JAMES RONALD SLAWSON, 61, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away on January 14, 2019. He was born to James and Nellie Slawson on February 11, 1957 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He enjoyed working on computers. He is survived by his loving wife, Lori Ann Slawson, and daughters, Stacey Riley (Dylan) from Bryant and Stephanie Slawson from Jonesboro. He will be truly missed. Service times are currently pending.
LESLIE KAY PILGRIM, 63, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on January 14, 2019. She was born to Clifford and Betty VerBurg on February 26, 1955. She was a proud mother and grandma. She was hard working, strong, and an independent mother. She was a waitress for most of her years, and she enjoyed serving people. She enjoyed rearranging the furniture and kept her house clean. She liked keeping up with her plants and flowers. What she enjoyed the most was her family. She loved the holidays because that meant she got to spend time with the ones she loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Martie VerBurg, and sister, Barbara. She is survived by her loving children, Cherie Pilgrim and her better half, Jamie, and Jonny Pilgrim and his better half, Jo Anna; six grandchildren; two brothers; three sisters; along with a host of many family and friends who love and miss her dearly. A memorial service will be held at Forest Hills Missionary Baptist Church on Thursday, January 17, 2019 at 2:00 P.M.
STELLA RUTH ADAMS, 79, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away on January 20, 2019. She was born on May 1, 1939. Service arrangements are currently pending and will be updated when determined.
JAMES T. POSEY JR. age 71, of Benton passed away on Monday January 14, 2019. He was born December 11, 1947 in Limestone County, Alabama. James was owner of Posey’s Garage and Auto Repair in Benton for 31 years, an active member of the Downtown Benton Business Owners Association, the Benton Chamber of Commerce and was a US Navy Veteran. He was preceded in death by his parents, James T. Posey Sr. and Frances Aday Posey, and a sister Linda Lewis. Survivors, wife of 47 years Wanda J. Posey, Benton; son, Justin Posey (Mary) Benton; sisters, Edith Walsh, Royal, Arkansas; Jodi Martinez, Florida; and his loving dog, Biscuit. Visitation will be at 11:00 AM Saturday at Ashby Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers family request everyone bring a written note of your favorite Posey memory for a family memorial book. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
JOSEPH LAMBERT BUTTS, age 75, of Traskwood, passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2019. He was born February 3, 1943 in Decatur, Nebraska. Joseph retired from the Air Force as an SMSGT after more than 20 years. He was a Professional Research Signals Analyst for the U.S. Government. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley Loyd Butts and Edna Ann Lambert Butts; daughter, Carrie Leanne Francis; brother, Richard Loyd Butts and a sister, Nancy Ann Neilsen. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patrecia Ayleen Johnston Butts; son, Wesley Joe Butts and his wife, Sandra Kay Winfield Butts; two grandchildren, Anthony Joseph (AJ) Francis and Julia Michelle (MeMe) Francis and other family & friends. Visitation will be 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 25 at Ashby Funeral Home with funeral services beginning at 2:00 p.m.
WANDA LOUISE TACKETT, age 66, of Benton passed away peacefully on January 18, 2019. She was born to the late Rex and Lillian White on October 3, 1952 in Bossier City, Louisiana. Wanda was preceded in death by her loving husband, Larry G. Tackett. She is survived by her children; Michael (Summar) Tackett and Melissa (Joe) Morris, five loving grandchildren, Lillian Tackett, Jared Tackett, Alexa Morris, Jett Morris, and Saylor Morris; two brothers, Troy (LeeAnn) White, Rex Jr. (Eileen) White; two sisters, Brenda (David) Huett, Patricia (Jon Leggett) White; two sisters-in-law, Carolyn (Dale) Newcomb and Kathy (Larry) Begoon; and a hosts of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Wanda was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and grandchildren, embracing every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Mimi. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, January 21 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton. Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 22 at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Benton, with burial to follow at Mt. Harmony Cemetery in Haskell, AR.
