John Henry Hudspeth, age 87, of Glen Rose passed away Monday January 9, 2017. He was born April 9, 1929 in Rose Bud, Arkansas. John was a retired Security Guard for Reynolds, a Mason, member of the Eternal Order of Eagles and attended Reyburn Missionary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt Roscoe Hudspeth and Thelma Heffington Hudspeth, brother, Harvey L. Hudspeth. Survivors, daughters and son-in-law, Linda (Charles) Detherage, Benton; Rita Bardin, Hot Springs Village; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 AM Thursday at Ashby’s. Graveside services will follow at 11:00 AM Thursday at Forest Hills Cemetery. Minister will be Pastor Todd Bray. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Dale Woodall, 75 of Mabelvale, Arkansas, passed away January 10, 2017. Dale is survived by his wife of 37 years, Louise Martin Woodall, five sons, Jeff, N eal, Scott, Daryl and Joseph Woodall, one daughter, Pam Priest and many grandchildren including Ryan Priest and Jerrod and Shelby Woodall. A Celebration of Dale’s life will be held at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton on Saturday, January 14 at 11:00 a.m. with the Reverend Charles Martin officiating. Burial will be at Old Union Cemetery immediately following services. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. on January 14, 2017 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton. Pallbearers will be Ryan Priest, Jerrod Woodall, Robbie Chism, Ben Cathcart, Steven Henderson and William Burris. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Velvet Rachelle Mann, 50, Benton, died Saturday, January 14, 2017 at her home. She was born December 7, 1966 in Benton. Velvet was employed at Kroger’s in Benton. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include one son, two daughters, two brothers, and two grandchildren. Memorial services will be 1:30 PM Saturday at the gazebo on the court house lawn in Benton.
Perry Odell Hester, age 86, of Paron, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2017. He was born November 28, 1930 in Paron, Arkansas. Perry served in the National Guard and retired from Reynolds Metals. He was of the Baptist faith. Perry was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin O. and Ruth C. Hester; wife, Verna Lee Hester; daughter, Tammy Gayle Hester; one granddaughter; two brothers and two sisters. He is survived by two sons, Sammy D. Hester and wife Dana and Jimmy Hester all of Paron; daughter, Diane Payne and husband John of Benton; six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 17 at Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 18 at Walnut Bottoms Cemetery in Paron. Rev. Don Richardson will be officiating. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Arthur F. Eller, 82 of Hot Springs Village, passed away January 15, 2017. He was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on December 15, 1934 to the late James and Josephine Richmond Eller. Arthur was retired from AT & T with over 34 years of service. After returning to Arkansas, he owned a real estate business and managed TKI, a computer store. Arthur also was head of the Technology Dept. at Fountain Lake School District for over 11 years. He was a member of Balboa Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Edward Eller. Survivors, wife, Nancy Eller of 37 years, Hot Springs Village, daughter, Julie Eller Weisse and husband, Mike of Winnie, Texas, grandchildren, Natalie and Stephen, great grandchildren, Jacob, Morrigan and Terry. Church services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 18 , 2017, at Balboa Baptist Church with Pastor Denny Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Vale Cemetery in Hot Springs Village. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Doise O. “Cotton” Sutton, age 96, of Benton passed away Friday January 20, 2017. He was born April 8, 1920 in Bauxite. Doise was retired from Reynolds Metals, a member of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, and a Mason. He was inducted into the Bauxite Sports Hall Of Fame in 2013, and was a WWII Army Air Corp Veteran. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Pearl Magby Sutton, wife, Martha “Polly” Grimmett Sutton, son, Glenn E. Sutton, brothers, Dude and Dolan, sisters, Lelsie, Mavis, and Eloise. Survivors, son, Ronald W. Sutton, Benton; sister, Marilyn Applegate, Georgia; grandchildren, Shannon Sadler, Stacye Sloan, Kelley Sutton, Marty Sutton, John Sutton, great-grandchildren, Josh Seals, Blake Seals Blaine Sadler, Shelley Wieburg, Charles Wieburg, Jon Sadler, Kane Sadler, Emma Covington, Marissa Sutton and Avery Sutton. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Monday at Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday at Smith Rosemont Cemetery. Minister will be Bro. Carl Richey. Memorials may be made to Saline Memorial Hospice. