Clarence Russell Benton of Benton, Arkansas passed away at the age of 87 on Sunday, August 16, 2020 after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Benton of the home; his children: Evelyn Champion (Rusty) of Hickory, NC, Susan Benton Wilson (Gene) of Charlotte, NC, Elaine Tucker of Hickory, NC, Clarence Benton II of Conover, NC; his stepdaughter, Laura Long (Dana) of Hot Springs, AR; and his brother, Elbert Benton of Charlotte, NC. He has four grandchildren, one step-grandchild; seven great-grandchildren, one step-great-grandchild; plus his special pet, Homer, the cat. He is preceded in death by his mother, Donnie Pons; his father, Ralph Benton; and infant, Claude Dempsey Benton. Clarence was born on September 28, 1932 in Morganton, NC. He graduated from Morganton High School in the class of 1950. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. Upon leaving the Army, Clarence spent the entire remainder of his working career serving his country full-time in the North Carolina Army National Guard where he achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. He also came to Arkansas several times as an instructor in the PEC program at Camp Robinson. Upon retirement, he moved to Benton, AR where he belonged to the American Legion, Calvary Baptist Church, and the P & B Hunting Club. He enjoyed hunting (especially deer), playing golf, competing several years in the Senior Olympics, reading, bird watching, camping, and playing cards with his friends. He had a sweet spirit, a kind smile, and fierce courage, all of which earned him the title of “Bonus Dad” from his stepdaughter, Laura. He taught his children respect and the value of a good day’s work by the example he set. He would make pancakes the size of a dinner plate for his children on Saturday mornings. The family would like to thank Kristi and all the nurses and caregivers at Pleasant Hill Care Center and Saline Hospice for all the wonderful care and attention he received.
Dr. Robert Frank Castiglione (“Doc. C”) was born April 1, 1942. He woke up the morning of August 15, 2020 with Jesus. He retired from the Air Force after 32 years. Lt. Col. Castiglione was an army officer and changed branches to the Air Force during the Vietnam war due to a need for more optometrists. He received the Army and Air Force Commendation Medals, Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, and many others. His career was distinguished as a member of the Association of Military Surgeons of the United States, and Chairman of Military Selection Committee of Fellows of the American Academy of Optometry. He advised the Surgeon General of the Air Force on vision standards for Air Force Pilots. He revised the vision standards for the Kuwaiti Air Force during a temporary tour of duty to Kuwait. Doc. C loved the military life and devoted his civilian life to assisting with the optometric needs of the military community in and around military bases in Germany, Texas, Arkansas, and Florida. He didn’t just serve people as a profession; his personal life was one of endless serving and generosity. He donated generously to causes too numerous to mention and personally meet needs as he felt lead which was often. His faith informed every aspect of his life and he longed for others to have a true personal relationship with Jesus like he did. Due to this drive there are souls on multiple continents who have had their physical and spiritual needs met. His life has left a wake that he’ll get to see in heaven. He is survived by his wife Ronda of Bryant AR, his five children, Rob and wife Mila; Victoria Lundvall and husband Anthony; Tony and wife Heidi; Nic; Michael and wife Melanie, and brother Dennis Castiglione as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Leroy E Plaisance, 82, of Benton Arkansas and Westwego, Louisiana passed away August 14, 2020. He was born August 6, 1938, in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana to Sidney F and Mary Armentine Matherne Plaisance. Leroy loved adventure whether it was fishing in the gulf, traveling with family, cooking crawfish or just playing with the grandkids. He was known by all for his generous and kind heart, he never saw someone in need that he did not try to take care of. In addition to his parents, Leroy was preceded in death by one son, Miles Scott Plaisance, ten siblings, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Jenkins-Plaisance, 2 daughters Cindy Grey (Terri) of Bay St. Louis Mississippi, and Brandy Chumley (Jerry) of Benton, 1 son, Jerome Plaisance (Nova) of Benton and five step children ( Ronette Metcalf, Shelley Drake, Bart Jenkins, Jonn Witham, Billy Bladsacker. He also leaves behind 20 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
George Thomas Garrett, 64, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 14, 2020. He was born March 12, 1956 in Benton to the late Eugene Allen and Alice Louise (Gould) Garrett. George loved the Lord and was a member of First Baptist Church of Benton. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, photography, and live music. George cherished his family and every moment he spent with them. George leaves behind his wife, Carol Garrett of Benton, Arkansas; son, David Garrett and wife Caryn of Green Bay, Wisconsin; two daughters: Roberta May and husband Jake of Overland, Missouri and Kellie Bell of Seattle, Washington; seven grandchildren: Kaleb, Noah, Josiah, Olivia, Madelyn, Samuel, and Angel; siblings: Sammie Crawford of Hot Springs, Arkansas, John Garrett and wife Evelyn of Benton, Arkansas, and Linda Cochran of Benton, Arkansas; and many family members and friends who love George and will miss him always.
