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 Floyd Ben Bargiel, 87, of Sherwood.
Linda Joyce Brown, 66, Sherwood. Michael Christopher Burns, 14, of Little Rock.
Edith Crawford, 76, of Little Rock. LaVerne Neff Curtis, 86, of Little Rock.
Nick DiMassimo, 101, of Little Rock.
Faye DiMassimo of Little Rock.
Geraldine Dinwiddie, 80, of Sherwood.
Verda Mae Greene Ewing, 71, of Sherwood.
Donnie Louise Hays, 80, of Little Rock.
Elizabeth Jackson, 75, of Little Rock.
Claude “Bub” Richard Jones, 84, of Little Rock.
Robert Hal Wilson, 60, of Little Rock.
Robert Dale Wingfield, 75, of Sherwood.
ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS ALTHEIMER Donnie Ray Johnson, 55.
ARKADELPHIA Melissa “Lish” Smith Holliman, 86.
AUGUSTA Kingston Lamar Gillespie, infant.
BATESVILLE Dr. Robert Paul Fox II, 50.
BEEDEVILLE Alma Hodge, 109.
BENTON Arthur Ralph Helmich, 85.
Bernice Sullivan, 95.
BISCOE Beverly Jayne Hall, 58.
BRYANT Alice “Charlene” Roberts, 70.
CAMDEN Ruby Huneycutt, 95.
CENTER RIDGE Clyde D Haines, 73.
Pulaski County
FLOYD BEN BARGIEL, loving father and friend, passed awayon February 15, 2014, due to complications from a stroke. He was 87. Floyd spent his final days at Baptist Health, Little Rock surrounded by his family.
Floyd was born in North Little Rock on May 18, 1926 to Ben and Mary Bargiel. At age 18, he was stationed in Yokohama, Japan, as a member of the Military Police Regiment during WorldWar II. He was awarded the Overseas Service Bar, Victory Ribbon, Japan Occupation Ribbon and Asiatic Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon. Upon his return to Arkansas, he began a 30-year career with the Veterans Administration, Fort Roots.
On October 19, 1948, he married Agnes Adelaide Bawiec, and on July 6, 1960, Floyd and Agnes were blessed with the birth of their only child, Connie. At that time, Floyd took on his greatest role and that was “Daddy”.
Nearing his retirement from the Veterans Administration, Floyd and Agnes purchased Community Bakery in late 1978, from their friend, Ralph Hinson.Throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and Floyd had a passion for playing, collecting, and repairing fine, quality violins. He was relentless in keeping his yard, rose garden and landscaping one of the best in the neighborhood. The racing season at Oaklawn Park was enjoyed by Floyd, and he was always quite the handicapper.
On November 29, 1992, his only grandchild, William Tyler Prause was born and this began a whole new chapter in his life as “Papa”. For years and years, there was never a swim team, soccer, basketball or football game that Papa ever missed. His greatest joy was cheering on his grandson at Christ the King, The Zebras, The Bucks, or Catholic High School.
Floyd loved his family and relished all family dinners, holidays, and events. Above all else, he loved our Lord; his Catholic faith deeply rooted in him. Floyd and Agnes had just celebrated 60 years of marriage upon her death in October 2008. After that time, his daughter Connie became his constant companion, as they went everywhere together. Her incalculable grief can only be comforted by the memory of his smile, bright blue eyes and eagerness to please.
Floyd was also preceded in death by his parents, and siblings: Bernadine, Walter, Ted, Anna Helena, Felix, Albina, Alois and Adam. He is survived by his daughter, Connie Prause Harkins and her husband, Al; his grandson, Tyler, and Al’s children, Bri-CONWAY Darlene Davenport, 66.
Andrew Kresse, 76.
Charlie Mae Naylor, 88.
Amanda Dawn Tyarks, 35.
DeVALLS BLUFF Willard Harrison, 74.
DeWITT Carl Fuchs, 74.
EL DORADO Nancy Lea Wilson, 72.
EL PASO Harold Devon Gifford, 82.
FAYETTEVILLE Robert “Bobby” Davis, 56.
FENTER Alvin “Sonny” Nichols, 78.
FISHER Jack Whitfield Knapple, 79. HAMBURG Della Sue Shuck Ladd, 81.
Leola McHenry, 77.
HARRISBURG Frances M. Brown, 73.
William Earl Reeves, 86.
HARRISON Billie Jean Pemberton, 65.
HEBER SPRINGS Eugene “Gene” Howard Fricke, 91.
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE Burl Edward Evans, 91.
Doris Prost, 90.
HUNT Donald Ray Castleberry, 83.
LESLIE Jo J Siegel, 92.
LETONA David Michael Bogle, 58.
LONOKE Brenda Coleman, 58.
Michael Ragen, 63.
LONSDALE Robert D. Shell, 69.
MENA Margie A. Herring, 79.
MOUNTAIN HOME Clarence Jackson Messick, 78.
MOUNTAIN VIEW Shawn Marshall Downs, 41.
PINE BLUFF Marie J. Adkins, 53.
James F. Gary Jr., 54.
Gerald W. (Chuck) Mitchell, 76.
Merrill Watts Jr., 85.
RUSSELLVILLE Jeff P. Cheatham Jr., 81.
SHERIDAN Margery Cotton Irvin, 92.
STAR CITY Zackary Scott Towers, 19.
VILONIA James O. “Buddy” Armstrong Jr., 79.
WARREN Clarence Edward Frazier Sr., 42.
OUT-OF-STATE MORENO VALLEY, Calif.
Willine Delores Patterson, 83. TOPEKA, Kan.
Harold Lee Buchanan, 63.
KEW GARDENS, N.Y.
Robert G Wooldridge, 67.
SALINA, Utah Robert Earl Murphy Sr., 91.
an, Claudia, and Lincoln. Floyd is also survived by his special sister and guardian angel, Mary Bargiel Brumley and her son, Joel and wife, Renee, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A special thank you to Msgr. Francis Malone for his concern and spiritual guidance during Daddy’s illness and to all of our friends and family for their prayers and care.
Arrangements by North Little Rock Funeral Home. Services will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, 4000 North Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, Ark., on Saturday, February 22, 2014, with Rosary at 2:30 p.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 3 p.m., with Msgr. Francis Malone officiating. Interment will follow the service by Deacon Brunon Strozyk at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Cemetery.
Please join the family for a luncheon at 1 p.m. at the Ministries Building of Christ the King, 2nd floor, preceding the services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Christ the King Catholic Church, 4000 North Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72212. Online obituary at www. SmithFamilyCares.com.
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LINDA JOYCE LANGLEY BROWN, 66, of Sherwood, passedaway Tuesday, February 18, 2014. She was a member of Gardner Memorial United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her mother, Ann Langley of Sherwood; three sisters, Carolyn Kirk of Sherwood, Dianna Midkiff (Wayne) of Owensboro, Ky., and Jo Ann McEwen of Sherwood; niece, Shannon Pierson ( Donnie) of Sherwood; nephew, Michael Blain (Kristen) of North Little Rock; great-nephews, Hayden, Brooks and Mason; and her best friend of 33 years, Linda Gann. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronnie Mac Brown and her father, C.A. Langley.
