JAMES EDWARD BUFFINGTON, 74 of Benton, passed away on September 24, 2018. He was born on May 16, 1944 in Paron, Arkansas to the late Vernon and Frances Hunt Buffington. James was retired from the Benton Public Schools. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and one sister. James is survived by his wife, Margaret Buffington of Benton, daughters, Phyllis Huitt of Benton, Kathy Heerboth of Benton and Sherry Roberts of Sheridan; grandchildren, Cody Rossell of Benton, Shelbie Mitchell of Benton and Breanna Roberts of Sheridan. No services are pending at this time. www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
JACKIE LOUISE WINEMILLER, 86, of Benton, passed away on September 26, 2018. She was born on May 14, 1932 in Benton to the late Henry and Helen Frye Prichard. Jackie was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church for over 69 years. She loved children and was an avid singer. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, A.C. Winemiller, sisters, Frances Hall, Shirley George and Betty Sue Bodiford, daughter in law, Brenda Mae Winemiller. Jackie is survived by her son, Russell Lee Winemiller of Benton, daughters, Kathy Dianne (Martin) Brown of Havana, Arkansas, Judy (Tony) Bruno of North Carolina, brothers, Wade (Yvonne) Prichard of Benton, James (Brenda) Prichard of Benton and sister, Glenda (Russell) Goodwin of Benton, grandchildren, Annette, Douglas, Brian, Willie, Kellie, Shane, Stephanie and Colin, Fifteen great grandchildren. Church services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 12:00 p.m. on Saturday at Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Benton with Bro. James Coward officiating. Burial will follow at Smith New Rosemont Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday at Ashbys, 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Jackie will be greatly missed by her family and friends, but most of all by her special pets, Rugger and Teddy Bear. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
A memorial service for CATHERINE WEST “PAT” CARROLL, 87, of Benton, Arkansas, will be held at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas on October 9, 2018 at 2:00 PM. Mrs. Carroll died Friday, September 28, 2018. Born in Columbus, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late James K. West and Alice Prudent West. She was a graduate of West High School in Columbus and attended Ohio State University. Mrs. Carroll served the Arkansas Society, Daughters of the American Revolution, as State Regent, State Vice Regent, Regent of the Provincia de la Sal Chapter, and as Chairman of numerous committees both in the local chapter and statewide. After moving to South Carolina in 1974, she served the South Carolina Society as Regent of the Columbia Chapter and was a member of the Old 96th District Chapter before moving to Columbia. She served on numerous committees and organized the South Carolina DAR Chapter Regent’s Club. Mrs. Carroll was a member of the DAR National Officers Club, the State Vice Regents Club, the State Regents Club, and the National Speakers Staff. In addition, Mrs. Carroll was a member of the South Carolina Museum, the Friends of the Library and the Robert Burns Society. Mrs. Carroll had been in the health food business since 1979 and owned her own business from 1982-1987 in Columbia, South Carolina. She was employed by Rosewood Market in Columbia from 1987 until she retired in 2007. Surviving are her son, Daniel L. Carroll and wife Deborah L. Carroll of Mechanicsville, Virginia; her daughter Peggy Carroll Porterfield and husband Larry Porterfield of Benton, Arkansas; stepsons Edward Carroll and wife Mary of Spokane, Washington, and James M. Carroll and wife Margaret of Livermore, California; and step-daughter Katherine Carroll Gay of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Tamassee DAR School (Daughters of the American Revolution) Post Office Box 8, Tamassee, South Carolina 29686-0008. The family would like to thank Four Seasons Assisted Living, Amberwood Health and Rehabilitation, and Arkansas Hospice for their loving care and support.
LILA MARIE KILPATRICK, age 30, of Benton passed away Wednesday October 3, 2018. She was born November 18, 1987 in Little Rock. Survivors include her parents, Jimmy Lynn Kilpatrick and Myra Joan Botelho Kilpatrick, brother, Steven Goff, sisters, Debra McGee, Patricia Kilpatrick Boltz, and Stefanie Kilpatrick. Graveside services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday at Forest Hills Cemetery by Ashby Funeral Home. Minister will be Pastor Trena Cooper. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
WILLIAM THOMAS COX, A product of one of the First Families of Benton Arkansas died peacefully September 26, 2018. Tom’s family was a fixture in Benton since the mid 19th century, with his Grandfather WJ Cox establishing one of the 1st Ford dealerships in America and possibly the 1st in Arkansas in 1919. Succeeded by Sam and WA Cox-Tom’s Father and Uncle respectively in 1934, Cox Brother’s Motors was formed and enjoyed success and prominence on Main Street thru the late 1950’s. Even at young ages, Tom was driven to succeed and seemingly unstoppable in his early endeavors, evident in his entrepreneurial activities, such as establishing a chicken raising business in his backyard, as well as several other depression era enterprises. He was driving a car at 8 years old and had a driver’s license filled out in pencil not long after. His early life was one of constant activity and fierce determination. Tom was pressed into service at a still young age to run the Car Dealership in his Father’s stead, interrupted only by his service in the US Army during the Korean War, which saw him serving in several capacities and locations in America, as well as Germany. Tom married Betty (nee Bragg) shortly after his return, which produced a daughter Cathy in 