Michael Lee Stokes, 46, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 10, 2020. He was born August 19, 1973 in Benton to Thomas and Ruth (Wear) Stokes. Michael loved his family with all his heart. His granddaughter was so special to him. Michael’s favorite times were spent outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, spending time with family, or grilling. He also enjoyed watching Nascar and eating good food. Preceding Michael in death is his father, Thomas Terrell Stokes. He leaves behind to cherish his memory: wife, Lisa Stokes of Benton, Arkansas; son, Tyler Stokes (Hannah) of Sherwood, Arkansas; daughter, Ansleigh Stokes (Hunter) of Benton, Arkansas; granddaughter, Rayleigh Crum; mother, Ruth Stokes; three brothers: Darrell Stokes of Benton, Arkansas, Ricky Stokes (Mary) of Benton, Arkansas, and Tommy Stokes of Benton, Arkansas; and many family members and friends who love Michael and will miss him always. Special appreciation to girlfriend, Missy Camp for the loving care she provided to Michael.
Marvin Franklin McCallister, 87, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 10, 2020. He was born April 7, 1933 in Jefferson County, Arkansas (near Coy and Tomberlin) to the late William Sylvester and Eula Marie (Dardene) McCallister. Marvin loved the Lord and read his Bible every day. He was a member of Forest Hills Missionary Baptist Church. Marvin created great memories with each of his family members and all who knew him. He was the owner of Mc’s Garden Center from 1962-1978. Marvin was an incredible landscaper, who designed many gardens throughout Benton including the Courthouse, Benton High School, and First United Methodist Church. His work was featured on “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” for the gorgeous gardens he created for Jerry Van Dyke. Marvin was a Dallas Cowboy fan, and loved sports of all kinds. Preceding Marvin in death are his wife, Sue Hendrix McCallister; son, Marvin Darrell McCallister; parents; and six siblings. He leaves behind to cherish his memory: son, Bobby McCallister of Little Rock, Arkansas; two daughters: Judy Cotton and husband Bill of Clinton, Arkansas and Brenda Finley and husband Greg of Benton, Arkansas; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Sue Buggar of Benton, Arkansas; and a host of family members and friends who love Marvin and will miss him always.
Timothy Popwell, 43, of Russellville, Arkansas passed away August 9, 2020. He was born May 9, 1977 to Jerry Wayne and Martha Carol (Boleware) Popwell. Timothy leaves behind many family members and friends who loved him dearly and will miss him always. There are no services scheduled at this time.
Ardy Ray Berry, 69, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 8, 2020. He was born October 11, 1950 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Ethel Mary DeLong. Ardy was a truck driver who travelled the United States. Big trucks, especially Peterbilts, and fast cars were his passion. He enjoyed listening to country music. Ardy likes nice clothes and shoes and was a sharp dresser who never went out without a starched shirt complete with pearl buttons. Ardy was preceded in death by his mother, Ethel Mary DeLong; and grandchild, Kyler. He leaves behind four children: Pamela Anne berry of Benton, Arkansas, Ruth Davis and husband Tony of Virginia, James Berry of Benton, Arkansas, and Leslie Brown and husband Jonathan of Washington; grandchildren: Samantha, Shelby, Jake, Megan, Lillie, Jayden, Ava, and Kayson; sister, Mary Kinney of Washington; and many more family members and friends who love Ardy and will miss him always.
Anne Elizabeth Jackson, 90, went to be with the Lord on August 7, 2020. She was born December 11, 1929 in Rogers, Arkansas to the late Eldric and Madge (Woods) Gartside. She was dearly loved by her family and friends and will be missed always. Family to hold private services.
