Obituaries

Verda Lorayne Nowlin

Photo of Verda Lorayne Nowlin
Verda Lorayne Owens Nowlin, age 97, of Hampton, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2014 at Good Shepherd Nursing Home with her daughter and granddaughter by her side. She was born February 7, 1917 in Hampton, Arkansas to the late Mack C. and Beryl "Bee" Lindsey Owens. Verda is survived by her daughter, Margaret Ann Nowlin Benson; a grandson, Thomas Craig Benson and his wife Charlotte, a granddaughter, Ann Michelle Robertson and husband Pryor; her great grandchildren, Thomas Conner Robertson, Jackson Craig Robertson, Christiane Benson, Garland Benson, and Alexis Miller; and great great grandchildren, Samantha Ready and Alyssa Miller. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred T. Nowlin, son, Fred T. Nowlin, Jr., sister, Erna Wallingsford, and two brothers, Milas C. "Buddy" Owens and Mack C. Owens Jr. Verda was a lifelong musician and while growing up her family played in the Hampton Band. At 17, she was performing all around south Arkansas and playing piano at singing conventions. For nearly two decades, she played the piano at Campground Presbyterian Church in Hampton and was accompanied there by her sister on the organ. She continued her piano performances up to a few months ago at Good Shepherd. "Granny" will always be remembered for her love of family, a fun-filled spirit, and a quirky sense of humor. The family would like to express their gratitude for all the love and care Verda received from the staff at Good Shepherd as well as the dear friendship from Margaret and Ella Mae. A visitation will be held at Benton Funeral Home in Hampton, Arkansas at 1 p.m. Wednesday, February 26, followed by a graveside service at 2 p.m. at Means Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Beyond Batten Disease Foundation – www.beyondbatten.org, BBDF, P.O. Box 200998, Austin, Texas 78720-0998.

Published February 25, 2014

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