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

Lewis D. Anthony, 57, of Little Rock. The Rev. Dr. Robert Marsh Cooper, 78, of Little Rock. Billy Joe “Ironman” Curry, 45, of Little Rock. Margaret Marie “Pegi” Garbett, 62, of Little Rock. Frances Irene Goodenough, 95, of Little Rock. Betty Dickinson Henderson, 79, of Little Rock. Ervin Jerome Kelly III, 61, of Little Rock. Mona F. McGinty, 81, of Jacksonville. Janice Marie Porter, 53, of Jacksonville. Virginia Porter-Hayes, 70, of Little Rock. Jean Rankin, 87, of North Liittle Rock. Birleather Reaves, 83, of Little Rock. Brian Dennis Shaw, 60, of Little Rock. Stephen Eugene Sudbery, 49, of Little Rock. Monroe Turner Williams, 61, of Little Rock.

ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS

BATESVILLE

William Gerald Fowler, 83.

BAUXITE

Brenda Gale Cobb Bennett, 65.

BEARDEN

Floyd Lisemby, 60.

BLYTHEVILLE

Jean Daniels, 85. Hunter Cowan Sims Jr., 90. Troy Wayne Stevenson, 36.

CABOT

Hazel Louise Cook Barrett, 94. Norma Louise Stowe , 76.

CAMDEN

Coby Dale Cook, 80.

CROSSETT

Merle Bardin Kennedy Bee, 95.

EL DORADO

Patricia Denise Ward, 42.

EUDORA

James Walter Atkins, 68.

GREENBRIER

Lonis Lee Hammett, 84. Doyce Adron Harrington, 81.

HARRISBURG

Peggy Hardin, 70.

HARRISON

Billie Jean Chism-Pemberton, 65.

HEBER SPRINGS

James “Jim” Madison Stanford, 98. Barbara Thomas, 92.

HOT SPRINGS

Eva Guillermina Fason. Shirley Jean Jackson, 84.

JASPER

Robert Wayne “Bob” Harrison, 75.

MALVERN

John McJunkins, 44. Amy Catherine Thompson. Chuck Vandergriff, 51.

OZARK

Lisa Travis, 46.

PARIS

Erma Nadine Russell, 79.

SEARCY

Ava Lavada Vaughn, 72.

SHERIDAN

Martha Ann Wood George, 72.

SPRINGDALE

Stella Pearl Layne, 93.

STUTTGART

Mary Alice McCuistion Acklin, 89.

VELVET RIDGE

Susan Kelly, 69.

WICKES

Gladys Marie Huff, 85.

OUT-OF-STATE

BALLWIN, Mo.

Laverne (nee Petkus) St. Amour.

BRANSON

William H. “Bill” Nichols, 81.

CHESAPEAKE, Va.

Wilma Sue Boyd Viar, 73.

Pulaski County

LEWIS D. ANTHONY, 57, Little Rock, departed this life Feb. 18, 2014. He worked for Doubletree Hotel for 10 years, Excelsior for many years, and will be missed by family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory: siblings, Bonnie McIntosh, Timothy Anthony Jr., Flora Montgomery, Orlando Anthony, Stanley Anthony, Terry Anthony, Cassandra Anthony; a host of family and friends. Visitation: 12-6 p.m. Tuesday at Robinson Mortuary, LR. Funeral Service: 12 p.m. Wednesday Robinson Mortuary Chapel, Little Rock. 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.”

–––––

•–––––THE REV. DR. ROBERT MARSH COOPER, son of Robert Howard Cooper and Mabel Claire Marsh Cooper, was born May 19, 1935 in Salisbury, N.C. and passed into the greater life on Feb. 17, 2014. He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Lanier Cooper. He attended the University of Edinburgh, Scotland and later Georgia Tech where he became a member of Delta Tau Delta. He earned a Bachelor of Science in philosophy from Catawba College in North Carolina, graduating cum laude; a Master’s of Divinity from Berkeley Divinity School at Yale University, graduating magna cum laude; a Master’s of Theology at Sewanee Divinity School at the University of the South; a Master’s of Philosophy from Louisiana State University; and a Doctor of Divinity from Vanderbilt.

He was ordained to the Episcopal priesthood in 1960 and served actively in the church for 50 years as parish priest, seminary professor, mentor, pastoral counselor and international speaker. While being no angel himself, he seemed to come down on the side of the angels. He despised injustice, spoke truth to power, and bore the consequences. He was an active participant in the civil rights movement; he helped orchestrate the passage of votes regularizing the ordination of women to the priesthood; and he was a forceful voice in favor of the recognition of gay rights and callings, both in civil and ecclesiastical settings. He has to his credit innumerable articles and essays published in journals, magazines, and books. He is also known as an accomplished and published poet. He was an entertaining conversationalist who often peppered his listeners with a charmingly wicked wit. The sweep of his knowledge and his gifts seemed to be without limit. And as the end came, he laid himself down day by day in Faith through Grace.