Gregory “Greg” James Stickney, Sr., 52, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away August 5, 2020. He was born April 1, 1968 in Waukesa, Wisconsin to George James Stickney and Diane Dillman. Greg loved the Lord with all his heart and was so thankful for the way God changed his life. He was a member of Malvern First Assembly of God. Greg gave sacrificially in helping others. He would give anyone the shirt off his own back if it would help them. You could always find Greg spending time outdoors- hunting, fishing, or drag racing. He was a member of Ridgeback Hunting Club. Before he started building his home, he and Mary would go to Tar Camp to fish every day. Greg built his own race car and spent many weekends on the drag strip. He loved his Mustang and anything that had to do with Mustangs. Greg loved his fur babies: Koda and Alli, who he affectionately named “The Princess.” As much as Greg loved everything mentioned above, nothing compared to his love for his God and his family. He cherished his family and looked forward to spending time with them. Preceding Greg in death are his grandparents; and brother-in-law, Charlie Green. He leaves behind his fiance’, Mary Ellis from Mabelvale, Arkansas; son, Gregory James Stickney, Jr. of Cabot, Arkansas; daughter, Rachael Russell of Cabot, Arkansas; mother, Diane Dillman of Malvern, Arkansas; father, George James Stickney of Calico Rock, Arkansas; grandchildren: Bentley Stickney, Bryson Stickney, Joshua Mathis, Jayson McKellips, Odin Mathis, and Pyper Dodson; sister, Michele Green of Amity, Arkansas; step-children: Anthony Mathis and wife Domonique and Misty Mathis; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, family members and friends who love Greg and will miss him always.
Christina “Tina” Gail Minden, age 53, died on Saturday, July 18, 2020 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Tina is survived by her husband, Bruno Beqiri, step-children, Adrian, Isabella, and Nick Beqiri and Florina (Rey) Perales, step-grandchildren, Gia and Valentino Perales, mother Judy Minden Houston, sister Sharon (Michael) Dixon, brother Carl (Angela) Minden, step-brother Marty (Paula) Houston, nieces Emma and Aslyn Minden, Michaela Dixon, and Holly (Joe) Martinazzi, nephews Mason Minden and Garrett Houston, fur-babies Kaos and Karma, “little sisters” Anneke Bollman and Megan (Jarrod) Toland, and many aunts/uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her father, Herman Minden, and step-father, Dutch Houston.
Ronald G. Crawford, a coach and mentor to hundreds, and a friend to all—died August 15, 2020, at his home in Benton, Arkansas, surrounded by his loving family. He was 76. He founded Southland Marketing, Inc. in 1970, and was the chairman of the board and president for 46 years before retiring in 2016. Southland Marketing, Inc., a multi-million dollar sales operation with offices in Arkansas, Georgia and Missouri, eventually enabled him the opportunity to afford both time and money to help the youth of this State. He founded the Arkansas Wings AAU basketball program in 1980 and turned it into a national power. His Southland Marketing/Arkansas Wings name is the name he gave his teams in honor of the McDonnell Douglas Wings in St. Louis. He helped more than 100 high school players reach the next level, and many have paid their respects on social media. He led teams to a combined nine national championships in the 16-under division, 17-under division and senior division. His teams finished in the top 10 at the national tournament 16 times. He was a head coach for one of three teams in the 2005 USA Basketball Men’s Youth Development Festival. He served as an assistant coach to the 1995 and 1996 USA Junior National Select Team. He also worked on the committee that selected coaches and players for the Youth Development Festival from 2000-04. He is expected to be coaching Heaven’s angels soon. Great coaches are gifted with an ability to unlock what is bound up in others, and of course if they themselves could explain this gift, great coaching could be learned and perhaps we’d have more of them. This gift is as obvious and basic in great coaches as other fundamental character traits. You perceive it immediately, once in their presence, a sort of magnetic effect of personality. Coaches are born, not made. He was a devoted father, grandfather and coach. He will be remembered for his wildly entertaining stories, his powerful testimony, unfailing work ethic, his generous smile and giving heart, and his willingness and patience to help lead youth in our communities. He is preceded in death by his parents Virginia and Russell Crawford, and his grandson, Braden Crawford. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his loving wife, Linda Crawford; children Ronda Maxwell and Keith Crawford, and his seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. The family appreciates all of the prayers and concerns extended during this time.
Norbert Edward Dugan, 81 of East End passed away August 15, 2020 with his family by his side. Born to Jack and Florence Dugan on August 4, 1939 in Washington, DC but moved to Little Rock, AR at the age of 2. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Jackie Dugan. Norbert is survived by his loving wife of 46 years Jane Dugan; two sons Tim Dugan “Chris” and Greg Dugan “Melissa”; four grandchildren, Allie, Ryan, Jadyn and Colton; a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. He attended St. Edward’s Catholic School where he served as an altar boy. During his youth he was a Boy Scout and became an Eagle Scout. He served as a counselor at the Boy Scout summer camps and as an adult was an Explorer Post Leader. After graduating from Catholic High School in 1958, he served 2 years in the army. He was recalled for 1 year during the Berlin Crisis and served as an x-ray technician in the MASH unit. Upon returning he continued his career as a Little Rock fireman for 28 ½ years … “he said it was the only job he didn’t mind getting up and going to work”. After retiring at the age of 50 he opened Dugan’s Shoe Repair and was a shoe cobbler for 20 years. He also was a draftsman and worked part-time for a civil engineer. This was natural for him because he could draw just about anything. He was an avid hunter and fisherman spending many hours at Lakeside Country Club.