1955. The second half of the 50’s brought dark times for Tom, with the deaths of his Father in early 1956 followed by his Wife in 1958. With the dealership in decline and a young daughter to care for, in a time when single working men were deemed less than ideal for raising children, Tom and Cathy loaded up in 1959 and headed for the Magic City ~ Miami Florida. Continuing as a car salesman in Miami, Tom became a professional salesman… establishing his lifelong career path. Tom met and married Sue (nee Feavyear) from Toronto, Canada when he sold her a car in 1960, following her arrival to continue her pediatric medical career which went on to great heights. Tom possessed a sharp and focused mind and led and an extremely independent and stable lifestyle, and Sue was the same way. These two individuals formed a successful team and had very clear ideas about their life and the raising of their children, which became plural with the birth of son Bill in 1968. Tom was never self defeated and although the retail sales business changed and declined thru the 1970’s and 1980’s, losing its booming earning potential as the large retail corporations changed, Tom and Sue worked to retirement and ensured financial independence and stability. Everything they did was for the furtherance of the family unit as they envisioned it. But for Alcohol, Tom could have accomplished absolutely anything, and even despite that huge issue he fought with, he set many good examples in theory and practice, managing to impart wisdom and guidance to others. Among the many guiding principles He installed in me were things like “Always stand for your money and your word” “Make a living with your brain rather than your body” and “never gamble with your family’s future”. There are dozens of these I have used throughout my life and passed onto others. He was successful despite himself in many ways He probably wasn’t even aware of. And this must be examined in the light of the incredible, unprecedented change He witnessed during the course of his lifetime. I am told when he was a boy, there were people still riding animals around, the only Benton policeman did not possess a car and had to take calls at a designated phone post at the center of town, and then find a ride to the location to respond to an emergency. When Tom served as a Deputy Sheriff in Saline County, there were a few Barny Fife type stories as well, mixed with some serious situations. He then made a new life in one of America’s pre-eminent modern boom towns, making his living keeping up with all of the latest models of electronics and appliances. His attitude was you can do anything you put your mind to. News of his death is now broadcast on Facebook and the Internet, which he couldn’t even fathom. He came from a different time and was definitely not politically correct, but He was fair and honest at His core albeit gruff and stubborn and difficult. He was loved or hated, but never ignored. And despite the many difficulties we had thru the years, and he was quite difficult, He was a Genuine Stand Up Man, and We are proud to be his children. A private Memorial service was held on October 6, 2018 by his family. See ya on the other side old man.
CHARLES K. MARTIN, Pastor of Union Valley Southern Baptist Church, a retired Master Plumber and a US Navy Veteran, age 77, of Paron passed away Saturday October 6, 2018. He was born June 21, 1941 in Benton, Arkansas. Mr. Martin was preceded in death by his parents, D. W. Martin and Flora Hayes Martin, one brother, John Martin and a Sister, Geneva Richmond, Survivors, wife, Anna M. Martin, son, Matt Martin, daughters, Tracy Brown and Sandra Martin, sisters, Louise Woodale, Jeanette Chambers, and Janeice Cook, five step-children, twenty five grandchildren, thirty one great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Visitation is from 1:00 to 2:00 PM Thursday at Ashby Funeral Home Chapel before the service. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Thursday at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Old Union Cemetery. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
MARGARET JEAN GLAZER, age 86, passed away September 16, 2018. Cedar Vale Funeral Home, Hot Springs Village, AR.
DORIS PEARL PETREE, 101, was called home by the Lord Friday, September 21, 2018. Doris was born July 31, 1917 and was a life member of the Church of Christ, through which she actively served her Lord. She was preceded in death by her late husband Louis Joe Petree with whom she shared her life for 60 years. She was blessed with two children, Jimmy Petree (Sharon) of Houston, Texas; and Carole Jeanene Orr (Ben) of Hot Springs, Arkansas and four grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and seven great- great grandchildren. She was passionate about painting in oil and writing poetry. Doris touched many lives during her life and will be fondly remembered… Cedar Vale Funeral Home, Hot Springs Village, AR.
LOUISE B. WILLIAMS, age 83, of Hot Springs Village, AR, passed away on September 21, 2018. Louise was born on March 10, 1935 in DeQueen, AR to Jim Bales and Alice Rodgers Bales. Louise is preceded in death by her parents; and her daughter, Karen Keinath. She is survived by her husband Doyle Williams; son, Michael Williams, Tucson, AZ; her brother James Bales, Hughes Springs, TX, and 3 grandchildren; Stephen Keinath, Lexington, KY, Mallory Wilson, Ft. Riley, KS, Ian Williams, Tucson, Az. Services will be held Monday, September 24, 2018 at Balboa Baptist Church, Hot Springs Village, AR: visitation at 10:00 AM followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. Louise’s Interment will be held on Wednesday September 26, 2018 at Blue Grass Memorial Gardens at 11:00 A.M. in Lexington, KY. Arrangements are being made by CedarVale Funeral Home, serving the Hot Springs Village since 1989. Cedar Vale Funeral Home, Hot Springs Village, AR.