Along with many devoted friends and former students, he is survived by his wife, Ann Hedge-Carruthers, who will miss his love and touch and companionship. He is also survived by his children, Ashley Cooper, Reni Sakos and Eric Cooper; and two stepdaughters whom he counted as his own, Rebecca Doll and Bess Wynn; 10 grandchildren, Lauren, Katie, Griffin, Kendall, Grayson, Travis, Bryce, Melissa, Bailey, and Lizzie; and a beloved brother, Gary Edward Cooper, also grieve his passing.

Well done, thou good and faithful servant.

A funeral service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 2701 Elm St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204; Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 310 W 17th St., Little Rock, Ark. 72206 or Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––BILLY JOE “IRONMAN” CURRY, 45, of Little Rock passed away on Feb. 20, 2014. He was born on Nov. 6, 1968 to Joe and Shirley Curry in Searcy. After being diagnosed with Diabetes Type 1 as a child, he fought the good fight and far exceeded the doctors expectations. Billy loved music and was a songwriter. He played guitar in bands of his own and in other bands. He was free-spirited and big-hearted. If you knew Billy, you are a better person. A longtime member of Backroad Ramblers Motorcycle Club, he loved to ride and cherished his time spent with his riding family.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Kara; his father, Joe Curry; his sister, Debbie Pratt; his grandmother, Granny Jane; his niece, Shasha Roachell; his canine companion, Carly; and a host of extended family and friends, all who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014 at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m.

Funeral services will be on Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel of the funeral home with Jerry ” Brother Punkin” Melton officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be the Backroad Ramblers Motorcycle Club.

Please share your memories of Ironman at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.

–––––

•–––––MARGARET MARIE ‘PEGI’ GARBETT aged 62, of Little Rock, Ark., passed after a long illness at UAMS Hospital on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014.

She was born Dec. 13, 1951, in Little Rock, to the late Harold and Patricia Downing. She graduated from Central High School in Little Rock. On Aug. 14, 1971, she was married to Gerald Wayne ‘Jerry’ Garbett.

During her time with us, Pegi touched the lives of countless people through her tireless efforts with the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. Over her 24 years of dedication to the IORG, she earned many awards, most noteworthy was the Walter J. Gigerich Shining Star Award for outstanding service.

Pegi is survived by her husband, Jerry; her daughters, Lecia and Jennifer; her son, Chris; her grandchildren, Tabitha, Rhys, Xander, King, Bella, Cadence, Daniel, Creed, and Lovey-Grace; her great-grandson, Gabriel; her great-granddaughter, Lexi; her sisters, Jean, Susan, Barbara, Virginia, Theresa, and Nancy; her brothers, Lee, Bob, David, and Tom. She is further survived by nephews, nieces, other relatives, and many, many friends.

A Rosary will be said for Pegi on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014 at 6 p.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Little Rock. Mass of Christian Burial will also be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Little Rock, Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, at 10 a.m. Father Warren Harvey, Celebrant. Entombment will follow at Forest Hills Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The International Order of Rainbow for Girls, 13517 Eagle Hawk Dr., Little Rock, Ark. 72206. To sign the online guestbook, go to www. griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.

–––––

•–––––FRANCES IRENE GOODENOUGH, 95, of Little Rock, passed away Feb. 10, 2014. She was born in Condersport, Pa., to Dennis E. and Elsie Stonemetz Goodenough and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. She was a graduate of the Eastman School of Dental Hygiene in Rochester, N.Y., and worked as a dental hygienist most of her life. She was instrumental in establishing the Arkansas State Dental Hygienist Association, of which she was an active member.

Frances was a charter member of the Goodenough Family Association and the Condersport Historical Society. She was a member of First United Methodist Church where she volunteered in the L.I.F.T. program, and taking flowers to hospitals and shut-ins. Frances was also a member of the American Daffodil Society and the Gardenia Garden Club. In retirement, she grew and showed daffodils, attending shows and conventions throughout the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, England and Ireland.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; and three sisters. She is survived by her brother, Dennis Edward Goodenough of Pennsylvania; and a host of other family and friends.

Services will be Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), officiated by Rev. Chris Cooper. Interment will be Thursday, Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.

Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Ms. Goodenough’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––BETTY DICKINSON HENDERSON of Little Rock died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014 at Hospice Home Care.

Betty was born Jan. 16, 1935 in Denver, Colo., to Lt. Col. W.D. and Vita Dickinson. She attended elementary school at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point where her father served on the faculty all during WWII. After the war, her family returned to Little Rock where Betty graduated from Little Rock High School. Betty graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority and met her husband, Don Henderson.

Betty was a devoted wife and mother, and a mentor to many who shared common interests with her. Betty was always willing to lend her time and talents for a worthy cause, and was effective both as a project leader and as a willing worker. Over her lifetime she enjoyed participating in projects to the fullest.

