Evelyn Jo Richardson Burns

Evelyn Jo Richardson Burns, age 78, of Hot Springs passed away Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014. She was born in Arkadelphia, Dec. 27, 1935 to the late Joe H. Richardson and Francis Petty Richardson. Survivors include Robert Jerry Burns, her husband of 56 years; their son, Brent Richardson Burns of Hot Springs and sisters-in-law, Ann Burns Hoy (Pat) of Little Rock and Betty Rose Burns Gunn of Santa Maria, Calif., along with numerous nieces and nephews on the Petty and Burns sides of the family. Although Evelyn's own memory was erased by Alzheimer's disease during her last years, her family and friends are thankful for their own cherished memories of a long, loving fellowship with her. Graceful and stylish all her life, Evelyn's quiet, gentle nature captivated everyone. And within the family, she was a charming wife, loving mother, perfect "older sister" and, finally, fabulous cook and inviting hostess to those fortunate enough to find their way to her table. Although herself an only child, she reached out to others all her life and picked up "sisters" along the way. Following graduation from Arkadelphia High School and Henderson State University, Evelyn became a home economics teacher at Leechville High School and then Camden High School-where she met and married Jerry. When they moved to North Little Rock, she taught home economics in the junior high school. Their adventuresome life took them to Peoria, Ill., Charleston, W.Va., New Orleans and Mandeville, La., Fairhope, Ala. and Hendersonville, N.C., before moving back and settling in Arkansas again. While in Louisiana, Evelyn enjoyed 10-12 years with Martin-Marietta, where her vivacious personality and extensive teaching experience made her a natural leader in their computer department. Later, the state of Louisiana hired Evelyn to teach in their computer skills training program. Because of her teaching and motivational skills, many students entered the work force. Family and friends will miss Evelyn dearly. Services will be held at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay St., Arkadelphia, Ark. on Monday, Dec.15 at 1 p.m., with Rev. Mike Smith of Hot Springs Baptist Church officiating. Visitations will be held Sunday, Dec. 14, from 6-8 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 15, from 12 to 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Unity Cemetery in Arkadelphia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Caring Place of Hot Springs, 101 Quapaw Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901, or to a charity of your choice. Sign guest book at www.ruggleswilcox.com.