GINNIE UNDERWOOD, a longtime resident (1991), of Hot Springs Village, passed away on September 29, 2018. She was born July 27, 1928 to Lee and Miriam Hartline in Reading, PA. She is preceded in death by her parents and first husband William Griffiths and second husband Jack Underwood. Survivors include: children; Bill Griffiths (Ann) of Kansas City, MO, Kathy Wright (Steve) of Hot Springs Village, AR, and Gail Cowen (Rich) of Somonauk, IL, grandchildren; Bill Griffiths (Charlotte), Katie Goldman (Jesse), Merrie Wright (Cody), Daniel Wright, Julie Slade, and Karen Slade, great-grandchildren; Siven Goldman, Addie Goldman, and Wren Miller-Wright. She is remembered by her friends and family as the Kitchen Queen at Village United Methodist Church. She truly enjoyed her 10+ years as the hostess for the church. Ginnie loved the Village and the many activities in which she was involved, including playing cards, traveling, and hosting many dinner parties when she cooked for friends and family. Ginnie served as president of the HSV Women’s Club in 1993/1994. She will be missed by her friends and family and will always hold a special place in our hearts. A memorial service will be held on November 23, 2018, 10:00 A.M. at Village United Methodist Church with Rev. Chris Hemund Sr. and Rev. John Atherton. Memorials may be given to Arkansas Hospice and Good Samaritan Society of Hot Springs Village. Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home – Serving the Village since 1989.
REBECCA ANN SMITH, age 77 of the Hot Springs Village, died September 30, 2018 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born May 30, 1941 in Cleburne, Texas to Raymon and Esteline McDearmon. She graduated from Cleburne High School and attended Arlington State University. Becky went to work for the State of Texas Welfare Department. After marrying her high school sweetheart, Robert Oren Smith, in 1961, she went to work for the General Services Administration in Fort Worth, Texas. After her husband went to work in Austin, Texas, she went to work for the Internal Revenue Service until the birth of their daughter, Shelley D’Ann , born in 1966; followed by the birth of their son, Robert Oren Smith, Jr (Chip), in 1969. She enjoyed staying home and doing volunteer work at school, church, the Blue Birds, and Cub Scouts. She was a very active member of the Village Church of Christ in the Hot Springs Village where she served on the building committee, family life committee, packed food for kids and made bears for the hospitals and local sheriff’s department. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Robert O. Smith, daughter and son-in-law, Shelley and Mark Glasner; grandson Aaron James Glasner of Winnsboro, Texas. Also surviving are son and daughter-in-law, Robert O. and Lisa Smith; granddaughter, Riley Anne, and grandson Lane Robert of McKinney, Texas. Services will be held at Village Church of Christ, Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor David Tappe officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cedar Vale – Serving the Village since 1989.
EVAN WILLIAM MALONE, 13, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on Monday, September 24th, 2018. He was born to Joshua and Hayley Malone on Friday, December 31st, 2004 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He loved playing video games and spending times with his family. He was on the archery team, in the band, and FBLA at Bethel Middle School. He enjoyed hanging out with his friends. He enjoyed watching movies and cooking with his family. He was always a joy to be around! He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Bill and Pat Ford; grandparents, Gary and Elizabeth Hankins; great grandmothers, Ruth Hankins and Alice Diggs; great grandfathers, Buil Diggs and Warren Griffen. He is survived by his loving parents, Joshua Shane Malone and Hayley Elizabeth Hankins-Ford Malone; one brother, Ethan Malone; one sister, Elizabeth Malone; grandparents, Mike and Barbara Malone; uncle, Cody Malone; great grandmothers, Margaret Griffen and Carolyn Jones; great grandfather, Phil Hankins; great uncles, Steve Griffen and Tom Hankins; great aunt and uncles, Kathy and Jim Clark, Paul and Deanna Diggs, Diedre McNeill, Debra McCracken, Larry Diggs, Gene Embry, and Vivian Lambert; with a host of cousins and extended family and his dear friends who all love and miss him dearly. The visitation will be Friday, September 28th, 2018 from 5:00-8:00PM, then the celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 29th, 2018 at 11:00AM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home.
WENDY RENEE MITCHELL, 53, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away on Thursday, September 27th, 2018. She was born to Raymond and Rebecca Wentzel on Tuesday, July 27th, 1965 in Columbus, Ohio. She was a very caring person and generous with her time and money. She loved helping people. She enjoyed going to the lake, boating, and camping. She loved being with her family. She loved gardening, and took great pride in her beautiful yard. She graduated high school in Hilliard, Ohio, and then attended college at Ohio State University. She finished her college experience at UALR in Little Rock, Arkansas with her Bachelors in Biology and Chemistry and her Minor in Child Psychology. Wendy enjoyed her work as an Associate Engineer at Entergy for over 20 years where her coworkers were like a second family. She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Wentzel, and two grandchildren, Evvy Mae and Jett Blaine Minchew. She is survived by her loving husband, Tim Mitchell; children, Barry Lynn Henderson, Jr. (Kelsey), Jacob Mitchell, Kelsey Minchew (Garrett), and Tara Mitchell; two grandchildren, Raymond and McKenna Henderson; mother, Rebecca Wentzel; sister, Andrea Wentzel; nephew, John Wentzel; along with other family and friends who love and miss her dearly. The celebration of life will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Monday, October 1st, 2018 at 2:00PM.
