Gaynelle Louise Smith 74, of Alexander, died September 14, 2019. She was born on January 6, 1945 to the late Max and Louise Jones Markley. She was retired from the State of Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Bill, daughters Caryn (David) Smart, and Stacey Ball. Grandson Dylan Ball, granddaughter Emily Ball, brother John (Nita) Markley, sister Cindy (Rick) Johnson, and a large extended family. The family would like to thank the staff of Elite Hospice of Central Arkansas, and the staff of Amberwood Nursing and Rehabilitation. A memorial service will be held at Ashby Funeral Home at 2:00 PM Saturday, September 28, 2019. Minister will be Zack Dickson. Memorials may be made to our favorite charity.
Joe Daniel Norwood, age 61, of Bauxite, passed away Saturday, September 14, 2019. He was born July 9, 1958 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Joe was a self-employed roofer. He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Medwick Norwood; sister, Carolyn Estelle Norwood and a half-sister, Kathy Norwood. He is survived by his mother, Carolyn Hood; sister, Judy Norwood; his partner, Darlene Bettencourt; two sons, Nolan Norwood and Daniel Norwood; daughter, Kristy Norwood Dunn; half-brother, Mike Jenkins; three half-sisters, Karen Norwood, Kimberly Riddle and Kristen Bloom and four grandchildren, Taylor, Austin, Devin & Carmen. Cremation was through Ashby Funeral Home.
Gene Paul Matula, age 67, of Benton, passed away on Saturday September 14, 2019. He was born May 14, 1952 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to the late Ezador Matula and Mary Pothoff Matula. Gene was also preceded in death by his brother Gary Matula. He is survived by a brother Mike Matula, of Hot Springs. Cremation services are by Ashby Funeral Home in Benton. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Thomas Paul (Tommy) Hart, 71, of Benton, died Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, after a courageous battle against leukemia. He was preceded in death by his parents, James P. and Inez Hart. He is survived by his life partner, Barbara Toney Wheeler; two sons, Dane (Cinde) and Cale, both of Little Rock; a sister, Janie Hart Cole of Benton; two grandchildren, Lauren and Austin Hart; two nieces, Kristi Ward and Deana Simmons; plus many other friends, relatives, and teammates. Most knew Tommy as a football player extraordinaire, which he was, but he was much more than that. He was kindhearted, loved dogs, classic cars and rock-and-roll music and was a voracious reader. He was always mischievous, but gave himself away with his eyes and that certain grin. He could remember details of every football game he ever played. An All-Region and All-State selection, as a senior, he led the Benton Panthers to a first-place finish in their classification (3A at the time) and a third-place finish in the final state poll among all schools. A three-year starter at Henderson State College (now University), he was a two-time All-AIC performer and will forever hold the record as being the only AIC athlete to rush for over 1,000 yards and pass for over 1,000 yards in a season. The conference no longer exists. The Reddies finished 8-2 and won the conference title when he was a senior, after which he was named to the NAIA All-American team. He also signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 1970 but was unable to play due to a knee injury. Tommy is a member of the Henderson State University Sports Hall of Honor and the Benton Athletic Memorial Museum. A celebration of life will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 20 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton with the Rev. Stan Parris officiating. Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Friday before the service.
Breanna Elizabeth Lee, age 22, of Benton, passed away Sunday, September 15, 2019. She was born September 10, 1997 in Benton, Arkansas. Breanna graduated from Benton High School and was a member of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Breanna was preceded in death by her great-grandfather, Buck Phifer. She is survived by her father, Chad Lee (Jill); mother, Jessica Cowan (Nick); her brothers and sisters, Zack Whitener and his son, Sawyer, Adelynn Lee, Kennedy Lee and Jude Cowan; grandparents, Steve & Sharon Lee, Ellen & Todd Eberstein and Ronald & Pattie Mulder; great-grandmother, Barbara Ann Phifer; uncles and aunts, Cliff Lee (Kristen) and their children, Jaxon & Maci, Cara Norton (Brian) and their children, Bliss, Blair & Brynn, Jamie Mulder and her children, Ayden, Josiah, Tristan, Jeremiah & Raziel and Andrea Mulder. She also had many extended family and friends. Pallbearers will be Cameron Beene, Brian Norton, Cliff Lee, Reid Phifer, Clint Phifer, Josh Hendricks, Josh Phifer and Jaxon Lee. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 19 at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 20 at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church with burial at Sharon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Activity Center Fund of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church.