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Lucy Sutschek (Nee Mamien) passed away peacefully at Good Samaritan Nursing Center in Hot Springs Village on Saturday, January 7. Born on September 22, 1922 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lucy was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Windy (Ervin), who passed away in 2010. Beloved mother of Karen Rae Purcell (John), Neil (Lynn), Mark, Marian Crivello (Michael), and Kurt. Loving grandmother of 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Devoted to her Catholic faith, Lucy was a founding member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Milwaukee and organized the church’s resale fund-raiser for many years. Career real estate agent for over 30 years. With husband Windy, a snowbird to Destin, Florida for 25 years. Retired to Hot Springs Village in 1992. A beautiful lady who will be missed by her family, friends, and the caregivers at Good Samaritan’s, Lucy was God’s gift to all who knew her in her 94 years. A Mass will be held Tuesday, January 17, 2017, 9:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in the Hot Springs Village with Reverend Father Bill Elser officiating. Arrangements were made under the direction of CedarVale Funeral Home. Guest register at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com
Jamie (Drain) Winkle, age 56 of Bryant. Loving wife, mother and grams, won her battle on January 10, 2017. She was born on July 27, 1960 to Norman and Eloise Drain of Malvern. She was a member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church for 38 years where her passion was teaching her third grade Sunday school class. Even with her illness, Jamie never missed a Sunday with her children. Jamie’s unyielding faith was an inspiration to everyone she met. Throughout her entire battle her inspiration was knowing that God had her back and no matter what the outcome was she won. Jamie was employed by CARTI in the billing office where she worked until December 21, 2016. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Don Winkle, two daughters, Laura (Wes) Shook of Bryant, Shannon (Aaron) Cathcart of Bauxite, four precious grandchildren Jordan, Aubrey, Addelyn and Jackson, three siblings Pam (Patrick) O’Brien, Kara Curry and Clyde (Avee) Drain and several nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and numerous family and friends. She was welcomed home with open arms by her parents Norman and Eloise Drain, her in-laws Charles and Nan Winkle and all of her heavenly family. Visitation will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant on Thursday, January 12, 2017 from 6 -8 p.m. Funeral service will be held at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church located at 12400 Interstate 30, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210, officiated by Dave Hughey, on Friday, January 13, 2017 at 1 p.m. with burial services to follow at Collegeville Cemetery in Bryant. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Geyer Springs First Baptist, Baptist Health Hospice or M.D. Anderson in Houston, TX. Services will be held at 1:00p.m., Friday, January 13, 2017 at Geyer Springs Baptist Church with visitation on Thursday from 6-8 pm at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home. Online guest book can be signed at www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Billy Joe Eversole of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on January 11, 2017. He was born to the late Willian C. Eversole and Peggy M. Hubbard in Senora, California on September 9, 1950. He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. He is survived by his three children, Billy Joe Eversole Jr., Martha Ann Eversole Marcial, and Shawn Allen Eversole, eight grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who love and miss him dearly. To sign online guest book, go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Margaret Clary of Shannon Hills, Arkansas passed away on January 11, 2017 with her family by her side. She was born on January 8, 1919 in Cincinnati, Ohio to the late Earl Clary and Margaret E. Clary. She loved cooking, reading, crocheting and watching older movies. She is preceded in death by her parents, and four children. She is survived by three granddaughters, Debbie Matthis, Cynthia Duvall, and Tommie Barnes (Bill); her loving grandson, Mark Bass (Teri) who provided her with around the clock care and a loving home with her great grandchildren, Katlyn Bass and Justyce Bass; and a host of family and friends who love and miss her dearly. A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements provided by Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Austin Moody, 17, of Sheridan passed away on January 19, 2017. He was born on January 12, 2000 to Terry and Robin Moody in Little Rock, Arkansas. Austin loved living life to the fullest. He enjoyed football, track and field and won many state championship in Taekwondo and the 2008 World Championship in Sparring. He was a member of 1st Landmark Baptist Church in Sheridan and attended Sheridan High School. Austin is preceded in death by his uncle, Tray Moody; grandfather, Gary Edward Yarber and great-grandmother, Melba Ruth Dixon. He is survived by his loving parents, Terry and Robin Moody; grandparents, Jim and Laura Moody; grandmother, Paula Yarber; aunt, Starr Garmany (William); cousins, Colley, Morgan, Jerrod, Ethan, Grant, Canton and Kinzley and a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at 2:00 PM at First Landmark Baptist Church in Sheridan. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 24, 2017 from 6-8 at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Bobby L Hampton August 20, 1948 – January 5, 2016 Arrangements under the direction of Forest Hills Funeral Home, ALEXANDER, AR.
