Obituaries

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, at arkansasonline.com/obituaries/. PULASKI COUNTY Taharka Bey, of Little Rock. Marie Collette Blair, 58, of Maumelle. Merle Gene Foster Greathouse, 94, of North Little Rock. Ruth Ann Spencer Green, 63, of Little Rock. Ernest H. Harper, 83, of Little Rock. Marian Eugenia Williams Harris, 92, of Little Rock. Avery Hervey, 85, of Little Rock. O. Bart Howen, 71, of Jacksonville. Melba Azalea Hutson, 93, of Little Rock. Jill D. Joyner, 42, of Sherwood. Agnes Kyzer, 79, of Little Rock. Gina Ranee Larkan, 51, of North Little Rock. John Sandefer, 84, of North Little Rock. Ruby Sue Stringfellow, 66, of Sherwood. Wendell P. Strong of Little Rock. ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS AMITY Roy Short, 84. ARKADELPHIA Donald E. Daniels, 76. ASH FLAT Ralph L. Hall Sr., 92. BENTON Mary Eubanks, 90. William May, 56. Johnny Tanner, 75.

BLYTHEVILLE Della Juanita Deen, 83.

BOONEVILLE James E. Wigley, 68.

BRYANT James Earl Jeffers, 83.

CABOT Billy Joe Speer, 76.

CAMDEN Earline Eloise Coppett Lindsey, 85. CHERRY VALLEY Mary Sue Davis, 65.

CONWAY Bettie Sue Gifford, 85.

Johnny Mearl Kimbrell, 51.

COTTON PLANT Rudolph “Rudy” Howard Jr., 47.

DUMAS Annette Nalls, 63.

EL DORADO Leslie Beall Jerry, 59.

Debra S. Burchfield Mock, 62.

GLENWOOD Billie Jo Jones, 82.

HARRIS BRAKE Ralph Delano “Mike” Martin, 80.

HARRISON Norma “Shorty” Hall, 89.

HIGHLAND Tilford “TD” Duane Sublett, 79.

HOPE Velta Hamm Watson, 90.

HOT SPRINGS Frances Lorraine Fikes, 91.

La Shunda Rochelle McRae-Bailey, 30.

JONESBORO David Jouvenaux, 74.

MALVERN Dean Paul, 73.

McGEHEE Wilma Jean Paris, 61.

NEWARK Ruby Barber, 90.

PARAGOULD Shirrell Kenneth Halbrook, 90.

PINE BLUFF Billy Ragan Brabston, 80.

Ellis Eugene Carroll, 63.

Alonzo Davis, 58.

Minnie Reed-Franklin, 68.

Robert Earl Jackson, 47.

Nellie Beatrice Johnson, 86.

SEARCY Elsie Mae Hoofman, 100.

SPARKMAN Dorothy Jean “Mull” Jefferson Daniel, 78.

SPRINGDALE Patricia Dale Brigman, 53.

OUT-OF-STATE SUN CITY WEST, Ariz.

Mary Elisabeth (Shelton) Stevens Gotelli.

FLORENCE, Mont.

David L. Boddington, 85.

CONROE, Texas Dallas Lewis, 82.

FRESNO, Texas Juanita Comfort Lee, 89.

TYLER, Texas Abbie Ines Gravette, 92.

Pulaski County

Funeral for TAHARKA BEY(ERIC LAMONT PEARSON), of Little Rock, 10 a.m., Friday at Miles Memorial C.M.E. Family hour was 6-7 p.m. Thursday. Watson-Northcrest, 1801 Maple. Interment: Arkansas StateVeterans Cemetery. (501) 812-5303.

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MARIE COLLETTE BLAIR (nee Roussie), of Maumelle, passed away suddenly on October 18, 2013. Beloved wife of Donald; cherished daughter of the late Francis and Jayne Roussie of Buffalo, N.Y.; dearest sister of Cheryl Roussie, Joanne Roussie, Brian (Nancy) Roussie, Yvonne Roussie, Gary Roussie, all of Buffalo, N.Y., and Greg Roussie of Conway, Ark.; loving aunt to Bridgett Gallagher,Logan Roussie and Jaynee Roussie. A private memorial service was held. Marie had many close friends. She will be truly missed and always loved. www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.

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MERLE GENE FOSTER GREATHOUSE, of North Little Rock, wentto be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 23, 2013. She was born on June 25, 1919 in Crossett, Ark., to Hubert Eugene and Georgia Lafferty Croswell.

Preceded in death by herparents and her first husband, Thomas P. Foster, Sr., she is survived by her husband, Edwin Flinn Greathouse; daughters, Susan Bierman of Kaneohe, Hawaii, and Linda Price and husband, Gregory of Phoenix, Ariz.; son, Thomas P. Foster, Jr. and wife, Becky J. of North Little Rock; stepson, Edwin Greathouse, Jr. and wife, Marion of Cabot; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Merle Gene loved her church, her family and her friends. She worked for the Federal Government as a Personnel Staffing Specialist and retired in 1983 after 35 years of service. She held jobs at the Pine Bluff Arsenal during WWII and later at Little Rock Air Force Base, Red River Army Depot and the Civil Service Commission. After retirement, she worked for over 20 years in the Community Ministries Office at First United Methodist Church. In 2005, Merle Gene married Edwin, whom she had known since she was 8 years old. They were a devoted couple.