BRO. CURTIS KYLE, age 89, of Benton, passed away Friday, January 18, 2019. He was born November 27, 1929 in Taylor, Arkansas. His family moved to Benton in 1944. Bro. Kyle spent 60 years pastoring Missionary Baptist Churches in central Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Louise Chism Kyle; son, Marty Kyle and a granddaughter, Jessica Kyle. He is survived by two sons, Mike and Gary Kyle of Benton; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. A memorial service for Bro. Curtis Kyle and his wife Louise, who passed away October 29, 2018, will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 26 at Ashby Funeral Home. Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday before service. Bro. Kim Hammer will be officiating.
MARY JANE HOLLEY, 95, of Bryant, died Sunday, January 20, 2019. She was born August 31, 1923 in Magnet Cove and grew up in Benton. Mrs. Holley was a homemaker who also worked outside the home several years while her children attended school. She was devoted to her husband James, who preceded her in 2009 after 66 years of marriage. She was a member of Geyer Springs Baptist Church. Survivors include her son, David Holley; daughters Sharon and husband James Lilly Jr, and Mildred Holley; granddaughters, Juli and husband James Wilson and Elizabeth and husband Scott McLaughlin; and great-grandsons Kyle Long and Jackson McLaughlin. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter and her six siblings. Family graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 24 at Pine Crest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice Home Care, 2200 South Bowman Road in Little Rock, 72205. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
PATRICIA ANN (PAT) PATTERSON, 75, a resident of Good Samaritan Society, Hot Springs Village, Ark., died Saturday January 12, 2019 at CHI St. Vincent Hospital. Pat was born in Fayetteville, NC to Elizabeth and Eugene Matthews. She graduated with honors from Ayer High School, in Ayer, Mass. Pat joined the Navy and become an Air Controller in Maine, where she met and married Doug Patterson, a Marine. They had two children, Douglas and Brenda. While her children were young, she enjoyed years of travel, fishing her way across the country from Georgia to Washington seeing our beautiful country. In 1976, Pat moved to Fort Worth, Texas, close to her family. Pat worked for 12 years at Snow Corporation, starting as a machinist, and eventually promoted to purchasing/inventory controller. She worked for Thermacor Process Corp from 1989 until her retirement in 2013. She really enjoyed Thermacor and no two days were ever alike. She gladly served in the Air Force Reserves at Carswell AFB from 1983 to 1996, working up to Tech Sgt. and Chief Load Planner for C-5 Galaxy and C-130 Hercules. She really loved the reserves and traveling the world on her many duty tours. After her father died of cancer in 1999, Pat sold her home and moved in to care for her mother until her mother died in 2014. In 2015, she moved to the Hot Springs Village Good Samaritan Society, near her sister Susan. She loved her years of spending time with her sister, playing scrabble, Bingo, painting, writing, Bible study and spending time with her beloved Good Samaritan family, where she often said, “These are the best years of my life.” Her daughter Brenda precedes Pat in death. Pat is survived by her sister Susan, son Douglas, grandchildren Douglas, Jacqueline, and Josh, and great grandchildren Kalisi, Oaklyn and Pailsee, and, her beloved niece and nephew, Marie Beggs and Brian Anthony. A memorial service will be held on January 26, 2019 at 10:30 AM, in the Chapel at Good Samaritan Society, Hot Springs Village. Please join us in celebrating the life of a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home of Hot Springs Village.
MARGARET O. MCCARTY, 95, of Benton passed away Monday, January 14, 2019. She was born on January 5, 1924 in Bemidji, MN to the late Olaf and Bertha Opsahl. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, Bill McCarty; sister, Borghild Nummela; brothers, Carl Opsahl, Art Opsahl, Arvid Opsahl; daughter, Roberta Armbrust; and grandson, Casey Armbrust. Survivors include her daughters, Gerri (George) Bowlin of Columbia, KY and Gloria Armbrust of Benton, AR; grandchildren, Dale Bowlin, Greg Bowlin, Gayle (Jason) Morris, Barbara Holder, and Chris Armbrust; great-grandchildren, Shannon (Josh) Spencer, Destany Holder, Alex Huffman, Abi Huffman, Siara Morris, Austin Morris, Abby Morris, Cameron Armbrust, Chloe Armbrust, Sammy Armbrust, and Noah Armbrust; and great-great-grandchildren, Everett Wright, Owen Spencer, Brendan Holder, Cali Spencer and Elliott Casey. Funeral Service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 18, 2019 at Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home. Serving as pallbearers are Dale Bowlin, Greg Bowlin, Don Dykes, Alex Huffman, Jason Morris, and Tom Nummela; and honorary pallbearer, Chris Armbrust. A time of visitation will be held an hour prior to the funeral service at the Funeral Home.