Sarah “Sue” Barton, 83, of Hot Springs Village, passed away January 10, 2017. She was born June 12, 1933 in Hazen, Arkansas, to the late Leslie and Ellen Webb Ragan. Every year Sue looked forward to Thanksgiving, it was her favorite holiday with her friends and family. She is preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Dorothy Bramlett and Elsie Rounsavall; and her brother Ralph Ragan. She is survived by her husband Dan Barton; her daughters Jackie Sattler Sheets (James) and Lori Sattler; Her sons Mark (Glenda) and Mike (Barbie) Sattler; one brother Don Ragan; and eight grandchildren. . In Lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Homeless Pet Ministry. C/O Kemp Firm 8101 I 30, Suite B, Little Rock, Arkansas 72209 Services will be held at a later date. To sign the online guest book go to www.griffinleggettforesthills.com
James Redfield Grant Sr. died of renal failure January 12th, 2017 at his home surrounded by his caring family. Jim was born in Dallas, Texas on May 4, 1926 to William Hector Donavan Grant, and Evelyn Redfield Grant. The family, including Evelyn’s recently widowed Mother, Margaret, began a journey around the country with Bill’s company Armstrong Cork. Living in Minneapolis, Detroit, Cincinnati, Seattle, Memphis, and finally Little Rock, where they settled in 1945. Jim left Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee in 1944 to join the war effort. He joined the family in Little Rock in 1946 after serving in the US Army in the Philippines, and the occupation of Japan. He loved Harry Truman, and always said, “He saved my life.” Jim spent 190 days in foxholes and tanks on the front lines. He was a bronze star recipient. After arriving in Little Rock, Jim’s Mother already had him enrolled in Little Rock Jr. College. After Jr. College, Jim went on to Hendrix College and graduated with honors. He married Norma Jeanne Parish during his college years and they were married 25 years. Upon graduation, Jim found himself in a sea of newly graduated GIs. He was prepared to work in pharmaceuticals, but had to drive a life saver candy truck and sell candy, before he was employed with Pittman Moore pharmaceuticals, and then E. R. Squibb pharmaceuticals, where he remained until shortly after they merged with Bristol Meyers, forty years later. He made many lifelong friends in that industry. He met Sherry Ingram Daniel while calling on a Physician in 1981. They were married in 1984 and have enjoyed 32 years of truly living. Jim was a member of Second Baptist Church in Downtown Little Rock for 22 years. He was a lover of clothes and an impeccable dresser. He loved to play tennis, and he rode his bicycle all over the state before biking was popular. He was always an exercise enthusiast and insisted on a low fat-no fat diet. He was a strong competitor and excelled in his field. Jim was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his devoted wife; Sherry, his sons; James Redfield Grant Jr. (Cindy), Don Parish Grant (Dianna), stepdaughter; Bonnie Daniel Shelton (Lee), stepson; Col Pat Daniel Jr. (Ladonna), grandson; Matthew Grant, granddaughters; Lori Grant Hendrix (Hayden), Elizabeth Parish Grant and Catherine Anne Grant, step grandsons; Donald Lee Shelton lll, Jonathan Shelton, Alexander Shelton, Jaxon Shelton, Patrick Daniel III, Elliott Daniel, Thomas Daniel and Andrew Daniel, step granddaughters; Emily Shelton Ziebarth, Anna Shelton and Madelyn Shelton, great granddaughter; Grace Hendrix, great grandson; Hoyt Hendrix, step great grandson and namesake; Ezekiel Redfield Ziebarth. Graveside services will be held 10 a.m., Saturday, January 14th, 2017 at Pine Crest Memorial Park. A Reception will follow at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills, 10200 Hwy 5 N., Alexander, Arkansas, immediately following. Pallbearers will be his grandsons. Memorials may be made to The National Kidney Foundation, 1818 N Taylor St., Little Rock, Arkansas, or the church of your choice. Please share your memories of James at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com
