LITTLE ROCK — OBITUARIES Information for the obituaries and funeral notices below was supplied to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Advertising Department 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, arkansasonline.com/obituaries/.
PULASKI COUNTY Nancy Suzette Coates, 44, of Jacksonville.
Laura Jean Gayles, 72, of Jacksonville.
Reginald Heber Helvenston, 86, of Little Rock.
Kennith R. Herbert Jr., 42, of Hensley.
Charles Nora Hunter, 53, of Little Rock.
Mary Elizabeth Kaufman, 80, of Little Rock.
William C. Lewis, 82, of North Little Rock.
Gladys Mitchell, 96, of Little Rock. Mary L. Page, 79, of Little Rock.
Bill Carroll Rumker, 68, of Little Rock.
Mary Louise Schmidt, 87, of North Little Rock.
LaVerne Webb Schnebly, 86, of Little Rock.
Carol Smith, 64, of Little Rock.
Margaret S. Taylor, 82, North Little Rock.
Michael Welsh, 58, of Sherwood.
ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS BENTON Jillian Elora Elmore, infant.
CABOT Francis “Frank” E. Ward Jr., 81.
CAMDEN Marie Joyce Rateliff, 80.
DEWITT Virginia Malee Neff McKewen, 89. FISHER Vera Dennis, 90.
GASSVILLE James Huckabee, 59.
HALLEY Bonnie Teasley Waldrup, 85.
HARRISBURG Carl Cole, 75.
HOT SPRINGS Lucille Chote, 79.
HUMNOKE Tommy Ray Coleman, 61.
JASPER Corbie Carl Berry, 101.
LAKEVIEW Mary K. Rattray, 69.
MCGEHEE Harold Clyde Penick, 75.
MONTICELLO Debbie Sue Burks, 49.
ODEN Robert “Bob” Anderson, 68.
PINE BLUFF Kenneth P. Dodds, 78.
RONDO Catherine Sparks, 89.
ROSE BUD Velmar Lee Lester, 56.
RUSSELLVILLE Francis James Desiderio, 79.
Lucille McDonald, 72.
RYE Kip Reep, 55.
SAGE John Robert Baker, 68.
SHERIDAN Karen Laster Whitaker, 53.
ST. JAMES Chester Forshee Younger, 92.
SUBIACO Denis Soerries, 81.
WHITE HALL Opal Dye, 91.
OUT-OF-STATE MODESTO, Calif.
Martin Holmes, 87.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Ruthie Lee Booker, 77.
ANDOVER, Kan.
Eloise Louise Cureton, 78.
DETROIT Loriane Amis Carson, 90.
Pulaski County
NANCY SUZETTE COATES, 44, of Jacksonville, received her angel wings on Dec. 14, 2012, after a long, hard battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease. Nancy was happiest when she was making others smile, and on her weakest days, she still wantedto make her family smile.
She is survived by her children, Chad, Amy, Ricky and Cody; her grandchildren, James, Caleb, Sophie, Ayden, Layla and Corbyn; and her devoted soul mate, Chris Ellis. She also leaves behind her parents, Floyd and Lillie Dickerson; her brothers and sisters, Tommy, Hazel, Henry, Ann, Paul and Mary; and many nieces and nephews that were so dear to her heart.
Visitation is 5:30-7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, at Arkansas Funeral Care in Jacksonville, with a graveside service at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at Concord Cemetery, Lonoke.
To sign her guestbook, please visit www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.
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LAURA JEAN GAYLES, 72, of Jacksonville, born March 8, 1940, in Abingdon, Va. to parents Alonzo Yancy and Laura Clark, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Jean is survived by her husband of 52 1/2 years, David A. Gayles; her son, Garry E. Gayles of San Jose, Calif.; her daughter, Laura Y. Gayles-Stephens of Birmingham, Ala.; and hergrandchildren, Gregory David Stephens of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Amelia R. and Lorenzo M. Gayles of San Jose, Calif.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at HollyGrove AME Church; 7002 Hankins Road on Highway 161. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, at Bethel AME; 600 N. Cedar St. in North Little Rock. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Jacksonville.
To sign her guestbook, please visit www.arkansasfuneralcare.com. Arrangements made by Arkansas Funeral Care, Jacksonville.