Betty loved everything to do with flowers. She cultivated prize winning flowers, designed award-winning arrangements, worked on the Arkansas State Flower and Garden show from its inception, and exhibited her original designs at flower shows for the last 30 plus years. Betty was a retired “Consulting Rosarian” for the American Rose Society, a retired Master Gardener, a Life Master Judge, and was awarded the “Circle of Roses” membership for 25 years of service to the Arkansas Federation of Garden Clubs. She was past president of the Greater Little Rock Council of Garden Clubs, and an Honorary Life Member of the council. She was a member of the Central Arkansas Iris Society, Central Arkansas Horticulture Society, Wildflower and Chenal Garden Clubs, and Designer’s Study Club, and was a charter member of Verna Garvan Design Study Club in Hot Springs and a charter member of Garvan Gardens.

One of her greatest pleasures was to lead others through the process of becoming a flower show judge and to share her knowledge with fledgling designers.

Betty enjoyed traveling with her husband, Don, showing their Champion Shetland Sheepdogs. One year their dog was the top winning Sheltie in Canada and another year their dog was the top winner in the United States. For many years they traveled all around the United States judging dog shows. Betty was a Life Member of the Arkansas Kennel Club.

In her later years, Betty’s life revolved around the activities and fellowship of Covenant Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed helping with the altar flowers, attending Bible studies and participating in small group gatherings.

Betty is survived by her husband of 56 years, Donald R. Henderson; their son, Drew Henderson of North Dakota; their granddaughter, Hannah Henderson and her mother, Caroline Robertson of Bryant, Ark. Betty is also survived by her stepmother, Emily Dickinson; her sister-in-law, Judy Henderson of Magnolia; and her very special nephew, Dr. Rob Henderson of Dallas, Texas. She also leaves behind nephew, Bill Lawrence; and nieces, Peggy Lawrence and Vicki Lawrence.

Betty was preceded in death by her daughter, Cathy Henderson; her sister, Julia Lawrence of Rogers; and her brother-in-law, Judge Bob Henderson of Magnolia.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211 (501) 224-8300.

A graveside service will be take place Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 at 9 a.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park, 2801 Asher Avenue, Little Rock, Ark.

A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1 Covenant Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 72211 with Reverend Tim Reed presiding. He will be assisted by Reverend Del Farris.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the building fund at Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

–––––

•–––––ERVIN JEROME KELLY III, of Little Rock, born Jan. 15, 1953 passed away Feb. 17, 2014. He is survived by wife, Anita Kelly; son, Cameron Kelly; brother, Herman Kelly; five grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends. Family hour will be Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014 5-6 p.m. at Gunn Funeral Home. Funeral Service Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church Woodson, Ark. Service entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home 4323 W. 29th Little Rock, Ark. 72204. (501) 660-4323.

–––––

•–––––MONA F. MCGINTY, age 81, of Jacksonville, passed away Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014 in Jacksonville. She was born July 1, 1932 in St. Leonard, New Brunswick, Canada to the late John and Laura Francoeur. On Sept. 12, 1956 she married James McGinty in Caribou, Maine.

Mrs. McGinty is survived by her husband, James McGinty of Jacksonville; son, John (Tena) McGinty of North Little Rock; two granddaughters, Jonda (Jeremy) Rupert and Megan (Erik) Temple, both of Sherwood; great-grandson, Parker Rupert; sister, Lucille (Bob) Lehrkamp of South Dakota.

Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Ken Stogsdill officiating. Interment will follow at Arkansas State Veteran’s Cemetery in North Little Rock. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014 at the funeral home. Please sign online guest register at www. mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome. com. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home and Crematory. (501) 982-2136.

–––––

•–––––JANICE MARIE PORTER, 53, was born in New Orleans, La. She departed this life Feb. 16, 2014, Jacksonville, Ark. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marguerite Sanders; father, Roosevelt Porter. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Ray Andrews; children, Royce and Rory Porter; siblings, Bishop Apostle Patricia, Rosalind, Reginald and Kenneth Porter; a host of family and friends. Special thanks to Ft. Smith, Ark. for receiving us after Hurricane Katrina, Rita Mercy Hospital, Sparks Hospital, Covington Court Nursing Home, Cornerstone Healthcare Center of Jacksonville, Ark. and Tasha Forrest. Funeral Services will be held Friday, Feb. 28, in New Orleans, La. at Trumpet of Truth Ministry, 3116 St. Claude Ave by Little John Funeral Home, 2162 Aubry Street, New Orleans, La. (504) 940-0045. Local Arrangements entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 4511 East Broadway St., North Little Rock (501) 374-0111. “Service You Can Trust”.