DEWEY “RAY” RAEFORD CAUSBY, 67, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on Friday, September 28th, 2018. He was born to Paul and Peggy Causby on Friday, July 13th, 1951 in Charlotte, North Carolina. He loved fishing, reading books by Stephen King, and watching NFL football. He owned his own construction company, RAD Builders in Benton, Arkansas. Ray “Boss” was a good guy who would honorably give the shirt off his back. He was generous and would help his friends with anything he could. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ray is survived by his wife, Debbie Causby; children, Darrell Wyrick, Danielle Wyrick, and Charia Hall; seven grandchildren that he loved dearly, who called him Papa; sister, Marcia Smith from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and other family and friends who love and miss him dearly. The celebration of Boss’s life will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 10:00AM with the visitation following from 10:30AM-12:00PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home,
WOODY RAY STANDRIDGE, SR., 68, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on Saturday, September 29th, 2018. He was born to Woodrow and Jenny Standridge on Saturday, July 8th, 1950 in Roland, Arkansas. He was an outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He loved to go out to eat and spend time with his family. He was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother, Jenny Bell; sons, Woody Standridge, Jr. (Amanda) and Doug Standridge; daughter, Christal Odom; twelve grandchildren; six great grandchildren; three brothers, Duck, Thomas, and Steve; sister, Wanda Fay; along with other family and friends who love and miss him dearly. The visitation will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 2nd, 2018 from 6-8PM.
MELVIN EDWARD GATES, 71, of Alexander, passed away Saturday, September 29, 2018. We expected him to come home from the health rehab, but he left us too soon. He was born to Isaac and Gladys Gates in Little Rock on July 19, 1947. His life cannot be easily summed up in a few sentences. Melvin was an ordained deacon and served faithfully at Green Memorial Baptist Church in Little Rock. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, tinkering on vehicles, and cooking for friends and family. He played bass, electric guitar, and standard guitar often during worship at church, for family reunions, and to entertain friends and family. Melvin worked as an auto technician in the automotive industry during his working years. Those who went before him include his parents; sister, Martha Stobaugh-Long; and brother, James Gates. Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, Linda Taber Gates; daughters, Khristina Gates and Brenda Gates; grandson, D.J. Gates; brother, John Gates (Pat) of California; and his faithful canine companion, Lil Bit. We will celebrate his life at noon, Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant, Arkansas. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas. The family will receive friends from 6-8 P.M., Monday evening at the funeral home. Please feel free to share memories and condolences in the online guestbook.
JASON FORREST BRADDOCK, 43, of Bryant, Arkansas, passed away on September 30, 2018. He was born in Deer Park, Washington, in 1974 to Shirley Catlett and the late John Braddock. He graduated from Heritage Academy, Columbus, Ms., in 1993 and attended Miss. State University. Jason worked for Outdoor Technologies as District Sales Manager in Texas and Arkansas and for the past 10 years in the oil industry for Covia (Fairmount-Santrol) as Mid-Continent Sales Manager. Jason enjoyed collecting and restoring guns, skeet and target shooting, hunting, fishing, and trying to improve his golf game and most things outdoors. He also enjoyed his job, Mississippi State sports, and the Dallas Cowboys. He was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church, Bryant, Ar., and the Benton Gun Club. He was a dedicated husband and father to the loves of his life, Braley and Addie. He was proceeded in death by his grandparents, Forrest and Ruth Catlett; father, John Braddock; and son, William Braddock. He is survived by his wife, Braley; and daughter, Addison; mother, Shirley Catlett; step-mother, Olivia Braddock; brother, Marcus Braddock; niece, Victoria; sister, Lynda Fier (Kenny). He is also survived by his in-laws, Dan and Gwen Cotton, Bill and Kate Cotton and Harper; cousins, cousins, Audrey Morell (Sean), Ellyn and Olivia Fier. The funeral service will be held at First Southern Baptist Church, Bryant, AR., Thursday, Oct. 4, at 2 p.m. Visitation will be an hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, Braley and Addie ask that donations be made to “While We’re Waiting,” a faith-based retreat for Bereaved Parents, P.O. Box 22823, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71903.
GLENDYL LEE COOPER PRICE, 70, of Hensley passed away Tuesday, September 18, 2018 at Encore Healthcare and Rehab in Malvern. She was born June 18, 1948 in Malvern to the late Vernon Lee and Ruth Lucille Talley Cooper. Mrs. Price loved horses and was a frequent visitor to Oaklawn in Hot Springs. Her husband, William David Price and sister-in-law, Margie Price also preceded her in death. She is survived by two brothers, Bobby Cooper (Tommye) of Traskwood and Jerry Cooper (Jimmie) of Malvern, and two sisters-in-law, Sandra and Joyce Price. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 22, 2018 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Bro. Tony Williams officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Encore Healthcare and Rehabilitation, 1820 W. Moline St., Malvern, AR 72104.
