on Good Friday, April 22, 2011.

She leaves to cherish her memories: one son, Terrance (Barbara) Johnson of North Little Rock; five grandchildren;three great-grandchildren; three nephews, one whom she raised as her own, Anthony Emry; two nieces; sister-in-law, Jeanne Emry; and other relatives to celebrate her homegoing.

Funeral Services 11 a.m. Saturday, Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 2210 Willow St., North Little Rock. Dr. O.C. Jones will officiate. Family Hour 7:15-8:15 p.m. Friday, Hubble Chapel. Services entrusted to Hubble Funeral Home, 374-3134.

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SHEILA TOLBERT LASSUS, 50, of Little Rock slept peacefully intoeternity April 22, 2011.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, May 2, at St. Mark Baptist Church, 5722 W. 12th, with visitation starting one hour before. More information available Sunday.Arrangements with GateWay Funeral Chapel, 2405 S. Gaines, 376-7188.

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FRANKIE LEE RAY, 69, of Jacksonville, Ark., went home to bewith the Lord on April 27, 2011.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Elsie Hatchett; three sisters, Linda, Catherine and Florence. She’s survived by her husband of 51years, Reedie Ray; daughter, CeCelia Ray-Allen; son, Adrian Ray of Jacksonville, Ark.; seven grandchildren; three sisters, Minnie Rose, Elsie and Gwenlydon Hatchett; three brothers, William, Frank and Ted Hatchett; and a host of nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and special friends.

A celebration of her life will be Saturday, April 30, 2011, 11 a.m. at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, 8205 Highway 161 North, North Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park, Jacksonville, Ark. Family visitation will be Friday, April 29, 2011, 5:30-7 p.m. at Ruffin and Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester St., Little Rock, Ark., (501) 372-1305.

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Graveside services for JEAN A. SAVAGE, 86, of Little Rock, who died March 28, 2011, will be held 10 a.m. Monday, May 2, 2011, at Little Rock National Cemetery. Arrangements by Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204, (501) 660-4323. ———◊———

OMAR TAHIRI, age 24 of Little Rock, Ark., died Tuesday, April26, 2011, at the Baptist Health Medical Center. He was born on March 11, 1987, to his parents, Dr. Abdalla A. Tahiri and Brenda English in Little Rock.

Omar was an avid fisherman, loved being outdoors, riding motorcycles, enjoyed fixing things and would help anyone that came along. Omar had lots of passion for life and loved his family very much, especially his son Anakai. He was home-oriented, was very spiritual in his faith and was a member of the Islamic Center in Little Rock.

Survivors include his fiancee, Jodie Swick and their son Anakai, both of Little Rock, Ark.; his father, Dr. Abdalla A. Tahiri (Gae); and nephew, Adam Barron, all of Little Rock, Ark.; and his mother, Brenda English of Benton, Ark.; four sisters, Halima Tahiri and fiance Stephen Rollans and their daughters Lilliana and Emily, all of Benton, Ark., Lisa Shryrock and her children Halie and Lori Beth, all of Benton, Ark., Amanda Mitchell (Neil) of Little Rock, Ark., and Monica Wilson (Brad) and their children, Autumn, Johnathan and Gene, all of Two Harbors, Minn.

Funeral Services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home, 10200 Highway 5 North, Alexander, Ark., (501) 455-1067, with Imam of the Islamic Center of Little Rock officiating. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. A visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2011, at the funeral home. To sign the online guest book, please visit www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.

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BARBARA JEAN WHITE, age 62, of Jacksonville passed away April 27, 2011. She was born June 28, 1948, in Jacksonville to the late John and Inez Keister.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Roy Lee White of the home; two sons, Lee White (Ginny) and Keith White (Janetta), both of Jacksonville; six brothers, Little John Keister, Dewight Keister, Timmy Keister, Donny Keister, Danny Keister (Kay), all of Jacksonville, and Steve Keister of Morgenfield, Ky.; three grandchildren, Jamie White, Dylan White and Paiglyn White; and several sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews; along with many other family members and friends.

Visitation will be 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2011. To send online condolences visit www.thomasfuneralservice.com. Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Service in Cabot, (501) 941-7888.

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JOSEPH WILSON, 32, of Little Rock passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011.

Joseph is survived by his mother, Barbara Rolax (Cornelius); Father, Earnest Wilson; three brothers, Tracy Freeman, Joseph D. Wilson, all of Little Rock, Demetrious Freeman of Detroit, Mich.; and a host of other relatives and friends. Arrangements by Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204, (501) 660-4323.