–––––

•–––––God offered and VIRGINIA PORTER-HAYES, 70, accepted her wings on Monday, Feb. 17, 2014. Visitation will be today, Feb. 23, 2014 from 5-6 p.m. at the funeral home and the homegoing service will be Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at 11 a.m. at 2nd Baptist Church located at 6111 W 83rd St. in Little Rock (next to KFC on Geyer Springs Rd). Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery St., Little Rock, Ark. 72202 (501) 376-4800. The family would like to thank Dr. Derek Lewis and Staff, Dr. Kamal Patel, Nursing Staff of Baptist Health Little Rock for their labor of Love.

–––––

•–––––JEAN RANKIN, age 87 of North Little Rock, Ark., went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 19. She will be remembered for her friendly smile and kind ways. She deeply loved her family and was dedicated to her church. Jean was a faithful member of Park Place Baptist Church where she served as church secretary for over 30 years. She was preceded in death by her husband of more than 65 years, LeRoy Rankin; her parents, Mr. & Mrs. Joe Hughes Loyd; and her sister, Ruth Louks.

She is survived by her children, Gary Rankin and wife Monica Valentovic of West Virginia, JoAnn Haustein and husband David of Beebe, Ark.; grandchildren, Heidi Hoggatt and husband Matt, and Steffy Landrum and husband Jacob; and great-grandchildren, Hadyn, Harrison and Hollis Hoggatt and Lydia and Levi Landrum; and brother-in-law, Les Louks.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 24 at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Rd., North Little Rock with Bro. Ed Stephenson and Bro. Gary Lambright officiating. Entombment will follow in Rest Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 9-10 a.m. with service to follow. Guests may register at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.

–––––

•–––––BIRLEATHER REAVES, 83, of Little Rock, Ark. transitioned from earth to heaven on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014, at 2:10 a.m. at UAMS. She worked throughout the state of Arkansas as an educator and after 31 years, she retired from the North Little Rock School District. She was an active and faithful member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church until her passing. She leaves to cherish her memories: her husband of 53 years, Charles Reaves Sr.; one son, Charles Reaves Jr.; two sisters, Betty Johnson and Rose Higgs; brothers-in-law, Raymond Bogard and Asa (Helena) Reaves; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Eckwood (Joseph), Helen Sutton (Eugene), Donna McReynolds, Mary Culpepper (Gentle) and Evelyn Reaves; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces; nephews; cousins; and friends.

A celebration of her life will be on Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, 10 a.m., at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 2603 Commerce Street, Little Rock, Ark. Interment will follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 Maryland Ave. NLR, Ark. Family visitation: Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, 6-8 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 South Chester Street, LR (501) 372-1305.

–––––

•–––––BRIAN DENNIS SHAW, 60, of Little Rock passed away on Feb. 19, 2014. He will be missed by all who loved him. Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant (501)847-9099. To sign online guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––STEPHEN EUGENE SUDBERY, 49, of Little Rock passed away Feb. 22.

He is survived by his brothers, Don Sudbery (Becky) of Oklahoma, Bill Sudbery (Melissa) of Florida; aunt, Shirley Malcom of Arkadelphia.

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

–––––

•–––––MONROE TURNER WILLIAMS, 61, Little Rock. Visitation: 9-11 a.m. Monday at Robinson Mortuary Chapel, NLR with Funeral Service beginning at 11 a.m., Pastor Willie Johnson, officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 4511 East Broadway, North Little Rock (501) 374-0111. Sign online guestbook at www. robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust.”

Arkansas

BATESVILLE — Dr. William Gerald Fowler, 83, passed away Friday, Feb. 14 at Baptist Hospital in Little Rock. He had been a resident of Batesville for more than 20 years. He was born in North Little Rock, Ark. on Jan. 26, 1931 to Thomas and Flora Fowler.

He was a graduate of Carlisle High School. He attended Ouachita Baptist University, graduated from the University of Arkansas. He received his M.D. in 1961 from the University of Arkansas Medical School. He was in private practice in Huntsville and DeWitt, Neb. After a psychiatric residency at UAMS he was in private practice as a psychiatrist in Urbana, Ill. (1970-1983), Harrison (1984) and Batesville and Jonesboro, until his retirement in 2009.

He was predeceased by Marie Garvey Fowler, his wife of 52 years; his sister, Betty Fowler Terry; his granddaughter, Candice Maxwell. Survived by daughters, Barbara Jan Fowler of Little Rock and Julia Marie Darley of Bethlehem, Ga.; his granddaughters, Lauren and Julianna Walda of Bethlehem; his sisters, Zoe Fowler of Brinkley and Jan Burgess of Greensboro, N.C.; his brothers, Henry Fowler of Tichnor and Richard Fowler (Kitty) of Eldon, Mo.; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial celebration of his life was held on Sunday, Feb. 16 at the home of his sister, Zoe Fowler. At a later date he will be buried in Buford, Ga.