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REGINALD HEBER HELVENSTON of Little Rock passed awayWednesday, Dec. 12, 2012. He was born Aug. 17, 1926, in Live Oak, Fla., the son of Reginald Heber Helvenston Sr. and Edna Baulch Helvenston.
He was a graduate of NewMexico Military Institute and during World War II, served aboard a patrol craft as a sonarman in the South Pacific. After the war, he graduated from the University of Texas, where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta and a letterman in swimming in 1947 and 1948. From 1950 to 1957, he was a fieldman for Aetna Insurance Company and owned and operated Helvenston & Co., a local fire and casualty agency, until his retirement in 1982.
He was a vestryman and served several times as senior warden of St. Alban Anglican Church in Little Rock. He was a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, Trinity Lodge No. 694, Scottish Rite Bodies, Scimitar Shrine Temple and the Country Club of Little Rock.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Buzbee Helvenston; daughter, Ellen A. Tolley and husband, Steve, of Perryville, Ark.; grandchildren, Travis Tolley and wife, Kelly, and Hallie Tolley Finkbeiner and husband, David; greatgrandchildren, Ella Jane, Carter and Harper; brother, Phelps Helvenston and wife, Pa,t of Flagstaff, Ariz.; and two nephews.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mark Episcopal Church, 1000 N. Mississippi St., Little Rock on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at 2 p.m. officiated by Rev. Danny Schieffler. Burial will be at Mount Holly Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a favorite charity. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
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KENNITH R. HERBERT JR., known as Kenny or Kenny Rayto those who knew him best, passed from this life on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at age 42. He was born in Little Rock on May 10, 1970, to Kennith Sr. and Carolyn Mann Herbert, of Hensley.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Madgie Herbert and Robert and Nellie Mann. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Sheila and Brad Daniel of Hensley; brother, Jeff Herbert of Mabelvale; nieces and nephews, Lauren, Braylee, Justin, Trent and Trevor Daniel, all of Hensley; his special canine buddy, Chee-Chee, and a host of other familyand friends.
Kenny loved to hunt and fish and was also an avid bowler, having received many patches, awards and a “perfect game” ring. He was a Christian and a member of East End Baptist Church. He worked for O’Reilly Auto Parts for more than 11 years. Kenny never met a stranger and was quick to extend love and help to everyone. He displayed this love by taking wonderful care of his Uncle Tom.
Kenny always wore a smile on his face and gave the best hugs. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, from 6-8 p.m. at Huson Funeral Home in Little Rock. Funeral services will be held at East End Baptist Church, 4701 East End Road, Hensley, on Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery in East End. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to Salem Cemetery or to East End Baptist ChurchChildren Fund or Youth Fund.
Online guest book, www.husonfuneralhome.com.
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Mr. CHARLES NORA HUNTER was born May 13, 1959, in LonokeCounty, Ark., to the late Buster Sr., and Mattie Hunter. Nora was educated in the England Public Schools and graduated from England High School class of 1977. He was employedby Dillard’s Trucking Equipment.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Buster Sr. and Mattie Hunter; two sisters, Blanche Keys and Tabitha Mae Hunter. He was united in holy matrimony to Freda Reeves on June 5, 1993 and to this union one son was born. He leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife Freda Renell Hunter of Little Rock, Ark.; three sons, Nora Charles Hunter of Little Rock, Ark., Jerry Collins, Dallas, Texas, and DeNorvell (Jamar) Hunter of Little Rock, Ark.; three daughters, Laquita (Norris) Russell of Oceanside, Calif., LaToyya Danyell Hunter and Marquetta Molden, both of Little Rock, Ark.; four brothers, Rev.Buster (Retha) Hunter Jr., Robert (Roberta) Hunter, Rev. Carl (Michelle) Hunter and Norman (Tonia) Hunter; six sisters, Grace Allen, Gladys (Homer) Molden, Algia (Alonzo) Brooks, Shirley Hunter and Thelma Bryant all of Little Rock, Ark.; five grandchildren, Jaylon, Jayda, Jerrion, McKenzie Danyell and Jayveon; father and mother-in-law, Harold and Lillie Reeves of Pine Bluff; two brothers-in-law, Harold (Misty) Reeves of Carrollton, Texas, and Anzeco Reeves of Pine Bluff, Ark.; two sisters-in-law, Pamela (Jerry) Lyons of Seattle, Wash., and Vonda (Rev. Willie) Rogers of Pine Bluff; a very special niece, Keuntia (Shae Shae) Hunter; a host of nieces, nephews, many family members and friends.