In lieu of flowers memorial may be to Arkansas Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 2222, Little Rock, Ark. 72203. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
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MICHAEL CHRISTOPHER BURNS joined his Lord and SaviorJesus Christ on Monday, February 17, 2014. Michael was born on May 7, 1999 in Little Rock, Ark.
He is survived by his parents, Bradley and Judy Burns, of LittleRock, Ark.; sister, Jessica Burns; niece, Ashlyn; and nephew and buddy Ryan, of Little Rock; hisbeautiful white cat “Cotton”; his grandparents Vauda and Dan White, of Mountain View, Mary Dempsey of Springdale; aunts and uncles Susie and Lonnie Burrow, of Sherwood, Thomas and Robbie Dempsey, of Springdale and Mark Dempsey, of Lodi, Calif.; cousins, Josh, Nicole, Madelyn and Ella Burrow, Shaina, Rebecca and Samantha Dempsey; and many other relatives. Michael had many friends that will miss him as well. He is preceded death by his grandfather, Rex Burns, of Mountain View, and nephew, Colin Burns.
Michael attended Central Arkansas Christian School. We appreciate all they did for him and the love and care shown by the staff and students. We will never forget how you made him feel a part of the football program even though he was unable to play. Michael was a dedicated football fan.
We would like to thank the doctors and dedicated nurses and staff of Arkansas Children’s Hospital that took such great care of Michael all his life. His cardiologist for 14 years, Dr. Paul Seib, also his first surgeon, Dr. Stephen Vandavater of Children’s Hospital. We would also like to thank Dr. Edward Bove at the University of Michigan Medical Center for giving us 12 wonderful surgery free years.
Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Friday, February 21, 2014 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. (501) 224-8300.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made at any Metropolitan National Bank to the Michael Christopher Burns Memorial Fund. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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EDITH MAXCINE CRAWFORD was born January 17, 1938 tothe late Eddie Hawthrone and Ethel Lee Williams-Hawthrone in Helena, Arkansas. She passed away February 16, 2014. She accepted Christ at an early age as her Lord and Savior. She was a faithful member of Centennial Baptist Church in Helena, Ark., under the leadership of Pastor A.L. Woodson. She served on the usher boardand was the Sunday school secretary. She later joined Greater Second Baptist Church in Little Rock, Ark. under the leadership of Pastor David Featherstone. She loved church and was only hindered from attendance due to her battle with cancer.
Maxcine received her education at Eliza Miller in West Helena, Arkansas and later finished Cosmetology School in Little Rock. This virtuous women had a heart of gold when it came to caring for others. She was known as the neighborhood mother that cooked awesome meals in West Helena by her children friends.
Maxcine was united in marriage to the late Elbert Crawford on April 12, 1961, they lived in Chicago for several years before returning back to Arkansas to care for her husband’s elderly parents. On February 16, 2014 God called “Maxcine” on home.
She was preceded in death by her parents & grandparents, brother Eddie Hawthrone, sister Jerlean Rivers-Allen, husband Elbert Crawford, her son Elbert Crawford III, her great-grandchildren, Chris Crawford Jr., and Taliyah Crawford. She leaves to cherish her memories 2 sons: Christopher C. Hawthorne-Crawford (Sharon) of Ft. Worth, Texas, Andre L. Crawford of Ellenwood, GA., 4 daughters: Jacqueline R. Crawford-Murdock of Little Rock, Ark., Debrah (Rev. Michael) McGruder of Forrest City, Ark., Evelyna Crawford of Conway, Ark., and Joyce M. Crawford of Dallas, Texas; one daughter-inlaw, Anderia Crawford of Little Rock, 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Family hour will be at the funeral home from 6 p.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday February 27. Funeral services will be Friday, February 28, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Greater Second Baptist Church at 5615 Geyer Springs Road, Little Rock, Arkansas. (501) 569-9988. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202. (501) 376-4800.
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LaVERNE NEFF CURTIS passed away Friday, February 14, in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born in Memphis on September 1, 1927 and was a life-long resident of Memphis. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Max Curtis; and her parents, Elizabeth Lee Neff and Vernon Clark Neff. She leaves two daughters, Carolyn Curtis Vincent and her husband Stewart Colten of Arlington, Virginia, and Catherine Morgan Coleman, her husband Eric Coleman; and their son Cross; her brother, William Neff, and his wife, Inez; and by manynieces and nephews. Mrs. Curtis was a graduate of Whitehaven High School and a former member of Whitehaven Presbyterian Church and the Kennedy Book Club. Family and friends are invited to services at Memorial Park, 5668 Poplar Ave. on Friday, February 21 at 2 p.m., graveside service at 3 p.m. A second memorial will follow at Presbyterian Village in Little Rock, Ark., where Mrs. Curtis lived the last year of her life. Memorials may be made to the Presbyterian Village Auxiliary or charity of the donor’s choice.
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A funeral Mass for FAYE and NICK DiMASSIMO will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 22nd, at Christ the King Church, 4000 Rodney Parham Road in Little Rock. A celebration of their lives and 65 years of marriage follows at the Cambridge Place Clubhouse, 700 Cambridge Place Drive, beginning at 2:15 p.m.
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GERALDINE “GERRY” DINWIDDIE, 80, of Sherwood passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2014. She was born February 15, 1934.
Gerry was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Carnell Dinwiddie and her beloved pet, “Ruby”. She was retired from 30 years of service as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Gerry is survived by her son Wesley Dinwiddie and daughter-in-law, Katie Dinwiddie; grandson, Christopher Dinwiddie; granddaughter, Shelley Dinwiddie; great-grandson, Titan Dinwiddie; great-granddaughter, Ayden Dinwiddie; and a hostof other family and friends.
Funeral services will be graveside at Edgewood Memorial Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014. Arrangements by Roller-Owens Funeral Home (791-7400), 5509 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock. On-line guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes/owens.
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Funeral for VERDA MAE GREENE EWING, age 71, of Sherwood, who died Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014 will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Shiloh Baptist Church 1201 Hanger St., Little Rock, Ark. Visitation will be 6-7 p.m. Friday (today) at Watson-Northcrest Funeral Home, 1801 Maple St., North Little Rock, Ark. “Premiumcare Arrangements” Brown’s Christian Funeral Service, (501) 244-8000.
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DONNIE LOUISE HAYS, 80, of Little Rock, passed away Monday, February 17, 2014. Services will be today, Friday, February 21 at 11:30 a.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), followed by interment at Rest Hills Memorial Park in Sherwood. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Ms. Hays’ online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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ELIZABETH JACKSON, 75, Little Rock, departed this life February19, 2014. She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny Lee Wilson and Tennie Haymon Wilson; guardian son, Victory L. Beard. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband,Archie P. Jackson; step-daughters, Elwin Broadway and Redell Mackintrush; stepson, Curtis Lee Jackson; 10 step-grandchildren; 14 step-grandchildren; a host of family and friends. Visitation: 12-2 p.m. Saturday with Funeral Service beginning at 2 p.m., to be held at Antioch Full Gospel Baptist Church, College Station, Bishop Kenneth 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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CLAUDE “BUB” RICHARD JONES, age 84, went to bewith his Lord, Wednesday, February 19, 2014. He was born September 23, 1929, to Farris and Madia Hartsell Jones in Amory, Mississippi. Claude married the love of his life, Peggyon June 1, 1952 and was happily married for 61 years.