Lexie Calestia Parsons Smyth passed away in her home surrounded by her family on January 20, 2017, at the age of 93.Calestia was born on April 20, 1923, in Bauxite, Arkansas, to Jay Parsons and Kathrine Fite Parsons. She graduated from Benton High School and worked as the office manager for the Easy Way Tire Company in Benton. On May 7, 1944, she married Glee Greenhaw Smyth and began her life as an Air Force wife. After he retired, they bought a farm at Shaw where she lived until her death.She was the owner of Smyth’s Vinyl Products, and her purses were sold throughout the United States. She also was one of the founders of the Shaw Volunteer Fire Department.She is survived by her son James Smyth and daughter-in-law Christy of Shaw; daughter Nathania Smyth Sawyer and son-in-law Paul Sawyer of Little Rock; granddaughters Jenni Pittman and Brandi Smyth of Shaw; and great grandchildren Makenzie Pittman, Lane Pittman, and Montana Smyth of Shaw. She was preceded in death by her husband after 68 years of marriage.Her funeral will be held at Ebenezer Cemetery in Tull at noon on Tuesday, January 24, 2017. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, January 23, 2017 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton (501-315-4047). In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Shaw Volunteer Fire Department, 5513 Highway 35, Benton, AR 72015.
Eula Beatrice Alford Hale of Bryant passed away January 15, 2017. “Bea” was born in England, Arkansas December 2, 1932. She graduated from Plum Bayou High School in England, Arkansas. Bea had a successful career at A.O. Smith in Little Rock, Arkansas and retired after 28 years. She is preceded in death by her parents, Carl Lee and Othel Alford, her husband of 49 years, Don Hale of Bryant, Arkansas, her infant son, Ronald Rene Crafton, her brothers Carl E. and Cal William Alford, sister-in-law, June Alford, a niece, Terri (Alford) White, and a nephew, Tony Alford. She is survived by four sisters, Janice (Alford) Richards of Bryant, Arkansas, Connie Alford of Bryant, Geneva (Alford) Healy of Jacksonville, Arkansas, and Dianne (Alford) Meriweather of Mabelvale, Arkansas. Bea is also survived by eight nieces, two nephews, eight great nieces, and four great nephews. Our beloved Bea will be dearly missed by all of us. A graveside funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 20, 2017 at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander with Bro. Kim Hammer officiating. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Park. A time of visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m. prior to the funeral on Friday, January 20th at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton (315-4047).
Betty Lou Graham, 77, of Benton passed away Monday, January 16, 2017 at her home. She was born February 4, 1939 in Mt. Vernon, Arkansas to the late Homer D. and Esther F. Tackett Ray. Betty had previously owned Betty’s Giftway in Benton. She was a loving mother and grandmother. Her husband, Wade Graham, one brother, Kenneth Ray, and one sister, Maysel Norwood preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughter, Melinda G. Henthorne of Benton and one grandson, Joshua G. Henthorne of Springdale, Arkansas. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. Wednesday evening, January 18, 2017 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 19th at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway with Bro. Clay Cunningham officiating. Wendall Simpson, Steve Ray, Ronnie Wehunt, David Robinson, Curtis Rickard, and Matthew Reginelli will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Wade & Betty Graham to the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute of Little Rock, 4018 W. Capitol Ave., Little Rock, AR 72205.
Charles Lewis January 8, 1960 – January 18, 2017 Services are private. Cremation arrangements provided by Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (501-315-4047).