Arkansas

ALTHEIMER - Mrs. Alma L. Harris, 80, of Altheimer diedFriday, April 22, 2011. Services will be Saturday, April 30, 2011 at Union MBC in Altheimer by the Rev. Richard Hart at 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. Andrew Church Cemetery in Altheimer by Pine Bluff Mortuary, 1001 East 6th, Pine Bluff.

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BRYANT - Marion Peyton, 58, Bryant, Arkansas, died Saturday. Survivors: son, Christopher Peyton, Star City; granddaughter, Madison Brooke Peyton; parents, Marshall and Lois Peyton,Pine Bluff, and Kristy Peyton; brothers, Donny and Jeffrey Peyton; sisters, Shirley Townsend, Barbara Womack, Anita Bond. Graveside service 2 p.m. April 29, 2011, Memorial Park Cemetery. www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

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CLINTON - Jack Whillock, 88, of Clinton, Arkansas passedaway Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at Ozark Health Medical Center Clinton, Arkansas. He was born November 21, 1922 at Clinton, Arkansas to the late Joseph T. and Esther (Gray) Whillock.He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Claude, Joe and George Whillock; and four sisters, Edith, Mae, Grace, and Jean. Jack was the last survivor of the J.T. and Ester Whillock family. He loved them dearly and they him.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ruth Mae (Shannon) Whillock; one son, Jack F. Whillock and wife Mary of Arlington, Texas; three grandchildren, Kirk, Jay, and Holly; two step-grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Jack was the Clinton postmaster for several decades and active in the State Postmasters Association. In the Clinton flood of 1982 he braved the high floodwaters in the post office and salvaged the wet but still negotiable Social Security checks for the people of Clinton. He was a Mason of the highest degree and tutored many prospective Masons. Jack was the first quarterback on the first football team ever fielded in Clinton. He was aNavy veteran of World War II.

His memory will be cherished for his generous spirit and quick wit. Pallbearers: Kirk Whillock, Jay Whillock, John Whillock, Ken Whillock, Scott Whillock, Tollie Whillock, Danny Shannon, and Dean McKnight. Honorary Pallbearers: Joe Paul Henderson, Phillip Henderson, Milton Deason, Ted Whillock, Kenny Whillock, Joe Tom Whillock, Larry Shannon, Dwayne Shannon, Doug Maulden, Roy Gray Jennings, and Robert Lewis.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2011 at Roller Mc-Nutt Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011 at Clinton First United Methodist Church with Pastor Vaughn Marsden officiating. Burial will follow at Hunter Hill Cemetery in Clinton.Arrangements are under the care and direction of Roller-Mc-Nutt Funeral Home of Clinton, Arkansas (501) 745-2151. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

Donations can be made to Clinton First United Methodist Church, 141 Joe Bowling Road, Clinton, Arkansas 72031.

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CONWAY - Dr. Max E. Stacy, Ph.D., 80, of Conway, died Tuesday, April 26, 2011. Graveside services, under the direction of Roller McNutt Funeral Home of Conway, are 1 p.m., Friday, April 29, at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway. On line guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

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CROSSETT - Sammy Glen Sharp, 71, of Crossett, Ark., died April 27, 2011. Funeral services at 2 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2011, Jones Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Extra Cemetery under direction of Jones Funeral Home of Crossett. Visitation 5-8 p.m. Thursday at funeral home. www.jonesservice.com

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GRANGE - Jo Ann Bradley, 48, of Grange, died Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at her home. Services Friday, April 29, 2011 at 10 a.m., Qualls Funeral Home Chapel, Cave City. Burial, Macks Chapel Cemetery, Sulphur Rock. Arrangements by Qualls Funeral Home of Cave City. Visitation was Thursday from 6-8 p.m.

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GREENBRIER - Randy Medlock, 46, of Greenbrier, Arkansas, died April 27, 2011, at Baptist Health Medical Systems in Little Rock. He was born May 25, 1964, in Wichita Falls, Texas, a son of the late Ronnie Medlock, who passed away in 1999, and Shirley Medlock. He was a member of Mount Olive Baptist Church in Guy and the Mountain Top Cowboy Church. Randy was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting and rodeo.

He is survived by his children, Heath Thomas, Austine Medlock, Shelby Medlock; his mother, Shirley Medlock of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; his brother Greg Medlock and sister Lisa Clifton. Randy made friends all over the area as a farrier.

Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Friday, April 29, 2011, at the funeral home. Funeral will be 2 p.m., Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Mount Olive Baptist Church at Guy. Burial will follow in Copperas Springs Cemetery, under the direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Greenbrier (501) 679-2575. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to either the Mountain Top Cowboy Church building fund, or a charity of your choice.

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GREERS FERRY - Athalee Wood Cothren, 86, passed away April 27, 2011. Sons, Woody Cothren and Walton V. Cothren Jr.; seven grandchildren; 23 greatgrandchildren; five great-greatgrandchildren. Visitation Friday, West Side Baptist Church, 6-8 p.m. Funeral Saturday, West Side Baptist Church, 2 p.m.Interment, Shiloh Crossroads Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials: Greers Ferry Ambulance Fund or Shiloh Crossroads Cemetery Fund, c/o Hartsfield, 890 Shiloh Road, Greers Ferry 72067. www.olmstead.cc.

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HAMPTON - Carroll Jett “Buddy” Hannegan, 44, of Hampton, died Wednesday. Survivors include his mother, two sons, a companion, a brother and five grandchildren. Graveside Services are 2 p.m. Friday at the Pickett Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.com.

NOTEWORTHY DEATHS Church founder, best-selling authorTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS

DALLAS - The Rev.

David Wilkerson, founding pastor of Times Square Church in New York City and author of the best-selling book, The Cross and the Switchblade, has died. He was 79.

Wilkerson died Wednesday afternoon in a car accident in east Texas, said Public Safety Department spokesman Tela Mange. Wilkerson’s car smashed head-on into a tractor-trailer after veering into oncoming traffic on U.S. 175 west of Cuney, about 95 miles southeast of Dallas, Mange said.

Wilkerson founded the nondenominational Protestant Times Square Church in 1987 in an area of Manhattan thatwas then riddled with X-rated movie houses, strip clubs, prostitution and drugs. He also founded Teen Challenge, which uses a biblically based recovery program for drug addicts.

In The Cross and the Switchblade, Wilkerson wrote about his early years in New York City ministering to drug addicts and gang members. The 1963 book became a best-seller and was made into a movie starring Pat Boone.

His family confirmed his death in a statement posted on the website for Wilkerson’s World Challenge Inc. ministries, saying he “went to be with Jesus.”

David Wilkerson is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn, and four children.

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HOPE - Mrs. Mildred D. Mitchell, 94, of Hope, passed away, Thursday, April 28 at her home. Family visitation, 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 29, at Brazzel/ Oakcrest Funeral Home, Hope. Graveside service, 10 a.m. Saturday, April 30, Betts Cemetery, Spring Hill, Ark. Brazzel/Oakcrest The Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Full obituary: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com.

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HUMPHREY - Deirl Arvel Marshall, 84, died Wednesday,April 27, 2011, at his home. Mr. Marshall was born July 1, 1926, in Humphrey to Raymond and Edna Eirvin Marshall. A Navy veteran, he served during World War II. He was oneof the leaders in founding the Grand Prairie Rural Distribution District, and served on the ASCS board for nine years and PCA board for three years. He attended Bayou Meto Assembly of God Church.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Amy Tedford. Survivors are his wife of 63 years, Myrina Lockhart Marshall; sons, Jackie Marshall (Norma) of Humphrey and Eddie Marshall (Linda) of Austin, Texas; daughter, Jenny Marshall Shipley (Larry) of Sherwood; sisters, Nettie Jean Roberts of Humphrey, Joy Alice Marshall of Sherwood and Mercedes Houser of England; six grandchildren, Melissa Thomas (Gary), Wendy Evans (Mark), Jeremy Marshall, Jennifer Baker (Travis), and Marshall and Megan Shipley; and six great-grandchildren, Matthew and Madison Thomas, Courtney Lee, Nathan and Heather Evans and Claire Baker.

Funeral services are 2 p.m. Friday at Turpin Funeral Home chapel with burial following in Williams Cemetery. Please go to www.turpinco.com to sign the online guestbook.