Bub was a Christian, a member of Immanuel Baptist Church since 1962, and a devoted member of the Pinnacle Sunday School Class. He loved his church and attended every Sunday for as long as he could. He was a Master Mason of over 50 years. Bub served our country as an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, was an avid woodworker and gardener, who loved his Iris’.
Bub was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers; Bill and Charles Edwin Jones. He is survived by his loving wife; one daughter, Judy Clinton (Larry) of Springdale; one son, Mike Jones (Sally) of Magnolia; one sister, Sara Carlson (John) of Amory, Miss.; one brother, James Harold Jones of Amory, Miss.; four grandchildren, John Clinton (Samantha), Sarah Stanton (Jesse), Ashley Hollensworth (Steven), and Katie Jones, and two great-grandchildren Avery Clinton and Hudson Hollensworth.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, February 22, 2014, at Immanuel Baptist Church Chapel with burial to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Ark. Visitation will be at the church, one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
Memorials can be made to Immanuel Baptist Church Building Fund, 501 North ShackelfordRoad, Little Rock, Ark. 72211, or a charity of your choice. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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ROBERT HAL WILSON of Little Rock, 60, passed away Thursday, February 19, 2014. Master Sgt. Wilson served his country in the United States Air Force in Vietnam. He is preceded in death by his father and brother. Survivors include his mother, Maxine Trahan, son, Jeremy Wilson, daughters Jennifer Wilson, Shannon Wilson, and Ashely Wilson. Other survivors include two brothers, grandchildren, Taylor Hicks and Lucas Howard. A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Bishop-Griffin Funeral Home of Greenbrier. (501) 679-4400. www.bishopgriffinfuneralhome.com.
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ROBERT DALE WINGFIELD, while surrounded by his family, went to be with his Lord,Wednesday evening, February 19, 2014. Robert was born on April 24, 1938 in Magazine, Arkansas to his proud parents, Claud and Mae Moon Wingfield. After a brief move to Conway, the Wingfield family moved back to the Magazine area where Robert attended Magazine public school from the 2nd through the 12th grades. While there, he was active in choir, basketball, Future Farmers of America, and student leadership. In the 11th grade, Robert began dating the love of his life, Willa Dean Starling. When Dean left for the University of Arkansas a year later, Robert made sure he traveled with her parents on many weekends to visit. Robert and Dean married on June 23rd, 1956. They were both 18. Robert and Dean then attended Harding University and both graduated in 1960. Robert would go on to complete two master’s degrees, one in religion and the other in counseling. The young couple survived with Robert preaching weekends in western Arkansas. After college, Robert and Dean moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico where Robert served as youth minister for the Fox and Lake Church of Christ. In the fall of 1961, they moved to Ipswich,England where Robert preached for an Air Force congregation and Dean taught school on the Bentwaters Air Force Base. After living in England for 2 1/2 years, the Wingfields moved back to Paris, Ark. in 1964 where Robert preached for the Paris Church of Christ. After about eight months, the elders from the Church in Carlsbad made a trip to Paris and asked Robert and Dean to move back and serve as pulpit minister at the Fox and Lake Church. While living in Carlsbad once again, Ellen and Jeff joined the family. In 1968, Robert and Dean, along with their children, moved to North Little Rock, Ark. to work with the Sylvan Hills Church ofChrist. Robert would spend the next 13 years serving as pulpit minister for the congregation. Barry made his appearance during their time at Sylvan Hills, completing the family of five. From 1981-1989, Robert served on staff as Counselor for the Sixth and Izard Church of Christ. He returned to Sylvan Hills in 1990 to serve as Senior’s Minister/ Counselor. Robert retired from Sylvan Hills in 2012.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Claud and Mae Wingfield, and a grandson, Bryan Emerson Binford. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dean Wingfield of Sherwood; sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Gene Remy of Fayetteville; daughter and son-in-law, Ruth Ellen and Matt Binford; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffrey Mark and Judy Wingfield, and Barry, John and Alicia Wingfield; grandchildren, Daniel and Katherine Wingfield, Tyler Binford, CalebBinford, Mikaila Wingfield, Jake Wingfield, Jeremiah Wingfield, and R.J. Coleman. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other family and friends, all of whom remember Robert for his spiritual influence and sense of humor.
Robert was passionate about his wife, children, and grandchildren. Robert’s love also extended to his church family and the many others he met along the way. The hole he has left in our lives is only bearable because of the wonderful memories we share, the example he left us to follow, and our anticipation in knowing we will be reunited one day. Visitation will be held Friday, February 21st from 5-7 p.m. at the Sylvan Hills Church of Christ, 117 West Maryland,Sherwood, Ark. 72120. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, February 22nd, at 10 a.m. at the Sylvan Hills Church of Christ and a graveside service will follow at the Evan’s Cemetery in Magazine, Ark. at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorials be made to the Sylvan Hills Church of Christ.
ALTHEIMER - Mr. Donnie Ray Johnson, 55, of Altheimer, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Altheimer by Rev. Ricky Bifford. Burial will be in Forrest Lawn Cemetery by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff.
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ARKADELPHIA - Melissa “Lish” Smith Holliman, 86, Arkadelphia passed February 15, 2014. Her love and sweet spirit will live on with several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. The last farewell will be held Saturday, 11 a.m ., Pleasant Hill AME Church. Services provided by Williams Funeral Home. Sign guestbook at http:// www.funeralsatwilliams.com/.
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AUGUSTA - Kingston Lamar Gillespie, infant son of Kala Gillespie & Jimmy Jackson Jr., passed away February 19, 2014. Survivors: parents; grandparents, Rickie Gillespie (Lisa), Mae Alice Hardaway, Jimmy Jackson, Sr., all of Augusta; great-grandmothers; two brothers, sister. Graveside service, Friday, 11 a.m., New Quiet Cemetery, Augusta. Arrangements, Rhodes Funeral Home, Augusta.
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BATESVILLE - Dr. Robert Paul Fox II, 50, of Batesville died Wednesday. Survivors: wife, Missy Fox; sons, Robert and Jacob Fox; daughters, Rachel, Mallory and McKinley Fox; father, Robert Fox Sr.; sister, Renita Johnson.Services: 10 a.m. Saturday, Roller-Crouch Chapel. Burial: Oaklawn Cemetery by Roller-Crouch Funeral Home, Batesville. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Friday. www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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BEEDEVILLE - Alma Hodge, 109, of Beedeville, died Tuesday. Survivors: son, Neal Hodge; daughters, Joyce Oakley, Ann McGee and husband Dan and Sondra Abney and husband David; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Funeral: 2:30 p.m. Friday, Beedeville Church of Christ. Interment: Eightmile Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, 1:30-service. www.jacksonsfh.com. Arrangements: Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
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BENTON - Arthur Ralph Helmich of Benton was born January 24, 1929. At the age of 85 he went to see his heavenly father whom he served whole heartedly in all his action and deeds. He now resides in his mansion in the sky God gavehim a brand new set of tools to work with. He was a gentle soul; a giving, inventive, industrious man who loved his wife Shirley of 57 years to the very end.