Family hour will be Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 from 6 til 8 p.m. at Greater Emmanuel Church 1506 Arch St. Little Rock. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012 11 a.m. at Gaines Street Baptist Church ,1601 Gaines St.
Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home 1518 S. Battery St. Little Rock, Ark. 72202 (501) 376-4800. “Only Heaven Can Serve You Better!” --◊--
MARY ELIZABETH KAUFMAN died on Dec. 14, 2012 in Little Rock. She was born in 1932 in Batesville, Ark., to Carl and Abbie Snapp Arnold.
She graduated from Desha High School and the University of Arkansas where she was a member of Delta Gamma sorority.
Her interest in genealogy ledher to join several historical and patriotic societies such as the Huguenot Society, Questers, National Society of Colonial Dames of American, Daughters of American Revolution, First Families of Tennessee, and Arkansas Pioneers.
Among those surviving are two sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth and Pam Kaufman of Cordova, S.C., and John and Faye Kaufman of Wichita, Kan.; one grandchild, Charley Kaufman, and five nieces and nephews and nine great-nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Kenneth Kaufman; brothers, William Arnold and his wife, Bobbie, and Carl Arnold, and nephews Robert Brent Arnold and William Arnold.
Funeral service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012. Following with burial 3 p.m., at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville, Ark. Arrangement by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway Little Rock, Ark. 72211, (501) 224-8300.
Memorials may be made to Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72227; or to Old Independence Regional Museum at 380 South 9th Street, Batesville, Ark. 72501; or to the charity of your choice.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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WILLIAM CHARLES LEWIS, 82, of North Little Rock went to bewith his Lord and Savior Dec. 12, 2012. Born Nov. 10, 1930 to Luther and Annie Lewis, he resided in North Little Rock his entire life. Charlie was a member of Lynch View MissionaryBaptist Church. Charlie graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1948; joined the Army and served during the Korean War and retired from Chicopee in 1993.
Charlie loved Jesus Christ, reading, country music, fishing and the Razorbacks. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by parents, Luther and Anne Lewis; brother, Estes Lewis and sister, Betty Purdom. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Linda Lewis; step-daughter, Diane Smith; son, Ron Lewis both of North Little Rock; daughters and sons-in-law, Ellen and David Landes of Cabot and Tina and Danny Lantrip of Scott; one sister, Jo Ann Talbert; three grandchildren, Christopher Landes, Victoria Golden and Don Austin Lantrip; niece, Debbie Purdom; nephew, Phillip Purdom and several other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be at Roller Owens Funeral Home on John F. Kennedy Blvd. North Little Rock on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. Graveside funeral Service will be 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 at Arkansas State Veterans’ Cemetery.
Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
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GLADYS (DICKERSON) MITCHELL, 96, of Little Rock, Ark .,passed away Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at Hospice Home Care Inpatient Facility. She was born March 14, 1916, in Monroe, La., a daughter of the late Jeff and Kessie (Holloway) Dickerson.She was also preceded in death by her husband, Horace Mitchell; her son, Jim Wayne Mitchell, and a sister, Ruby Lee Garrison.
She was a loving wife and mother; who was a devout member of Parkway Place Baptist Church (formerly Baptist Tabernacle). She had sang in the choir and taught Sunday School for children. She had many church friends and will be missed.
Survivors are her daughters, Patricia Dozier and husband Hank of Fox, Ark., Alice Newman of Little Rock; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren and a number of special nephews and nieces and cousins.
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Monday, at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, at Parkway Place Baptist Church. Burial will be 2 p.m. at Oakland Cemetery in Warren, Ark., under the direction of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 W. 12th Street, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 661-9111.
Please send the family messages of love and comfort to www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.
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MARY L. PAGE, 79, of Little Rock, passed away Friday, Dec. 14, 2012.