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LAKE VILLAGE - Katherine A. Casali, age 79, of Lake Village, died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at University Medical Center in Little Rock. She was born September 9, 1931, in Lake Village, the daughter of the late Ben Floriani Sr. and Julia Scucchi Floriani and was a wife and mother and a communicant of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by three brothers, Joe Floriani, Ben Floriani, Jr. and Herbert Floriani; and by a sister, Rose Mary Jenkins. Survivors are her husband, Frank Casali of Lake Village; three sons, GlenRowe and Rick Rowe, both of Lake Village, and Mark Rowe of Little Rock; a sister, Lena Sampolesi of Lake Village; five grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Bishop Funeral Home with Rosary Service at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church with Father Theophilus Okpara as Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Isadore Cemetery under the direction of Bishop Funeral Home of Lake Village. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, P.O. Box 272, Lake Village, Ark. 71653.

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LESLIE - Willie Mae (Hennessee) LeMarr, 91, of Leslie died Wednesday, April 27. Survivors: husband, Clayton LeMarr; daughter, Mary Jane Horton; brother, Ray Hennessee; and sister, Eula Branum. Service: 10 .m. Saturday at Roller-Coffman Funeral Home. Burial: Elberta Cemetery in Leslie. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

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MAGNET COVE - John Edward Canady, 75, of Magnet Cove died Monday. Survivors: wife, Deanna Canady; son, Michael Canady; daughter, Cheryl Overton; sister, Varna Poff; grandchild, Todd Overton. Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, Roller-Crouch Chapel in Batesville. Burial: Kyler Cemetery. Visitation: 6-8 p.m.Friday. Memorials: Kyler Cemetery Fund, c/o Laura Goth, 4010 Batesville Blvd., Batesville, Ark. 72501. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

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McRAE - Elmer “Buddy” Morrow, of McRae, Arkansas, wasborn September 4, 1926, to Henry and Esther Morrow, and he died Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Buddy moved his family to McRae in 1961, and there he proudly served over 20years on the McRae Volunteer Fire Department. In 1963 he was “saved” and then spent his next 36 years in dedicated service as the Deacon at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in McRae. Currently, he and his wife are members of Park Ave. Baptist Church in Searcy. He was also a lifetime member of Big Rock Masonic Lodge.

Those gone before him include his parents; sisters, Magdalene “Sis” Hughes and Linda “Lyn” Roper; brothers, William “Bill” Morrow and Jimmie Morrow; and great-grandson, Cannon Blaine Cotton. We who remain shall greatly miss him, but celebrate the eternal life he now shares with Jesus, his Savior! Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years who was always athis side, Johnnie Morrow; daughters, Brenda Cotton (Bruce) and Karen Hogan (Terry); grandkids, Barry Cotton (Kristain), Stephen Walter Cotton, Kasey Holland (Joe Mike) and James Hogan (Erin); great-grandkids, Shea, Savannah, Katie, Alex, Maggie, Karlie and Lexie; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and many friends. Buddy was loved, appreciated and respected by everyone who met him; “A Man of His Word.”

Special love and thanks to Leon Milam who was his boyhood pal and lifelong best friend. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Westbrook Funeral Home. Burial with Masonic honors will be in Lebanon Cemetery. www.westbrookfuneralhome.com.

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MORRILTON - R. J. Williams, 87, of the Lord’s School House Community, passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011. Born May 26, 1923, in Morrilton, Arkansas, a son of Elbert A. and Mae Black Williams. R.J. was a retired Lineman after 38 years with AP&L, a U.S. Army veteran, Mason, and a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Jean Williams; son, J.D. Williams of Houston, Texas; two grandchildren; step-children, Mike Cowan of Morrilton, Jo-Ellyn Mayfield of Conway; step-grandchildren, Stacy Pate (Shawn) of Perryville, Jason Cowan (Dalaina) of St. Vincent; step-great-grandchildren, Madison Cowan, Parker and Paisley of St. Vincent, and Ava and Brady Pate of Perryville; sister, Betty Hale of Lord’s School House Community.

Graveside services with Military and Masonic rites will be 2 p.m. Friday, April 29, at Old Salem Cemetery with Bro. James Mullins officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Gideon’s International. Arrangements by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.

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MOUNTAIN HOME - Services for Mary Chollar, 73, of Mountain Home will be private. Mary died April 28, 2011. A nurse, survived by her husband, Edward; son, William of Hilandville, Mo.; and daughter, Brenda Wells of Bull Shoals, Ark. Arrangements by Kirby & Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Visit online obituary/guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.

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MOUNTAIN HOME - Services for Donald Gesme, 94 of Mountain Home will be 10 a.m. May 5, 2011, at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel. Donald died April 26th. A marketing director for Phillips Petroleum survived, by his son, Tom. Arrangements by Kirby & Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Visit online obituary/guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.