A celebration of Merle Gene’s life will be held on Saturday, October 26 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in North Little Rock, officiated by Rev. Earl Carter and Rev. Davis Thompson. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 1 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 6701 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116.

Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Mrs. Greathouse’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

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RUTH ANN SPENCER GREEN, 63, of Little Rock departed thislife peacefully Sunday morning, October 20, 2013. Services in her honor are Saturday October 26, 2013 at 11 a.m., Greater Second Baptist Church, 5315 Geyer Springs Road. The familywill receive friends Friday October 25, 2013 from 6-8 at the church. Professional services entrusted to Hardy Funeral Home, 2408 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, (501) 372-4129. To sign the online guestbook visit hardyfuneralhomeinc.com.

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ERNEST H. HARPER, M.D., 83, passed away at his home peacefully and with dignity at 3:05 a.m., October 23; his children had kept constant vigil at his bedside during his final hours. The passing of Dr. Harper (“Sonny,” as he was known to his family andclose friends) brings to a close the life story he shared with his wife of 47 years, Louise, whom we lost all too early in 2007. Dr. Harper’s passing only closes a chapter of that story, however, not the book, because those things and people which guided their lives the most, and for which they worked lovingly and tirelessly, their children and grandchildren, live on, each of them shaped and strengthened by the timeless values Sonny and Louise instilled in them. So while each of them has left this earth, the legacies of Sonny and Louise continue.

Dr. Harper achieved and experienced many things in this life, both professional and personal.He became a physician through sheer strength of will and spirit. Though he was married with two children when he began medical school, he defied all who said he would not gain admittance to, much less graduate from, medical school. Fiercely determined, he did graduate, the odds and opinions of others notwithstanding. He then went on to realize considerable success as a prominent internist, for decades a partner in the Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic, at one time serving as its president. He received countless accolades not only from his peers and medical organizations, but also from so many of his patients and staff.

In addition to his love of medicine, Sonny loved the Arkansas Razorbacks. He was an avid, unapologetic fan dating from the advent of the Broyles era in the days of the old Southwest Conference. Names like Wayne Harris, Lance Alworth and Jerry Moore (whose father, J.P. Moore, became a treasured friend of Sonny’s) were revered names in his house. Sonny and his dearest friend and medical partner, the late Michael N. Harris, M.D., followed their beloved team to every corner of the Southwest Conference, from College Station to Ft. Worth to the Cotton Bowl to Lubbock - a 12-hour drive did nothing to deter them! He was also a tennis enthusiast, displaying his (modest) tennis skills and fiery temperament on the courts of the Country Club of Little Rock, he and Louise playing in weekly mixed doubles matches with their many friends, followed immediately by dinner and camaraderie, all of which became a weekly ritual for many years. Though he never learned - nor tried - to become agracious loser, those were peak years for both Sonny and Louise, and they brought great joy to their lives.

Although his family considers him to have been a great man and father, he would not want to be remembered in death for what he was not in life. He at times suffered the same shortcomings that befall us all, sometimes not meeting standards even he set for himself. Still, those occasional shortcomings pale in comparison to the good he did and the good he has left behind. When Louise suffered a debilitating stroke in 2000, he left the lucrative field of medicine to care for her in their home when she could no longer care for herself. He did so without complaint for seven years, though at great physical, personal and financial cost to himself - he never regretted it.

Dr. Harper was, perhaps above all else, undaunted and fearless. If he could speak to us now, among the final messages he would have for his children and grandchildren can be expressed by borrowing from and paraphrasing the eloquent words of Tennyson:

Death closes all, but work of noble note may yet be done … it is not too late to seek a newer world … to sail beyond the sunset … and all of the western stars … It may be that we shall touch the Happy Isles and see the great ones whom we knew, and though much has been lost, much abides … that which we are, we are … made strong in will to strive, to seek, to find, and never to yield.

Sonny is survived by five children, Ernie (Laura) of North Little Rock, David (Carol) of Ft. Smith, Craig (Karyn) of Springdale, Anna (Steve) of Little Rock, and Angie (David) of Ft. Smith, and by 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

The family would like to offer its heartfelt thanks to Sonny’s caregivers, Dawdi Manga and Ryan Mbakile, our Tanzanian friends from Visiting Angels, who became much more than caregivers to Sonny - they became his friends and companions, and we are indebted to them.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to either Arkansas Children’s Hospital or St Jude’s in Memphis or the Pulaski County Humane Society.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 26, at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

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MARIAN EUGENIA WILLIAMS HARRIS, passed away October 22,2013. She was born January 12, 1921 in New Edinburg, Ark., to the late BobLee and Cora Moseley Williams.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years Chester Virgil (CV)Harris in1992. Her granddaughter, Susan Elizabeth Shanks, and her son-in-law William A. Treadway III also preceded her. Her daughter, Kenda Carolyn Treadway, granddaughter Lori Delfos and her husband, Andrew, and great-grandchildren Joshua Duncan and Emily Delfos survive her.

Marian worked for many years as office manager at Curtiss Candy Company and Addressograph Multigraph retiring in 1978. She was a member of Temple Baptist Church for over 60 years. The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Valley Ranch Nursing & Rehab for the loving and compassionate care of Marian.

Funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013 in the Chapel of Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock (501) 224-8300. Visitation will be one hour prior to service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Forest Hills Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Alzheimer’s Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr., Little Rock, Ark. 72205 or to the William A. Treadway III Scholarship Fund, UALR, Office of Development, 2801 S. University Ave. Little Rock, Ark. 72204-1097. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ chenal.

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AVERY “A BOY” HERVEY, 85, of Little Rock, passed away peacefully Tuesday. He retired from Ford Motor Co. after 25 years and is survived by numerous nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends. Services are 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 at Greater Archview Baptist Church, Little Rock. Visitation today from 1-5 p.m. at Dubisson Funeral Home.

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O. BART HOWEN, age 71, of Jacksonville passed away on Tuesday,October 22, 2013. He was born April 25, 1942 in Rockford, Illinois to the late Eric E. Howen and Beatrice Howen. He was also preceded in death by his son Troy William Howen in 1982, and hisdaughter Candace Moody in 2011. Mr. Howen was a member of Delta Nu-Alpha Fraternity, Northern Illinois Traffic Club, and he was a loving family man and an avid golfer. Mr. Howen retired early from a long successful career in the transportation industry due to a progressive illness.

He is survived by his son Craig A. Howen, Carol Howen his wife of 26 years, one step-daughter Penny, and four grandchildren; Courtney, Carmen, Jordan, and Justin Moody.

Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday, October 25, 2013 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Woodland Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, as well as Arkansas Hospice. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116.

Arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

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MELBA HUTSON, 93, died October 22. A daughter of riverboat Captain S.E. Hutson and Pearl “Mitchell” Hutson, Melba was born December 24, 1919 in Clarendon.After graduation she cared for her parents until their deaths. She moved to Little Rock and worked twenty years for Churchman Rhea Drugstore. She retired to Memphis and cared for her sister and brother-in-law until their deaths. After her brother’s death she and her sister-in-law moved to Little Rock. Later Melba became a resident of Brookside Nursing Home. She loved God and with a sweet, caring spirit spoke kindness about everyone. Survivors; nephew, Dr. Sanford Hutson III and wife, Melinda of Springdale and their three children, Bryan (Angie) Hutson, Kyle (Gina) Hutson, Kristin Wadley, three great-grand nephews and one great-grandniece. Graveside Services, 2 p.m. Saturday, Oakland Cemetery, DeValls Bluff Obit/ guestbook/www.bobnealandsons.com.

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JILL D. JOYNER, 42, of Sherwood, transition en route to herHeavenly Home Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2013. She was born in Memphis, Tenn. to Jimmy Johnson and JoeAnn Duckett. Jill was preceded in death by her father.

Jill served in the U.S. Armybefore she was a stay at home mother and was involved with her children school activities. Her children were her life. Jill was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her mother, JoeAnn Duckett; children, Michael A. Delph; of Conway, NatileeDaFray, Alexuis Shanta, Jaylyn Dashanna Joyner all of Sherwood; four grandchildren, Aniah Marie, Mackinzy, BrayLinn and Michael A. Delph, Jr; one brother, Jimmy James Johnson, Jr. of Parkin, Ark.; one sister, Jamye Johnson of Marion, Ark.; and a host of other family and friends.

Memorial service will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home Chapel, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116 (501)- 791-7400. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

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AGNES L. KYZER, age 79 of Little Rock, passed away on Oct. 23, 2013at St. Vincent Hospice in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born on June 20, 1934 in Little Rock, and was that daughter of Thelmer and Florence Lynn.

Ms. Kyzer was a retired waitressand of the Church of Christ faith, she was a member of the A.A.R.P and S.C.A.T. Agnes resided at Southern Trace Care Center for the past several years and during her time spent there she loved playing bingo and listening to all the different music groups they would have come and perform Gospel Music.

Survivors include her daughter Sharon Riley of Little Rock; a son Harrell Riley of Bryant; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013 at Huson Funeral Home Chapel at 6400 Mabelvale Pike, (One block west of 65th Street & University Ave.) Little Rock, Arkansas 72209.Interment will immediately follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park Cemetery in Alexander. Visitation will be at Huson Funeral Home in Little Rock, on Friday, October 23, 2013 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Sign an online guest book at www.husonfuneralhome.com.

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GINA RANEE BENTLEY HOPER LARKAN, of North Little Rock,daughter of Bernice Bentley Burks and the late William Bentley, went to meet her Lord, October 23, 2013 surrounded by family and friends. Gina was born Jan. 8, 1962 at Millington Naval Air Station in Memphis, Tennessee and has been a lifelong resident of North Little Rock.

She is survived by her mother, Bernice Bentley Burks; stepfather, Ronald Burks; her two sons, Jason Hoper (Tammie) of North Little Rock and Jacob Hoper, of Little Rock; two grandsons, Jarin Hoper and Noah Fuqua; granddaughter, Layla Grace Hoper, due in December, all of North Little Rock; brother, Brian Bentley, of North Little Rock and stepbrothers, Ronnie, Randy and Rick Burks.