Arrangements are pending by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court, Little Rock, Ark. 72205 (Northwest corner of I-630 and Barrow Road) (501) 224-2200.
Mary’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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BILL CARROLL RUMKER, 68, of Little Rock, passed away Dec.13, 2012. He was born in Conway to George and Opal Pauline Maness Rumker, who survive him, and was a member of West 65th St. Church of Christ.
Visitation will be today,Sunday, Dec. 16 from 2-4 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801Knoedl Court. (Northwest corner, I-630 and Barrow Road.). Services will be Monday at 1 p.m. at West 65th St. Church of Christ, officiated by Mr. Don McClain. Interment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park in Sherwood.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home (501)224-2200. Mr. Rumker’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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MARY LOUISE SCHMIDT, 87, of North Little Rock, passed awayFriday, Dec. 14, 2012. She retired as a school teacher from North Little Rock High School after 30 years. Mrs. Schmidt was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church, Little Rock, Ark.
She is survived by her daughter Marilyn Anglin, and husband, Jim, of North Little Rock; grandchildren, Jeff Anglin, J.R. Anglin and wife, Tina, Michael Willingham, Michele Anglin, Elizabeth Anglin, Malissa Hays and husband, Roger, Russell Stephens and Stephanie Stephens; greatgrandchildren, Ashley Burns and husband, Jeremy, Anna Anglin, Weston Anglin, Sophie Hays, Moira Hays and Jamie Hays; three great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Willie Jo Jones and husband, Bernard, DeLois Eddy, Becky Kerr, Bobbie Moore and husband, Carl. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Schmidt; her daughter Carolyn Stephens; two brothers and one sister.
Memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 N. Shackleford Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72211
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Immanuel Baptist Church Chapel. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday just prior to funeral services.
Arrangements by North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main, 758-1170. Online obituary and guest registry at www.nlrfh.com. --◊--
LAVERNE WEBB SCHNEBLY, 86, of Little Rock, Ark., died peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012. LaVerne was born Jan. 15, 1926, in Sidney, Ark., the youngest child of Harmon Davis and Effie Laffoon Webb.
LaVerne, a retired school teacher, spent her career teaching business at Rose Bud High School. She received a B.S.E. from Arkansas State Teachers’ College, now UCA, where she was a member of the NationalHonor Sorority, Alpha Chi.
She was preceded in death by her husband, the love of her life, Ernest Schnebly, who served as superintendent of Rose Bud Schools and assistant superintendent for the Arkansas School for the Blind and by her sister, Estelle Anthony, and brothers, Davis and Odus Webb. She is survived by her son, Jim Schnebly, and by her grandchildren, the joy in her life, Josh, Karey and Michael Schnebly.
Graveside services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, at White County Memorial Gardens with an informal memorial gathering afterward at the Wesley Room, First United Methodist Church of Searcy.
Memorials in her name can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.
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CAROL SMITH, 66, of Little Rock passed away Dec. 12, 2012.She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She was employed at Kohl’s Department Store for several years.
Carol is preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, CarlSmith; first husband, C. J. Weatherford, and one brother, Glen Dale Taylor.
She is survived by her loving daughters, Robin Smith, Dana Dalton and Joanie Kaufman; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Robert Taylor; three sisters, Florence Whitehead, Geraldine Taylor and Mary Eslick; best friend ofa lifetime, Eugene Ellison, and a host of family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly.
Visitation will be held on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, from 6-8 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. To sign online guest book, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
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MARGARET TAYLOR, 82 of North Little Rock passed away Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Sherwood.
Graveside service will be 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012, at Sylvania Cemetery in Cabot with Rev. Paul McClung officiating. Arrangements made by Roller-Owens Funeral Home (501-791-7400)
Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhome.com/owens.
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MICHAEL JOSEPH WELSH, age 58 of Sherwood, Ark., passedaway Dec. 15, 2012, in the comfort of his home. He was born on Jan. 31, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio; he was the son of Richard and Anne Welsh.
Mike was an auto mechanic for over 30 yearsand an operations manager for a fire and water restoration company. He was a member of the Bryan Alliance Church in Bryan, Ohio.