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MOUNTAIN HOME - Wallace “Wally” Mueting, 86, of Mountain Home died Monday at Baxter Reional Medical Center in Mountain Home. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at the Conner-Hankins Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are by Conner-Hankins Funeral Home. A full obituary is available at www.conner-hankinsfuneralhome.com.

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MOUNTAIN HOME - Frieda Schmidt, age 91, of Mountain Home died Wednesday. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Monday at the Roller Funeral Home. She is survived by a son: Joseph Schmidt; and a daughter: Julie Sweat. Arrangements are by Roller Funeral Home. (870) 425-2161. Online guestbook:www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

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MURFREESBORO - Leona Pearl Laurent, age 88, of Murfreesboro, Arkansas, died on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Funeral services will be on Friday, April 29, 2011, at 2 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. Burial at College Hill Cemetery in Murfreesboro, under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home.

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NORPHLET - Scott Crittenden, 38, of Norphlet, passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011. Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday, April 29, at First Baptist Church of Norphlet. Interment will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors. www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Mr. Mark Aytch, 58, of Pine Bluff, passed away Monday, April 25, 2011. His graveside service was Thursday, April 28, 2011, at Forrest Lawn Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Online register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Tenye “Ms. Pete” Serio Mizell, 85, of PineBluff, Arkansas, died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at her home. She was born November 11, 1925, in Camden to Sam Serio Sr. and Christine Kirkimier Serio. Mrs. Mizell wasreared and educated in Fair View High School, where she graduated in 1944. She had worked for 30 years at Wal-Mart before retiring as a door greeter. Mrs. Mizell was of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herchel Mizell, Jr.; her parents; a brother, Sam Serio, Jr.; and a sister, Mary Frances Wentz. Survivors include a son, Michael Mizell of Pine Bluff; a daughter, Dorothy (James) Sybert of Pine Bluff; three grandchildren, Tabatha Mizell Owens, Chris Mizell and Randy Sybert, all of Benton; great-granddaughters, Karli Michelle Owens of Benton, Brianna Kay Sybert of Pine Bluff; and a brother, Anthony Serio of Dyersburg, Tennessee.

The family will receive friends Friday, 6 to 8 p.m., at Robinson’s. Funeral services will be 3:30 p.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son with Reverend Frank Matchett officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery. Online register at www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Marguerite Reed Rodgers, 92, of Pine Bluff, died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at Trinity Village Medical Center. She was born October 8, 1918, in Rowell, Arkansas, daughter of the late Walter and Maybell Stewart Reed. Mrs. Rodgers was reared and received her early education in Rowell and graduated from Woodlawn High School as Valedictorian in 1937. She earned her degree from Arkansas A&M, now University of Arkansas at Monticello. She taught elementary school for 30 years in Grapevine, Woodlawn and Watson Chapel before retiring in 1981. Mrs. Rodgers was a long-time member of South Side Baptist Church, where she was a member of the Priscilla Sunday School Class, taught in the primary department and worked in the library for many years. She was a member of the Jefferson County Elementary Teachers, AEA and NEA. Mrs.Rodgers was a former member of Delta Kappa Gamma Teachers Society, Opportunity Chapter of Business Women and RSVP. She loved cooking, sewing, reading, bridge and traveling extensively with her husband preceding his death. Mrs. Rodgers lived at Trinity Village for several years. She was elected Resident of the Month twice and Resident of the Year once.

Mrs. Rodgers was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, James F. Rodgers; three brothers, H.C., Eugene, and Marion Reed; and sister, Ernestine Weir. Survivors include her daughter, Jimmie Claire (Leroy) Brockbank of Del Mar, California; son, Rodney E. (Marlene) Rodgers of Pine Bluff; three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 2, 2011, at South Side Baptist Church with Dr. Ed Gillham officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery by Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors. Visitation will be Sunday afternoon from 2-4 p.m. at Robinson’s. Memorials may be made to South Side Baptist Church, 2309 S. Poplar, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71601. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Mr. James Weldon Smith Sr., 63, of Pine Bluff, passed away Saturday, April 23, 2011. His services will be Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Mt. Olive COGIC in Humphrey by Reverend Reynald Williams at 10:30 a.m. by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Online register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

