George L. Holliman, age 78, of Benton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 17, 2017 at Baptist Hospital in Little Rock. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a cement finisher for 60 years and spent his summers raising grandchildren. Although he’s gone, the memories will last forever. He is survived by his wife, Edna Holliman; three sons, Donald, David and Darren Holliman; daughter, Debra Peoples; two brothers, Rocky and Skip Holliman; sister, Peggy Bradley; fourteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 22 at Ashby Funeral Home.
Christopher Lin “Chris” Doggett, age 43, of Benton, passed away Friday, August 18, 2017. He was born May 29, 1974 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Chris was a partner in RC Gutters and a skilled craftsman. He was witty, smart & fun loving and had an infectious laugh. Chris loved his family & friends and will be missed greatly. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Doggett and grandparents, Ruby & Jim English and Onice & Jozielle Doggett. He is survived by his wife, Meredith Morgan Doggett; daughter, Jessie Doggett; son, Fisher Doggett; mother, Linda Doggett; brother, Rick Doggett and wife Christy; nephew, Little Rickey Doggett and a niece, Randi Doggett. Pallbearers will be Bo Chaney, Jody Morgan, Jason Carson, Chris Lancaster, D.B. Cochran, Little Rickey Doggett, Clint Burrows, Steve Tracy, Jeff Davis and Scott Cochran. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 21 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 22 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to www.paypal.me/christydoggett
Rodney (Bob) Jerald Tarvin, Sr., 74 of Benton, passed away August 20, 2017. He was born August 28, 1942 in Saline County to the late Jim and Thelma Tarvin. Bob was a veteran of the Vietnam War and served proudly with the United States Marine Corp. He was preceded in death by his parents, great granddaughter, brothers, Paul, James and Ronald Tarvin, sister, Virginia Smith. Bob is survived by his sons, Rodney (Lisa) Tarvin, Jr. of Glen Rose, Jerald (Amy) Tarvin of Hot Springs, daughters, Dena (Mark Irwin) Page of Hot Springs, Dana Kitchens of Benton, brother, Chick (Carolyn Howell) Tarvin of Benton, sisters, Gweldia Gunter, Judy Brewer and Pat Ray and four grandchildren. Graveside services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 10:00 a.m. on Thursday at Pipkin Cemetery in Benton. No visitation is scheduled. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Bonnie Faye Gillmore, age 91, of Benton passed away Sunday August 20, 2017. She was born July 2, 1926 in Wewoka, Oklahoma. Bonnie was a member of Sharon Baptist Church and a housewife. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jasper and Nellie Coyle, daughter, Marcia Ann Atchley, brothers, Garnet and J. D. Coyle. Survivors, husband of 68 years John William Gillmore, Benton; son John Richard Gillmore (Virginia), Benton; son-in-law, James H. Atchley, Mabelvale; three grandchildren, April Atchley Mitchell, Amber Atchley Whitt, Alicia Atchley, great-grandchildren, Sean Whitt, Sara Whitt, and Harvey Whitt. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday at Sharon Baptist Church. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Friday at Sharon Baptist Church with burial at Pine Crest Cemetery. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Earnie E. Cox Jr., age 78, of Benton, passed away Saturday, August 19, 2017. He was born April 1, 1939 in Benton, Arkansas. Earnie worked for AMF Carrier and was a member of New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnie Cox Sr. and LaVerna Cox and his wife, Joyce Cox. He is survived by his son, Lonnie Cox and wife Annette; daughter, Laura Dixon and husband Rickey; sister, Sherri Bain and a granddaughter, Shania Mazerolle. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 22 at Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 23 at Fairplay Cemetery. Bro. David Standridge will be officiating. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Mattie J. Wright, age 88, of Benton, passed away August 21, 2017. She was born August 1, 1929 in West Virginia. Mattie was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Mary Holcomb; her husband, Wren L. Wright; four brothers, Thomas, Robert, Tammie Holcomb all of West Virginia and John Holcomb of Ohio and two sisters, Sarah Ellen Loughray and Nettie June Hornbeck both of Oregon. She is survived by two sons, Wren L. Wright, Jr. and Randy Wright both of Benton; two daughters, Mary J. Tiner (Dave) of Benton and Mattie McClenny (Brad) of Dennison, Texas; ten grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. Visitation will be 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 23 at Ashby Funeral Home with services beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial at Lane Memorial Gardens in Eugene, Oregon. A family memorial service will be held in Eugene Oregon, time and place to be announced later. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Arkansas @ 201 Markham Center Dr. in Little Rock, AR 72205.