Matthew Jared Sutton, 36 of Benton, passed away on September 16, 2019. He was born on February 14, 1983. He was an amazing husband, father, son and friend. He will forever be loved and missed. Matthew was preceded in death by his fathers, Ronald and Danny, mother in law, Barbara Misenheimer, grandparents, Ida and Harry Sutton, Barbara and Aubrey Bean, Agnes Wallace and Mabel Misenheimer, great nephew, Seth Renuard. Matthew is survived by wife, Jerri Sutton, sons, Chris Knight and Jared Sutton, daughters, Lacey Marie and Alexis Sutton all of Benton, mother, Charolette Beck of Haskell, loving brother, Michael (Angela) Beck of Lonoke, father in law, Jerry Misenheimer, sister in law, Tonya Kindred of Benton, grandparents, A.C. and Mary McNew of Morrilton, aunts, Michelle Donelly, Karen Winters and Tina McDonald, sixteen nephews, 8 nieces, two great nieces, two great nephews and a countless number of family and friends. Visitation will be at Ashbys, Friday, September 20th, 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Memorial services will be 4:00 PM Saturday, September 21st, New Life Assembly of God Church, 1120 Grand Ave. Haskell, Arkansas. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Vera Butler Jones age 94 entered into eternal peace on September 16, 2019 at Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center in Benton, Arkansas. She is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Doyle R. Jones. She is survived by her three children, Kathleen Keefe (Terry), Barry Jones (Sawana) and Rene’ Meints (David); eight grandchildren; Jackie Trotta (Daniel), David Meints, Katelyn Meints, Shane Jones (Savannah), Clint Jones, Corey Alford (Carrie), Amanda Jones (Jamie) and Brian Alford (Jessi); her sister Ada Pace. She was also blessed with 12 great grandchildren. She was born in 1925 in White County, Arkansas to Ephriam and Denna Butler and graduated from Russell High School. She attended Junior College in Beebe and Harding College in Searcy during World War II. Because of her desire to afford to send all three of her children to college, she enrolled in Southern Arkansas University in the 70’s to complete her teaching degree. She somehow managed to take care of her home and family and make the Dean’s List every semester while commuting to college every day. She was graduated with honors in 1975 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in early childhood education. She received her Masters Degree in 1981 and was a member of Alpha Kai, National Honor Scholarship Society. She taught kindergarten for the Camden Public School district until retirement and was loved by students and parents alike. After retiring, she and Doyle built a house on four acres in west Little Rock next door to their daughter, Kathy and near Rene’ and her family. They spent lots of time growing a large vegetable garden, and planting trees and flowers as well as enjoying their grandchildren who lived nearby. Vera was a very kind and giving soul; she had a loving and generous heart, and adored her children and family more than words can describe. A memorial service will be held September 28, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at Lone Star Baptist Church, 606 Lone Star Road, Bald Knob, Arkansas 72101. In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to Lone Star Baptist Church.
Ms. Frances Holland, age 67 of Benton, AR passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at her residence. Frances was born in Little Rock, AR on October 6, 1952 and was raised in Bryant, AR. Frances graduated from Bryant High School in 1970 and retired from her career at Southwestern Bell. She is preceded in death by her parents; Dennis Peck and Betty Elrod Peck and two brothers; Tommy Peck and Billy Peck. Survivors include; one daughter April Chenault of Benton AR, one son Dennis Holland and his wife Kristen Holland of Bossier City, Louisiana, two granddaughters Kamryn Chenault and Savannah Holland, one sister Mary Ann Ketchaside of London, AR, several nieces and nephews, and lover in life David Holland. Frances was a fun and loving soul who never met a stranger. She would help you with anything you need in life, just don’t expect her to show up on time. Frances brought joy and laughter to her family and friends, there will never be another like her. Cremation is by Ashby Funeral Home.