Kathy Lea Metz, 73, passed away August 18, 2020. She was born August 10, 1947 to the late William and Mary Catherine Lindsey. She loved her children and grandchildren and enjoyed spending as much time as possible with them. Kathy is preceded in death by her husband Kenneth “Tiny” Metz, her parents; five sisters; and two brothers. She is survived by three children; Keith Metz “Missi”, Karyn Holt “Kirk”, and Karl Metz “Penny”; eight grandchildren, Maila, Morgan, Marcus, Allyson, Lucas, Kaleb, Kylie, Kymberlie and Kaydence; twin sister, Katie, sister Sharon, and brother Dan.
Daisy Jane Hill was born March 13, 1942 in Paris, Arkansas to William Arthur and Corine (Grady) Sewell. She entered Heaven’s gates on August 17, 2020 at 4AM surrounded by her loving family. She is proceeded by death by Husband, David Hill, her parents, brother Wayne Sewell, Sister Louise English and Clara Pitcairn. Survived by sisters Wanda Patterson, Sharon (Herman) Gasaway. Two Sons; Preston (Lisa) McGriff, Scotty (Donna) McGriff. Daughter: Tanya McFarland. Grandchildren; Brandon McGriff, Chasity (Brian) Parkridge, Ryan (Emily) McGriff, Joanna (Stephen) Olson, Shelby (Chris) Joiner, Dalton (Lauren) McFarland, and five great grandchildren. Daisy was small in stature but compensated for her size with her feisty spirit. That spirit was probably experienced often by her sisters as they gathered for their card games and fun. Daisy loved spending time with her family. Countless memories were made on her back porch with yard games, food, stories, but most of all laughter with her kids. Daisy laughed with her whole body, and you couldn’t help but get tickled by it. Most mornings you could find Daisy on her front porch with her coffee enjoying her birds and watching cars go by. Daytime would bring those calls from her family and afternoon visits from her friends, that would brighten her day. Weekends would include family margarita night at her favorite Mexican restaurant. Daisy was always greeted with hugs and plenty of attention about her beautiful white spikes hair. She would end up with a two-step dance with her daughter or favorite waiter. Momma, I hope you and papa are dancing together in the sky.
Harris R. Jacobs, 88, of Benton, Arkansas went to be with the Lord August 7, 2020. Harris was born to Austin and Ruby Jacobs in Herbine, Arkansas. Harris was a US Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict. He worked for the US Postal Service as a mail carrier for 33 years in Pine Bluff, AR. After retiring from the postal service he drove a bus serving special needs children of the Pine Bluff School District for 20 years before retiring to Benton, Arkansas with his wife. Harris was active in church work, devoting his life in helping ministries and missionaries. Harris is preceded in death by his parents, William and Ruby Jacobs, sisters Annette Moss and Nancy Johnson. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pat Jacobs; son James L. Jacobs, grandchildren Micah Jacobs and Tiffany Arkless (Wes Arkless) great grandchildren Jessalynn and Tayden Arkless; sister, Barbara Hutcheson “David”, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Ricky Mann, 61 of Benton went home to be with our Lord and Savior on August 07, 2020 with his family by his side. He was a wonderful man of God, who loved his children and grandchildren beyond measure. Ricky loved being outside, he had a very good work ethic and was always a hard worker. He enjoyed singing and watching westerns. Ricky was a faithful church member of Christ Church for 35 years. He met his amazing wife there. Ricky loved his church family as his own. He is preceded in death by his dad, Gilbert Mann; two brothers, Greg and Bert Mann. Ricky is survived by his loving wife of 17 years Desiree Mann; three sons, Wesley, Tony and David; four daughters, Misty, Tonya, Tiffany, Stephanie; nine grandchildren, Anna, Anthony, Gunnar, Ethan, Bianca, Rafe, Nathan, Beau, Adelynn, and his best bud Gus Gus; two great grandchildren, mother, Betty Ward; three sisters, Vickie, Cathy and Penny. A host of family and friends who all love him and miss him dearly.
Mary Frances McKewen of Little Rock, AR, passed away August 5, 2020, at the age of 65. She was a member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church. Mary loved reading scripture, attending Bible Study, gardening, baking and her pets. She loved spending time with her family and had her own special way of making everyone feel special. Mary is preceded in death by her parents; Max Lee and Frances Elizabeth Purcell. She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years John McKewen; three children, Monica Patrick “Clay”, Wesley McKewen and Laura Sutton “Clint”; six grandchildren, Emma, Caleb, Lily, Carter, Annie and Barrett; six siblings, Shirley, Jane, Diane, Linda, Max Jr. and Bill; host of family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly.