Barbara Jean Brandon, age 85, of Hot Springs Village, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 16, 2017. She was born December 3, 1931 to Floyd Ervin and Violet Louise Moore Chatterton. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, James D. Brandon, and her parents. She is survived by her son, James E. Brandon, and his wife Susan, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, two daughters; Jeanne Marie Fowler and her husband, Edward, of Arcadia, Oklahoma, Judy Kay Messerli and her husband, Michael, of Norman, Oklahoma; four grandchildren, Brandon Messerli, Austin Messerli, Lee Brandon, Kate Brandon; and a sister, Marilyn D. Williams of Denton, Texas. Barbara was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be missed by many and her memory will be greatly cherished through those who loved her. A private family service will be held Saturday, August 19, 2017. Entombment to follow at CedarVale Cemetery. The family requests memorials be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research; https://www.michaeljfox.org/get-involved/donation2.php?pg=38 Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale – The Hot Springs Village Funeral Home. For online condolences please visit www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.
Robert Allen (Bob) Megahan, 79, of Hot Springs Village passed away on Friday, August 18, 2017. Bob was born August 1, 1938 in Wheeling, West Virginia to the late Burke and Alethea (Coyner) Megahan. While in high school, Bob met Marion Weisal, the love of his life. They dated for five years before marrying in 1960. Bob graduated from West Virginia University that same year and then spent the next 34 years working for Exxon/Mobil and its subsidiaries. Following an early retirement, he and Marion moved to Hot Springs Village in August 1994, where they quickly filled their time traveling, bird watching, entertaining, and participating in many clubs, charities, schools and foundations. Bob was an active member of Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church where he served as a Stephen Minister. Bob became well known around Hot Springs Village for generously donating his time and money to many organizations including Arkansas Hospice, Jackson House, Kiwanis, National Park College (creating the Robyn Lynn Megahan Scholarship Endowment), Boy’s and Girl’s Club, mentoring at Mountain Pine Elementary School, and many others. Bob was a very special member of this community who’s hugs and gifts of time and money will be missed dearly. Bob is preceded in death by Marion Elizabeth (his wife of 54 years), daughter Robyn Lynn Megahan, and two brothers’ William and Burke. He is survived by his son, Robert Scott Megahan and wife Jean of Cypress, Texas, and his two beautiful granddaughters: Allison Nicole and Jenna Lynn Megahan, and one very special niece Carolyn Robinson of Columbus, Ohio. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church in Hot Springs Village. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his honor to Arkansas Hospice at 628 Malvern Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901, or Jackson House at 705 Malvern Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901. Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale – The Hot Springs Village Funeral Home. For online condolences please visit www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.
Flora Rose Farmer, age 71, of Bauxite, passed away Wednesday, August 23, 2017. She was born April 10, 1946 in Benton, Arkansas to the late Alvin C. and Helen V. Gentry. Mrs. Farmer was an X-Ray Technician and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She volunteered many years to the Hope House which is an organization for battered women and children. She is survived by her daughter, Tamra Barnette (Alan); two brothers, Charlie Gentry (Renee) and Alvin Gentry (Ellen); sister, Virginia Hill; two grandchildren, Christopher Barnette (Brittany) and Brionna Barnette and two great-grandchildren, Sophia and Nevaeh Grace Barnette. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 29 at Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 30 at Social Hill Cemetery.