Gina started her 20 year teaching career at Amboy Elementary as a 3rd grade teacher and was a Media Specialist at the time of her death. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a PTA treasurer, devoted teacher, UALR Alumni, an active community member, the Amboy Neighborhood Association and a member of Fellowship North Church of North Little Rock.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m., Saturday at Fellowship North. A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at North Little Rock Funeral Home. Burial will be in Edgewood Memorial Park. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

Because of Gina’s love of education, in lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship fund has been established for her grandchildren at Centennial Bank in the names of Jason and Jacob Hoper.

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JOHN W. SANDEFER, age 84, North Little Rock, passed awayMonday, Oct. 21, 2013 at Little Rock. He was born March 22, 1929 in Dell, Arkansas and he was the son of Albert and Mattie Sandefer. Mr. Sandefer was a retired mechanic and a UnitedStates Army Veteran of the Korean War, as well as a faithful member of North Little Rock Church of God.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Opal JoAnn Sandefer, his parents, Albert and Mattie Sandefer, two sisters, Shirley Lawrence and Melvina Burns, and a brother,Calvin Sandefer. Survivors include his grandson, Christopher Sandefer; stepchildren, Donna Reed and husband James, Kenneth Hickerson and Jimmy Tompkins; and brothers-in-law, Robert Lawrence and James Burns.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013 at Huson Funeral Home Chapel in Sherwood. Burial will be held at a later date at the Arkansas State Veterans’ Cemetery in North Little Rock.

Sign an online guest book at www.husonfuneralhome.com.

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RUBY SUE STRINGFELLOW, 66, of Sherwood, born Aug. 19, 1947, passed away Oct. 22, 2013. Preceded in death by parents, Roy and Mary Sue Reddick; grandson, Michael James; and brothers, Little Red and Roy. Survivors include children, Michael (Rhea) Stringfellow and Linda Stringfellow; grandchildren, Kayla, Kimberly, Brittany, Faith, Destiny and Hope; and brothers, Larry and John. Memorial service Saturday, 11 a.m. at FaithCommunity Church, NLR. www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.

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Obsequies for WENDELL P. STRONG of Little Rock will be11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at White Memorial UMC, 2801 South Wolfe. Services entrusted to Walton GateWay Funeral Chapel, 2405 South Gaines Street. No family hour but open visitation today from 1-5:30 p.m. at the funeral home, 376-7188.

Arkansas

AMITY - Roy Short, age 84, of Amity, died Wednesday, October 23, 2013. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in the Davis-Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Glenwood with Bro. Billy Thomason officiating. Visitation will be held Friday, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Interment will be in the Nelson Cemetery. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.

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ARKADELPHIA - Donald Daniels, age 76, of Arkadelphia died Wednesday. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday in the Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel in Arkadelphia with Rev. Craig Seals officiating.Burial in Brown Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Sign online guest book at www.ruggleswilcox.com.

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ASH FLAT - Ralph L. Hall, Sr., age 92, of Ash Flat, Ark., passed away Thursday, Oct. 24, 2013. Memorial services will be held Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013, at 10 a.m. at the Tri-County Funeral Home Chapel located in Highland, Ark. All arrangements are by Tri-County Funeral Home of Highland, Ark. www.tricountyfuneralhome.com.

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BENTON - Mary Mildred Huff Eubanks, 90, Benton, died Wednesday, October 23, 2013.Survivors: daughter, Renita Mc-Daniel and husband Don; brother, William Huff; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, October 26, at New Rosemont Cemetery. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

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BENTON - William Michael May, 56, Benton, died October 24, 2013. Survivors, wife, Anita May, son, James May and wife Tara of Lahoma, Oklahoma, grandson, Laikin May, brother, Steven May and sister, Lisa Maynard. Visitation, 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside, 10 a.m. Saturday, Price Cemetery in Hot Springs.

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BENTON - Johnny Tanner, 75, of Benton died Wednesday, October 23, 2013. He was born December 30, 1937, in Little Rock to the late James Henry and Ethel Mae Thompson Tanner and was a resident at Arkansas Health Center.

Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ballard.

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BLYTHEVILLE - Della Juanita Deen, 83, of Blytheville, Ark., died October 22, 2013, in Jonesboro. Survivors, husband, Travis Deen; sons, Gus Sr., Thomas and Patrick Schmidt; one sister; stepsons, Wayne and Gary Deen. Funeral, Saturday, October 26, 11 a.m., Cobb Funeral Home. Visitation, 10 a.m. Memorials to American Cancer Society. Online register signed at cobbfuneralhome.com.

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BOONEVILLE - James E. Wigley, 68, of Booneville, Arkansas, died October 22, 2013. Visitation 5-7 p.m. Friday, October 25, 2013, at funeral home. Funeral service 2 p.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Booneville Funeral Service chapel with burial at Carolan Cemetery, Booneville, under the direction of Booneville Funeral Service. 479-675-3392. www.boonevillefuneralservice.com.

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BRYANT - James Earl Jeffers, age 83, of Bryant died on October 21, 2013. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, October 25, at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant, 501-847-9099. Graveside services are at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Pinecrest Memorial Park. To sign the online guest book, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

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CABOT - Billy Joe Speer, 76, Cabot, died Wednesday. Born December 1, 1936, in Cato to the late Joseph and Blanche (Corbin) Speer. Worked for Jim Milam Construction. Survived by son, Matt Speer (Holly); brother, Bobby Speer (Beverly). Visitation 5-7 p.m. Friday, Arkansas Funeral Care, Jacksonville. Funeral 10 a.m. Saturday. www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.