George Lewis Robinson, 74 of Benton, passed away January 19, 2017 in Benton. He was born April 16, 1942 in Omaha, IL to the late Horace Edward and Mollie (Hammond) Robinson. Mr. Robinson was a member of Rose Hill Church of the Nazarene, an U. S. Army Veteran and a retired truck driver. He is preceded in death by parents; his first wife, Loraine Bailey; his daughter, Charlotte; and one brother, Alec. Survivors include wife, Carolee Robinson; two sons, Horace Robinson, of MA and George D. Robinson, of Lowell, IN; one daughter, Lina Lee Baxley, of Benton; two step-daughters Cynthia Hayes of Mabelvale and Julie Sharp, of Benton grandchildren, Jennifer Jones, Ashley Gardner, Dylan Robinson, Michael Robinson, Brittney Robinson, Bryan and Kayla Neal, Kaylee Sharp, Garrett Sharp, and Jessica Hayes; seven great-grandchildren; four sisters, Rufina Sherman, Marshella Michal, June Hancock, all of Spartanburg, SC, and Cathy Calahan of Charlotte, NC; three brothers, Dwight Robinson, Curtis Robinson, both of Spartanberg, SC, and David Robinson of WV; canine companion, Buster. A time of visitation will be held at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home Sunday, January 22, 2017 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 PM. Funeral service is scheduled for Monday January 23, 2017 at 1:30 PM at the funeral home with Pastor Steve Comeans officiating. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Serving as pallbearers will be Garrett Sharp, Greg Hayes, James Jones, Cody New, Steven Zachary and Michael Robinson.
Daniel Lowell Simpson, 37, of Hot Springs Village, AR died January 9, 2017. Mr. Simpson was born June 25, 1979 in Little Rock, AR to Lowell and Linda Simpson. Survivors include his wife, Erin Simpson, one brother, Tim Simpson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; two stepbrothers; and one sister. Rosewoodcremation.com/onlineguestbook
Stephen Wallace Tucker, 36, entered into peace on January 9, 2017. Stephen was born on June 8, 1980 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Howard and Joy Tucker. He was a graduate of Bryant High School. Stephen was a gifted guitarist, songwriter and IT programmer and software developer. His gifts touched many lives and his talent was nothing short of amazing. Stephen was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Wallace and Jettie Mae Tucker, and maternal grandparents Dolores Smith and John Hunziker. Stephen is survived by his parents, Howard and Joy Tucker of Bryant; sister and brother in law, Emily Ferrand and Christopher Ferrand of Bartlett, TN.; nieces Kynley Joy Ferrand and Nora Kate Ferrand; aunts, Cherry Whittington and husband Loyd, Sarah Katherine Miller, and Judy Lepper and husband George; girlfriend Failla Grimes; beloved dog, Clara Belle; and a host of family members and friends who loved him and poured into his life. Stephen had a special bond with his Aunt Kathy who was always there for him and loved him through it all. His aunt Cherry was his biggest encourager. Sean Michel was his closest friend but also, was like a brother to Stephen. The family wishes to thank Chad Denmon, who poured his love and the love of Christ to our Stephen. We also want to thank everyone who has helped our son and loved him through his many struggles. If you are reading this and struggle with depression, suicidal thoughts or addiction, please seek help. There is much help available for you and people ready and willing to help you. Just reach out for that help, please. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM, Friday, January 13, 2017, at First Southern Baptist Church in Bryant, Arkansas. Funeral service, officiated by Bro. Chad Denmon and Bro. Jay Newman, will follow at 11:00 A.M. with music performed by Sean Michel. Live Stream feed of service can be watched at http://fsbcbryant.org/watch. Burial at Pickett Cemetery in Calhoun County at 3:00 PM. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Mark Jobe Lowry, 58, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away January 10, 2017. He was born April 26, 1958 in Little Rock. Family is asked to contact Smith-Benton Funeral Home at 501-778-7100. Online website and guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Shirley Betty Potts, 79, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away January 12, 2017. She was born September 8, 1937 in Rosebud, Arkansas to the late Frank and Angie Thacker Smith. Shirley’s grandchildren were the light of her life. She enjoyed spending time with them including watching wrestling. Shirley loved taking care of her rosebushes. In her later years, she would spend time reading books and coloring. She would never leave her home without her hair perfectly coiffed and her make-up done to perfection. Shirley could often be found shopping for hours and exploring every aisle in Wal-Mart. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Johnnie W. Potts. She leaves to cherish her memories two sons, Jimmy and Johnnie Potts of Alexander, Arkansas; two daughters, Darlene Rodgers of Texarkana, Arkansas and Threasa Rollans and husband Timothy of Alexander, Arkansas; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; four siblings, Reba, Floyd, Bessie, and Vestal; and many other family members and friends who loved Shirley and will miss her always. Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM, Sunday, January 15, 2017 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, January 16, 2017 at Pinecrest Memorial Park, Alexander, Arkansas. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Teresa Gail Jarvis born in Little Rock, AR January 3, 1969 went to be with the Lord January 15, 2017. She is proceeded in death by her mother, Monie Carter and father, Thomas Jarvis. She is survived by her sister, Kim Kirchner, brothers, Randy Choate, Eddie Choate, Dale Williams, son Timothy Bearden & Jackie and daughter, Autumn Bearden, 12 nieces and nephews, 2 grandchildren and several great nieces and nephews. Teresa was a devoted and loving care giver, sister, mother, Aunt and “Granny” who was loved dearly and will be missed by so many. A visitation memorial will be held in her honor January 21st, 2017 from 10:00 am to 12:00, located at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, AR. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Edith Lenora Mathis, 74, of Benton, Arkansas passed away January 15, 2017. She was born June 9, 1942 in Marshall, Arkansas to Osher D. Blackwood and the late Evelyn Wadkins Blackwood. Edith was preceded in death by her mother; sister, Barbara G. Jackson; and nephew, Ricky Jackson. She leaves to cherish her memories her loving husband of over fifty-six years, Bill Mathis of Benton, Arkansas; three sons, Billy Mathis, Jr. and wife Melissa of Benton, Arkansas, Stacy S. Mathis of Benton, Arkansas, and Shawn C. Mathis and wife Jamie of Benton, Arkansas; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; father, Osher D. Blackwood of Marshall, Arkansas; two sisters, Jo Campbell of Benton, Arkansas and Wanda Archer and husband Ted of Texas; brother, Michael Jackson and wife Alicia of Whitehouse, Tennessee; and many more family members and friends who loved Edith and will miss her always. Reception visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Graveside service, officiated by Rev. Mike Tittsworth, will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Pinecrest Memorial Park with Jackson Campbell, Keith Campbell, Randy Campbell, and Steve Campbell assisting as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Jay Jackson, Shane Jackson, and Michael Jackson, Jr. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Rena Lucille Finley, 75, of Benton passed away surrounded by her family on January 18, 2017. Lucille was born October 20, 1941 in Benton, Arkansas to the late William J. and Velma R. (Bearden) Dodson. Lucille retired from Timex. She loved gardening and always enjoyed her flowers and yard, cooking and she also lived for her grandchildren and they were her biggest joy in life. Lucille was preceded in death by her husband Charlie L. Finley, Jr. son: Charles R. Finley; daughter Pamela J. Thornberry; brother, Jimmy Dodson; and two sisters, Christine Penix and Betty Beasley. She is survived by one son: Joe Finley, Sr. of Bauxite, two daughters: Melissa Nix and husband Royce of Haskell and Patricia Meredith of Benton, twelve grandchildren; eighteen great grandchildren; Two sisters: Marie Price of Mabelvale and Catherine Geitgey of Haskell and one brother: Bobby Dodson also of Haskell and a host of nieces and nephews and friends who will miss her dearly. Visitation with Reception will be held on Sunday from 3-5 PM at Smith –Benton Funeral Home Chapel, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas 72015. Services at 10:00 Monday at Pipkin Cemetery with Rev. Doug Pruitt officiating. Assisting as pallbearers are Royce Nix, Raymond Nix, Joe Finley, Jr., Josh Finley, Scotty Dodson, and Julian Guevara. Arrangements have been entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guest registry atwww.smithfamilycares.com.