Patricia Lynn Kitchens, age 58, of Benton, passed away Thursday, August 24, 2017. She was born April 1, 1959 in Forrest City, Arkansas. Mrs. Kitchens was a Support Analyst for Dillard’s. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Leslie and a brother, Donald Leslie, Jr. She is survived by her husband, Raymond Hershell Kitchens; four children, Anthony Lankford (Melanie), Tamara Eaton (Chris), Andy Kitchens and Chad Kitchens (Lisa); mother, Margaret Richmond; step-mother, Linda Leslie; six siblings, Tina Salmela (Scott), Fred Leslie (Beverly), Jerald Tarvin (Amy), Dena Page (Mark Irwin), Dana Kitchens and Gina Davis (Jim); sister-in-law, Linda Leslie; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, August 27 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 28 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Pine Crest Memorial Park. Dr. Herbert Kitchens will be officiating. Memorials may be made to CARTI @ 8901 Carti Way in Little Rock, Ar. 72205. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Tama Louise Mullen of Mabelvale, passed away on August 21, 2017. She was born on September 27, 1950 in St. Joseph, MO to Howard and Jeanette Mullen. She loved watching football, especially the Razorbacks. She could often be found fishing in “Tama’s Pond” and especially took joy in going to church and singing in the choir. Tama is survived by her sister Diana and husband, Dale Bascue; nephew Jeff and wife, Kerry Bascue and their two children. A celebration of life will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at 1:00PM with Brother George Dudley officiating. To sign online guest book, go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Alice Gaither, 79 of Bryant, passed away on August 21, 2017. She was born December 7, 1937 to Nathan and Marie Crawley in Clark County, AR. She was a member of Eastern Star. Alice is survived by her loving husband, Richard Anderson; sons, David Jimmy and Jason Thompson; step-daughters, Dosy and Norma; step-sons, Travis and David; five grand-daughters, three nieces, one nephew, two great-nieces, and one great-nephew, and a host of family and friends who all love and miss her dearly. No services have been planned at this time. To sign online guest book, go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Deana Lynn Goforth, 58 of Hensley, passed away on August 27, 2017. She was born to the late, Oscar and Ruby Goforth on June 11, 1959 in Dumas, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents and son, Jessie Dove. Deana is survived by her daughter, Carla Thorton. A private service will be held at a later date. To sign online guestbook, go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
J L Ford, 85 of Bryant, passed away August 12, 2017 at his home. He was born to the late Jesse Lee and Reva Grace (Rainwater) Ford in Plumerville, AR on June 10, 1932. Mr. Ford had a B. S. Degree and Master’s Degree in Education, from UCA in Conway, an Education Specialty Degree from Vanderbilt in Nashville and was a retired coach, teacher and principal of Plum Bayou High School, Sherrill High School and Marion High School. He was Superintendent of Perryville and Bauxite and retired in 1994. He was an U. S. Army Veteran from the Korean War and also served on The Counselling Clinic for thirty-five years and The Equalization Board for twenty years. He was an active member of Northside Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Glenna Morrow; and granddaughter, Jennifer Carter. Survivors include his wife, Mary LaJuan; children, Brad Ford (Lynn) of Perryville, Rick Ford (Jeanna) of Albuquerque, NM, Cindy Carter (Stan) of Oklahoma City, OK; six grandchildren, Justin Carter (Staci), Jackson Ford, Isaiah Haijo, Gabe Haijo, Madison Ford and Jude Ford; two great-grandchildren, Luke and Lyla Carter; one brother, Ronny Ford (Angelique) of White Hall, AR, and other relatives and friends. A Memorial Service is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Northside Church of Christ in Benton with Jim Gardner officiating.
Leila Nelsine Ritchey, 79, of Bryant passed away Saturday, August 19, 2017 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Nelsine was born on March 27, 1938 in Bauxite to the late Henry and Mattie Whitfield, and was married for over 53 years to the late Rev. Clyde E. Ritchey. She was a woman of faith who had a passion for quilting, and won several awards for her designs. She leaves behind three daughters, Joyce Adams (Donald) of Sheridan, Sandy Jobe (Thomas) of Poyen, and Karen Green (Edward) of Little Rock; one brother, Carroll “Butch” Whitfield of Benton; two sisters, Nelorine Hickman and Betty Ann McAdams (Marshall) both of Benton; eight grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. A Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 26, 2017 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Bro. Clyde Chenault officiating. Interment will follow at Mars Hill Cemetery in Bauxite. Serving as pallbearers are Clint Evans, Alexander Green, Edward Green, Thomas Jobe, Darvin Whitfield, and Rick Whitfield. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, August 25th at the funeral home. After interment, the family will be gathering at the home of David and Donna Huddleston of Benton. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Central Baptist College in Conway, Poyen Baptist Church Building Fund in Poyen, or Oak Park Baptist Church in Little Rock either by mail, or online by clicking the links to the right.
