Odelia Herring Walsh

Odelia Herring Walsh, 93 of Sparkman, was born to Nannie Frazer and Green Barry Herring on February 19, 1920 in Sparkman, Arkansas. She left her earthly body in exchange for a glorious place with her Lord on March 27, 2013. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, Ben Walsh; her son, Benny Bruce Walsh; her sister Florence Atchley; and brothers, Arling, Robert, Edward (Jack), and Henry Herring. On January 2, 1937, Odelia was united in marriage with Ben Walsh. Their marriage was blessed with three sons and two daughters. Odelia's interests were all driven by her love for God. She loved her Church, family, friends, quilting, gardening, and cooking everyone's favorite dishes. Everyone was welcome in her home. She had a way of showing her love and concern whether it be a new friend or someone she had known forever. She had a special love for her grandchildren; nine in all and for her seventeen great grands. She had a particular love for children. Children sensed this love and returned it. Mema never missed a family birthday. Those remaining behind to cherish their memories of her include: her sons Don Walsh and wife Betty of Malvern; Ron Walsh and wife Joy of Marshall, Texas; Jane Krontz and husband Ted of Mabelvale; Charlotte Harrison and husband Tyler of Mabelvale. Her grandchildren: Steve Harrison and wife Karen; Jeff Harrison and wife Michelle; Theresa Krontz; Chuck Krontz; Allison Kizzia and husband David; Scott Walsh and wife Hilary; Jennifer Griffin; Richard Walsh and wife Dedra; Rhonda Hendricks and husband Joe; 17 great-grands as well as numerous other relatives and extended family members. Her family and friends will remember Odelia or Mema as always being happy with a loving smile and a hug. Her 93 years of this earth made it a better place and made us all better people. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 29, 2013, at 11am at the Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Interment will follow at the Macedonia Cemetery near Princeton. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. Memorials may be made to the Macedonia Cemetery Association, c/o Tyler Harrison, 19 Shelia Lane, Mabelvale, Ark. 72103. Special thanks to Dr. Ray Bollen and the nursing staff of Hot Springs County Medical Center in Malvern. There are angels among us. Also Dr. William Rollerfson, Dr. Robert Brewer and Dr. Scott Beau. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.com.