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CAMDEN - Earline Eloise Coppett Lindsey, 85, of Camden, Ark., died Wednesday, October 23, 2012. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Saturday at Pleasant Ridge Assembly of God Church with burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday at Proctor Funeral Home. To sign the online guest register, visit www.proctorfuneralhome.com.

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CHERRY VALLEY - Mary Sue Davis, 65, died Wednesday in Jonesboro. Survivors include two sons; three daughters; one brother; four sisters; and several grandchildren. Graveside services are 10 a.m. Saturday at Pumpkin Bend Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home. (870) 238-9400. www.thompsonwilsonfh.com.

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CONWAY - Bettie Sue Gifford, 85, of Conway passed away at home October 23, 2013. Bettie was born on September 22, 1928. A graveside service will be held Saturday, 10:00 a.m., October 26, 2013, at Rest Hills Memorial Park, 7724 Landers Road, NLR, Arkansas. Arrangements entrusted to Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home.

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CONWAY - Johnny Mearl Kimbrell died October 23, 2013. Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, October 27, Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church, El Paso, Arkansas. Burial will be at a later date. Please send the family your messages of love, comfort and support to his online guestbook at www.griffinleggettconway.com.

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COTTON PLANT - Rudolph “Rudy” Howard Jr., 47, of Cotton Plant transitioned to his eternal home on Monday, October 21 at the Hospice Home Care Inpatient Center in Little Rock. He was born December 22, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois, to Rudolph Howard Sr. andCora Wilhite-Howard. During his illness Rudolph Jr. resided in the home of his father and step mother, Rudolph Howard Sr. and Etta Howard in Little Rock, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Cora, and maternal grandmother, Ida Wilhite. Other survivors are his brothers: Dr. Jeffery Howard and William Yarbrough, his sister Latoya Moore; two dear cousins: Dannis Veasley and Penny Henderson, and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

A celebration of Rudolph Howard Jr.’s life will be held on Saturday morning, October 26 at 11 a.m. at Taylor Chapel United Methodist Church, Main East Main and Sycamore Street, in Cotton Plant.Visitation will be held Saturday morning from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Taylor Chapel United Methodist Church in Cotton Plant. Interment will take place at Ash Grove Cemetery by Branscumb Johnson & Gilchrest Funeral Home of Brinkley (870) 734-2772. branscumbfuneralhome@yahoo.com & Facebook: Branscumb Funeral Home.

The Howard family would also like to extend sincere gratitude and appreciation to Doctors Govin and Harrington, the Staff of UAMS Dr. Bill Calvert and Gloria Tackett; Nurses at the Hospice Home Care Inpatient Center for the excellent care and concern shown to Rudolph Jr. during his extended illness. Also, appreciation is extended to Clem Chapple and Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Gant for the Devotion and Support that they have given to Rudolph Jr. and the Howard family.

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DUMAS - Ms. Annette Nalls, 63, of Dumas, passed away Friday, Oct. 18, 2013, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock. Funeral will be Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013, at Union Baptist in Dumas with Rev. Isom Cross Jr. officiating. Burial in Palestine Cemetery in McGehee by Brown Funeral Home of Dumas.

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EL DORADO - Leslie Beall Jerry, 59, of El Dorado died Monday, October 21, 2013, at his residence. Visitation will be from 12 noon until service time. Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 26, at Young’s Chapel. Interment will follow in Union Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors. www.youngsfuneralhome.com.———◊———

EL DORADO - Debra S. Burchfield Mock, of El Dorado, died Tuesday, October 22, 2013. A Requiem will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, October 25, 2013, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. There will be a reception with the family immediately following the service. Cremation services were provided by Young’s Funeral Directors. www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

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GLENWOOD - Billie Jo Jones, age 82, of Glenwood, died Tuesday, October 22, 2013. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Davis-Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Glenwood with Rev. Glen Harris and Rev. Lonnie Landers officiating. Interment will be in the Valley Grove Cemetery. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.

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HARRIS BRAKE - Ralph Delano “Mike” Martin, age 80, passedSunday, October 20, 2013. He was born in the coal mining town of Killarny, West Virginia. At the age of 15 he joined the Army serving in Korea and Panama. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bryanand Naomi Martin, three brothers and three sisters and a daughter. He was a member of the Perryville United Methodist Church and the Perryville Masonic Lodge.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Ann Saugey Martin; son, Tim (Tina) Martin of Anchorage Alaska; daughter, Mona(Don) Leopard of Springville Alabama; step- children, Kat (Jerry) Matthis of Perryville, Adam (Carmin) of Magnet Cove, Arkansas, David Lewis, Floyd (Maci), Danny (Teresa) Lewis, all of Traskwood, Arkansas, many grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He has donated his body to Genesis of Memphis, Tennessee ,which is a teaching school for medical students. Special thanks to the Perry County Nursing Home, Gentiva Hospice and to Chaplain Ted Grove for their wonderful care and support.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Perryville United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at 10 a.m. Rev. Terrie Lynn Bunnell and Chaplain Ted Grove will conduct the Service.