PATRICIA ANN DRENNAN, age 78 of Benton passed away peacefully Friday, January 18, 2019 in Benton. She was born June 20, 1940 in Little Rock. Pat was a remarkable mother who loved her children and her family very much. Her presence will be missed dearly. Her legacy and memory will continue on through those who loved her. She is survived by her son, Jack Drennan his family; and her daughter, Chrystina Drennan and her family. A memorial service will be Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home 6700 Alcoa Road.
JUSTIN RYAN FOSTER, 31, of Bauxite died Monday, January 14, 2019 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Justin was born December 12, 1987 in Houston, Texas to James and Elizabeth (Smith) Crouch. Justin was an avid gun collector and loved shooting many types of guns, he loved to travel and would give you the shirt off his back if you needed help, he was a pain in butt, that no one would trade for anything. He was an entrepreneur and loved life to the fullest. Justin became an ordained minister to properly serve his friends that he loved and was with the Sardis volunteer fire Department. Justin is preceded in death by one niece Angel. He is survived by his parents James and Elizabeth Crouch, two brothers: Thomas Crouch and Kevin Fulghum and one sister: Heather Crouch, his grandmother Marianne Fulghum, aunt Michelle and uncle Mitchell, aunt Patty Weir, uncle Robert Smith, Aunt Alethea (Leigh) and uncle Gary Shu, Krissy Delaney and his 6 special babies: Rayden, Serephina, Adyson, Faith, Bentlee and Austyn and many other family and friends who miss him greatly. Visitation with reception will be Saturday January 19, 2019 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home Chapel from 11:00AM-1:00PM, with service following.
MICHAEL JEFFERY TURNER, 27, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away January 14, 2019. He was born May 24, 1991 in Little Rock to Rachuel (Rodriguez) and Nathan H. Turner, Jr. Michael lived to ride motorcycles and was a loyal member of Fearless Stunters of Benton. He was a dare-devil who was not afraid to face challenges and prove he could accomplish them. Michael was loyal to a fault. He loved his children more than anything. His huge heart and beautiful smile will be missed but never forgotten. He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Trent Turner, Blakely Turner, Noah Turner, Whitley Ryan, and Beau Ryan; parents, Rachuel and Nathan H. Turner, Jr. of Tull, Arkansas; fiancé, Nikala Raynor of Bryant, Arkansas; grandmother, Linda Johnson of Benton, Arkansas; grandfather, Fred Rodriguez and wife Sandy of Lonsdale, Arkansas; sister, Monica Turner of Hot Springs, Arkansas; brother, Nickalous Turner and wife Paige of Roland, Arkansas; Fearless Stunters of Benton family; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends who love Michael and will miss him always. Memorial held at 7:00 PM, January 19 in Bauxite hosted by the Fearless Stunters of Benton. Contact family or Fearless Stunters for more information. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
SAM BUDDY ROBERTS, 82, of Benton, Arkansas passed away January 17, 2019. He was born September 26, 1936 in North Little Rock, Arkansas to the late Sam Jackson and Myrtle Mae (Castleberry) Roberts. Buddy was of the Methodist faith. He spent over twenty years serving with the North Little Rock Fire Department and retired as Captain. Buddy later retired from Central Arkansas Water as an inspector. During his spare time, Buddy enjoyed going to the firing range and working in his yard. He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters: Susan Russell of Sherwood, Arkansas and Laurie Walker and husband Don of Florida; his grandchildren: Chad Gipson, Stephanie Walker, Eric Walker, and Brad Walker; brother, Bill Wood of North Little Rock, Arkansas; sister, Carolyn Geffon of Ohio; special friend for over thirty years, Linda Reed of Benton, Arkansas; and a host of nieces and nephews and other family members and friends who love Buddy and will miss him always. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, January 22, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Burial following at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