Avalynn Renee Maxwell, infant daughter of Alex and Shania Maxwell, passed away on August 17, 2020. She was born in Benton on August 17, 2020. She is survived by her parents, Alex Robert Dewayne and Shania Starbreyer Maxwell, grandparents, Jana and Kenneth Cotton of Sheridan, Christie and Jerry Watts of Bryant and aunt, Rebecca Maxwell.
James Loyd Suggs, 79 of Bryant, passed away on August 14, 2020. He was born on December 2, 1940 to the late James and Anna Cody Suggs. Loyd was retired from Alcoa after 38 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a member and Deacon of First Baptist Church of Bryant. Loyd was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jan Suggs; brothers, Doyle Suggs and Glenn Suggs; and sisters, Irene Bowman, Exie Grissom, Lottie White and Maxine McGee. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Suggs of Bryant; Son, Scott (Kim) Suggs of Alexander; brother, Horace (Sandy) Suggs of Benton; grandchildren, Stephen (Jennifer) Parson, Dustin Parson, Whitney Suggs, and Hallie Suggs; and great-grandchildren, Alexa Parson and Brooklyn Parson. Pallbearers will be Stephen Parson, Holt Fulcher, Bubba Hill, Shorty Moore, Bill Suggs, and Shelby Williams.
Betty Louise Wray, 75 of Pine Bluff, passed away on August 13, 2020. She was born on September 19, 1944 in Grant County, Arkansas to the late Carl C. and Selma Greenlee Tabor. Betty loved to play the piano and pipe organ, taught piano lessons and played for numerous churches over the years. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Robert Tabor. Betty is survived by her husband, Bobby Wray, sons, Robert Brian (Lisa Salerno-Wray) Wray and William Britton Wray, grandchildren, Mason William Wray and Aubrey Nicole Wray, brothers, Grady Tabor and Jim Tabor.
Tabitha Camille Francis, 43 of Benton, passed away on August 13, 2020. She was born on January 8, 1977 in Little Rock to Melvin and Ann Nelson Orender. Tabitha attended Midtown Church and was manager at Barrett Aviation in North Little Rock. She was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Orender. Tabitha is survived by her sons, MacKenzie Martin of Little Rock, Christian Barron of Texas and Joshua Barron of Texas; daughter, Stephine Doty of Texas; brothers, Micheal Orender of Mississippi and Matt Orender of Benton; mother, Ann Orender of Benton; and grandchildren, Lily & Lucy Doty.
Emmie Payne, 71 of Mabelvale, died Wednesday. She was born to the late David and Fern McGinty Shirley on April 5, 1949 in Humphrey, Arkansas. Emmie was a RN at UAMS for 30 years. She was a member of Friendly Chapel of the Nazarene Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Emmie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jack Payne and two sisters. Survivors, one brother, Thomas L. Shirley of Oklahoma, two nephews and two nieces.
Harold Lee Wilder Jr., age 58, of Bauxite, passed away Sunday, August 9, 2020. He was born May 7, 1962 in Benton, Arkansas to the late Harold Wilder Sr. and Mary Francis Wilder. Harold worked for Carlisle Construction and was a great carpenter. He is survived by his son, Nicholas Wilder (Becca); daughter, Jessica Welch (Chris); brother, Howard Lee Wilder; two sisters, Laura McCool (Davy) and Lisa Hradecky (Jozef) and eight grandchildren, Nicholas, McKenzie, Eoghan, Baili, Sadie, Jason, Seth and Callie.
Mildred Armstrong Ballard, 80, of Benton, formally of Naylor, went to be with the Lord August 14, 2020. She was born December 12, 1939 in Osceola, AR to the late Wilber and Ila Mae Armstrong. Mildred was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed more than anything spending her time with her family especially at the family fish fry’s. Mildred also enjoyed crafts, sewing, gardening, fishing and camping. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Roy Lee Ballard Sr., sons, Gene “Eddie” Turley Jr., Randy Ballard, Roy Lee Ballard Jr., daughter, Tammy Elizabeth Turley and sister, Jeri Johnson. Mildred is survived by her sons, Carl (Kim) Turley and Darryl (Lisa) Turley, daughters, Joann Negrete, Tonya (Carl) Gautz and Theresa (Jason) Fort, 16 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, brothers, Clyde (Annette) Armstrong, Jimmy Stanley and Richard Stanley, and many more family and friends.