Wanda Bishop Hardin, 93 of Benton, passed away on September 19, 2019. She was born on October 31, 1925 in Caledonia, Arkansas to the late W. Ralph and Eunice McGraw Bishop. Wanda held a Masters Degree in Library Science from the University of Denver, Colorado and was a gold Tiger from Ouachita Baptist University. She created the Library at Bauxite and Pine Haven Schools, working there for over 40 years. Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Loy Hardin and sister, Vernelle Ramsey. She leaves to cherish her memory, special niece, Kathlyn and husband, Randy Brown of Benton, great niece, Renee and husband, Scott Thornhill, great nephew, Geoffrey Brown, great great nephew, Nathaniel Thornhill, brother in law, Robert and wife Betty Hardin and special cousin, David and wife, Carlene Ramsey. Church Services at Trinity Baptist Church will be held on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:00 a.m. with Bro. Mike Titsworth officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Crest Cemetery in Alexander. Visitation will be held at Ashbys, Monday, 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trinity Building Fund at Trinity Baptist Church. Wanda was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed by family and friends. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Horace Burnett Jr., age 73, of Benton, passed away Friday, September 20, 2019. He was a member of Fairplay Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon. Horace worked maintenance and drove a bus for the Glen Rose School District for thirty-one years. He loved traveling, flea markets, fishing, and westerns. Horace was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Burnett Sr. & Mary Burnett and a sister, Mary Faulkner. He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-three years, Verna Burnett; sister, Betty Howard (Daniel) of Owensville; son, Waymon Burnett (Sheri) of Benton; daughter, Shelley Phillips (David Wayne) of Puxico, Missouri; grandchildren, Dewey Phillips (Okie), Melissa Manis (Jeff), Natalie Burnett, and Gracie Burnett; and great-grandchildren, Jacob, Abigail, and Julie Manis. Pallbearers will be Randy Faulkner, Mike Faulkner, Charles Faulkner, Mike Kelly, Benny Scroggins, and Ike Carter. Honorary pallbearers will be Randy Parson and Clem Crippen. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 24 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 25 at Ashby Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to the Texarkana Baptist Orphanage in honor of him.
Mary Elizabeth Lawrence Kersten Kelley, age 87, of Bryant, took her place in Heaven on Sept. 22, 2019. She was born on November 29, 1931 to Odus & Bayda Lawrence at Crossett Lumber Camp. She was a recent resident of Benton/Bryant and Little Rock Area. Prior to that she lived in the Bellaire community of south Arkansas. In her early adult life she raised her family in Hamburg, Arkansas. She was homemaker and worked in county government. In her early forties, she returned to college graduating as the Valedictorian of her class. After graduating, she began teaching in Wilmot. Mary Beth later moved to Little Rock and worked for Social Security Administration as a Disabilities Determiner. Mary Beth was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Benton. She had a passion for the bible and led countless bible studies. She loved nature, gardening, reading, and traveling. Mary Beth had a green thumb and could make anything grow. She was an avid angler and enjoyed being on the water even if the fish weren’t biting. With a quick wit and caring attitude, she made friends everywhere she went. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Joseph Lawrence, her first husband of 40 years, Will Fred Kersten, second husband Ray Kelley, son-in-law Ken Ruffin, and granddaughter Brandi Kersten. Mary Beth is survived by two sons, Bill Kersten (Genie) and Tod Kersten (Silvie), a daughter, Jan Hood (Mike), two stepdaughters, Ann Ruffin and Tena Dick (Dan), two brothers, Dr. Robert Lawrence (Dian) and Carlton Lawrence (Mary). She is also survived by five grandchildren, Nick Ruffin (Kaylynn), Lizzie Jundt (Shaun), Philip Kersten, Annie Kersten and Reese Bolin, three great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Friday at 1:00 pm at Sardis Baptist Church, 1234 Ashley Road 60, Montrose AR. Rev. Jerry Selby officiating. Private burial afterward at the Trafalgar cemetery. Services provided through Ashby Funeral Home. We would like to thank all of the caring staff of The Manor Senior Living in Benton. She loved you all like family. Memorials can be made to Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Saline Memorial Hospice, and Trafalgar Cemetery Fund c/o Mr. Ben Lawrence, 859 Ashley 105, Montrose, AR 71658. On-line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Gray E. Manfre, age 49, of Bryant passed away on Monday September 23, 2019. He was born on September 16, 1970 in San Jose California. Gary was preceded in death by his father, Gary Vincent Manfre. Survivors, mother, Shirley Viveiros Manfre, Bryant; brothers, David Manfre, Texas; Daniel Manfre, Arizona; No services are scheduled at this time.