FERN OSBORN KIMES, 89, passed away on Monday (January 14, 2019) at the Saline Memorial Inpatient Hospice in Bryant, Arkansas after losing her battle with Alzheimer’s disease She was born on March 29, 1929 in Bunker Hill, Kansas, the daughter of John and Opal Lindsey Ehrlich. Fern was one of three children. As a longtime Newton, Kansas resident, she served as a Past District Aid, Past Worthey Matron, and was a 50 plus year member of the Newton Chapter #5, Order of Eastern Star. Fern also spent time in Las Vegas, Nevada before settling in Alexander, Arkansas. Survivors include her husband Donald Kimes; sons Raymond Keith Osborn of Lawton, Okla., Michael Osborn and wife Debbie of Wichita; daughter Kathy Dickerson of Conway, Ark.; grandsons Osric, Adam and Jared Osborn; and several great grandchildren. Fern is preceded in death by her parents; first husband Jim Osborn; sister Lynn; and brother Gordon. Private graveside services will be held at the Restlawn Garden of Memory in Newton, Ks.
SANDRA SUE FORBUS, 70, of the Sardis community in Saline County, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, at a Little Rock hospital. She was born June 3, 1948 in Hunt Town, Arkansas, to Sidney Hoyt and Sula Josephine Garrett. While picking beans for harvest as a young girl, she met David Forbus among the group of helpers. Though they didn’t start courtin’ right away, they would marry in 1970 and share 48 years together, raising a family and growing in love and devotion to one another. A graduate of the University of the Ozarks and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, she retired from the Bryant School District after a career in speech-language pathology. She instilled a love of learning in her own children, both of whom also hold master’s degrees which they put to use in classroom teaching. After her many years of helping children succeed, Sue enjoyed spending time with her grandkids, and she and David attended every sporting event and dance recital they could to support them in their interests. She also had a love of a good story, and when not breezing through the latest Stephen King or James Patterson novel, she kept up a years-long tradition of seeing musicals with friends. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, David Forbus; two children, John Forbus (Amy) of Little Rock and Nancy Burton (Kevin) of Bryant; siblings Keith (Hilda) Garrett of Smithville, Tenn., Yvonne Williams of Rogers, and Don Garrett of Clarksville; two sisters-in-law, Betty Wilkinson of Greenwood and Jackie Rayburn (David) of Paris; two grandchildren, Gavin and Quincy Burton; a host of nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren; and Gus, the rat terrier. She was preceded in death by her parents; a nephew, Jeff Garrett; a niece, Karen Crone Sanchez; brothers-in-law, Bill Williams, Means Wilkinson, Bob Forbus, and Dean Crone; and sisters-in-law, Jo Carol Garrett and Mary Crone. Church services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Sardis United Methodist Church with visitation to follow services. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Pine Crest Cemetery in Alexander. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
BILLY E. BRADBURY left this earth Wednesday, January 9, 2019, fifteen days shy of his 90th birthday. He had a long, good life, but was ready to join his wife of fifty seven years, Beulah, who he lost in 2016. Born during the depression, Billy joined the Navy and saw the world. A twenty two year Navy veteran, he fought in the Korean War, was involved in the evacuation of American troops from China, the Viet Nam War and the Bay of the Pigs. He was a welder and was in the first class of welders trained to work on the Nuclear Fleet. Billy was stationed in Kansas as a welding instructor, where he met his wife, Beulah Bradbury. After retiring from the Navy, he went on to retire from Alcoa as a welder. Billy was an avid outdoorsman and gardener. He raised a garden big enough to feed a county, most of which he gave away. He loved horses and living down on the farm in Social Hill. But most of all, he loved being a grandpa and spending time with Kyle and Drew. Recently he found that joy again with the birth of his great granddaughter, Eloise. Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Thelma Bradbury, six brothers, Aubry, Gleason, Tom, Carl, Charles and Larry, a baby sister and many nieces and nephews. He is survived by his only son, William (Nancy) Bradbury, grandsons, Drew and Kyle (Sarah) and great granddaughter, Eloise; sisters, Ruby McCurry, Linda (Dale) Eslick, Bonnie Hunicutt, Becky Carter as well as many nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Bill Bradbury, Kyle Bradbury, Drew Bradbury, James Bradbury, Raymond Balding and Donnie Rimmer. Chapel services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 11th, with Rev. Calvin Holmes officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Crest Cemetery. There will be an open visitation. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