BETTY JO WOMACK STYLES, 90, of Benton, passed away Thursday, September 20, 2018. She was born in Tulip (Wave), Arkansas to Jewel Jane and Dock (Balis) Womack. She was one of ten children. She also grew up on a family farm where she learned about hard work, love of God and family, and laughter from her wonderful parents. She attended Draughon Business School in Little Rock after graduating from Princeton Consolidated School as Valedictorian. She moved to Benton in her early twenties and supported herself prior to marrying her first husband, Van C. Hayes. They were married for eight years, at which time she was widowed. She then went to work for Alcoa from which she retired in 1988. In 1961, Betty married Leamon H. Styles and became a stepmother to four boys, Tracy, Greg, Neal, and Leland. After two years of marriage, they welcomed two girls, Lisa and Stephanie, into their family. Betty always strove to offer a loving and stable home to her six children. She was an excellent cook, seamstress, decorator, gardener, and marksman. She was a gracious, kind, intelligent, and a classy Christian lady. As a child in the Wave Community she was raised in the Methodist Church and in her early years in Benton, was a member of the First Methodist Church. Upon marriage she became a member of the Church of Christ and has church family at both Northside and River Street congregations. Her guidance, grace, and love will be greatly missed by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 46 years, Leamon Styles; their son, Leland Paul Styles; one grandson, Leland “Lee” Styles, Jr.; and seven siblings, David Womack, Domel Womack, Hugh Clinton Womack, Lois Bryant, Margie Kuhn, Ruth Crouse, and Rose Alice Green. She is survived by her five children; Tracy (Brenda) Styles of Benton, Greg (Connie) Styles of Benton, Neal (Mary) Styles of Bauxite, Lisa (John) Windsor of Benton, Stephanie (Kevin) Sheppard of Benton; two sisters, Permelia “Pam” Bell of Malvern, Laura Pierce of Sheridan; seventeen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. The family wishes to express a special thanks to her caregiver, Ramona Weisse, for helping them care for their mother the last year of her life. They also wish to thank Dr. Mark Martindale and Dr. Charles Clogston for their care as well. We will miss you, Momma. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday evening, September 24, 2018 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton. A funeral service will be Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at 1:00 p.m., also at the funeral home with interment to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Pallbearers are Jamey Styles, Blake Styles, Anthony Mask, Josh Sheppard, Casey Sheppard, and Kevin Sheppard.
LESTER E. GOAD, 83, of Benton went to be with the Lord surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 4, 2018. He was born June 29, 1935 in Jasper County, Illinois to the late Everett and Elsie Evelyn Deckard Goad, Sr. Mr. Goad had worked for Central Illinois Power Company and was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who will be remembered for his consistency and faithfulness to the Lord and was a member of Victory Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joann (Sprague) Goad and two brothers, Edward and Everett Goad. Survivors include two daughters, Pam (Ken) Graham of Benton and Paula (Tom) McMurtry of LaSalle, IL; one brother, Richard Goad of Washington, IL; one sister, Mary Lindish of Arnold, MO; thirteen grandchildren, Ben (Candice) Graham, Bryan (Pam) Graham, Brad (Dacia) Graham, Beth (Chad) Overturf, Brandon (Jamie) Graham, Blaine (Rebecca) Graham, Breanna (Hadan) Phillips, Brenae Graham, Tommy (Cassandra) McMurtry, Kristi (Joshua) Lush, Amy (Jonathan) Wagahoff, Kari (Aaron) Butts, and Lori (Nick) Hardy, and twenty nine great grandchildren. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at Victory Baptist Church with Bro. Ken Graham officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Harmony Cemetery in Haskell. Serving as pallbearers are Ben, Bryan, Brad, Brandon, Blaine Graham and Tommy McMurtry. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday evening October 8, 2018 at Victory Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements by Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (501-315-4047).
Late Saturday evening, October 6, 2018, EW GRIFFIN traveled the road to heaven. EDWARD WATKINS GRIFFIN was born July 15, 1934 in Raleigh, NC. It was there he met and married his beautiful high school sweetheart, Patricia Anne Guthrie. They lived there till around 1965, at which time they moved to Gillette, Wyoming and opened up a Sporting Goods Store with a small restaurant. Ed’s love of people and head for business was the reason his restaurant flourished. He eventually enlarged the restaurant side and it became the famous “The Bears Den”. It was named after a life-size Kodiak bear that Ed, who was an avid hunter, had shot and mounted under glass. It became a well-known tourist attraction. Years later he sold the successful restaurant and followed another passion; trapshooting. He built a large Trapshooting club, the “Circle G” located a few miles outside of Gillette. In all his business endeavors, he included his wife and 5 daughters. He found delight in passing on his entrepreneurial spirit. In 1987, Ed sold his gun club and moved his family to Benton, Arkansas where he purchased a plot of land and began a new chapter. He discovered a love for Daylilies and cultivated many varieties which eventually became known as “Griffin Daylily Farms”. He hosted many garden tours over the years including the prestigious American Daylily Society. Ed’s talents and business intuition will be greatly missed by many. Survived by: His lovely wife, Patricia Griffin and his 5 beautiful daughters Sharon Griffin Gilroy and her husband, David Jane Griffin Saunders Gina Griffin Sienia Andrea Griffin Muth and her husband, Gary Leah Griffin Casady and her husband, Roy Ed has 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren Edward was preceded in death, by his sister, Betty Grayce, and his brother, Robby Survived in death by his brother, Bobby In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Edward Griffin Family Memorial Fund at this link: https://www.paypal.me/Vpage33 Funeral services will be held graveside on Thursday October 11, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Located at: 222 Ira Williams Road No 221 Benton, AR 72019
BLANCHE E. HICKS, 100, of Little Rock went to be with the Lord on Monday September 17, 2018. Blanche was born on April 23, 1918 to the late Charlie and Miggie (Diemer) Bryant in Bauxite. Blanche was a member of Barnett Memorial Baptist Church in Little Rock for over fifty-years. She loved reading, gardening and painting. Blanche is preceded in death by her husband of thirty-four years William Stewart “Porter” Hicks; one son: Samuel Hicks; two sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her three daughters: Fontaine McGehee, Connie Galindo and Judy Smith; eleven grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren with numerous step grand & great grandchildren that she loved as her own and a host of other family and friends who will miss her greatly. Visitation will be Friday at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St, from 12:00 PM-1:00 PM, with graveside services following at 2:00 PM at Hicks Cemetery in Little Rock, with Stephen, Stewart, Adam, Aaron Briner, Jamie Haskins, Drew Talbert, Michael Smith and Grant Smith serving as pallbearers. Serving as honorary pallbearer Michael Doshier. Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. On-line guest registrywww.smithfamilycares.com.