Patricia “Patti” Louise Duffy, 76, passed away suddenly at her home on September 12, 2019, she was born in Plymouth Michigan to Frank and Lucille Tokar, their first daughter. Patti is survived by her three sons, Thomas (Cindy) Duffy of Lake Carmel New York, Michael (Lisa) Duffy of Donaldson Arkansas and George (Cindy) Duffy of Elizabethton, Tennessee. She was an especially proud grandmother to Michael Duffy Jr., Michelle Duffy-Miller (Bill), Mathew Duffy, Dan Duffy (Stacy Lynn Jacobs), Kathleen Duffy (Juan Nieto), Andrew Duffy (Dana Lincoln), Samantha Duffy (Grant Thomas) and Frank Duffy. Patti smiles were biggest for her great-grandchildren, Jacob Duffy, Arianna Duffy and Daxton Duffy who always brightened her day. Patti has two brothers, Richard (Kathleen) Tokar and Robert (Mary) Tokar and four sisters, Pamela Orovet, Lucille Mackenzie, Paula Beason (Jack Weliever) and Virginia (Edgar) Podmore. Her family continues with nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews and great grand nieces and nephews totaling 68 as well as cousins and their families too numerous to list. Her love in life was her family first and foremost. She loved painting, playing mah jongg or cards, growing flowers and travel when she could. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially bread and teaching others how it was done. If you were to look at pictures, you would be hard pressed to find one without her smiling. Patti worked as an executive secretary and medical transcriptionist during her life and enjoyed both challenges very much. She retired in 2011 and moved to Hot Springs Village in 2016. She was a proud member of Christ Lutheran Church. A memorial service will be held on Saturday. October 12th at 1:00PM at Christ Lutheran Church 103 Ponferrada Way, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice in her name.
Kathleen Birmingham, 77 of the Hot Springs Village, passed away September 19, 2019 in Hot Springs Village. Kathleen was born February 7, 1942 in Aberdeen, Washington to Donald and Irene Birmingham. Kathleen loved to travel and was an avid knitter. Kathleen is survived by her sister Patti Scanlon; 2 brothers Kevin Birmingham and Jack Birmingham; grandsons, Shane Birmingham of Hot Springs and Kelly Stanfield of Boston MA.; and several great-grandchildren. An Irish Wake will be held for friends and family in the south on October 12, 2019 at 6:00PM at 6 Gorrion Lane in the Hot Springs Village. A separate Wake and MASS will be held for friends and family in the West on February 1, 2020 in Palm Desert, California. In Lieu of flowers please make donations to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Association, 230 East Ohio Street Suite 304, Chicogo Illinois 60611-3201. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted with CedarVale Funeral Home of Hot Springs Village.
Laurine Ludwig, 70, of Hot Springs Village passed away September 19, 2019. Arrangements are entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home
Cynthia Dawne Ideker-Sowle of the Hot Springs Village, passed away September 21, 2019
Donald E. Evans, 82 of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas passed away on September 23rd, 2019. Husband of 55 years to Lorna and father to Steve (Terri) Evans and Rachel (Jay) Harles. Please follow the “share a memory” link below, as Ron’s family has requested and would appreciate reading your fond memories of Ron. In lieu of flowers, Ron would have requested you make a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, it had always been a charity he had admired and supported. https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=home-btn-donate-now
Chun Yol Ziegelgruber 61 of Mabelvale passed away on September 14, 2019 with his family by his side. He was born on August 23, 1958 to the late, Lee Roy and ChongAe Ziegelgruber in South Korean. Chun loved to go fishing and spend time with his children and grandchildren. He proudly served in the United States Marines. He was a wonderful father and grandfather; he always put his family’s needs before his own. He was a member of New Hope Nazarene. He is preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Breana McCall. Chun is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Janey Ziegelgruber; two daughters, Kimi Matthews “Lance” and Melissa Hirtzinger “Jeremy”; six grandchildren, Samantha, Alex, Nala, Brooke and Tyler; four great grandchildren, Harrison, MaggieKae, Wyatt and Jase; brother, Kim Frank Ziegelgruber and a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at 7:00 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM at the Funeral Home.
