Gertrude Eckford

Gertrude P. Eckford, 81, of Forrest City, AR transitioned peacefully into eternal life with her heavenly father on Saturday, July 3, 2010 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. At the time of her transition, she was surrounded by her loving family Zeretta Brown Owens (niece), Zelenda Owens (great-niece), Angela Mull and her husband Elvis (great-niece and nephew), and their children, Dariane, Elvis and Aidan as well as family dog Sampson. Ms. Eckford was born on September 28, 1928 to the late Rev. Willie Lee and Pearl Eckford. She was preceded in death by her brother, Arthur Lee Eckford. She is survived by her brother Wallace Eckford of Richmond, Virginia, sister Parthenia Brown of Patterson, New Jersey, and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members. Ms. Eckford was a long time member of Beth Salem Baptist Church and served her community well. More importantly, Ms. Eckford was a strong Christian leader for her family. She read and studied her Bible daily. In all that Ms. Eckford did, she was led by God's word. A special thank you to Arkansas Hospice for their support in the care of Ms .Eckford at home during her brief illness. A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Beth Salem Baptist Church, 835 East Garland, Forrest City, Arkansas by Reverend Garfield Walker. Arrangements are by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501)224-8300. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116. Condolences may be mailed to 5 Pleasant Cove, Little Rock, AR 72211. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhome.com/chenal