Timothy Duane Gault, 57, of Haskell, passed away Monday August 21, 2017. He was born March 22, 1960 in Little Rock to the late A.Z. Gault and Betty Holloway Gault, who preceded him in death. Tim was a long-time member of Stride House in Benton, AR. Survivors include one sister, Debbie Bryant (Bob) of Benton; one brother, Asbury ”Sonny” Gault (Maurey) of Little Rock; two nieces, Amy Martino (RJ), and Autumn Gault; two nephews, Zeke Bryant, and Ivan Gray Gault. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at Mt. Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Haskell with Bro. Stephen Westbrook officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Harmony Cemetery. Serving as honorary pallbearers are the members and staff of Stride House. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Stride House Community Support Program, 307 E Sevier St, Benton, AR 72015.
Nancy ”Carolyn” Revis Lenz, 77, of Benton passed away Tuesday, August 22, 2017. She was born March 11, 1940 in Bismarck, Arkansas to Bill and Meathel (Allen) Revis. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents and by her twin sister, Glenda Revis Helmich. She is survived by two children, Bill Lenz (Susan) and Cheryl Lenz Hentschel; three grandchildren, Cole Hentschel (Elizabeth), Loren Hentschel, and Karis Hentschel; two great-grandsons, William Hentschel and Colson Hentschel, and two brothers, Bill Revis (Rebecca) and Paul Revis (Rosalie). Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. and funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 25, 2017 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton (315-4047) officiated by Jim Gardner. Interment will follow at Old Rosemont Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, AR 72116.
Robert Cecil Patterson, 73, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 15, 2017. He was born December 11, 1943 in Titusville, Pennsylvania to Cecil and Lanetta Strawbridge Patterson. Bob was known as “Butch” while growing up as a child. He served in the United States Army and is a Vietnam veteran. Bob received several commendations during his service including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Medal with Palm. Fishing was a favorite pastime of Bob’s. He enjoyed trading and dealing at several local flea markets. He was a great cook and family states everything he made was delicious. Bob was gifted in the ability to do any home remodel project and was currently helping his daughter design her new home. Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Lanetta Strawbridge Patterson. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Renee Valdovinos; two sons, Mark Patterson and Rob Patterson; six grandchildren including one special grandson, Collin; two great-grandchildren; father, Cecil Patterson and his wife Anna; two sisters, Sandy Goodemote and Janet Dent; two brothers, George Patterson and Phil Patterson; four step-brothers: Don, Robert, John, and Bill; many nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends who love Bob and will miss him always. Reception visitation will be held from 11:00 AM-Noon, Saturday, August 19 with funeral service following at Noon at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online Guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Pauline Sugg Lay, 92, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away August 17, 2017. She was born January 1, 1925 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late Leonard Monroe and Willina Parker Sugg. Pauline graduated from Little Rock Senior High School. She loved the Lord and was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Little Rock. Pauline was a bookkeeper and housewife. One of the highlights of her life was being a Bill Clinton campaign staff member in 1980’s. She was very outgoing and enjoyed meeting new people. Pauline loved to travel and go on cruises. She also enjoyed fishing. Pauline was preceded in death by her husband, Jackson O. Lay, Sr. and her parents. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Diane L. Moore and husband Michael of Alexander, Arkansas; son, Dr. Jackson O. Lay, Jr. of Fayetteville, Arkansas; grandsons, Eric and Matt; and extended family and friends who love Pauline and will miss her always. Private Graveside service will be held at the National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Kelly Ann Romero, 47, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away August 17, 2017 with her loved ones at her side. She was born February 9, 1970 in Trenton, Michigan to the late Vern and Dorothy Coonan Morgan. Kelly served in the United States Air Force during the Desert Storm crisis. She also worked as a direct caregiver for those needing assistance at home. She was preceded in death by her parents. Kelly leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Timothy Romero of Mabelvale, Arkansas; daughter, Danielle Shank and husband Charles of Paragould, Arkansas; grandchildren, Hayden and Jameson Shank; brother, Robert Morgan and wife Darla of Hinesville, Georgia; and many more family members and friends who love Kelly and will miss her always. Family will hold a celebration of life service at a later date. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, certified Veterans Funeral Care providers. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