ALVERN LOUISE SCRIMSHIRE PORTERFIELD of Benton passed away January 10, 2019. She was born October 17, 1933 in Tulipdale, Arkansas. Mrs. Porterfield graduated from Benton High School in 1950. She worked at Reynold’s Metals Company as payroll supervisor and in the computer department as both operator and programmer. Alvern loved to travel. She made many trips locally and abroad. Her other passion was caring for others in ill health. Mrs. Porterfield was preceded in death by her husband, James Burton (J. B.) Porterfield; her father, Franklin Lavern Scrimshire; her mother, Elsie Tate Scrimshire; her grandson, Paul Colin Porterfield and her half-brothers Doyle, James Quincy (J.Q.), and Dwain Elder. Surviving are her son Larry F. Porterfield and his wife Peg, her granddaughter Allison Porterfield, her step grandsons David and John Cowden, and 4 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Ashby Funeral Home Sunday, January 13th from 6-8 pm. The Memorial Service will be at Ashby Funeral Home Monday, January 14th at 1:00 pm with burial to follow at Pinecrest Cemetery. The family would like to thank Four Seasons Assisted Living, Amberwood Health and Rehabilitation and Arkansas Hospice for their loving care and support. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
- MOZELLE WISE TAYLOR, age 92, of Bryant passed away on Saturday January 12, 2019. She was born October 5, 1926 in Bauxite to the late William Oscar Wise and Lillian Eula Walker Wise. Mozelle was a school teacher retiring after 21 years, she in the Bryant, Dewitt, and Glen Rose Schools in Arkansas and Corpus Christi and Austin Schools in Texas. Mozelle was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bryant. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick Alan Taylor, two brothers, William M. Wise and George Stuart Wise, sister, Ophelia Sullivan. Survivors, three nieces, Kathy Lewallen, Bryant; Debra Tracy, Benton; Becky Langford, Indianapolis, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews out of state. Family wishes to give special thanks to the staff at Mt. Carmel Assisted Living, Amberwood Health and Rehabilitation, and Arkansas Hospice for their love and support. Memorials may be made to the Bauxite Museum, 6707 Benton Rd., Bauxite, Ar. 72011. Graveside services will be 3:00 PM Tuesday at Forest Hills Cemetery in Alexander. Minister will be Rev. Kim Hammer. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
GORDON SPIVEY, age 77, died Monday, January 14th 2019. Gordon was born in Lake Village, AR on March 21st, 1941. Gordon graduated from Benton High School and Hendrix College. His entire working life was spent in the car business, Spivey Chevrolet for forty years and twenty as a wholesaler. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he was a member of Island 82 and Highway 35 Gnat Trail hunting clubs. His two other sporting passions were horse racing and golf. Nearly every day of the last 30 years were spent enjoying one of those three pastimes to the fullest. Always a critic and natural contrarian on all the topics of the day, Gordon never failed to provide a comical one-sided opinion that generally went against the grain. He lived life in a rowdy, fun-loving style, with a fierce dedication to those he loved, ready at the drop of a hat to help anyone in need. His unbridled honesty, love of life, and aforementioned dedication made him beloved by all that knew him. His passing leaves a profound void in those left behind but all would agree that God will have gained someone with which to argue, and after a short time, will likely be forced to rethink how He runs heaven. Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, Varon G. and Alberta Spivey. He is survived by Janet Spivey; two daughters, Marlo Spivey (David Smith) of Benton, and Mandy Spivey Jenkins (Chris) of Little Rock, his sister Beverly Spivey Karnes and nieces, Stacie Maddox and Jennifer Gerbrecht all of Houston, TX; three granddaughters: Darby, Gabrielle, and Ainsley Jenkins of Little Rock; Zach Davis (Meg) of Springfield, MO. and a host of friends that he also considered family. He loved each with all his heart and showed it every day. Visitation will be at 3:00pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM Friday 1/18/2019 at Ashby Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to: Arkansas State Golf Association Junior Golf Program, #3 Eagle Hill Court Suite B, Little Rock, AR 72209. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
JAMES RONALD SLAWSON, 61, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away on January 14, 2019. He was born to James and Nellie Slawson on February 11, 1957 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He enjoyed working on computers. He is survived by his loving wife, Lori Ann Slawson, and daughters, Stacey Riley (Dylan) from Bryant and Stephanie Slawson from Jonesboro. He will be truly missed. Service times are currently pending.
