Leah Autrey

Leah Autrey left this earth to enter into her final rest on Monday, May 6, 2013, at Springhill Baptist Hospital in NLR, following complications from a fall, at the age of 98. Granny was born June 25, 1914, to Byron French and Cynthia French Bethard. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Clifton Autrey; a daughter and her husband, Alice and Wesley Williams; two sons, EJ and Billy Autrey; two granddaughters; five sisters; and four brothers. She is survived by her children, James "Buddy" Autrey (Margie) of Cleveland, Texas, Patricia Gordon (the late FA Gordon) of Memphis, Tenn., Sammye Gordon (Stanley) of Vilonia, Phillip Autrey (the late Wanda Autrey), and Nancy Logan of Cabot, Lloyd Autrey (Frankie) of Vilonia, Janis Thompson of Bentonville, Thomas Autrey (Sandy) of Scott; 20 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, which includes a beloved niece, Lora Shewmake; and a host of friends. A gentle spirit whose father taught his children to read by reading the Bible, Granny was a life-long Christian who walked the walk and lovingly talked the talk when someone needed it. She loved to sing and passed on her gift and passion to her family who spent countless hours gathered around her singing praises to the LORD. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 9, followed by services at 2 p.m. at the Mars Hill Church of Christ in Vilonia, with David Riley officiating. Burial will follow at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Morrilton, with family graveside services. Pallbearers will be her grandsons. Funeral arrangements are being made by Arkansas Funeral Care in Jacksonville. Online guest list is at www.arkansasfuneralcare.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southern Christian Home in Morrilton. www.schome.org.