SFC JERRY DEAN RAPIER, SR. 76, of Bauxite, Arkansas went to be with his Lord September 21, 2018. He was born February 17, 1942 in Bauxite, Arkansas to Aubrey and Audrey Rapier. Jerry was a twenty-five-year decorated and retired Army veteran who was stationed all over the world during his military career. He received many awards and medals during his service to our country. Jerry was a propetual member of Elgin Lodge in Oklahoma and a member of the Bryant Alumina Lodge. He was a Master Mason and also a 32nd degree Scottish Rites Mason. Jerry enjoyed his decades of service to the lodge and loved his lodge brothers very much. Jerry was an active member of Pleasant Hills Baptist Church. He loved his church and his church family. Jerry was a devoted follower of Jesus and read his Bible faithfully everyday. He loved our Lord and Savior with every fiber of his being. After retiring from the military, Jerry became an entrepreneur and used his excellent culinary skills to run two restaurants in Oklahoma. He also worked in the Oklahoma State Prison System. Jerry was a hard worker and his work ethics and values showed though all his good works. Jerry was an avid hunter and loved going to the deer woods and shooting range. He loved fishing and anything outdoors, but most of all-he loved his family and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents: Aubrey Rapier and Audrey (Rapier) Patrick; and brother, James Sledd. He is survived by his wife, Clemmie Rapier; son, Jerry Rapier, Jr. and wife Tammy of Little Rock; stepson, Gregory Sheridan and wife Traci of Little Rock, stepdaughter, Judy Winkler and husband Dale of Oklahoma; brothers: Tom Sledd and wife Norma of Colorado and John Sledd and wife Tootie of Bauxite; sister-in-law, Patricia Sledd of Benton; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren both in Arkansas and Oklahoma along with many dear friends and extended family. Reception visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Thursday, September 27, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Funeral service, officiated by Bro. Rick Porter, will be held at 1:00 PM, Friday, September 28 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Burial complete with military honors will follow at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
KRISTI LYNN WILTSE, 41, of Benton, Arkansas went to be with her Lord September 21, 2018. She was born May 5, 1978 in Chicago, Illinois to Gary Merle and Victoria Snyder. Kristi was a member of Trinity Baptist Church. She always put others first and helped in any way she could. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Gary and James Merle. Kristi leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of fourteen years, David Wiltse of Benton; children: son, Robert Serato of Bryant, Arkansas; daughter, Alaina Serato of Bryant; son, Ethan Wiltse of Benton; daughter, Brenna Wiltse of Benton; parents: father, Gary and Jayne Merle and mother, Victoria Snyder; and a host of family and friends who love Krisit and will miss her always. Memorial service, officiated by Rev. Mike Tittsworth, will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, September 25, at Trinity Baptist Church, in Benton. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
MARJORIE FAYE STEELMAN, 95, of Benton, Arkansas passed away September 25, 2018. She was born January 2, 1923 in Little Rock to the late George and Bertha (Brothers) Breeden. Marjorie loved the Lord with all her heart and was of the Baptist faith. She enjoyed the quest of searching for hidden treasures at flea markets. Preceding her in death are her parents; son, Ronald Watson of Monticello, Arkansas; two sisters: Dorothy Rusturin and her husband John and Gevena Miles and her husband Hugo; and son-in-law, Lenord Howard. Marjorie leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Jackie Sue Howard of Mandeville, Louisiana; daughter-in-law, Betty Watson of Monticello, Arkansas; niece, Annie Bowerman and her husband Charles of Benton, Arkansas; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; two great nephews; and a host of family and friends who love Marjorie and will miss her always. Funeral service, officiated by Rev. Mike Tittsworth, will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 29 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Burial to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park with Charles Bowerman, Chuck Bowerman, Greg Bowerman, Gene Turley, Sonny Brothers, and Billie Brothers assisting as pallbearers. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guests may register online atwww.SmithFamilyCares.com.