Emma Jean Wooldridge 16, of Little Rock passed away on September 16, 2019 with her family by her side. She was born on April 14, 2003 to Shawn and Natilie Wooldridge in Batesville, Arkansas. Emma loved going to church and spending time with her family and friends playing games. Her favorite activities were going to church camp and spina bifida camp. She enjoyed swimming, dressing up and putting her makeup on and singing and dancing. She is preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Jim Clements; paternal grandmother, Brenda Wooldridge and her great grandparents. Emma is survived by her loving parents, Shawn and Natilie Wooldridge; three sisters, Macie, Brooke and Lexi Wooldridge; paternal grandfather, Dale Wooldridge “Deborah”; maternal grandmother, Sally Clements; aunts, Christi Nolte “Chris”, Amber Fore “Jeremy” and Sherry Conger “Chad” and a host of cousins, friends and family who all loved her and will miss her dearly. Visitation will be Friday, September 20, 2019 from 6-8 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Celebration of Emma’s life will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Fairview Missionary Baptist Church 26401 S Fairview Road, Hensley, AR. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Spina Bifida Support Group of Arkansas, Camp Aldersgate or the Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Melissa Faye Brainerd-Gore 53, of Benton passed away, September 19, 2019. She was born, November 6, 1965 in Little Rock to the late, DeForest and Patricia Brainerd. Melissa grew up in Bay City, Texas. She loved making jewelry, gardening, being outdoors and spending time with her boys. She is preceded in death by her parents and her uncle, Larry Shaw. Melissa is survived by her loving sons, Wade Lindsey of Dallas, Texas and Bryce Gore of Benton, Arkansas; brother, Bill Brainerd and his wife, Marcie of Chattanooga, Tennessee; sister, Angie Socha and her husband, Jeff of El Campo, Texas; aunt, Elizabeth Shaw of Benton, Arkansas; nephews, Douglas and Patrick Brainerd and Tyler Socha; niece, Taryn Staff and numerous family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly. Celebration of Melissa’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at 12:00 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant with visitation one hour prior. To sign Melissa’s online guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Don Watts 80, of Hensley passed away on September 25, 2019. He was born on January 21, 1939 to the late, James and Edna Faye Watts in Arlberg, Arkansas. Don enjoyed fishing, woodworking and was always willing to help anyone in need. He was a member of East End Assembly of God Church where he served as a Deacon for many years. Don loved listening to gospel music and spending time with his family. He is preceded in death by parents; sister, Darlene Watts Long and brother, Conrad Watts. Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Martha Watts; two sons, Randy Watts “Mary” and Mark Watts “Donna”; one daughter, Kristen Taylor “Nick”; eight grandchildren, Shawn, Marthann, Krystle, Isabella, Brittney, David, Mathew and Jourdan; seven great grandchildren; one brother, Darrell Watts; one sister, Williajean Teague and a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 27, 2019 from 6-8 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Celebration of life will be Saturday, September 28, 2019 at 11:00 AM at East End Assembly of God. To sign online guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Ruby J. Wells, 91, of Benton, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. She was born October 15, 1927 to Foy Cowen Milton and Mary Caroline Russ. She was a member of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church and a member of Order of the Eastern Star. Ruby is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph Luther Wells, Jr., sister, Hazel Clements, and son, Richard Foy Wells. She is survived by her sister, Clara Mae Murdoch of Texas; son, Ronnie Wells (Kathy) of Benton; daughter, Sylvia Upperman (Roger) of Haskell; four grandchildren, Paul Wells of Benton, Phillip Wells of Benton, Brian Wells (Joana) of King George, Virginia, Steven Upperman of Haskell and seven great-grandchildren. A Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at Roller Ballard Funeral Home 306 S. Main Street, Benton, AR 72015 (501) 315-4047. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, September 23, 2019 at Roller-Ballard.