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HIGHLAND - Tilford “TD” Duane Sublett, 79, of Highland, Ark., died Tuesday, October 22, 2013, in Ash Flat. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at the Mitchell Assembly of God. Burial will follow in the Mitchell Cemetery. Online guestbook:www.heathfuneralhome.net.

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HOPE - Velta Hamm Watson, 90, of Hope, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2013, in Hope, Arkansas. Graveside service will be Friday, October 25, 2013, at 11 a.m. with Bro. Hal Dixon officiating in Shover Springs Cemetery under the direction of Herndon-Pharr Funeral Home. Online guest book at www.pharrfuneralhomes.com.

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HOT SPRINGS - Frances Lorraine Fikes, 91, of Hot Springs, died Tuesday, October 22. Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct, 25. Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Davis-Smith Funeral Home Chapel, Hot Springs. Interment will be in the Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.

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HOT SPRINGS - La Shunda Rochelle McRae-Bailey, 30, died Tuesday, October 15, 2013. Funeral will be 1 p.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Connection International Ministries, 277 North Street, Camden, Ark., with burial in Mt. Vernon Cemetery. Viewing will be 6:30-8 p.m. Friday at Proctor Funeral Home. To sign the online guest register visit www.proctorfuneralhome.com.

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JONESBORO - David Lee Jouvenaux, born May 20, 1939, died peacefully at home October 24, 2013. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Pam Jouvenaux; father, Maurice Jouvenaux; and mother, Neva Jouvenaux. He is survived by his current wife, Kathleen Jouvenaux; son, Jon Jouvenaux and wife, Julie; daughter, Michelle Brewer and husband, Mike; brother, Dan Jouvenaux and wife, Kathy; sister, Debbie Cordes and husband, Don. He is also survived by stepchildren, Allen Jones, Richard Jones, Kay Taylor and husband, Mark. He leaves behind four special grandchildren, Jaimie (Jouvenaux) Townsend and husband, Talon, Jacy Jouvenaux, Mason Brewer and Myka Brewer, along with a loving niece, Robin (Jouvenaux) Tibbs and nephew, Nathan Jouvenaux, and families, as well as a long list of loving friends. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2013, from 2-4 p.m., and a funeral service will follow at 4 p.m., all at: Griffin Leggett - Rest Hills Funeral Homeand Memorial Park, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Ark. 72117. Phone: (501) 835-351. www.griffinleggettresthills.com

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MALVERN - Dean Paul, age 73, of Malvern died October 21 in theBaptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock. He was born in Malvern on November 29, 1939, to the late Lynn D. Paul and Iona Cunningham Paul. Reared and receiving his early education inthe Fairview and Malvern schools, he later attended Ouachita Baptist University, where he played football; Arkansas Tech at Russellville; and UALR. Dean was an entrepreneur, and if you asked him, he’d say he’s “just a country boy trying to make a dollar.” He was a member of First Assembly of God Church and the HP Hunting Club.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn McCoy Paul of Malvern, to whom he was married on May 28, 1962, in Malvern by Brother Steve Thomas; by his sons, Blake Paul and his wife, Susan, of Malvern, Brook Paul and his wife, Stephanie, of Greenbrier; by his brother, Roger Paul and his wife, Andrea; by his sisters, Bobbie Paul Wright, Shirley Paul Cooper, and Jeanne Paul Vaughn and her husband, Ki, all of Malvern; by his grandchildren, Caleb, Josh, Hunter, and Austin Paul; by his great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Colbi, and Bently Paul. Dean was also preceded in death by his brother, Lynn Dale Paul, and by an infant brother.

Funeral services were held at the J.A. Funk Funeral Home chapel with Brother Larry Moore officiating and music by Brother Jimmy Bobo. Interment followed in the Rockport Cemetery.

Pallbearers were: Hank Wright, John Wright, Nate Walsh, Caleb Paul, Josh Paul, Hunter Paul, Austin Paul, Roger “Chip” Paul, and Ross Vaughn. Honorary pallbearers were: Jeff Caldwell, Bubba States, Sam Southerland, Paul Doherty, and Dean’s coffee drinking buddies.

Memorials may be made to the church or charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.

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McGEHEE - Wilma Jean Paris 61, of McGehee, Ark., died October 23, 2013. Visitation is Friday, October 25, 2013, 5-7 p.m. at Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Service. Graveside service at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Kelso Cemetery. Arrangements by Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Service of McGehee, Ark. Online guestbook: www.griffinculpepper.com.

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NEWARK - Ruby (Pectol) Barber, 90, of Newark, died Wednesday. Survivors: daughter, Sarah Shilts Stout and husband, Stephen; grandchildren, Becky Gillmore, Cindy Treadway, and Will Shilts; eight great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews. Visitation: Friday, 6-8 p.m. Funeral: 10 a.m. Saturday, Newark Church of Christ. Interment: Blue Springs Cemetery.

Arrangements: Jackson’s Newark Funeral Home. www.jacksonsfh.com.