Arthur is preceded in death by his mother and father, Ed and Edna Helmich; brothers, Edward and Ted; twin brother, August and his sister, Lucille. He is survived by his sisters, Irene Schrader of Benton, Helen Auw of Oregon; brother, Clarence Helmich of Tennessee; loving wife of 57 years, Shirley Helmich; he left behind his legacy of daughter, Carrie Helmich and grandson Garrett Crump; daughter, Sharon Thomas and her husband, Mark Thomas; grandchildren, Alissa Thomas and friend Vada Harrell and Jared Thomas and his wife, Katie; great grandsons, Luke; Seth Thomas and his wife Jamie, Gabe and Aidan and a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2014, at 2 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant with burial to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Visitation will be Friday, February 21, 2014 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - Bernice Sullivan, 95, of Benton, passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2014, at Saline Memorial Hospital with family by her side. She was born February 5, 1919, and celebrated her 95th birthday with cake and family. Bernice was the daughter of the late W.R. and Verda Moore. She was of the Baptist faith. Bernice and her husband, Hosie, lived most of their married life in Texas, a state she loved. Bernice and her husband drove dump trucks in the Dallas area. She loved driving large trucks! They later retired and moved back to Benton to be neartheir family.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Hosie Sullivan, brothers, Homer and James Moore, sisters, Bertha Noakes, Oleta Standridge and Dimple Louallen. Survivors, sisters, Lona Balding, Dorothy Shelnutt, Alice LaPlant, Jean Gault, all of Benton, nieces, Faye and Karen, and nephew, Phillip, all of whom took care of her these last several years; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Larry Stillman, Randy Brooks, Phillip Carter, Bradley Stillman, Jack Gault and John Paul Shelnutt. Chapel services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 1 p.m. Saturday with visitation 12 noon until 1 p.m.
before services. Burial will follow at New Rosemont Cemetery in Benton. On line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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BISCOE - Beverly Jayne Hall, 58, of Biscoe, left this earth on Wednesday, February 19, 2014. There was a happy meeting in heaven as she was reunited with her daddy, Jewell P. Hall, Sr.; her sister, Sherrilynn Willeford; her nephew, Aaron Hall, and her grandparents, among others.
She is survived by three sons, Kyle (Courtney) Hall of Biscoe, Dylan (Meagan) Tipton of Cabot and Beau Tipton of Manila; four grandsons, Cody Hall, Gabe and Levi Tipton, and Kaiden Tipton; her very best friend, Marty Williams of Biscoe; her mother, Daisy Hall of Biscoe; brother, Paul (Donna) Hall of Wynne; three sisters, Gloria (Henry) Strohl and Sonja (Vernon) Owens of De Valls Bluff and Brenda (Charles) Simpson of Biscoe; plus a host of nieces nephews, aunts, cousins,and friends.
Beverly was born December 6, 1955, at Des Arc. The fourth child of Jewell and Daisy Hall. Beverly was a member of Biscoe First Baptist Church. She was a graduate of De Valls Bluff High School and attended Arkansas State University at Beebe. She was proud of her service with the Hazen Unit of the Arkansas National Guard. She was a refinery operator with Riceland Foods at Stuttgart.
Growing up on the farm, Beverly was a true “Daddy’s Girl” and was always eager to help him. She loved to dance and participated in several competitions while in high school. Beverly loved sports and enjoyed watching her grandsons play ball. Beverly loved being outside and was meticulous about her flowers and yard. She and Marty spent a lot of time traveling, going on cruises and walking. They could be seen walking Highway 70 nearly everyday until this past year. Beverly’s favorite place togo was the beach-any beach. She had an out going personality and perpetual smile that was her hallmark. She looked forward to Friday nights when she, her mother, her sisters, and nieces had a standing date for a Girl’s Night Out. Beverly was diagnosed with lung cancer on July 8, 2013, and fought valiantly to over come this disease.
The family appreciates Dr. Kewen Jauss and the North Little Rock Oncology staff, Baptist Hospice, CARTI, Pam Tipton and Freida Isbell for their excellent care. Also, Beverly’s family will be forever grateful to Marty Williams for her unselfish devotion to Beverly, especially during this battle with cancer. Beverly was a loving, feisty, fun loving, energetic person who will live forever in our hearts until we are reunited with her in heaven.
Memorial service will be held Saturday, February 22, 2014, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Biscoe. Visitation will be Friday, February 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be submitted to Biscoe Fire Department, Hazen Cemetery Association, or C.A.R.T.I. Online obituary at www.westbrookfuneralhomehazen.com
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BRYANT - Alice “Charlene” Roberts, 70, of Bryant passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2014. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at Otter Creek with interment at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday evening, February 21st at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047). Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ballard.
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CAMDEN - Ruby Jameson Huneycutt, age 95, of Camden died Wednesday. She was born July 28, 1918 the daughter of Ed and Edna Henley Jameson. She liked to spend her time walking, playing cards with friends, and traveling. She was a 50-yearplus member of Fairview United Methodist Church in Camden where she was active in many areas.
She was preceded in death by her husband Doyle Huneycutt. Survivors include two sons, Vance Huneycutt and his wife Wanda of Arkadelphia and Don Huneycutt and his wife Jean of Yorktown, Va., two granddaughters, Laurie Huneycutt of Arkadelphia and Dominique Huneycutt of North Carolina.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, February 22nd at the Proctor Funeral Home Chapel in Camden with Pastor Jim Cross officiating. Burial will be in Camden Memorial Park. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Friday at Proctor Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Fairview United Methodist Church or Twin Rivers Health and Rehab. Sign online guest book at www.ruggleswilcox.com.
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CENTER RIDGE - Clyde D. Haines 73, of Center Ridge, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2014. He was born November 14, 1940 in Battleground, Washington to Robert and Clara Haines.
He was preceded in deathby his parents, and a grandson, Kevin Salinas. He is survived by his loving wife of 13 years Joyce Fern (Harris) Haines of the home, two daughters, Darlene R. Bonds and husband Andrew of Fox, Arkansas; and Peggy A. Salinas and husband Reyes of Center Ridge, Arkansas; three stepsons, Sammy C. Alexander and wife Melissa of Moran,Kansas; Michael Alexander and wife Janelle of Casa, Arkansas; and Bobby Alexander of Center Ridge, Arkansas; 14 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, sister, Mary Beckham of Kansas; brother, Jack Haines and wife Judy of Arizona; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2014 at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel Clinton, Arkansas. Funeral Service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Scotland Baptist Church with Pastor Charles Deckelman officiating. Burial will follow in Foster Cemetery Scotland, Arkansas. Funeral Arrangements are under the care and direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Clinton, Arkansas. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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CONWAY - Darlene Davenport, age 66, of Conway, passed away February 19, 2014. Visitation will be Friday, February 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Weems Family Funeral Services in Carlisle, Ark. Funeral services will be Saturday, February 22 at 10 a.m. at Weems Family Funeral Services. Burial will be in the Old Carlisle Cemetery. The family requests no roses be sent. You may sign the online guestbook at www.weemsfamilyfuneralservices.com.