He is preceded in death by his father, mother, brothers John and Rick and a sister, Kathy. Survivors include his loving wife, Janie (Degroff) Welsh; sons, Jason (Roxane) Welsh, Jamie (Julie) Welsh, Eric Welsh; one daughter, Wendy (Keith) Swartz; six grandchildren, Kaylee Welsh, Tyler Welsh, Kyle Swartz, Ashley Welsh, Dillon Welsh and Sylus Welsh; a sister, Patricia Bell, and brothers Frank and Dan Welsh.
Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Huson Funeral Home in Sherwood. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, at Huson Funeral Home Chapel in Sherwood with the burial at a later date at Arkansas State Veterans’ Cemetery in North Little Rock. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Bryan Alliance Church inBryan, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made Arkansas Hospice or the Special Olympics.
Sign an online guest book at www.husonfuneralhome.com.
Arkansas
BENTON - Jillian Elora Elmore received her angel wings on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012. She was the longed for and loved daughter of Jason and Jaclyn Elmore of Benton, Ark.
She is also survived by her maternal grandparents, Russell and Vicki Roberts and paternal grandparents, Don and Laura Elmore. Also remaining to cherish her memory are a host of special aunts, uncles and cousins.
A private graveside service honoring her brief life was held on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012. A private visitation was held prior to the service.
Jillian will forever and always be in our hearts.
Please share your prayers and thoughts with Jillian’s family at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.
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CABOT - Francis (Frank) E. Ward Jr., SMSgt, U.S.A.F. (Ret.),81, of Cabot, formerly of Bellevue, Neb., died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012. “The Godfather” Frank Ward has “gone home.”
He endured many maladies in recent years.They have taken away this father of six, friend and mentor to all Scouts and Scouters.
During his lifetime, he served his country in the United States Air Force with honor and distinction for 30 years, retiring at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, having earned the Meritorious Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. Subsequently, he worked as a civilian employee of the Air Force for 15 more years. He is a veteran of 60 plus years as a Scout and Scout leader. He held numerous positions as a Scout leader. Recognized for his dedication and service, he received the Silver Beaver Award, Award of Merit and the Vigil Honor Order of the Arrow, plus numerous other awards and recognition.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Emilia Ward of Paterson and Maywood, N.J., and daughter, Eileen of Cabot. He is survived by his wife, Georgiann (Ann) of Cabot; brother, Ronald A. Ward (Carole) of Maywood, N.J.; sons, Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. Ward (Sheryl) of Cabot, Andrew M. Ward of Longview, Texas and Sean P. Ward (Tonya) of Redfield; daughters, Kristina M. (Ward) Gray (Tom) of Omaha, Neb., Susan A. (Ward) Crank (Todd) of Austin, Texas and 11 grandchildren.
His remains will be cremated and the ashes buried at Bellevue Cemetery. A funeral Mass will be conducted at the Capehart Chapel in Bellevue. Immediately following the burial, a memorial service will be held at Camp Wakonda in Bellevue. Donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America, Mid-America Councilin the name of Frank Ward, in lieu of flowers. Funeral arrangements are by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home, 501-982-2136, and Bellevue Chapel in Bellevue, Neb. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
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CAMDEN - Marie Joyce Rateliff, 80, of Camden, died Friday. Survivors: husband, Thomas; daughters, Rita Joyce Wiggins and Elizabeth Gail Banner. Member: Camden First Baptist Church.
Visitation: Sunday 3-6 p.m. at Proctor’s. Funeral: 2 p.m. Monday, Camden First Baptist Church with Dr. Richard Piles officiating. Burial: Memorial Park Cemetery.
Online: www.proctorfuneralhome.com.
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DEWITT - Virginia Malee Neff McKewen, 89, of DeWitt, died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 17 at Assembly of God Church with burial at DeWitt Cemetery by Essex Funeral Home.
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FISHER - Mrs. Vera Dennis, 90, of Fisher died Thursday.
Survivors: sons, Gary Dennis and Steve Gahring; daughters, Patricia “Trish” Kunkel and Sherill Yarbrough; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren.
Visitation: 10 a.m. Monday at Fisher United Methodist Church with Funeral at 11 a.m. Interment: Fisher Cemetery.