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PARAGOULD - Shirrell Kenneth Halbrook, age 90, of Paragould, formerly of Star City, died on October 22, 2013, at his home. He was born on February 5, 1923, to Anna Myrtle and Orlando Bolton Halbrook in Cleveland, Arkansas, the third of six children. After his service in the Navy duringWorld War II, Shirrell attended Arkansas Teachers College (now University of Central Arkansas) where he met his wife and played basketball for the Bears. He was inducted into the UCA Hall of Fame in 2002 and was an avid basketball fan. He went on to complete his graduate studies at the University of Arkansas and spent 38 years inthe educational system in Arkansas. He held several roles over the years, including teacher, coach, counselor and superintendent. He retired as the Director of Pines Vocational Technical School in 1986. He was also a lifelong cattleman and member of the Arkansas Cattleman’s Association. Shirrell was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Star City before moving to northeast Arkansas. He was known for the love he had for his family, basketball and his wife’s cooking.

Shirrell is predeceased by his parents, a brother, Waymon, and a sister, Orleen McKuin. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Halbrook of Paragould, whom he married May 22, 1949; two sons, James (Nancy) Halbrook of Jonesboro and Erwin (Dianne) Halbrook of Star City; two daughters, Shirley (Bob) Wolfe of Puyallup, Washington, and Mary Ann (Tim) Rand of Paragould; brother, Udell (Lela) Halbrook of Fairfield, California; sisters, Winona Cannon of Morgantown, West Virginia, and Mimiva (Monte) Tredway of Pensacola, Florida; six grandsons, Derek (Molly) Wolfe of Coupeville, Washington, Deren (Christine) Wolfe of Marysville, California, Derel (Christine) Wolfe of Montclair, California, Dale (Kelli) Wolfe of Graham, Washington, Max Rand of Little Rock and Heath Halbrook of Little Rock; two granddaughters, April (Doug) Wood of Novi, Michigan, and Heather (Bradley) Wright of Dedham, Massachusetts; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Star City on Monday, October 28th at 1 p.m. with Rev. Bryan Diffee officiating. The family will receive visitors after the service. Special thank you from the family to Chateau on the Ridge in Paragould and St. Bernards Hospice. Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church in Star City or Cornerstone United Methodist Churchin Jonesboro. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.

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PINE BLUFF - Billy Ragan Brabston, age 80, of Pine Bluff, a retired dispatcher for Middle South Utilities and Entergy, died Thursday, October 24, 2013.

Bill’s survivors include his wife, Evelyn McCarthy Brabston; three daughters, Virginia Brabston Robinson and husband Mark, Barbara Brabston Kirkpatrick and husband Rev. Daniel, and Carolyn Brabston Gunn and husband Jerry; and two grandchildren, Matthew Cleveland Kirkpatrick and Catherine Ruth Kirkpatrick.

Memorial services will be Saturday, 2 p.m. at Hawley Memorial United Methodist Church with visitation to follow. Arrangements are by Fuller Hale-South Funeral Services. Memorials may be made to Hawley Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 991, Pine Bluff, Ark. 71613. Online condolences: FullerFunerals.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Mr. Ellis Carroll, 63, of Pine Bluff passed away on October 18, 2013. Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Indiana Street Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be today at Christian Way Funeral Home in Pine Bluff, from 5-8 p.m., family hour from 6-7 p.m.———◊———

PINE BLUFF - Mr. Alonzo “LD” Davis, 58, of Pine Bluff, passed away October 21, 2013. Funeral Services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Breath of Life Church in Pine Bluff. Visitation will be today at Christian Way Funeral Home in Pine Bluff 4:30-5:30 p.m.

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PINE BLUFF - Mr. Robert Jackson Sr., 47, of Pine Bluff, passed away October 18, 2013. Funeral service will be 12 noon on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at First Trinity Church Of God In Christ in Pine Bluff. Visitation today at Christian Way Funeral Home in Pine Bluff from 5-7 p.m.

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PINE BLUFF - Mrs. Nellie Beatrice Johnson, 86 of Pine Bluff, Ark., passed Sunday, October 20, 2013. Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at New St. Hurricane MBC by Rev. Johnny Morton. Burial will be in New St. Hurricane Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff. Online Register: www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com.

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PINE BLUFF - Ms. Minnie Reed-Franklin, 68, of Pine Bluff, passed away October 17, 2013. Funeral services will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Pine Bluff. Visitation will be today at Christian Way Funeral Home in Pine Bluff, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

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SEARCY - Elsie Hoofman, 100, died Wednesday. Survivors: sons, Robert L. Hoofman and Allen Hoofman; a daughter, Margie Jameson; sister, Marie Hoofman; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Visitation: Friday, 6-8 p.m. Services: Saturday, October 26, 2013, 2 p.m., Powell Funeral Home-Bald Knob. Interment: Gum Springs Cemetery by Powell Funeral Home. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

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SPARKMAN - Dorothy Jean “Mull” Jefferson Daniel, 78, Sparkman, passed October 19, 2013. Survivors: children, Shawn Daniel, Phyllis (Ricky) Harrison, Celesia Williams and Carl F. Daniel; 56 grandchildren. Service: Saturday, 12 noon, First Baptist Church, Sparkman. Services provided by Williams Funeral Home. Sign guestbook at www.funeralsatwilliams.com.