–––––

•–––––BAUXITE — Brenda Gale Cobb Bennett, 65, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Feb. 20, 2014 after a battle with cancer. She was born on Dec. 1, 1948 to the late, Quincy and Nellie Burton Cobb Abernathy in Little Rock, Ark. Brenda loved her Lord, her family and always had a kind word for everyone. She always put others first as it showed in her profession as a Registered Nurse.

She is preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Marvin Cobb, Melba Cobb and Velda Cobb Mosley.

Brenda is survived by two daughters, Sue Ann Bennett and Rhonda Kay Stevens; two granddaughters, Lona Jones and Amanda Ramireg; three sisters, Linda Hall, Shirley Steele and Venita Sampson; one great-grandson; six nephews; one niece; and a host of family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly.

Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––BEARDEN — Floyd Lisemby, 60, of Bearden died Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 at his home. He was born Jan. 3, 1954 in Amarillo, Texas. Floyd was an auto mechanic. He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman Lisemby and Betty Horton Pool. He is survived by his wife, Sue Ellen Lisemby of Bearden; two daughters, Chelsea Howard and husband Dustin of Conway, Erin Lisemby of Fayetteville; one son, Jesse Lisemby and wife Sara of Conway; one sister, Ann Sutton and husband Gene of Fordyce; one grandchild, Olivia Lisemby of Conway. Visitation will be Sunday 6-8 p.m. at Benton Funeral Home in Bearden. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at First Assembly of God Church in Bearden with Rev. Charles Stoker officiating. Burial will follow at Thornton Cemetery. Arrangements by Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce/Bearden. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.

–––––

•–––––BLYTHEVILLE — Jean Daniels, 85, of Blytheville died Friday, Feb. 21, at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House, Jonesboro.

Survivors: husband, Hayse Daniels; children, Ronnie Daniels and Debra Davison; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters. Funeral, Feb. 25, 10 a.m., Cobb Funeral Home. Visitation, Monday, Feb. 24, 5-7 p.m. Condolences expressed at cobbfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––BLYTHEVILLE — Dr. Hunter Cowan Sims Jr., 90, of Blytheville, Ark. died Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 at his home.

Graveside services will be Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at 11 a.m. in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Cobb Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––BLYTHEVILLE — Troy Wayne Stevenson, 36, of the Half Moon Community died Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 at his home.

Survivors: parents, Doyle and Shirley Stevenson; sister, Darlene Blagg; two nephews, and one niece.

Funeral, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2 p.m., Cobb Funeral Home. Visitation, Monday, Feb. 24, from 5-7 p.m. Condolences expressed at www.cobbfuneralhome.com. –––––

•–––––CABOT — Hazel Louise Cook Barrett, formerly of Cabot, passed from this earthly life on Feb. 20, 2014, at the Russellville Nursing and Rehab Facility in Russellville, Ark. She was just weeks shy of her 95th birthday.

Mrs. Barrett was born March 9, 1919, on Beckett Mountain outside of Rosebud, Ark., to Emmett Fletcher and Pearl Estelle Beckett Cook. She married Lloyd Barrett on May 14, 1939. They lived in Searcy for a while after their marriage and also lived a brief time in Fresno, Calif., where Lloyd was stationed during early WWII, but they made Cabot their home not long after the war and raised four children there. Several years after her husband’s death in 1989, Mrs. Barrett moved to Trillium Park Retirement Living Community in Conway, living there until last year when she moved to Russellville to be near her daughter.

Mrs. Barrett was a successful homemaker and the world’s best jelly-maker. She loved reading and watching the news to keep abreast of current events, and she loved watching the Razorbacks play. She was a member of the Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church and an active member of the Eastern Star until leaving Cabot.

Mrs. Barrett was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Cecil Cook and his wife, Della, of Rosebud; and sister-inlaw, Ola May Curtis of Jacksonville.

She is survived by her children: sons, Bruce Barrett of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., and Woodrow and wife Elizabeth Barrett of Cabot; and daughters, Teresa and husband Jerry Sawrie of Russellville and Tracey and husband John Baldwin of Raleigh, N.C. Also surviving are grandchildren, Michele and husband Brett Mackrill of Cabot, Brad and wife Robin Barrett of Cabot, and Janine and husband Kraig Bradberry of Jacksonville, Fla.; great-grandchildren, Kolt and wife Amy Mackrill, Kelsey Barrett, Kruise Mackrill, Justin Barrett, Barrett Bradberry, and Antonia Bradberry; great-great-granddaughter, Layla Mackrill; several nieces; and a nephew.

Funeral services will be at 12 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014, at Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home with Rev. Paul Woolley officiating. Visitation will be 11 a.m. prior to the funeral. Interment will be in Rosebud Cemetery, Rosebud, Ark. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice Foundation. The family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude for the care Mother received first by Emeritus at Trillium Park and lastly by the Russellville Nursing and Rehab and Arkansas Hospice. Arrangements are by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home (501)843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––CABOT — Norma Louise Stowe, 76 of Cabot, Ark., passed away Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014. She was born on July 29, 1937 in Fruitport, Mich, a daughter of the late John and Hazel Pope. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Otis Stowe; and her brothers, Carl Pope of North Little Rock, Ark. and Quay Pope of Fruitport, Mich.