Arrangements: Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home. www.jacksonsfh.com.
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GASSVILLE - James Huckabee, 59, of Gassville, died Thursday, in Mountain Home.
Visitation: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Funeral service: 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 at the Gassville Baptist Church under the direction of Conner-Hankins Funeral Home.
The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.conner-hankinsfuneralhome.com.
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HALLEY - Bonnie Teasley Waldrup, 85, died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012.
Survivors include daughter, Sonya Waldrup (Wes); son, Kerry Waldrup; grandson, Jared; greatgranddaughter, Paige.
Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. Sunday at Temple Baptist Church in Dermott, Ark. Service will be 2 p.m. at the church with burial at Halley Cemetery.
Online guest book www.griffinculpepper.com.
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HARRISBURG - Carl Cole, 75, of Harrisburg, died Thursday in Jonesboro. He was the son of Flownoy and Orpha Mae (Harper) Cole.
Funeral services are 2 p.m. Monday at Jackson’s Harrisburg Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation is Sunday from 6-8 p.m. Interment, Harrisburg Memorial Park.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Funeral Home.
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HOT SPRINGS - Lucille Chote, 79, wife of the late Rev. Carl Chote, of Hot Springs, died Friday.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Hot Springs Baptist Church. Visitation will be held 2-5 p.m. Sunday at Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Hot Springs. Interment will be in Bethel Cemetery, Glenwood.
Guest registry at www.davissmith.com.
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HUMNOKE - Tommy Ray Coleman, 61, of Humnoke, passed away Dec. 13, 2012. He was born April 10, 1951 in Stuttgart, Ark. He loved to fish, squirrel hunt, duck and deer hunt, farm and was a jack of all trades. He wasof the Pentecostal faith. He loved his family very much.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Paulette Coleman; his father, Cecil Coleman and one brother, Craig Coleman. Also preceding him in death, a great nephew, Hunter Coleman.
Survivors include: his mother, Daisy Coleman; four sons, Tommy (Lisa) Coleman and Roger Coleman, both of Humnoke, Richard and Roger Patrick, of Mobile, Ala.; one daughter, Ginger (Buddy) Crouch, of North Little Rock; two brothers, Mike and Butch Coleman; two sisters, Judy Baker and Kaye Powell; seven grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Johnny and Glenda Woodard. Visitation will be Sunday, Dec. 16 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be, Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 at 2 p.m. both at Wilson-Robison Funeral Home, England, 501-842-3901.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 901 N. University Ave., Little Rock, Ark. 72207, 501-664-3480. To sign guestbook online, go to www.wilsonrobisonfhengland.com.
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LAKEVIEW - Mary K. Rattray, 69, of Lakeview, Ark., died Dec. 14, 2012. Survived by three daughters, Michelle Ryan, Lisa Ramos and Barbara Gray.
Visitation will be Sunday from 1-3 p.m. at Roller Funeral Home Chapel, with a funeral to follow at 3 p.m. Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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McGEHEE - Harold Clyde Penick, 75, of McGehee, died Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at his home. He was born Sept. 2, 1937, in Monticello.
Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Monday at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with burial in Oakland Cemetery by Stephenson-Dearman. Visitation 2-6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
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MONTICELLO - Debbie Sue Burks, 49, of Monticello died Dec. 11, 2012, at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff.
Funeral service will be held 12 noon, Tuesday, Dec. 18 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with burial in Brooks Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
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ODEN - Robert “Bob” Anderson, age 68, of Oden, died Friday.
Services are 10 a.m. Monday, in Little Hope Baptist Church with interment in Mount Olive Cemetery under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Glenwood. Visitation is Sunday, 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., at Little Hope Baptist Church.
Online registry is www.davissmith.com.
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PINE BLUFF - Kenneth Dodds, 78, of Pine Bluff, passed awaypeacefully Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, at Hickory Grove Hunting Club in Lincoln County. Born Sept. 20, 1934, in Star City, Ark., a son of the late William Alfred Dodds and Thelma RigginsDodds Williams, Kenneth graduated from Glendale High School in 1952.
Mr. Dodds retired in 1990 after working for nearly 40 years in the construction business for several area construction companies. He was a member of Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church and lifelong member of Hickory Grove Hunting Club. He was well known for his love for his family, adoration of his grandchildren, love for all others’ children, and love of the outdoors.