LESLIE KAY PILGRIM, 63, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on January 14, 2019. She was born to Clifford and Betty VerBurg on February 26, 1955. She was a proud mother and grandma. She was hard working, strong, and an independent mother. She was a waitress for most of her years, and she enjoyed serving people. She enjoyed rearranging the furniture and kept her house clean. She liked keeping up with her plants and flowers. What she enjoyed the most was her family. She loved the holidays because that meant she got to spend time with the ones she loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Martie VerBurg, and sister, Barbara. She is survived by her loving children, Cherie Pilgrim and her better half, Jamie, and Jonny Pilgrim and his better half, Jo Anna; six grandchildren; two brothers; three sisters; along with a host of many family and friends who love and miss her dearly. A memorial service will be held at Forest Hills Missionary Baptist Church on Thursday, January 17, 2019 at 2:00 P.M.
SYLVIA DEE STYLES DUNCAN, 81, died Wednesday, January 9, 2019 in her home at Sardis, AR. She was born July 6, 1937 in Sardis to the late Joseph Johnson and Mary Elizabeth Styles. She was a cheerleader and played basketball at Bryant High School and graduated in 1955. She was a cheerleader and participated in archery at the College of the Ozarks, where she met the Captain of the football team, Bill Duncan, her future husband. They were married on August 25, 1956. They moved to Gruver, Texas and resided there for 38 years. Her love of children led her to open a Preschool/Daycare in which she cared for and instructed children for over 30 years. During this time she not only taught Sunday School at Gruver Church of Christ but was also actively involved in the Gruver community helping those in need. In 1994 she moved back to Sardis to care for her mother. After her mother’s death in 2000, she remained in Sardis and was active in the North Little Rock Church of Christ and River Street Church of Christ. Her love of her family and others demonstrated her servant’s heart and reflected her Christian faith. Sylvia Dee is survived by her beloved husband, Bill Duncan; her son, Danny Duncan; siblings, AV “Bud” (Dorothy) Styles and Mary (Bob) Wagner. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Mary Styles; siblings, Leamon Styles, James Doyle (“JD”) Styles, Elsie Restum, Lucy Nutt, Tracy Styles, Joil (“Jody”) Styles, Billy Joe Styles, and infant brother and sister. A special appreciation of thanks to all of Sylvia’s caregivers. Visitation will be at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, January 12, 2019 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home, 306 South Main, Benton, AR 72015. Funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. officiated by Dennis Gage. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Christian Relief Fund, PO Box 19670, Amarillo, TX 79114.