Nancy G. Banister, 62, of Benton, Arkansas passed away January 18, 2017. She was born October 30, 1954 in Benton, Arkansas to the late William and Lottie Babbitt Ammons. Nancy was of the Baptist faith and was a member of Fairplay Missionary Baptist Church. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. She enjoyed spending time with them camping and fishing. Her occupation as a registered nurse for over twenty-nine years exemplified her desire to help others. This was also demonstrated by her love of feeding wildlife and birds. Nancy enjoyed many hobbies including flower gardening and shopping. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Gary Ammons. She leaves to cherish her memories her loving husband of over thirty-nine years, William A. Banister of Benton, Arkansas; two daughters, Jennifer Alexander and husband Richard of Benton, Arkansas and Rachel Banister of Benton, Arkansas; son, William Daniel Ammons and wife Kim of Little Rock, Arkansas; eight grandchildren, Lainy Alexander, Westin Coleman, Andrew Ammons, Hunter Ammons, Alexis Basvic, Eli Basvic, Christian Garcia, and Alex Garcia; two sisters, Glinda Smith and husband Donnie of Benton, Arkansas and Cynthia Gardner and husband Avery of Benton, Arkansas; two brothers, Darrel Ammons and wife Barbara of Bauxite, Arkansas and Allen Ammons of Haskell, Arkansas; and many more family members and friends who loved Nancy and will miss her always. Memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M., Friday, January 20, 2017 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will follow service. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Dr. Lloyd Rollan Warford, 81, of Bryant, AR passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017. He was born on July 28, 1935 in Benton, AR to Audie Jason and Dovie (Bowning) Warford. He was a Physician in the health care industry, and a member of Fellowship Bible Church. Dr. Warford graduated in 1961 from the University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock, followed by a residency and internship in pediatrics. His pediatric residency and fellowship in pediatric hematology was completed at Duke University. He began his pediatric practice with Dr. Robert Henry, a partnership which evolved into the Little Rock Pediatric Clinic. They practiced together for over 20 years. Looking for a way to spend more time with family, he entered the practice of emergency medicine. Many may remember him as their “ER doc” at Doctor’s Hospital and Saint Vincent’s Infirmary. He loved the challenge of the work and threw himself into it. Dr. Warford also joined a medical group in founding Arkansas Wound and Hyperbaric Medicine. This was the first hyperbaric medical practice in Arkansas. He loved the regular contact with his patients and many looked forward to their appointments with him. Dr. Warford was a devoted family man with many interests. He looked forward to spending time on his farm. He often said he’d rather be there than any other place on earth. He was a master gardener who planted vegetable and flower gardens every year. He was also a fisherman, a beekeeper and a woodworker who enjoyed camping and long RV trips with friends and family. Dr. Warford will be remembered for his unassuming and kind nature. By valuing and respecting everyone he met, he was a godly man who lived a life of love, blessing his neighbors and community with quiet acts of service. He will be sorely missed. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn Warford of Bryant; children, Connie Ozbirn (David) of Dallas, TX, Jay Warford (Elizabeth) of West Monroe, LA; Lloyd A. Warford (Amy) of Benton, AR, Jeremy A. Warford, M.D. (Erin) of Little Rock, AR; grandchildren, Daniel Warford, Whit Warford, Grant Warford, Nathan Warford, Ellie Warford, Olivia Warford and Ian Waford; sisters, Roma Carden and Audie Townsend. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Roy Warford. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00pm on Monday, January 23rd at Little Rock Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, January 24th at Fellowship Bible Church with Pastor Gayle Bone officiating. Burial to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park, in Alexander, AR. Memorials may be made by check to Samaritan’s Purse, to the attention of World Medical Mission, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or through their website www.samaritanspurse.org. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Dr. Warford’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
And last I include this obituary of a gentleman from Little Rock due to his many life accomplishments. He served his country for many years retiring as Lt Col USAF . I was most impressed by his late in life running skills. See “My Thing” below. Average men’s running time is 4:19. Record time is about 2:03.