ROBERTA JEAN DREHER, 80, of Bryant, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord October 1, 2018. She was born December 15, 1937 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Chester and Elizabeth Minnie (Parkerson) Scott. Roberta loved the Lord and was a member of New Life Baptist Church. She adored her family and was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Roberta enjoyed spending time outdoors gardening, decorating, and most importantly-shopping! Preceding Roberta in death are her son, Henry Allen Dreher, III; parents; and brother, William Fred Scott. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of sixty-two years, Henry Allen Dreher, Jr. of Bryant, Arkansas; two sons: Scott Dreher of Bryant and Michael Dreher of Little Rock; daughter, Regina Edmonson and husband Danny of Bryant; four grandchildren: Tanner Smith and wife Candace of Knoxville, Tennessee, Tad Smith of Benton, Arkansas, Morgan Spillan and husband Kyle of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Kayla Dreher of Conway, Arkansas; five great-grandchildren: Addison and Alexis Smith and Teegan, Trace, and Tinlee Smith; two sisters: Margaret Alderman and Teresa McCormack of Nashville, Tennessee; many nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends who love Roberta and will miss her always. Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday, October 3, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Funeral service, officiated by Rev. Syd Samples, will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, October 4, at New Life Baptist Church, 10765 Samples Road, Alexander, Arkansas. Burial will be held at 12:30, Saturday, October 6 at Spring Hill Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at www.Alzark.org/give/. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
JIMMY JOEL TAYLOR, 27, of Benton, Arkansas passed away October 4, 2018. He was born August 24, 1991 in Salina, Kansas to Daniel Taylor and Lori Burrow. Jimmy enjoyed being outdoors hunting, fishing, and camping. His family and friends were very special to him and he loved spending time with them at get-togethers and parties. Preceding Jimmy in death are his grandparents, Buddy and Lillian Burrow; and great-grandfather, Clemmie Dickens. He leaves to cherish his memory his parents: John and Lori Burrow of Benton; two brothers: Gregory Taylor and Joseph Burrow both of Benton; grandmother, Willie Millican of Benton; grandfather, Rogie Huchingson of Hot Springs, Arkansas; and a host of family and friends who love Jimmy and will miss him always. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
HERSHEL DOWAYNE SHELNUT, 72, of Benton, Arkansas passed away surrounded by his loving family October 4, 2018. He was born July 31, 1946 in Billstown, Arkansas to the late Hershel and Willie (Pipkins) Shelnut. Dowayne was a member of Spring Creek Baptist Church and the Local Union #155-Plumbers and Pipe Fitters. He enjoyed deer hunting and was a member of the Palestine Hunting Club. Dowayne’s passion was music. He was a gifted musician and played piano and guitar by ear. At the age of twelve, he was playing steel guitar on television. Dowayne traveled the eastern half of the United States and south-eastern Canada playing with “The Loose Screws”. He passed his love of music down to his sons and grandchildren. Preceding Dowayne in death are his parents; and brother, Rusty Shelnut. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of fifty-three years, Diane Shelnut of Benton, Arkansas; three sons: Eric Shelnut and wife Stacye, Kirk Shelnut and girlfriend Kristy, and Jason Shelnut and wife Mary Jo all of Benton; eight grandchildren: Grant Shelnut, Grace Anne Shelnut, Dustin Shelnut and wife Haley, Kayla Shelnut, Kory Shelnut, Hayley Ferguson, Abby Shelnut, and Ally Shelnut; and a host of family and friends who love Dowayne and will miss him always. Reception visitation will be held from 2:00-3:30 PM, Monday, October 8, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, followed by Memorial service at 3:30 PM. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
GEORGE HAMLIN FREEMAN December 23, 1947 – September 21, 2018 Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. eorge was born on December 23, 1947 and passed away on Friday, September 21, 2018. George was a resident of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas at the time of passing. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Children’s Hospital Foundation, P. O. Box 2222, Little Rock, AR 72203.
CHARLES RONALD BUTLER, 84, of Mabelvale, passed away September 17, 2018. He was born July 17, 1934 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late Benjamin Franklin and Opal Leona Butler Jr. Charles was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the Army for 10 years. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Betty Butler (2015); brother, Benjamin Butler III (1948); step son, John Conrad Jr. (2006); and step son in law, Henry Degler (2014).He is survived by two sons, Charles Ronald Moore and Bennie Charles Butler; two daughters, Susie Nony and Rhonda Lievsay; three step daughters, Norma Degler, Cassandra Stocks, and Vickie Moore; two step sons, Morton and Jerry Conrad; two brothers, Don and David Butler; sister, Chris Winfree; and numerous grandchildren, great- grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home Home in Alexander, Arkansas with a visitation beginning an hour prior to services. Burial will be at Pinecrest Memorial Park with Military Honors.
HERBERT DEAN HENNING, 76, of Alexander, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2018. He was born Jan. 13, 1942, in Vimey Ridge, to B.H. and Maggie Henning. Dean was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla. He was a musician and played the trombone and enjoyed writing poetry and short stories. Dean was known for his kind and gentle ways. Dean and his wife enjoyed traveling and traveled to the seven continents. He was a registered nurse and a member of the P.R.A. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by the love of his life of 52 years, Marilyn Henning; and many other friends that will miss him dearly. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 21, 2018, at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Online guest book: www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com.