She is survived by her children, Brenda Bazil of Cabot, Nancy Erbach (Tom) of Conway, and David Stowe (Charlotte) of Roland. She leaves behind five grandchildren, Lisa Lago and Jason Bazil of Cabot, Thomas Erbach, Jessie Davidson (Brian), and Jacob Erbach (Kristi), all of Conway; five great-grandchildren, Anthony Lago, Logan Bazil, Mary Erbach, Thor Davidson, and Cooper Greyson; four sisters-in-law, Edna Carlton of Grand Haven, Mich., Ruth Stowe of Muskegon, Mich., Donna Pope of Fruitport, Mich., and Margaret Hartley of North Little Rock, Ark.; eight nephews and nieces; and 15 great-nephews and nieces.

Norma received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Fla. and a Masters of Education Administration from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in Fayetteville, Ark. She worked for the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Finance and Administration, taught Kindergarten, and was employed during the first year of public Kindergarten in Arkansas. She taught grades first and fourth. Norma was the 1977 Commander of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, the 1977 delegate to the National Representative Assembly of the National Education Association, past President of the Harrison Association of Teachers and Administrators, and the past Vice-President of the American Business Women’s Association.

Norma loved her family, immediate and extended, above everything. She also enjoyed visiting with her friends and neighbors, reading, and swimming in her youth. She was a member of St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Jacksonville, Ark. and a previous member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Little Rock, Ark.

Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 from 6-8 p.m. at Huson Funeral Home, 7700 Highway 107, Sherwood, Ark.

Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Jacksonville, Ark. with graveside services at Arkansas State Veterans’ Cemetery at 1501 West Maryland Avenue, North Little Rock, Ark. following at noon.

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

•–––––CAMDEN — Coby Dale Cook, 80, of Camden died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014 at Life Touch Hospice in El Dorado. Funeral services will be Monday at 2 p.m. at Cullendale Assembly of God Church in Camden with burial in Means Cemetery near Hampton. Visitation today, 6-8 p.m. at Proctor Funeral Home. Online register www.proctorfuneralhome.com. –––––

•–––––CROSSETT — Merle Bardin Kennedy Bee, 95, of Crossett, Ark. passed away Feb. 21, 2014 Graveside services at 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, Pinewood Memorial Park under direction of Jones Funeral Home of Crossett, Ark. (www.jonesservice.com). Visitation from 11-12 p.m., Monday, prior to service at Jones Funeral Home.

–––––

•–––––EL DORADO — Patricia Denise Ward, 42, of El Dorado, born Nov. 23, 1971, passed away on Feb. 19, 2014. She was preceded in death by her father, James Massey; maternal grandparents, Leonard and Elma Lee Harris; paternal grandfather, Artis Massey; and paternal grandmother, Marcelle Massey Almond.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Joe Ward. She is also survived by mother, Barbera Menefee; stepfather, David Menefee; children, Christopher N. (Savannah) Thornton, Shelby I. Thornton, and Hannah M. Thornton; grandchildren, Allison Thornton, Baylee Thornton, and Landon Thornton; siblings, Traci Miramontes, Mark Massey, Cathy Heathscott, and Shannon Menefee; aunt, Nancy Cruz; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be 1 p.m., Monday, Feb. 24 at Liberty Methodist Church. Funeral to follow at 2 p.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.

To sign her guestbook, please visit www.arkansasfuneralcare. com. Arrangements made by Arkansas Funeral Care.

–––––

•–––––EUDORA — James Walter Atkins, 68, of Eudora, Ark. died Thursday Feb. 20, 2014. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. today at Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Service in Eudora, Ark. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at New Hope Baptist Church in Eudora with burial at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. On-line guest book at www.griffinculpepper.com.

–––––

•–––––GREENBRIER — Lonis Lee Hammett, 84, of Greenbrier, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014.

Funeral Services are 10 a.m., Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, in the chapel of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Greenbrier. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––

•–––––GREENBRIER — Doyce Harrington, 81, of Greenbrier, died Friday. He was retired from the Faulkner County Road Department.

Survived by his daughter, Linda Harper.

Services 1 p.m. Monday at Roller McNutt Chapel Greenbrier. Visitation 6-8 p.m. today.

Burial in Republican Cemetery.

Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

501-679-2575.

–––––

•–––––HARRISBURG — Peggy Hardin, 70, of Harrisburg died Thursday. She was born Dec. 28, 1943 in Tuckerman, the daughter of Arby and Lucy (McClain) Henderson. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Monday at Cornerstone Baptist Church. Visitation is today, 6-8 p.m. at Jackson’s Funeral Home. Interment is in Sandhill Cemetery. Arrangements are by Jackson’s Funeral Home.

