Anita Carr Benafield

Anita Carr Benafield, 82, of Little Rock, passed away on Wednesday, October 27, 2010. She was born on November 24, 1927 in Star City, Arkansas, to Eva Lee (Norton) and Frank Carr. She was preceded in death by her parents. Anita grew up in England, Arkansas, graduated from England High School, then attended Hendrix College in Conway. She was a teacher, a Deputy U.S. Marshall, and worked part-time in the Arkansas State Senate. But most importantly, she dedicated herself fully to raising her children. Anita had a strong faith and will be remembered as a devoted and lifelong member of the Methodist Church. She served in many areas of worship and service at First United Methodist Church in England, and later at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church in Little Rock. At PHUMC, Anita served as president of the Bible Study Sunday School class and was a member of United Methodist Women Mary and Martha Circle, having served as chairman. She was also a member of the Society of St. Stephen, Read It Again Bible Study group, Primetimers, an Encourager with Cancer Friends and a volunteer with the Alzheimer's Support Group. Anita was also a Stephen Minister, an honorary member of the Board of Stewards and was a volunteer in the church office. For the past several years, Anita enjoyed serving as a worship greeter, where members and visitors will remember her friendly hospitality. Anita was an avid reader, enjoyed the art of making cookies, and enjoyed spending time with friends. But most of all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother who enjoyed being with her family. She is survived by two daughters, Dawne Vandiver and Shannon Aston, and her husband, David; five grandchildren: Matt Vandiver (Lauren), Katie Vandiver, Whitney Vandiver Wellborn (Trey), Drew Aston and Ryan Aston; three great-grandchildren: Oscar and Byron Vandiver and Gracie Wellborn, all of Little Rock; and cousins Bill, Mary Jane and Russell Reed of England; and a host of friends. The family will receive friends Friday, October 29, 2010, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, (501) 224-8300. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, October 30, 2010, 11 a.m., at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, 4823 Woodlawn, Little Rock, Arkansas. Graveside service will be at 3 p.m. at Mulberry Cemetery in England, Arkansas. Pallbearers will be Matt Vandiver, David Aston, Drew Aston, Ryan Aston, Bill Reed, Trey Wellborn, and James Vandiver. Memorials may be made to the Anita Benafield Endowment of the Pulaski Heights United Methodist Foundation, or ACCESS Schools, 10618 Breckenridge Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.