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CONWAY - Andrew Kresse, 76, of Conway passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2014. A Rosary will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, February 22, 2014 in the chapel at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home, Conway (501) 327-7727. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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CONWAY - Charlie Mae Cauthron Naylor, 88, died Thursday,February 20, 2014. She was born July 1, 1925 to the late C.C. and Della Cauthron. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Darden H. Naylor, and her sister JaneCone and her husband Colonel Ralph Cone.
Mrs. Naylor was a retired executive secretary for Holiday Inns, Inc. She was a charter member of Gaines Street and Olivet Baptist churches in Little Rock, Arkansas, and she was currently a long-time member and Sunday school teacher at the First Baptist Church in Conway.
She is survived by her stepson, Dr. David L. Naylor (Janie) of Conway; two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Tucker of Hot Springs and Mrs. Helen Creed (Gerald), of Ethel, Louisiana; her brother, Dr. James H. Cauthron (Murphy), of Ashdown, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Dr. David L. Naylor Jr. (Cindy), of Conway; and Mrs. Lisa Reed (Chris), of Palo Alto, California; five great-grandchildren, Ryan Reed, Paige Reed, Dylan Naylor, Jack Holden Reed, Drake Naylor.
Our family is very grateful and thankful for the loving care given by the the entire staff at Heritage Living Center in Conway, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Conway, Arkansas, located at 1719 Robinson St. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Griffin Leggett Conway. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Griffin Leggett Conway. Please visit Mrs. Naylor’s online guestbook at www.griffinleggettconway.com.
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CONWAY - Amanda Dawn Radcliff Tyarks, 35, of Conway, passed away February 17, 2014.She is survived by many loving family and friends. Her family will host a special service for her at a later date. Sign her online memorial book at www.clintonfuneralservice.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service.
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DEVALLS BLUFF - Willard Harrison, age 74, died February19, 2014. He is survived by his wife Charlene Harrison; children, Jody (Ben) Dierks of Stuttgart, Vanessa (Jon) Holcomb of Carlisle, Billy (Tracie) Harrison of DeValls Bluff and Jocelyn (Ryan) Medford of Brinkley; siblings, Joe (Judy) Harrison and Carter (Debbye) Harrison; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Saint Elmo and Ora Lou Harrison, and a brother, Donnie. Visitation, 5-7 p.m. Friday, February 21 at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Funeral Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 22 at First Baptist Church of DeValls Bluff with burial following in Oakland Cemetery in DeValls Bluff. www.boydfuneralhome.net.
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DeWITT - Carl Fuches, 74, died February 19, 2014. Survivors include wife, Linda; three daughters, Carlas Armstrong, Tracy Haley, and SuBeth Griffin; and five grandchildren. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. February 21 at Crocketts Bluff Missionary Baptist Church with burial in Crocketts Bluff Cemetery by Essex Funeral Home. www.
essexfuneralhome.com.
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EL DORADO - Nancy Lea Wilson, 72, of El Dorado Ark., passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2014. She was born December 27, 1941 in El Dorado, Ark. A memorial service will be held at Young’s Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, February 22, at 2 p.m. www.youngsfuneralhome.com.
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EL PASO - Harold Devon Gifford, 82, of El Paso, Arkansas,was born August 15, 1931 at Leslie, Arkansas to Reuben Bently and Ethel Elizabeth Gifford, and he died Wednesday, February 19, 2014. He was a Korean War Veteran and a lifetime member of the VFW and AMVETS. He was the proprietor of Gifford’s Country Music in El Paso, Arkansas for 17 years.
Harold is survived byhis wife, Sue Gifford; sons Harold Gifford, Jr. and Don Gifford; brothers-at-heart, Henry Via and Sam Holloway; and numerous other family members, friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by brothers, Gerald Gifford and Maurice Gifford; and sisters, Roasile Gifford and Dean Houston.
Family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Westbrook Funeral Home, with burial in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by Westbrook, a Smith Family Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
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FAYETTEVILLE - Robert “Bobby” Davis, 56 of Fayetteville,Ark., passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2014 in Fayetteville. He was born April 17, 1957 in Fayetteville, Ark., to Bryce Davis and Betty (Teeter) Davis.
He was ownerand operator of Eason Insurance Agency, Inc. and was a member of Central United Methodist Church in Fayetteville. Bobby was very active in his community where he faithfully chaired many boards at Central United Methodist Church, boards at Mount Sequoyah, Fayetteville Parks and Recreation, Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion, Fayetteville Alderman 1999-2004, Member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and was a member of The Northside Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow.
He is survived by his wife, Sally Davis; two daughters, Sarah Margaret Davis of Dallas, Texas, and Laura Davis of Tulsa, Okla.; and one sister, Debbie Davis of Puerto Rico.
A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22nd at Central United Methodist Church with Reverend J. Anthony Holifield, Dr. Jack A. Wilson, and Dr. John C. Robbins officiating. Private burial will be at Fairview Memorial Gardens in Fayetteville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central United Methodist Church “Count Me In Campaign,” P.O. Box 1106 Fayetteville, Ark. 72702. To sign the online guest book please visit www.nelsonberna.com.
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FENTER - Alvin “Sonny” Nichols, 78, Fenter died February 19, 2014. Survivors: wife, Mary C.Nichols; daughter, Cindy Byrd; sons, David Vann (Stephanie), Ronnie Vann (Denise); sisters, Peggy Murabito, Patsy Uchtman (Don). Visitation, Friday, February 21, 5-7 p.m., Regency, Malvern. Graveside, Saturday, February 22, 11 a.m., Nichols Cemetery, Fenter. Arrangements, Regency Funeral Home. Guestbook, www.regencyfuneralhome.com.
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FISHER - Jack Whitfield Knapple passed away on Wednesday,February 19, 2014, at age 79. Jack courageously battled multiple medical problems over the last several years. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, “lie” Knapple and Hildagard Scholze Knapple and sister, Wilella Knapple Downing. Jack was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church. He graduated from Weiner High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Arkansas.
Jack is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Linda Lewis Knapple, to whom he was married for 54 years. Jack is also survived by his son, Whitfield Lewis Knapple, M.D., of Little Rock; his daughter, Valerie Knapple Angel, her husband, Rick Angel, and their two sons, Adam Angel and Zachary Angel all of Little Rock.
Jack was a kind and gentle soul. He absolutely loved being raised and taking over the family farming operation, Knapple and Knapple Farms. Jack loved everything about being a farmer and “living on the banks of the beautiful Bayou De View”.
Jack loved The Lord, his family (with a special love being “Papa” to his grandsons, Adam and Zachary), his farming community, his church family at Zion Lutheran Church, and the Razorbacks. Jack will forever be remembered for his Southern gentlemen traits, his plaid shirts and khaki pants, and his tilted farming caps. Jack’s memories will be forever cherished and he will be sorely missed by his family and friends.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Dr.William Russo and his staff, the doctors and nurses at Baptist Health North Little Rock, Tracy Ashburn and the staff at St. Bernard’s Home Health and Bette Mross for their tremendous care and compassion.