Out-of-state

SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. - Mary Elisabeth (Shelton) Stevens Gotelli, 1925-2013. Devoted wife and mother, tireless advocate for the weak, misfortunate, and infirm, Mary departed this world on Wednesday, October 16, 2013 in her longtime home at Sun City West, Arizona. She is survived by children: Jonathan Stevens of Stockton, Michael Stevens of Hilo, Raymond Gotelli, Jr. of Brentwood, Craig Gotelli of Springfield, and Colleen Shinn of Twin Falls. In addition she is survived by loving siblings Robert Shelton (Hilda), Katie DeBoard, Lynnda Lynch, and Laura Shelton all of Little Rock and sisters-in law Mary-Jean Shelton of Arlington, Lillian Shelton, Cindy Shelton, and Narvelene Shelton of Little Rock. Mary is also survived by a multitude of grandchildren, nieces, nephews and their families. Mary has countless friends and colleagues who along with her family will mourn her passing.

Mary was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, moving to Honolulu, San Francisco, and Stockton before her final move to Sun City West. She was a Registered Nurse who specialized in Cardiac Nursing, spending the bulk of her career in Stockton, California where she became a respected nursing administrator at San Joaquin General Hospital and instructor for the California Heart Association and San Joaquin Delta College School of Nursing. She was an early advocate for instruction of CPR and instrumental in the development of the curriculum for the BLS and ACLS certifications which now constitute the basic credentialing of health-care providers throughout the country.

Mary enjoyed camping, boating and the outdoors. She volunteered tirelessly for the Church serving as a Eucharistic Minister and usher. She was a devout Catholic and attended mass regularly at Our Lady of Lourdes in Sun City West. During her time in Stockton she attended mass regularly at Presentation. Her faith was central to her life, and a source of great comfort to her, secure in her belief that she would ascend to heaven to join the dearly departed who pre-deceased her and to sit at the right-hand of the Lord.

In death, as in her life, she was an unassuming and modest person who embraced the Christian qualities she so admired: humility and selflessness. She requested a Rosary and a Mass be held in remembrance, a Rosary was observed in Sun City West.

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FLORENCE, Mont. - Col. David L. Boddington, (Ret.) 85, ofFlorence, Mont., formerly of Kansas City, Kan. passed away Sunday, October 20, 2013. Funeral Services will be 11 a.m. Monday, October 28 at the Highland Park Funeral Home & Crematory, 4101State Avenue, Kansas City, Kan. Burial in Memorial Park Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Visitation 10 a.m. Monday at the Funeral Home. (Arrangements: Highland Park Funeral Home & Crematory, 4101 State Avenue, Kansas City, Kansas 66102, (913) 371-0699. Online Condolences: www.highlandparkfh.com).

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CONROE, Texas - Dallas Lewis entered this world on August 20,1931, and left for his eternal home on October 2, 2013. Born in Jackson County, Arkansas to Ralph and Dorothy Lewis, Dallas was the eldest of five boys. He graduated from FullerHigh in Sweet Home, Arkansas in 1948 and married Doris Nichols on April 9, 1950. Together they raised 6 children. Dallas was a businessman and an entrepreneur, and he was devoted to God, serving in his church and supporting missions.

Dallas is preceded in death by his parents and his son Michael. He is survived by his wife and children Linda Rowlett, Cheryl Guillory, Philip Lewis, Diane Isler, and Leanne Lewis Gomez. Dallas also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.

His Celebration of Life Service will be Saturday, October 26, 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Groceville, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please continue Dallas’s legacy by donating to Faith Baptist Missions International, 2011 West Spring Parkway, Suite 50, Plano, Texas 75023, 469-288-0101, www.ibcts.org.

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FRESNO, Texas - Juanita Comfort Lee, 89, of Fresno, Texas, formerly of Russellville, died Monday. Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, at Russellville First United Methodist Church, burial in Rest Haven Memorial Park by Shinn Funeral Service, Russellville. Visitation is 5 to 6 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home. Online obituary/guestbook available at www.shinnfuneral.com.

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TYLER, Texas - Abbie Ines Gravette, 92, formerly of Coy,passed away October 23rd in the New Harmony community of Tyler, Texas. Abbie was born and lived all her life in Coy until 1999. Her husband was Dawson Gravette, and together theyran Gravette Grocery, farmed, and raised two sons: Broadus and Rick.

After Dawson’s death, Abbie moved to Harmony House, a group home in east Texas to be near Broadus. We remember Ab-bie’s remarkable athletic ability as a runner and basketball player. She turned down a position on a professional women’s basketball team when Broadus was a baby - motherhood was priority.

In sharp contrast, Abbie was an award-winning seamstress who made most of her clothes and home decorations. She was, most importantly, an excellent wife, mother, friend and citizen.

Abbie was preceded in death by her parents: James and Nellie Krissell, one brother, and two sisters; by her son Rick in 2004 and husband Dawson in 2009. She is survived by her son Broadus andwife Mary of Tyler, Texas, and by her sister, Nomal Lee Morath and husband Sam of North Little Rock, and by numerous relatives and friends in Arkansas and California.

Graveside services are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Saturday, October 26th at Union Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Roller-England Funeral Home (501) 842-3939. Visitation will be Friday, October 25th from 6-8 p.m. at Roller England Funeral Home.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deepest gratitude the ladies of Harmony House, Tyler, Texas for their most excellent and loving care of Abbie in the last four years of her life. Thank you Carol, AnnieMae, Pariya and Sharhondra. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.