Bill Eugene Chaney, Sr., 90, of Benton, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 19, 2019. He was born January 7, 1929 in Lurton, Arkansas to William and Ola Chaney. In addition to his parents Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Myrlah Chaney and sister, Pearl McLain. Bill was raised by his grandparents, Henry and Penola Standridge. He attended school at Moore, until they moved to Russellville. He attended grammar school at Pleasant View and high school at Russellville, graduating in 1945 at age 16. He served in the U.S. Navy for six months to “see the world” before being drafted by the Army for the Korean War. He worked at logging, Mooney Plywood, Alcoa, Saline County Road Department and the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1989. He loved carrying mail and had lots of fun stories to tell. He served as music director at Gravel Hill Baptist Church, Owensville Baptist Church, and Temple Baptist Church for a combined 32 years. He loved kids of all ages and served as the Youth Director at Owensville Baptist Church for many years. He and his wife, Myrlah, had 6 children of their own, but loved and were loved by so many more. It was a normal event for the back of their truck to be full of their youth group headed to church or Fountain Lake basketball games. He made a personal mission trip to Winnemucca, Nevada in June of 1989 and to Guatemala in March of 1992. He truly tried to live what he believed: “It’s either white or black–no gray!” There was no such thing as a “little white lie.” Bill was known for his love of deer and turkey hunting. The day deer season ended, he would always say, “I’ll be glad when deer season starts again!” He killed a trophy size white tail deer and had it mounted for the wall of the log cabin he built by hand after retiring at age 60. An irregular heart beat was discovered in 1974 and he developed diabetes in 1988 but he never slowed down. He baled hay, planted deer food plots, helped with the cattle, and hunted with is sons and grandsons. And oh the stories he could tell. He is survived by his sons, Bill Chaney, Jr. (Aletha), James Brian Chaney (Sharon), Barry Chaney (Shelia), Brett Chaney and Blair Chaney (Kelley); daughter, Beth Keltner; sister, Shirley Brown (Joe) of Sedalia, Missouri; grandchildren, Nathan Chaney (Meghan), Jared Chaney (Ariel), Melanie Lawhon (William), Brad Chaney, Olivia Wilson (Michael), Benjamin Chaney, Amanda Chaney, Marcia Zakrzewski (Bradley), Bradley Hudson, Jacob Cragg (Mary Kate), and Kaylee Freeman (Brandon), and 14 great-grandchildren; and many friends and family. A funeral service will begin 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2019 at Owensville Baptist Church (22000 Hwy 5, Lonsdale, AR 72087) with Bro. Rusty Keltner and Bro. J.D. Courtney officiating. Serving as pallbearers are Bill Chaney, Jr., James Brian Chaney, Barry Chaney, Brett Chaney, Blair Chaney and Benjamin Chaney. A time of visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. Friday, September 20, 2019 at Gravel Hill Baptist Church (6259 Hwy 9, Benton, AR 72019). Memorials may be made to the Family Life Center of Owensville Baptist Church at 22000 Hwy 5, Lonsdale, AR 72087 or online at www.owensvillebaptist.com. (Roller-Ballard Funeral Home)
Andrew Will Thompson, 31, of Haskell, dearly loved son of Steven and Julie Thompson, passed away Friday, September 20, 2019. He was born October 24, 1987 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Tom and Kitty Thompson of Benton, Arkansas and Terrence and Betty Coppack of Chester, England. Will is survived by his parents; son, Gus Thompson; daughter, Lili Thompson; and sister, Sophie Thompson Myers (Andrew) of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. His memory will be forever cherished, and his legacy will continue on through his family and many others who loved him dearly. Will was smart, funny, and sensitive, and was always on the side of the underdog. He had a tender and generous heart and had may friends. He loved animals and the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to The Saline County Humane Society, 7600 Bauxite Hwy, Bauxite, AR 72011. A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, September 26, 2019 at Little Rock Church, 10701 Baseline Road, Little Rock, AR 72209. Roller-Ballard Funeral Home.