Bill Walton Hoffman, who passed away Friday, January 13, 2017 wrote his own obituary and requested that nothing be changed. Born 29, October, 1927 in Little Rock, AR to Louie S. Hoffman and Maidie B. Hoffman.
My family has lived in Little Rock since my great-grandfather came to town with the Confederate Army in 1862. We are in our sixth generation in Little Rock. Education: Little Rock public schools thru high school. LSU, UALR, and graduate of University of Alabama 1951. Career (dual): Military reservist. Served on active duty with credit for WWII, Korea, Vietnam & Little Rock High School integration crisis. My father Louie S. Hoffman, my eldest son, Bill W Jr. and myself are the first third generation family to serve in the U S Air National Guard. I am Lt Col USAF retired as was my father. I was presented the UDC Cross of Military Honor based on my & my great-grandfather’s military service.
Civilian career: retired as assistant district manager for the Federal Social Security Administration. I was also the federal health insurance coordinator for southeast Arkansas. Family: Married Mary Sue Daniels Hoffman. Three children, four grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Member: Lifetime member of United Methodist Church, former Kiwanis officer, Little Rock Athletic Club, Sigma Chi national, central Arkansas and Iota Iota Alumni Associations. Civic affairs: Chairman of the board and longtime board member of Southeast Arkansas Equal Opportunity Commission. President and board member Little Rock Roadrunners Club, president and board member University of Alabama national Alumni Association Golden Fifties, served three terms on board of directors MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History until moved up to the Arkansas Military History Heritage Foundation. Former member of Salvation Army Board, instrumental in organizing Miles For Missions a fund raiser for Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church. Sigma Chi History: Pledged at LSU Gamma Iota in June 1945. Entered active military service before initiation. This was my only period of active and reserve service in almost 38 years that was not voluntary, by the way. Re-pledged Sigma Chi at Bama Iota Iota fall of 1948 and initiated in the spring of 1949. Served as Tribune, a long term Life Loyal Sig, Semi Century Sig, Sig military awardee and member of the White Cross Trust Foundation.
My “Thing”: I started my competitive long distance running career at age 55. My most competitive period between ages 56 and 72. I ran only world class marathons. All of my 29 marathons were run under 4 hours with 3 hours at Boston being my best. I ran marathons across the U S and internationally (Berlin), I qualified for the Boston Marathon 12 times and five of those were in the man’s “Open” category with no age factor. I ran Boston 11 consecutive times including the 100th running anniversary. I ran 14 marathons in 3:18 or under eight in 3:10 or better, all after age 60. I finished first once and third twice in my age group at Boston, won the Dallas White Rock age group six times. Results of my last six marathons were as follows: First at Dallas (age 67), second at Marine Corps in D.C. at 68, second at New York City Marathon but was first American, there were over 100 men in my NYC age group from all around the world, first at San Diego in two attempts. One in 1998 and again in 2000 at age 72, second at Chicago at 71. I was a national master’s age group champion in 1986 and was third nationally the year before that. I was the Arkansas age group champion in all races at all distances 5 K thru marathon 1986 thru 1992 and set the state record in all distances, also the senior’s champion in most distances while setting state records. I was Alabama 10 K champion and set the state record there twice. I finished in the first 500 at the New Orleans Crescent City Classic with over 23, 000 entrants. I placed 7th in the annual National Gran Prix contest and had the 4th best age group in the U S. Twice I was chosen by our state wide newspaper as best runner/athlete of the year and also twice by the Little Rock Roadrunners Club as Club Runner of the Year. I was a charter inductee in the Arkansas Runners Hall of Fame and later served on the board of directors.
Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Sue (Suni), two sons, Bill W. Hoffman, Jr., Randle L. Hoffman, daughter, Sue Ann (Bipper) Hoffman, four granddaughters, Virginia Wininger, Alison Ashworth, Elizabeth Chapman, Melissa Hoffman, two great-granddaughters and one great-grandson. Visitation will be at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 W. Markham St., Little Rock on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral service will be at Ruebel Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. followed by burial at Roselawn Memorial Park.