Visitation will be at Zion Lutheran Church in Waldenburg, Arkansas on Friday, February 21, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., on Saturday, February 22, 2014 from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. The funeral will be on Saturday, February 22, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at the Waldenburg Cemetery under the direction of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home.
Pallbearers will be Keith Bise, Gerald Bass, Steve Carpenter, Tommy Cunningham, Mark Dennis, Phil Hesse, Pete Traymon, and Gary Zirbel. Honorary Pallbearers will be Charles Givens, David Burton, Paul Lewis, Tommy Wofford, William Russo, M.D., Leo Bartholomew, Johnny Brannon, Fred Williams, Kenneth Easter, and Paul Zirbel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Zion Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 40, Waldenburg, Arkansas 72475; Waldenburg Cemetery, 5041 Hwy. 956, Weiner, Arkansas 72479; and the Weiner Fire Department, 123 West 2nd Street, Weiner, Arkansas 72479. Online: mcnabbfuneralhomes.com.
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HAMBURG - Mrs. Della “Sue” Shuck Ladd, 81, of Hamburg, died Wednesday, February 19, 2014. Funeral services are 10 a.m., Friday at the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church with burial in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home of Hamburg. Online guest book at www.jones-hartshorn.com.
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HAMBURG - Leola McHenry, 77, of Hamburg died Tuesday, February 18, 2014. Funeral services are 2 p.m., Saturday at the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church with burial in Childress Chapel Cemetery. Visitation: 4-5 p.m., Friday. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home of Hamburg. Online guest book at www.jones-hartshorn.com.
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HARRISBURG - Frances M. Brown, 73, of Harrisburg, died Wednesday in Harrisburg. She was the daughter of Oley and Luvenia (Bedwell) Costner. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Saturday at Jackson’s Harrisburg Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation is Friday from 6-8 p.m. Interment will be in Bolivar Cemetery. Arrangements are by Jackson’s Funeral Home.
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HARRISBURG - William Earl Reeves, 86, of Harrisburg, died Tuesday at NEA Baptist Hospital. He as the son of Henry and Lucille (Hawkins) Reeves. Cremation will take place at Emerson Crematory in Jonesboro. Memorial services are 2 p.m. Saturday at Jackson’s Harrisburg Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements by jackson’s Harrisburg Funeral Home.
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HARRISON - Billie Jean Chism-Pemberton, 65, Harrison, died February 16, 2014. Arrangements under the direction of Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Daughters, Donna (Arlandus) Redic, Rebecca Prince, and Nancy Prince; siblings, Thelma Sawyer, Jimmy Chism, and Jerry Chism, survive her. Memorial service at a later date. Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/harrison.
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HEBER SPRINGS - Eugene “Gene” Howard Fricke, 91, retired construction superintendent, passed away February 15, 2014. Wife, Ruth Fricke; stepchildren, Michael Smith of Benton, Dennis Smith (Karen) of Louisiana, and Patricia Johnson of Illinois; seven grandchildren; one nephew, two nieces. Memorialservice Saturday, 2 p.m., Grace Baptist Church. Arrangements: Olmstead Funeral Home. www.olmstead.cc.
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HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE - Burl Edward Evans, 91, of HotSprings Village, Ark., died February 14, 2014. He was born at the farm house of his parents, Marion and Ruby Evans (Moore) in Popejoy, Iowa. He met Valerie Delores Whitecavage of Frackville, Pa., at a dance in Key West, Fla., where they were both stationed and later married in 1945.
Burl’s dream to fly started at age 8 when a 1924 Beechcraft landed in a field on the family farm in Iowa. And fly he did. He served 20 years in the Navy, including being stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, from 1952 to 1955, and later serving as the commanding officer of a squadron. Evans also retired from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in Oklahoma City, Okla., at Will Rogers World Airport, after serving as a test pilot and instructor. He flew more than 35 different aircraft during his two careers and flew around the world more than once.
In 2008, he was filmed and recorded for the Veterans History Project which is maintained by the American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress. Evans served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
He is survived by his daughter, five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, including, Peggy Lee Evans of Richardson, Texas; granddaughter, Nataly Huddleston of Prosper, Texas, and her sons, Lowell, Talon, Noah, and Wyatt; granddaughter Amber Dye of Richardson, Texas;granddaughter Valerie Evans of Chicago, Ill.; grandson Brian Evans of Carmel, Ind., his wife Erin Evans and their children, Emerson, Lauren, London, and Joseph; granddaughter Tara Pittman of Seffner, Fla., her husband Brian Pittman and their children, Avery and Cole; two brothers, Glen Evans of Alden, Iowa and Myron Evans of Iowa Falls, Iowa; sister-in-law Louise Evans of West Chicago, Ill.; and special friend Wilma Henricks of Hot Springs Village, Ark. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Ruby Evans; his beloved wife of 56 years, Valerie Whitecavage Evans; his loving son, Keith Brian Evans; two brothers, Merle in infancy, Robert Evans; two sisters, Mabel Gregg and Marjorie Anders Echelberger.
He was a member of the Village United Methodist Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Hot Springs Village where he had resided since 1973. A Funeral Service will be held at Village United Methodist Church at 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2014. Commander Evans’ final flight will be to Washington, D.C., where he will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.
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HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE - Doris Prost, 90, of Hot Springs Village, died February 14. Born December 31, 1923, to Harry and Laura Atkins in Fond du Lac, Wis.Funeral will be held Saturday, February 22, at 2 p.m. at Community of Joy Lutheran Church. Services by Cedar Vale Funeral Home. Guests may register at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.
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HUNT - Donald Ray Castleberry of Hunt, Ark., born January9, 1931 passed away February 18, 2014. He is survived by wife Betty Castleberry; three daughters, Cathy Lynn York, Teresa Ann York, Connie Sue Lee; one brother, Argus Castleberry;one sister, Glenda Jones; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren other relatives and friends. Memorial service will be Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Liberty Hill Cemetery, Hunt, Ark. Service entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th, Little Rock, Ark. 72204 (501) 660-4323.
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LESLIE - Jo Jennings McBride Siegel, 92, of Leslie, passed away February 19. She is survived by her loving family. Funeral services will be Saturday, February 22, at Eastlawn Cemetery in Marshall. Please sign Jo’s Book of Memories at www.clintonfuneralservice.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service in Clinton, Ark.
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LETONA - David Michael Bogle, 58, of Letona, died Monday, February 17, 2014 in Letona. He is survived by two brothers, Kenneth Bogle, Richard Bogle; and one sister, Ruth Call. Graveside funeral services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.
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LONOKE - Brenda Coleman, age 58, died February 17, 2014.She is survived by her husband Lee Coleman, Jr., her mother Mary Bell Morris; children, Tiffany Coleman, Undreal (Becca) Coleman, of Lonoke, Kenneth Coleman of Paris, TonyaRoshell (Toriano) Smith of McKinney, Texas, Shemica (Vincent) Jeter of Austell, Georgia, Lee Andrew (Consowelo) Coleman, III of North Little Rock; siblings Artie Morris and Belinda Jones of Lonoke and Terry Hood of Bigelow; 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, February 21 at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 22 at Gateway Fellowship Church. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens. www.boydfuneralhome.net.