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PORTLAND - Mr. Gary Earl Cochran, 66, of Portland, diedWednesday, April 27, 2011, at the Chicot Memorial Hospital in Lake Village. Mr. Cochran was born in Dumas on November 25, 1944, while his father was in the United States Armyserving in the European Theater. When he was a year old, his family moved to Portland after his father returned from overseas. He graduated from Portland High School in 1962. In 1966 he graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He was a cattle, cotton, soybean and rice farmer. He was a member of the Portland Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School for many years and later he attended the Portland United Methodist Church. He was a former member and past president of the Portland School Board and he had served as president of the Portland Lions Club. He was an avid Arkansas Razorback football fan. Some of his best memories were of his family attending Razorback football games and spending time on Lake Chicot. One of his joy’s in life was gourmet cooking and grilling for his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Maxine Gary Cochran, and an uncle, William Cochran. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Patricia Pope Cochran of Portland; three daughters, Denise Castleberry of White Hall, Amy Jolly of Southaven, Mississippi, and Haley Cochran of Reston, Virginia; a brother, Paul Cochran of Portland; and four grandchildren, Caitlin Alexandra Castleberry, Savannah Elizabeth Castleberry, Tristan Matthew Cochran-Thomas and William Cannan Cochran-Thomas.

Funeral services are 10 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2011, at the Portland United Methodist Church with Rev. Terrie Lynn Bunnell and Rev. Carl Mason officiating. Burial will be in the Portland Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday at thefuneral home. Memorials may be made to the MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210-4486. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jones-HartshornFuneral Home of Hamburg. Online guest book at www.joneshartshorn.com.

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SEARCY - Inez Hounshell, 81, of Searcy, died Tuesday, April 26, 2011. A visitation will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home with the services following at 2 p.m. Interment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Austin, Arkansas. For online guestbook, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

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SEARCY - Kirk Manor, 68, Searcy, died Tuesday. Memorial services are Sunday, 1:30 p.m., at College Church of Christ, Searcy. Visitation is Saturday, 6-8 p.m., Powell Funeral Home, Searcy. In lieu of flowers, donations to the White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Box 8325, Searcy, Arkansas 72143, are welcome. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

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SHERIDAN - Leona Elizabeth Phillips Witherow, 86 of Sheridan, Arkansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 27, 2011. Leona was born May 26, 1924, in Center Point, Arkansas, to Grisom and Ola Phillips. After graduating from Drew County High School, Leona attended Baptist State Hospital School of Nursing where she was known as “Phil” to her classmates. While in nursing school, Leona was president of her class and held numerous leadership positions. In 1949, she was “pinned and capped” as a nurse and thus began her extensive nursing career. She was proud to say her first year of nursing service was at Children’s Hospital. In 1981, she retired from the Veterans’ Memorial Hospital where she served for 32 years. After retirement, she continued to utilize her nursing degree as the interim director of nursing at what is currently Sheridan Rehab andHealthcare. Leona spent much of her time reading, gardening, cooking and baking, sewing, and spending time with her family. She was an active member of the Home Extension Club in Sheridan, where she enjoyed crafting and fellowship with her friends. Leona was a longtime member of Marlow Missionary Baptist Church in Sheridan, Arkansas.

In addition to her parents, Leona was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Witherow, three step-sons: David Witherow, Andrew Witherow, and Stephen Witherow; a sister Fern Phillips; four brothers: Cleo Phillips, Audie Lee Phillips, Clifton Phillips and an infant brother Jackie. Survived by her step-sons and daughter-in-laws: Barry and Donna Witherow of Center Ridge, Arkansas, Karl and Karen Witherow of Houston, Texas, and Joan Witherow of Sheridan, Arkansas; eight grandchildren: Sam Witherow, Zachary Witherow, Andrea Baker, Amy Witherow, Kasey Witherow, JoshuaWitherow, Jacob Witherow, and Allison Witherow Pruitt, and one step granddaughter, Kristina Green. As well as, two greatgrandchildren: Reed Baker and Brooklyn Witherow.

Visitation will be held at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Saturday, April 30, 2011, from 10 a.m.-11 a.m. with the funeral services immediately following at 11 a.m. with Pastor Robert Standley officiating. Interment will be at Bethel North Cemetery in Sheridan, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grant County Library, 210 North Oak Street, Sheridan, Ark. 72150. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan, (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook, www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.