Survivors include his high school sweetheart and wife of 58 years whom he married July 10, 1954, Elveta Dixon Dodds; daughters, Debbie Dodds Erskine (Steve) of Lake Jackson, Texas, Melinda Dodds Mayo (Mark) of Little Rock; brothers, Alton Dodds and Jerry Dodds, both of California; sisters, Joyce Lorene Dobbins of Wright, Ark., Ina Ellison of Pine Bluff, Betty Julian of Rison, Ark., Wanda Dodds Sletwick of Concord, Calif.; grandchildren, Laura Erskine Nichols, Peter andMicaela Erskine; step-grandson, Derek Mayo; and great-grandson, Easton Nichols. Two brothers, William Aaron Dodds and James Ray Dodds, also preceded him in death.
Services are Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. at Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church with Dr. Roger Stewart and Reverend Russell Hull officiating. Interment follows in Roselawn Cemetery. Visitation is Monday, 5 to 7 p.m. at Ralph Robinson & Son. Memorials are requested to Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church, 5130 Bobo Road, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71603. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.
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RONDO - Catherine Sparks, 89, died Tuesday.
Survivors: husband, O. W. Sparks; children, Earnest Sparks, Oscar Sparks Sr., Arlean Hamilton, Virginia Bolden, Dorothy Ferguson, Brenda Tatum; 16 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren.
Funeral: 11 a.m. Tuesday, Mt. Gillian AME Church, Barton. Burial: Mt. Shelby Cemetery, Marvell. Arrangements: Bob Neal-Brickell Funeral Home.
Guestbook: www.bobnealandsons.com.
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ROSE BUD - Velmar Lee Lester, 56, passed away Friday.
Survivors: wife, Carrie Ann; son, Randy Lester of Hot Springs; two daughters and two grandchildren.
Visitation Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m.; family funeral service and graveside services Tuesday, 2 p.m., New Heart Cemetery, Rose Bud.
Arrangements by Family Funeral Service, Heber Springs. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.
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RUSSELLVILLE - Francis James Desiderio, age 79, of Russellville, Ark., died Friday, Dec. 14, 2012. He was born Feb. 27, 1933, in Tamaqua, Pa., to Michael and Dorothy Desiderio. He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughterin-law, Sharon Mullens Desiderio.
“Frank,” as his friends knew him, was a proud veteran of the United States Army during the Korean War era. He was a graduate of Arkansas Tech University, Ed 59’; he received his master’s from Northeastern Illinois University, MOA 69’. He was the director of human resources for Wayne Farms, a member of All Saints Episcopal Church, the American Legion, VA volunteer, AARP volunteer, The Eagles, The Elks, and a longtime member of The Lions Clu,b where he received local and national recognition for his efforts to combat childhood sight issues and blindness. He received recognition as a “Melvin Jones Fellow,” awarded the “Edward Dalstrom Distinguished Service Award,” and Russellville’s “Lion of the Year.”
In 1950, he received a football scholarship from New York University. He played football professionally until his induction into the United States Army. He became an Army football coachat Fort Dix, N.J., In the 1970s, he became the defensive coordinator at Loyola University of Chicago, and later the DC at North Eastern Illinois University.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce R. Desiderio; three sons and a daughter-in-law, Michael and Nidia Desiderio of Kingsville, Texas, George Desiderio of Maumelle, and Dominic Desiderio of Conway; a sister and brother-inlaw, Theresa Marie and Joe Essig of Reading, Pa.; four grandchildren, Nicole, Natalie, Anthony and Catherine; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces.
The family will receive friends from 4:30 to 6 p.m., Monday with a rosary service to follow at 6 p.m. in the Shinn Chapel.The funeral service will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, at All Saints Episcopal Church with the Fr. Jos Tharakan officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the National Cemetery at Fort Smith, under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.
Memorials may be made to All Saints Episcopal Church, “Neighbor’s Table,” 501 S. Phoenix Ave., Russellville, Ark. 72801.
The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.
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RUSSELLVILLE - Lucille Warren McDonald, 72, of Russellville, formerly of Atkins, passed away Friday, Dec. 14, 2012.