RAY THOMAS HENDERSON, 78, of Benton, Arkansas, passed away on the morning of Thursday, September 27, 2018. He was born in Tupelo, Mississippi on July 30, 1940 to parents Therman and Ella Henderson. On August 18, 1988, Ray married the love of his life, Laura Henderson, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. After the ceremony, he jokingly promised his new bride that they’ll be together for “at least 30 years”, and he was able to fulfill that promise to her by giving her exactly 30 years, 1 month and 9 days of blissful marriage. Ray spent majority of his working life in the automotive industry, owning and managing multiple gas stations and mechanic shops, but towards the end of his career he worked as a pest control technician at Adam’s Pest Control. After retirement, Ray enjoyed frequently visiting various flea markets on the hunt for different collectables, including trading cards and brass animal figurines. Ray never met a stranger in his life and will always be remembered for his outgoing, fun personality and ability to make anyone feel special. He was also a phenomenal cook, with the rare talent of making just about any kind of food solely based off taste. He was known for cooking classic Southern comfort food but his most famous dishes were his baby back ribs and devilled eggs, which were always specifically requested for cookouts, potlucks and other community gatherings. By far, the most important characteristic of Ray was his unconditional love for his family. He was an extremely hands-on and loving father to his children with a natural paternal instinct. Even as his children started to move away to start their own families in different states, he learned how to text so he could always stay in touch with them. He was and will always be incredibly proud of them. Ray was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers: R.B, Jack, and Rayburn Henderson and one sister: Rita Hogan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura; his 5 children: Lisa Ann Snellen, Rayna VanNest, Ray “Tommy” Henderson II, Christopher and Steven Spillett; 7 grandchildren: Adam Spillett, Tyler VanNest, Whitney Daniels, Steven Snellen, Yashira Spillett, Kayla VanNest and Luke Thomas Henderson; 1 sister: Rona Johnson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
JIMMY MAX MORROW, born April 25, 1938 in Bakersfield, California, passed away September 18, 2018 with his family at his side. A graduate of Central High School, he was a Captain in the Little Rock Fire Department for 20 years and loved his Firemen Family! He owned and operated Morrow Insulation. Jimmy served in the Army in Verdun, France, was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of Iron Springs Lodge #342. He loved hunting and fishing and was a great storyteller. Above all, he loved his family and friends and enjoyed spending time with them. Preceded in death by his parents, James William and Mary Agatha Morrow, and grandson, Maddox Brink, he is survived by his wife, Lanora (Lynn) Morrow; son, Robert Ray Morrow; stepchildren, Allison (Don) Williams, Terri (Stan) Rasburry, and Ralph Brink, Jr.; brother, Thomas Morrow; nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and special aunts, Sammie Allen, Cumi Reiter and Ruby Nute. Special thanks to the staff at Fox Ridge in Bryant for their loving care! Services will be Saturday, September 22 at 2:00 p.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 1:00, at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Bro. Don Chandler will officiate. A private committal service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 10201 W. Markham, Ste. 100, Little Rock, AR 72205. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Jimmy’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jimmy Max Morrow please visit our Sympathy Store.
MANUEL BERNAL, 74, of Alexander, passed away September 23, 2018. Born in Mexico City, he is survived by his wife, Silvina Mayorga; sons, Oscar Bernal of Alexander and Cesar Bernal of Mexico; daughters, Veronica Bernal (Jaime) of Little Rock and Norma Bernal (Emilio) of Alexander; and many other family and friends. Open visitation will be Thursday, September 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), and continued from 5:00 p.m to 12:00 a.m. at MVL, 401 N. Redwood St., North Little Rock. Services will be Friday, September 28 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in North Little Rock, followed by interment at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mr. Bernal’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
CARILOU “CARRIE” TILLERY, 74, of Alexander, passed away Monday, September 24, 2018. She was born in Little Rock on September 4, 1944 to Harley Olin Tillery and Mary Louise Tillery. She graduated from Central High School in 1962 and studied at the University of Little Rock. She was retired from work as a paralegal, working in both Arkansas and Texas, most recently for the Law Offices of Lisa Douglas. She loved and enjoyed music, computer games, and was an avid animal lover, especially dogs. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Donald Tillery. She is survived by her son, Randy Seckinger, of Little Rock; sister-in-law, Jane Tillery of North Little Rock; nephew, Rick Tillery (Lisa) of Murphy, Texas; niece, Kallie McCullough (Tom) of Sherwood; great-nieces, Alex and Dani Tillery of Murphy, Texas, Marin McCullough of Pantego, Texas, Aubree and Quinn McCullough of Sherwood; and great-nephew, Donnie McCullough of Sherwood. The family wishes to thank the staff, nurses and caregivers at Cottage Lane Nursing and Rehab and Kindred Hospice for their care, love and support for Carrie and her family. Graveside services will be Friday, September 28 at 9:30 a.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, officiated by Rev. Warren Harvey. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kindred Hospice. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Carrie’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.