–––––

•–––––HARRISON — Billie Jean Chism-Pemberton, age 65, of Harrison, passed away Sunday, Feb. 16, 2014 in Harrison. She was born Feb. 23, 1948, in Keo, Ark., the daughter of Cecil and Ruth (Crone) Chism.

Ms. Pemberton was a lifelong resident of Arkansas working for and retiring from Entergy. She was a past IBEW member and was the third woman in Arkansas to have her boiler license. She enjoyed gardening, her herbs and roses while watching hummingbirds, and drinking her thick black coffee on the front porch. She tolerated her children but adored her grandchildren.

Billie is survived by her three daughters, Donna and husband Arlandus Redic of North Little Rock, Rebecca Prince of Harrison, and Nancy Prince of College Station, Texas; her sister, Thelma Sawyer; two brothers, Jimmy and Jerry Chism; five grandchildren, Ray Prince, Casey Humphreys, Jesse Russell, Jackie Prince and Aubree Russell; and two great-grandchildren, Zeke Humphreys and Aiden Prince.

Services will be at a later time.

Arrangements are by Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/Harrison.

–––––

•–––––HEBER SPRINGS — James Madison Stanford, 98, retired American Airlines pilot, passed away Jan. 17, 2014. Visitation for Mr. Stanford and his late wife, Jean, is Saturday, March 8, 1 p.m., Heber Springs First United Methodist Church with memorial service 2 p.m. Memorials: Heber Springs First United Methodist Church or Waychoff Senior Center.

–––––

•–––––HEBER SPRINGS — Barbara Thomas, 92, died Feb. 20, 2014. Children, James Thomas (Marella) of Texas and Dolores Frei Lumpkin (James) of Hope; grandchildren, James Frei, Julie Perrigo, Robbie Thomas, Cherl Infante; six great-grandchildren.

Visitation today, Olmstead Funeral Home, 5-7 p.m. Funeral Monday, Olmstead Chapel, 11 a.m. Interment Cleburne County Memorial Gardens. www.olmstead.cc.

–––––

•–––––HOT SPRINGS — Eva Guillermina Fason, most recently of Guadalajara, Mexico, a longtime resident of Hot Springs and Little Rock, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 18. She was preceded in death by her husband, U.S. Army SMSgt Wilmer C. Fason Sr. She is survived by her four children, Dr. Virginia and the late John Wright of Gig Harbor, Wash., Arlene Robinette of Hot Springs and Alan Robinette of Royal, Wilmer Fason Jr. of Hot Springs, and Clark Fason of Hot Springs; and her three grandchildren, Sarah Wright, and Payton and Jansen Robinette. Services and interment took place in Guadalajara.

–––––

•–––––HOT SPRINGS — Shirley Jean Jackson, 84, of Hot Springs, died Friday, Feb. 21, 2014. Visitation will be held Monday from 6-8 p.m. at Gross Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held at Gross Funeral home on Tuesday at 11 a.m., with burial following at Shady Grove Cemetery.

www.grossfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––MALVERN — John McJunkins, 44, Malvern died Feb. 20, 2014.

Survivors: mother, Twyla Mc-Junkins; wife, Ginger McJunkins; son, Jaryd McJunkins; daughters, Johnna Ross, Shelby Cotten, Mackenzie Weith; siblings, Davie and Jeff McJunkins, Julie Sims; two grandchildren.

Visitation, Monday, Feb. 24, 5-7 p.m., Regency, Malvern.

Service, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2 p.m., Regency.

Arrangements, Regency Funeral Home. Guestbook, www.regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––

•–––––MALVERN — Heaven welcomed home Amy Catherine Thompson of Malvern, Monday Feb. 17, 2014. She leaves behind her mother, Vera Grace (Carson) Ball and stepfather, James Everette Ball; step-sisters, Kathie Ball of Ward, Judie Ball of Cabot, Connie Smith (Bill) of Wilburn, Elisa Brady (Tommy) of Conway. Please visit www.cremationsofarkansas.com to sign the register.

–––––

•–––––MALVERN — Chuck Vandergriff, 51, Malvern, died Feb. 21, 2014. Chuck was in sales for Frito Lay.

Survivors: parents, Charles and Virginia Vandergriff; wife, Jodie Vandergriff all of Malvern; son, Wesley Vandergriff of San Angelo, Texas; and son-in-law, Nathan McClard of Hot Springs; daughters, Amy Vandergriff of Malvern and Lauren Vandergriff of Hot Springs.

Visitation Sunday Feb. 23, 6-8 p.m. Regency Funeral Home. Graveside Monday Feb. 24 10 a.m., New Rosemont Cemetery, Benton, Ark. Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guestbook at www.regencyfuneralhome.com. –––––

•–––––SEARCY — Ava Lavada Vaughn, 72, of Searcy died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014. Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, 6-8 p.m. at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home (501) 268-3546. Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in White County Memorial Gardens. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com.