BILL DUNCAN, 85, died Friday, January 11, 2019, in his home at Sardis, AR. He was born May 27, 1933, in Hartford, AR, to Ted and Lola Duncan. He played football and basketball at Arkansas Tech. Later, he transferred to the College of the Ozarks and became the Captain of the football team and graduated in 1955. There he met the love of his life, Sylvia Dee Styles. They were married on August 25, 1956. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Education at Arkansas State Teachers College. They moved to Gruver, Texas, and resided there for 38 years. He started out teaching in the Gruver School System, and later became the Gruver Junior High Principal until he retired in 1993. In 1994, he moved back to Sardis, AR, to enable his wife to care for her mother. After her mother’s death in 2000, he remained in Sardis, AR, and preached at the North Little Rock Church of Christ and River Street Church of Christ. He truly had a servant’s heart, as he assisted many people in his church community. Bill is survived by his son, Danny Duncan, and sister, Lucia (Jim) Odem. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Lola Duncan; siblings: Betty Clinger, Harold Duncan, and Sue Cheek; extended family: Uncle Jessie and Aunt Rhea Pitchford, Spot and Elsie Reid, and Jimmy Pitchford. A special appreciation of thanks to all of Bill’s caregivers. Visitation will be at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, January 12, 2019, at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home on 306 South Main Street, Benton, AR, 72015, followed by the funeral service at 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Christian Relief Fund at P.O. Box 19670, Amarillo, TX, 79114.
MARGARET O. MCCARTY, 95, of Benton passed away Monday, January 14, 2019. She was born on January 5, 1924 in Bemidaji, MN to the late Olaf and Bertha Opsahl. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, Bill McCarty; sister, Borgie Nummela; brothers, Carl Opsahl, Art Opsahl, Arvid Opsahl; daughter, Roberta Armbrust; and grandson, Casey Armbrust. Survivors include her daughters, Gerri (George) Bowlin of Columbia, KY and Gloria Armbrust of Benton, AR; grandchildren, Dale Bowlin, Greg Bowlin, Gayle (Jason) Morris, Barbara Holder, and Chris Armbrust; great-grandchildren, Shannon (Josh) Spencer, Destany Holder, Alex Huffman, Abi Huffman, Siara Morris, Austin Morris, Abby Morris, Cameron Armbrust, Chloe Armbrust, Sammy Armbrust, and Noah Armbrust; and great-great-grandchildren, Everett Wright, Owen Spencer, and Elliott Casey. Funeral Service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 18, 2019 at Roller-Alcoa Funeral Home. Serving as pallbearers are Dale Bowlin, Greg Bowlin, Don Dykes, Alex Huffman, Jason Morris, and Tom Nummela; and honorary pallbearer, Chris Armbrust. A time of visitation will be held an hour prior to the funeral service at the Funeral Home.
MARK RANDALL MCCOY, 58, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away January 8, 2019. He was born May 21, 1960 in Miamisburg, Ohio to Reedis and JoAnn McCoy. Mark worked in the towing business. Spending time with his grandchildren was the highlight of his life. He loved his family and living life more than anything. Family remembers him enjoying “turning wrenches”. He could always find ways to fix anything needing repair. Preceding Mark in death are his son, John Kelly Neal; parents; and sister, Sheila McCoy. Mark leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Denean McCoy of Mabelvale, Arkansas; son, William Randall McCoy of Bauxite, Arkansas; step-daughter, Jessica Cummings of Bauxite, Arkansas; two step-sons: Jacob Cummings of Eaton, Ohio and Travis Roach of Middletown, Ohio; granddaughters: Arabella Pollitt and Kaydence McCoy; two sisters: Collette Childress and Tonya McCoy; three brothers: Rocky McCoy, Tommy McCoy, and David McCoy; and a host of family and friends who love Mark and will miss him always. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
RAYMOND R. RATAYSKI, 43, of Sheridan, Arkansas passed away January 9, 2019. He was born December 19, 1975 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to Donald and Marva (Minnick) Ratayski. Raymond was an electrical engineer and worked for Proctor and Gamble and most recently, Union Pacific. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, April Kyttle and a host of family and friends who love Raymond and will miss him always. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
HARRY ALAN CONRAD, 67, of Benton, Arkansas passed away January 11, 2019 at Evergreen Nursing and Rehabilitation. He was born March 14, 1951 in Little Rock to the late Harry Stanley and Helen Kathleen (Graham) Conrad. Harry worked as a pipe fitter in metal fabrication. He leaves to cherish his memory his brother, Max Conrad and many other family members and friends who love Harry and will miss him always. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
BETTIE WARREN, 77, born MAY 9, met with her Lord and Savior January 10, 2019. Also there to greet her were her parents, Carlie and Fannie Carr, a son, Ronnie Everett and her husband, Tommy Warren. Survived by her son, Allen(April) Everett, daughter-n-law, Lori Everett, sisters Brenda Carr and Dorinda(Danny) Ezell, three grandchildren and one great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Saline Memorial Hospice in Bryant, AR.