Funeral services are 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, at Lemley Chapel. Visitation is from 2-4 p.m. Sunday.
Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.
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RYE - Kip Reep, age 55, of the Rye Community near Rison, died Friday.
Funeral services are 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, at Buie Funeral Home with burial in Prosperity Cemetery. Visitation is 1 to 2 p.m., prior to service time. Arrangements by Buie Funeral Home of Rison (870) 325-6216, www.buiefuneralhome.com.
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SAGE - John Robert Baker, 68, died Dec. 13. Visitation was held Saturday, Dec. 15 at Howard Memorial Funeral Chapel in Melbourne. No memorial service will be held.
Survivors: Joyce Baker (wife); Jonathan Baker, Bill Baker (sons). Arrangements by Eddie’s Family Funeral Home in Melbourne, Ark.
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SHERIDAN - Karen Jean Laster Whitaker of Sheridan, Ark., was born Feb. 18, 1959, in Little Rock, the daughter of Imogene Bunch Laster and the late Carl Lester Laster. She was a member of Landmark Missionary BaptistChurch in the Landmark Community and was employed by Arkansas Development Finance Authority. She enjoyed cooking for and making memories with her family.
Karen diedFriday, Dec. 14, 2012, at Baptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock, at the age of 53. Survivors: husband, Phillip Whitaker of Sheridan; son, Jason Laster of Sheridan; mother, Imogene Bunch Laster of Little Rock; brothers, Carlton Laster of Little Rock, Keith Laster of Sheridan; sister-in-law, Connie Laster of Little Rock; stepmother, Jean Laster of Cabot; stepbrothers, Dan West of Cabot, Dwight West of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Gary West of Corinth, Miss.; stepsister, Kathy Hill of Jackson, Miss.; numerous nieces and nephews and friends.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in the Landmark Community with Bro. David Robinson officiating. Burial will be in Corinth Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, from 3-5 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Brad Whitaker, Jamie Mooney, Kenny Bunch, Eddie Bunch, Murray Harding, Bev Lambert.
Memorials may be made to: Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure, 904 Autumn Road Ste. 500, Little Rock, Ark. 72211.
Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook: www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.
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ST. JAMES - Chester Forshee Younger, 92, of St. James, died Friday.
Funeral services, Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m., St. James Methodist Church. Burial at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, arrangements by Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville.
Memorials: Alzheimer’s Association, Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter Inc., 2448 E. 81st St., Suite 3000, Tulsa, Okla. 74137.
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WHITE HALL - Opal Dye, 91, of White Hall, died Thursday.
Survivors: daughter, Shelby Conrad; grandson, Darryl Conrad (Melanie); great-grandchildren, Madison Dawson and Ryder Conrad; along with many other loving family and friends.
Graveside services will be Monday, 1 p.m., Shady Grove Cemetery at Clarendon by Fuller Hale-South Funeral Services.
Online condolences: FullerFunerals.com.
Out-of-state
MODESTO, Calif. - Martin Holmes, 87, died Nov. 25 in Modesto, Calif.
He was born in Pine Bluff to a large family and grew up in Cotter. After Naval service in World War II, he graduated from the University of Arkansas, then began working at the Arkansas Democrat as sports writer and news editor.
In 1968 the family moved to California where he became a staff member of the Modesto Bee.
He is survived by his widow, the former Rebe Walker, and their children Walter and Rebecca.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Mrs. Ruthie Lee Booker, 77, of the Washington, D.C., area.
Graveside services will be 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Gillett, Ark., by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff.
Online register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.
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ANDOVER, Kan. - Eloise Louise Cureton, 78, of Kansas, formerly of Cove, Ark., died Dec. 10, 2012, in Kansas.
Services were Dec. 15, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.
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DETROIT - Mrs. Loriane Amis Carson, 90, of Detroit, Mich., passed Monday, Dec. 10, 2012.
Graveside services will be 11:30 am. Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, in Enon Cemetery in Fordyce, Ark., by Elder Edwards.
Services are entrusted to Brown-Williams Funeral Home of Fordyce.
Online register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.
Arkansas, Pages 20 on 12/16/2012