Headlee C. Caldwell, 99, of Benton passed away Friday, September 20, 2019. He was born May 19, 1920 in Griffithville, Arkansas to the late Bratton and Audie Caldwell. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Wilma Caldwell; son, Dwight Caldwell, Sr.; and grandson, Greg Philamlee. Headlee was a member of Holland Chapel Baptist Church. He was a great gardener and was known for sharing his fruits and vegetables with his friends and family, and could often be seen walking or going for a morning swim to stay in shape. In his earlier years he was part of C.C.C. Camp where he earned his high school diploma. Headlee and his wife, Wilma, were very active members in the Eastern Star. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason. Survivors include his daughter, Betty Philamlee (Jim); daughter-in-law, Norma Caldwell; grandchildren, Jimmy Philamlee (Joyce), Dwight Caldwell (Angie), and Monica Irving (Jeff); great-grandchildren, Abigail Irving, Ellie Irving, Jack Irving, Sam Irving, Rhett Caldwell, Jake Caldwell, Whitney Philamlee, Amy Flores (Michael), Emily Philamlee, and Tage Philamlee; granddaughter-in-law, Tammy Philamlee; great-great-granddaughter, Layla Flores; and a host of other family and friends. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 23, 2019 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (306 S. Main St. Benton, AR) with Bro. Carl Higgs officiating. Serving as pallbearers are Jimmy Philamlee, Dwight Caldwell, Jeff Irving, Michael Flores, Rhett Caldwell, and Jake Caldwell. A time of visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., an hour prior to the service, in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home.
Marion J. Troboy, 91, of Alexander passed away Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center in Benton. He was born October 25, 1927 in Bauxite to the late John Lee and Mary Vida Greer Troboy. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Leota Troboy. Survivors include his wife, Mildred Troboy of Alexander; daughter, Deborah McNeil of Alexander; son, Steve Troboy of Russellville; two sisters, Vida King and Verna Newcomb; two grandchildren, Dane McNeil and Katherine Petty, and four great-grandchildren , Colin and Kellan McNeil, and Legend and Nick Walters. Mr. Troboy was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla and was a U.S. Navy veteran with 22 years of service, including World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. He was a sportsman, enjoying both hunting and fishing, walking, and viewing the great outdoors. He loved country and big band music as well as visiting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at the beach. He was adventurous having visited many ports of call in the Pacific in the Navy. His favorite TV shows were football and westerns, including Walker Texas Ranger. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 28, 2019 at Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla with Pastor Mike Schleider officiating. Interment will follow in Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Pallbearers are Walt Jones, Glenn Hannah, Herman Reeves, Hugh Irby, Carlie Brown, and Bruce Schrader. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, September 27th at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047). In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Zion Lutheran Church, 300 Avilla East, Alexander, AR 72002.
Anna Mildred Wright February 15, 1937 – September 25, 2019. Service to be held at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home Monday, September 30 2019 at 11:00 a.m. Pending Obituary at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047).
Lloyd N. Brown, loving husband, father, uncle and friend, went to be with Jesus on September 16, 2019. He was born November 2, 1944 to Archie and Lillian Brown in Little Rock. He was born on his brother Calvin’s 16th birthday. He is survived by his wife, Judy Goode Brown; his children, Amber Brown Prather (Lew), Kent Simmons (Julie), and Kim Simmons; grandchildren, McKenzie Simmons, Carson Simmons (Carlee), Mason Adams, Kennedy Adams, Saylor Prather, and Joe Prather; brother, Calvin Brown ( Betty); special nephews, Phillip Brown(Cissy) and Wayne Brown(Esther); sister and brother-in-law, Laveda and Joe Hughes and Shirley Spears; special friends, Dalton and Betty Beaty and Bob and Raymelle Paxton. A memorial service will be held at 2:00p.m., Friday, September 20, 2019, at First Baptist Church in Benton, Arkansas, with visitation to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Saline Memorial Hospice. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Garland Stuart Ferguson 74, of Benton went to be with the Lord on September 20, 2019. Garland was born October 21, 1944 to the late Ezra and Margaret (Burke) Ferguson. After finishing high school, Garland earned his Bachelor’s degree and worked at the Arkansas Department of Health as Director of Alcohol & Drug Prevention for over 40 years. Garland is survived by a son, Stuart Hoahwah and wife Isis of Benton; two sisters: Judy Marek and husband Richard and Rose Mushrush of Alma; and many family members and friends who love Garland and will miss him always. He is also preceded in death by his sister, Ellen Ferguson. Private services were held. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Theda Jo (Newcomb) White, 82, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2019 in the care of hospice. Theda was born and raised in Benton to Pat and Inez (Hester) Newcomb on November 25, 1936. She met her late husband, Tommie Neil, in 1955 while working in Pat’s Cafe in Benton. They enjoyed more than 60 years of marriage, blessed with three children and six grandchildren. Theda taught American History at Benton High School for many years. She was loved (and sometimes feared) by generations of students. Often seen brandishing a yardstick or dragging a stool behind her, many of her happiest moments were in the classroom. She was devoted to sharing her love for our great nation with every student she taught. She is survived by two sons: Jesse “Bo” White of Benton and Dale White (Michelle) of Springdale; five grandchildren: Meghan Cressman (Tye), Cole Winfield, Garen White, Jesse White and Kyle Winfield; two great-grandchildren: Theo and Bonnie Cressman; and three siblings: Don Newcomb, David Newcomb (Debbie), and Brenda Johnson (Jerry). Theda is preceded in death by her husband, Tommie Neil White; her parents, Pat and Inez Newcomb of Benton; a beloved daughter, Telisa Winfield of Benton; a grandson, Justin Springston; and two siblings, Gary Newcomb and Patricia Larsen. A celebration of Theda’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, October 10 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton. She will be laid to rest next to Tommie Neil during a private interment at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.Benton.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Danny Ray Stuart, 56, went to be with the Lord on September 22, 2019 at his home in Bauxite surrounded by his family and friends. He was born June 3, 1963 in Watertown, Wisconsin to Betty Lou (Dublin) VanSteinburge and the late David Leroy Stuart. Dan battled a hard fight with brain cancer. Dan worked for Parnell Consultants as a gas line inspector and attended Heaven’s Trail Cowboy Church in Sheridan. Dan was preceded in death by his father, David Stuart; and brother, Donald Eugene Stuart. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of sixteen years, Waynell Stuart of Bauxite, Arkansas; daughter, Amanda Cleere and husband John of Kansas City, Missouri; four grandchildren: Moniqe, Tynia, Zoey, and Tristan; mother, Betty Van Steinburge of Nixa, Missouri; brother, David Stuart and wife Dianna of East Peoria, Illinois; sister, Lagena Jenkins and husband Chris of Forsyth, Missouri; brother-in-law, Waymon “Bubba” Hill of Bauxite, Arkansas; sister-in-law, Welda Smith and husband Gary of Bauxite, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends who all love Dan and will miss him always. Special thank you to the staff of Arkansas Hospice and Kindred Home Health for their compassionate care given Dan throughout his cancer battle. Memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, September 29 at the Saline County Fairgrounds. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to JDN Cowboy Crisis Fund, 2281 Lookout Mountain Road, Benton, Arkansas 72019. Service entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Osmon “Ozzie” Junior Ramsey was almost 93. He was born September 21, 1926; died September 18, 2019. He was a resident of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas at the time of passing. He was a graduate of the US Army Command and General Staff College at Ft. Levenworth, Kansas and ended his military career as an instructor at US Army Reserve center in Allentown, Pennsylvania. During high school at Linden-Mckinley in Columbus, Ohio he joined the US Army reserve and after high school he was ordered to active duty.
Suzanne Louise (Haynes) Hammer, 71, of Benton, passed away September 16, 2019. Born in Toledo, Ohio to John and Rose Marie (Kanney) Haynes, she was a teacher in the Troy, Michigan school district. Suzanne went back to school later in life, earning a Bachelor Degrees in Math and Science, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She was an artist, writer and animal lover who valued family above everything. She was the epitome of a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Preceded in death by her parents, brother, Jack Haynes and sister, Carolyn Haggarty, she is survived by her husband of 53 years, William “Bill” Hammer; son, Craig Hammer (Brenda) of Bryant; daughter, Suzanne Fors (Andrew) of Benton; sisters, Mary Beth Fulwider (Dale) and Rose Marie LaJune; brother, James Anthony Haynes (Marie); and seven grandchildren, Jonathan Jerry, Liana Jerry, Elizabeth Fors, William Hammer, Devin Hammer, Jacqueline Hammer and Dakota Hammer. There will be a service to honor Suzanne’s life on Saturday, September 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), (501)224-2200. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Central Arkansas SPCA, 64 Stonewall Dr., Jacksonville, AR 72076. Suzanne’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Danial Lee Donaldson June 21, 1951 ~ September 19, 2019 (Age 68) of Benton. No further details are available from Arkansas Cremation 322 N. Market Street Benton, AR 72015, 501-975-1002
Patrick M Burnam December 27, 1953 ~ September 18, 2019 (Age 65). No further details are available from Arkansas Cremation 322 N. Market Street Benton, AR 72015, 501-975-1002