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VILONIA - Miriam L. Pitts, 55, passed away April 25, 2011. She is survived by daughter, Rachel M. Pitts of Conway; son, Thomas J.E. Baird of Vilonia; and her partner, Richard Baird. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., Little Rock, (501) 224-2200. Miriam’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

Out-of-state

ELTON, La. - Virgie H. Badon, 91, passed away on Wednesday,April 27, 2011, in her residence. She was born in Prattsville, Ark., lived in Little Rock and moved to Elton, Louisiana, five years ago. She was a member of the 2nd Baptist Church ofLittle Rock. During the war, she worked at the Defense Plant. She also worked for Ark LA Gas and Southern Bell as a telephone operator. Survivors include her sister, Floy Johnson of Elton, La.; nephews, John, James, and Cursey Marcantel; nieces, Katherine Fogleman, Miriam Thompson, Jackie Hernandez and Tammy Cline. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Myrtis Benning; husband, Clarence Badon and a sister, Emma Marcantel. Graveside service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Philadelphia Cemetery in Prattsville, Arkansas. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com. Graveside services by Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan. (870) 942-3231.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Billy Ray Nash Sr., 68, of Kansas City, Mo., formerly of Pine Bluff, passed away April 21, 2011. Funeral, Saturday, April 30, 2011, at Rose Hill MBC by Reverend Clifton O’Neal at 2:30 p.m. Interment in Cedar Grove Section of Graceland by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Online Register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

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MEMPHIS - Mr. Lucious Lee Ivory, 78, died Monday, April 25, 2011, a Hospice Inpatient Care in Little Rock. Funeral will be Saturday, April 30, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Brown Funeral Home in Dumas with Rev. Jesse Jackson Jr. officiating. Burial in Lincoln Memorial Lawn at Varner.

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MEMPHIS - Berniece Baker White, 91, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 24, 2011. She was one of seven children born to Willie Earl and Rozell NobelBaker from Hamburg, Arkansas, on April 19, 1920. She attended the old Gardner one room school house in Arkansas until it was consolidated with the school in Fountain Hill, Arkansas. After graduating from Fountain Hill School in 1938, she attended Arkansas A&M at Monticello, Arkansas, where she obtained a teaching degree. She taught at Fountain Hill School before her marriage to Arthur E. White of Cotton Plant, Arkansas. She and her husband lived and raised their three children in Memphis, Tennessee. She was employed 25 years by the Memphis O.B.G.Y.N. Group located in downtown Memphis. After retirement they moved to Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, in 1986. In 2008 they moved back to enjoy their senior days at the Village of Germantown in Germantown, Tennessee. She was a member of the Evergreen Presbyterian Church in Memphis, Tennessee. In 2003 while living in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, her devotion to the Presbyterian Kirkof the Hills Church netted her the prestigious award, Presbyterian Woman of the Year, which is only given every seven years. She was very proud and humbled by this honor. She taught slow learners at the Fairfield Bay Museum. She volunteered at the Charity Project Share and the Fairfield Bay Library. However, most of all she loved to work at her church. When anyone called to ask her to do something connected to the Church, her answer was always “I will be glad to.” She lived by the Ten Commandments.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie Earl and Rozell Nobel Baker, six siblings Willie Earl Baker, Myrtle B. Helbing, Jeroline B. Downey, Marianna Mears, Ralph N. Baker, Marcel D. Baker, a daughter, Phyllis Ann White Henry, and a son, Timothy B. White. She is survived by her husband, Arthur E. White of 70 years, two sons and their wives, James E. White, Eileen Smith White of Memphis,Richard A. White, and Wendy McClary White of Atlanta, Georgia; grandchildren, Jennifer White Castillo and husband Fred Castillo of Redmond, Washington, Christopher White and wife Summer Shockley White of Monroe, Washington, Ross White and wife Krystle Williams White of Webster N.Y., Klie White of Macon, Georgia, Crawford White of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; two great-grandchildren, Ryan White and William White; numerous kin folks and a multitude of friends. She was best described as a true lady.

The family had received friends Thursday, April 28 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be 11:30 p.m., Friday at Memorial Park with entombment to follow in Memorial Park Mausoleum.

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EDCOUCH, Texas - Cleon Carter, 71, of Edcouch, Texas, formerly of Vanndale, died Sunday, April 24. Survivors include wife, Patricia; one son, Tom Carter; one daughter, Rhonda Biller; six brothers; three sisters; 13 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Vanndale Fire Department.

Arkansas, Pages 16 on 04/29/2011

Print Headline: Obituaries