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LONOKE - Michael Ragen, 63, of Lonoke, Arkansas died Wednesday, February 19, 2014. He was a retired Registered Nurse with the Arkansas Dept. of Health.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Helen Ragen, a brother, Larry and sister, Patty. Michael is survived by sister Rosanna Davis of Ozark; and two brothers, Gary and wife Tracy of Beebe and James and Linda of Fyffe, Alabama.
Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Westbrook Funeral Home, with burial in Butlerville Cemetery. Arrangements by Westbrook, a Smith Family Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
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LONSDALE - Robert D. Shell, age 69, of Lonsdale, Ark., passed away, February 16. Survivors include: two sons, a daughter, two brothers, two sisters, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Memorial services: February 22, 2 p.m. North Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 506 N. Hwy. 7 Hot Springs, Ark. 71909. Obit/Guestbook www.rosewoodcremation.com.
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MENA - Margie A. Herring, 79, of Mena, Arkansas, died Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at her home. Funeral services will be Friday, February 21, 2014 at 10 a.m. at White Hall United Pentecostal Church. A private burial will be in White Hall Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
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MOUNTAIN HOME - Clarence Jackson (Jack) Messick, 78, of Mountain Home passed away February 19, 2014. Survived by his wife, Shirley Messick of the home, three daughters. Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Roller Funeral Home Chapel. Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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MOUNTAIN VIEW - Shawn Marshall Downs, 41, of Mountain View died on February 19, 2014. He is survived by wife, Valerie; son, Trevor; parents, two brothers, and grandparents. Visitation will be Saturday, February 22, 2014, 9-10 a.m. at Flatwoods Baptist Church in Mountain View, Arkansas. Services will follow at 10 a.m. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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PINE BLUFF - Funeral Services for Marie J. Adkins of Pine Bluff,passed February 19 at JRMC will be Saturday, 11 a.m. Galilee MBC. Burial: Forrest Lawn Cemetery by Perry Funeral Home. Survivors three sisters, four brothers, three step-sons, five step-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
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PINE BLUFF - James F. Gary Jr., 54, of Pine Bluff passed February 14. Visitation: Friday, 1-6 p.m.; Family Hour: 6-7 p.m. both at Christian Way Funeral Home in Pine Bluff. Funeral: Saturday, 11 a.m. Antioch Baptist Church, Sherrill, Arkansas. Arrangements: Watson Northcrest Funeral Home, 1801 Maple, North Little Rock. 501-812-5303.
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PINE BLUFF - Gerald W. (Chuck) Mitchell, 76, of Pine Bluff, passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at Baptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock, Ark. Chuck was born in Van Buren, Arkansas March 31, 1937 to Carl and Doris Mitchell, who preceded him in death. He was reared and educated at Van Buren High School, graduating in 1957. He joined the military and spent a short active-duty career, followed by an 8-year reserve duty span. Mr. Mitchell retired from the Pine Bluff Arsenal in 1993 where he spent a long career. He enjoyed a lengthy retirement playing gold,traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren, who were the joy of his life.
He is survived by his wife of almost 57 years, Janette Kay Dennis Mitchell, whom he married July 3, 1958 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other survivors include three children and their spouses: Robin Mosely (Cecil), Denise Colson, and Gerald Mitchell, Jr. (Marla). Chuck was known as “Papoo” to his grandchildren, which include Tommy Mosely (Amanda), Mitchell Mosely, Ashley Cole (Ryan), Hunter Colson, and Landen Colson. Additionally, he is survived by a sister Nell Feldman (Marty) of San Jose, Calif.; two brothers, Mike Mitchell (Polly) of Tucson, Ariz., Ronald “Butch” Mitchell (Dana) of Van Buren, Ark.; and several nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.
Chuck was beloved and after a long battle including a monthslong hospital stay last year, the nurses, doctors, and other staff at Baptist became very attached to him and also began to address him as “Papoo”. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the quality of care that he received. Words cannot express the comfort and love shown to our family during this difficult time.
Visitation will be held at Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren, Arkansas Friday, February 21, 2014 from 5-7 p.m. Graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Roselawn Cemetery in Fort Smith under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren.
Condolences can be made to Baptist Health Medical Center Heart Transplant and VAD Institute 9500 Kanis Road Suite 410 Little Rock, Ark. 72205. Online tributes: www.ockerfuneralhome.com.
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PINE BLUFF - Mr. Merrill Watts Jr., 85, of Pine Bluff, passed away Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014. Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Feb. 22, 2014 at Brown Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Clifton O’Neal. Cremated by Bishop-Griffin Crematory. Arrangements by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff.
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RUSSELLVILLE - Jeff P. Cheatham Jr., 81, of Russellville, died Wednesday. Funeral is 10 a.m., Saturday at Second Baptist Church, Russellville, with burial 2 p.m., Monday, in Fort Smith National Cemetery by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation:4:30-6 p.m., Friday at the funeral home. Online obituary/guestbook: www.shinnfuneral.com.
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SHERIDAN - Margery Lee Cotton Irvin of Sheridan, Arkansaswas born July 27, 1921 in Kinta, Oklahoma, the daughter of the late Henry Frank and Edith Coker Cotton. She was a 1939 graduate of Harrison High School, a 1942 graduate of Burge Schoolof Nursing in Springfield, Missouri and a registered nurse. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Sheridan and was a talented artistand painted with a group of special painting buddies. She loved being with her grandchildren, taking pictures, working in her yard, traveling, and spending time at her lakehouse at Lake DeGray. Mrs. Irvin died Thursday, February 20, 2014 at her home at the age of 92.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Jack M. Irvin, her daughter, Dianna Irvin Jankey and her brothers, Hugh and George Cotton. Survivors, daughter, Jackie Campbell of Jacksonville; son, Robert (Debra) Irvin of Houston, Texas; three grandchildren, Carol Campbell of Sheridan; Christie (Dean) Halijan of Sherwood; Jack Campbell of Sheridan; three great grandchildren, Aerin, Jesslynne, and Kalon Campbell of Sheridan; caregiver, Shari Adams of Sheridan; loving dog, Sophie and a host of friends.
Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday, February 23, 2014 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Lost Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service from 1:30 until service time.
Pallbearers will be Keith Adams, Butch Campbell, Steve Murphy, Eddie Hicks, Jeff Hicks and William Hicks. Honorary pallbearer will be Tom Waller.
Memorials may be made to Grant County Museum, 521 Shackleford, Sheridan, Ark. 72150. The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Gentiva Hospice, especially Jessica and Kim for the loving care they provided.
Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook, www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.
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STAR CITY - Zackary Scott Towers, 19 of Star City, passedaway Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock. He was born June 25, 1994 in Pine Bluff.
Zackary Scott Towers was a warm and loving son, grandson,nephew, cousin and friend. He was a loving protective brother and loved his family endlessly. He had a simple, trusting faith in God that never waivered. Zack was an independent thinker who wasn’t easily swayed by others. Zack loved football, weightlifting, vacations, all sports and especially going to the beach. He was fun, easy going, laid back and took things in stride. He was a responsible and very bright student who often helped inspire others with their education. Zack was always surrounded by friends and he had a way of improving those around him.