VELMA ELIZABETH STILLMAN was born on December 21, 1936 and passed away on January 13, 2019
JOHN HENRY MERRELL, 87, of Alexander, Ark., passed away on Jan. 6, 2019. He was born on Nov. 12, 1931, in Staten Island, N.Y., to parents Thomas and Anna Merrell. He graduated from Curtis High School and the United States Merchant Marine Academy. He was a Captain, employed by Texaco. John was so special to everyone lucky enough to have known him and will be truly missed. His nickname was “Jack” for the sole reason that he was a true “jack of all trades”- he could build and fix just about anything you could think of, including boats and furniture. He was an incredibly smart man with few words, but a full heart. John loved traveling by sea to different places all over the world with his wife, spending time with his family, and building model railroads both inside and outside his home. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Elaine Merrell; his beautiful daughter, Elaine McCaleb and her husband, Brad, and six grandchildren whom he loved dearly: Benjamin and his wife Cynthia, Joshuaand his wife, Christa, Christopher, Rachel, Noah and Sarah, as well as two great-grandchildren, Isaiah and Finley. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas Merrell, who are all celebrating his arrival in Heaven. As a tribute to honor John’s wonderful life, the family asks that donations be made in his name to Shriners Hospital or . All are welcome to sign the online guestbook at www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com.
JOHN HENRY GATHRIGHT, 80, of Alexander, passed away January 9, 2019. Born in Huttig, Arkansas to Deffie and Marjorie Simpson Gathright, he was a U.S. Navy veteran and retired from Safeway as a Produce Manager. Preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bobby Gene Gathright, he is survived by his children, Donna Kay Gathright of North Little Rock and Lori Ann Maddox (Cary) of Maumelle; grandchildren, Alec Horton and Will Horton, of North Little Rock, and Grace Maddox and Sam Maddox, of Maumelle; brothers, Shelly Gathright of Heber Springs, Bernard Gathright of Smackover and Ron Gathright of Dyersburg, Tennessee; and a host of other family and friends, including his Friday afternoon golf group. There will be a celebration of John’s life on Sunday, January 13 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Maumelle Country Club, 100 Club Manor Dr., Maumelle, AR 72113. Private interment will take place at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501)224-2200. Mr. Gathright’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
WILLIAM PAUL ALLEN JR, age 83, of Paron, Arkansas, died December 26, 2018. He was born December 17, 1935 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late William and Martha Allen.
JACK WALKER SANDERS, passed away, Wednesday, January 9, 2019. Beloved husband for 57 years of Sara Sanders. Loving father of Scott Walker (Susan), Steven Carl (Julie), and Stuart Alan (Heather) Sanders. Dear grandfather of Timothy, Luke (Kennedy), Courtney, Olivia, Stephanie, and Vannessa Sanders. Brother of Louis Sanders and the late Martha Sanders Speers. Beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Jack was a graduate of the Little Rock Central High Class of 1956. He is a veteran of the United States Army, where he reached the rank of Captain. Following his service, Jack attended University of Arkansas where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Jack retired from Procter and Gamble after working as an engineer for 33 years. He was a member of Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church where he sang in the choir. He was also very involved with the Boy Scouts, where he helped all three of his sons become a Eagle Scout. He also enjoyed collecting coins and genealogy. Jack loved everyone and never had an enemy. He enjoyed a good joke and always had a smile on his face. He was there to help a friend in need and was most proud of his grandkids. Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 14, 2019 at Pinecrest Memorial Park Cemetery, near Little Rock, AR. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the church or a charity of your choice.