–––––

•–––––SHERIDAN — Martha Ann Wood George of Sheridan, Ark., was born Jan. 21, 1942, in Amarillo, Texas, the daughter of the late William Tarpley and Nona A. Riffle Wood. She was a member of Riverstreet Church of Christ in Benton and had been bookkeeper for R.E. George and Sons Logging for many years. She enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, gardening and ceramics. She was well known for being a Girl Scout leader, a home-room mother and chauffeur for many girls gymnastics and dance events.

Mrs. George died on Friday, Feb. 21, 2014, at Baptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock at the age of 72.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Nina Hughes.

Survivors: loving husband, Stanley George of Sheridan; daughters, Renea George of Arkadelphia, Susan and husband, Cole Ledbetter, of East End; brother, Tarpley “Sonny” Wood of Glendale; precious granddaughter, Peyton Blair Ledbetter; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014, at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Chapel with Tommy Parsons, minister officiating. Burial will follow at Lost Creek Cemetery in Sheridan. Visitation will be Monday from 6-8 p.m.

Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook, www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.

–––––

•–––––STUTTGART — Mary Alice McCuistion Acklin, beloved family member and friend, went to be with her Lord, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014. She was 89.

Mary Alice was born Oct. 21, 1924, to the late Ed and Ruth Bassett McCuistion in Wilson, Ark. Mary Alice married the love of her life, Eugene Wilson Acklin, on July 18, 1943, and was happily married for 49 years before his death in 1992.

She is survived by three sons and a daughter, Edward Michael Acklin of Bryant, Christopher Jewel “Kit” Acklin of Enola, James Charles Acklin of McHenry, Miss., and Shelby Acklin Churchwell of Bryant; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers, Robert McCuistion of Arlington, Texas, and Fred McCuistion of Little Rock; plus a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Besides her husband and parents, she is predeceased by a son, David Eugene Acklin; her brothers, James Fred McCuistion and John Ed McCuistion; and sisters, Elizabeth Ann Richardson and Judith Claire Gulya.

Mary Alice was a devout Christian and member of Grand Avenue United Methodist Church for over 50 years. She loved her church, her church family and served it faithfully. She was an active member of UMW, Circle 2, a member of the Chancel and Handbell choirs, and served on numerous committees throughout the years.

She was a graduate of Little Rock High School in 1942 and attended Little Rock Junior College for one year. She always liked saying that “20 years and four children later” she returned to earn a bachelor’s degree in education at Little Rock University and a master’s degree in elementary counseling from the University of Central Arkansas. Her first 10 years in education she was a private kindergarten teacher. In 1967, she went to work for the Stuttgart Public School District, where she was an elementary classroom teacher and an elementary guidance counselor before her retirement in 1990. She felt blessed to have a family that supported her career. She loved all of her students individually over the years and felt an honor to be their teacher.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 23, from 2-4 p.m. at Turpin Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m. at Grand Avenue United Methodist Church in Stuttgart, Ark. Interment will be at Forrest Hills in Alexander, Ark.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorials be made to Grand Avenue United Methodist Church.

Please go to www.turpinco. com to sign the online guestbook.

–––––

•–––––VELVET RIDGE — Susan Kelly, 69, of Velvet Ridge died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014. She was a homemaker and attended New Life Assembly of Jesus Christ Church in Magness.

Services were 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at the Willis Funeral Service Chapel.

Arrangements are by Willis Funeral Service of Batesville www. willisfs.com.

–––––

•–––––WICKES — Gladys Marie Huff, age 85 years, of Wickes, Ark., formerly of Watson, Okla., died Feb. 20, 2014, in DeQueen. Services are Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at 1 p.m. at the Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene at Cove. Interment follows in Watson Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Out-of-state

BALLWIN, Mo. — Laverne (nee Petkus) St. Amour, passed away Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Beloved wife of Edgar St. Amour; dear mother of Thomas St. Amour, M.D. and his wife Cathie of Little Rock, Ark., David St. Amour, and Scott St. Amour, M.D. and his wife Karen of Chesterfield, Mo.; grandmother of Sarah, Edgar, Claire, Alex, Andrew, Paul, Carol and Marc; great-grandmother of Taylor and Mason.

Laverne worked as an administrator to several executives. She served on the Board of Directors for Helping Hands in Little Rock. She was a Third order Carmelite. She was an artist.

Funeral Mass at the Passionist Nuns Monastery Chapel, 15700 Clayton Road, Ellisville, Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in the form of Masses. Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook at Schrader.com.

–––––

•–––––BRANSON — William H. “Bill” Nichols, 81, of Branson, Mo., formerly of Russellville, died Thursday. Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday at the Round Rock Church, Russellville, with burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Hector, by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation: 1-3 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home. Online obituary/ guestbook: www.shinnfuneral. com.