Zack fought a long, courageous battle, and many lives have been changed due to his ministry. For 15 months, Zack brought people closer to God, souls were saved and people were brought together in a way that has never been seen before. His race has been run and God took His child home. Zack is healed now and is at peace. Zack’s legacy is one of faith, love and the spirit of never giving up. He will be missed,but will never be forgotten.
Survivors include his father, Jim Towers of Star City; mother and step-father, Christy and Roger Rasico of Little Rock; 2 brothers, Tyler Reid Towers and Jon Taylor Towers, both of Star City; paternal grandparents, Norman and Patsy Towers of Pine Bluff; maternal grandparents, Bill Moss of Monticello and Rochelle “Sheshay” Moss of Hot Springs and maternal great-grandmother, Odette Blankenship of Crossett.
Funeral Services are 1 p.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 at the First Baptist Church in Star City with Bro. Paul Holderfield and Bro. Mike Powell officiating. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Friday at the church. Burial at Best Cemetery in Star City. Pallbearers are Luke Oldner, Austin Smith, Austin White, Jackson Haynes, Jarrett Frizzell, D.J. Pace, Jordan Burns, Austin McGehee, Zach House, Darian Washington, Michael Criss, Devondrick Shelton, Jake Carr and Tyler Musselwhite.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Zack Towers Scholarship Fund, The Bank of Star City, Attn: Wanda Tubbs, P.O. Box 69, Star City, Ark. 71667. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online obituary at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.
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VILONIA - James O. “Buddy” Armstrong Jr., 79, of Vilonia passedaway February 19, 2014. He was born September 14, 1934, in Itasca, Texas to the late James O. Armstrong Sr., and birth mother Clemmie Couch Armstrong, and mother who raised him, Elisabeth Sparks Armstrong. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Bettie Armstrong Floyd.
Buddy was a deacon for 44 years, and longtime member of Friendship Baptist Church. He worked for Borden for 24 years where he retired as a wholesale milk salesman. He also retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield where he worked later in his life. Buddy enjoyed being in the outdoors along with working in his shop he had built for woodworking. Buddy was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia “Pat” Lyons Armstrong; three sons, James Armstrong (Lisa) of North Little Rock, Mark Armstrong of Vilonia, and Paul Armstrong (Jan) of Vilonia; a daughter Mary Armstrong Green (Ray) of Mayflower; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Martha Armstrong Lenox (Tom) of Cape Cod, Mass.
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2014 at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway.
Graveside Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014, at Vilonia Cemetery with Bro. Ken Jordan officiating. Family request that memorial contributions be made to Friendship Baptist Church building fund in Vilonia, Ark. For online obituary: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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WARREN - Clarence Edward Frazier Sr. of Warren, born September 23, 1971 and passed February 14, 2014. He is preceded in death by father, Orbie Dean “Frank” Frazier. Survived by mother, Sherby Willa Frazier, Monticello; wife, Tonya Frazier,Little Rock, three sons, Clarence Edwards II and Kiehl, both of Fayetteville, Tyreese of Dardenelle; five daughters, Jasmine and Jordan of Fayetteville, Treasure of Hope, Sylvia Mahone of Kansas City and Brittany Robinson of Jasper, Ark.; siblings, Jacqueline (Cedric) Leonard of Monticello, Regi of Newport, Maurice Earnest of Flint, Michigan, and Kevin (Esmeralda) of Springdale, Ark. Special Aunt & Uncle, Laveta (Eric) Hale and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Family Hour will be Friday, February 21 from 5-6 p.m. at Gunn Funeral Home. Homegoing Services on Saturday, February 22 at 12 noon with visitation at 11 a.m. at Shady Grove AME, 1265 Highway 138, Monticello, Ark. Service entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 W. 29th, Little Rock, Ark. 72204. (501) 660-4323.
Out-of-state
MORENO VALLEY, Calif. - Willine Delores Patterson of Moreno Valley, Calif., formerly of North Little Rock, Ark., went to be with our Lord on Feb. 4, 2014. She was born to John and Jessie Hudson on July 16, 1930. Willine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 54 years, Russell A. Patterson; a daughter, Sharon Ann; a son, James Wesley; a grandson, Bronson; and eight siblings. Survivors include her children, Pam Clark (Brett) of Lonoke, Ark., Teresa De-Leon (Pete) of Moreno Valley, Calif., Karen Pilcher (Darrell) of North Little Rock, Ark.; her twin sister, Geneva Smith and Eva Hudson. Her grandchildren, Rob Cauldwell, Jaime Cauldwell, Rusty DeLeon, Amy Alexander; one great-grandson and six great-granddaughters; and a host of family and friends. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Till we meet again.
Celebration of life for Willine Delores (Hudson) Patterson will be Feb. 23, 2014, 2 p.m., Moose Lodge #942, 4000 Kiehl Avenue, Sherwood, Ark.
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TOPEKA, Kan. - Harold Lee Buchanan, 63, of Topeka, Kansas was born on July 20, 1950 to the union of James Clarence Buchanan and Charlotte Baucom Buchanan in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was a 1968 graduate of George Washington Carver HighSchool in Lonoke, Arkansas.
Harold accepted Christ at an early age. He was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church, Grandview, Missouri. Harold is a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned several medals, including National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device.
He was formerly employed as a machinist for the Kansas City Power and Light Company in Kansas City.
Harold departed this life on Tuesday, February 4, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Charlotte Buchanan and brothers, James R. Buchanan, Larry Buchanan, Jerry V. Buchanan, Harold L. Buchanan and Odell Buchanan. He leaves to cherish his memory, three children Sean Jackson of Omaha, Nebraska, LaTonya Rasoles of Dallas, Texas and Janet Buchanan of Kansas City, Missouri; brothers, Willis C. Buchanan, Mitchell E. Buchanan, Sanford R.Buchanan and Dwight A. Buchanan; sisters, Jean Buchanan Shavers, Barbara Buchanan Woodson, Marilyn Buchanan Johnson, Phyllis Buchanan and Sonja Buchanan Rowe; eight grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends who loved him and will miss him.
Military burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, February 21, 2014 at Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kansas. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 1 p.m. at Second Missionary Baptist Church, 511 Harry Truman Dr., Grandview, Mo. Professional services entrusted to Bowser-Johnson Funeral Chapel, Topeka, Kansas. To leave a message for the family online, please visit www.bowserjohnsonfuneralchapel.com.
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KEW GARDENS, N.Y. - Robert G Wooldridge of Kew Gardens, N.Y., died Thursday, February 13, 2014. Funeral is at 2 p.m., Saturday, at Shinn Chapel with burial at Bowden Cemetery. Arrangements are by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation Saturday from 10:30 to 12 noon at the funeral home. Online obituary/guestbook available at www.shinnfuneral.com.
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SALINA, Utah - Service for Robert Earl Murphy, 91, of Salina, Utah, 1 p.m., Saturday, Roller-Citizens. Visitation: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturday. Survivors: wife, four children, two stepdaughters, one brother, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren. Services directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571. Friends and relatives may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ westhelena.
Arkansas, Pages 12 on 02/21/2014