David Elliott Council, 61, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 18, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospice. He was born November 16, 1955 in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Max and Elizabeth Elliott Council. David was a master auto mechanic. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Elizabeth Lee Smith. David leaves to cherish his memory his son, Collin Council of Jonesboro, Arkansas; niece, Terri Good of Little Rock, Arkansas; nephew, Jacob Warner and wife Leah of Benton, Arkansas; and many other relatives and friends who love David arnd will miss him always. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
James Edward Fields, 82, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away August 23, 2017. He was born January 17, 1935 in Lonoke, Arkansas to the late John Edgar and Annie Mae Burnett Fields. James was a master electrician by trade. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. James enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a member of Avilla Missionary Baptist Church. James was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Annie Fields; son, Jimmy Fields; great-granddaughter, Miryah Rowland; four brothers; and two sisters. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of sixty-one years, Clarice Fields of Alexander, Arkansas; son, Ken Fields and wife Linda of Benton, Arkansas; three daughters, Kathy Eickler of Sherwood, Arkansas, Brenda Street of Traskwood, Arkansas and Kim Fields of Guthrie, Oklahoma; brother, Charles Fields and wife Emily of Eros, Louisiana; and a host of family and friends who love James and will miss him always. Reception visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Monday, August 28, 2017 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Memorial service, officiated by Bro. Charles Sheppard and Bro. Kirby Caple, will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at Avilla Missionary Baptist Church, 10582 Avilla West, Alexander, Arkansas. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Wanda “Faye” Lavender, 80, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away August 24, 2017. She was born April 25, 1937 in Rosston, Arkansas to the late Calvin and Ola Wicker Jetton. Faye retired from Saline Memorial Hospital where she worked as a respiratory therapist. Her co-workers affectionately called her “Granny”. Faye leaves to cherish her memory: Nancy Kay Ball and husband David of Houston, Texas; Michael Lavender and wife Nancy of Lake Village, Arkansas; Terrie Dick and husband Tony of Bauxite, Arkansas; Robert Lavender and wife Melissa of Bryant, Arkansas; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and one great- grandchild on the way; one great-great grandson; and a host of extended family members and friends who love Faye and will miss her always. Memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas, with reception visitation following. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Sheila Marie Swanson Keck, 59 of Hot Springs Village Arkansas, formerly of Joliet, Illinois passed away August 21 after a long courageous battle with multiple medical conditions. Born April 13, 1958 the daughter of Charles and Shirley Swanson. A graduate of Plainfield High School. Formerly employed by Kerr/Ball Glass. Preceded in death by her sister, Susan Swanson Pearce (2006). Survived by her parents, Charles and Shirley Swanson of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Her sister Jill Bulian (Shane); and niece and nephew Brooke and Brock Bulian of Minooka Illinois. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 31 at Caruth Village Funeral Home in Arkansas.
Margaret Lou Ragsdale of Benton, AR, went to be with our Lord on Thursday, August 17th, 2017. Margaret was born on August 3rd, 1942 in Detroit, MI, to the late Lawrence and Ardell Ragsdale. At 3 months of age, her mother passed away. Her father, unable to leave his job in Detroit (during this time violent riots had moved into the city), realized that she was not safe. He asked for help from relatives to remove her from danger. Margaret was lovingly taken in and raised in Mountain Valley, AR, by her great Aunt and Uncle, Opal and Charlie Cockman. Margaret gained two older brothers, Rayburn and Charles Cockman. She attended school at Fountain Lake and excelled in her studies, graduating as the salutatorian of her senior class. During her senior year, she was introduced to her future husband, Elbert Ragsdale, of Jessieville, AR. After graduation, she and Elbert were married at her home in Mountain Valley, and moved to Hot Springs, AR. They had two daughters, Tonia and Karen. In her mid-twenties, Margaret was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which progressively worsened during her lifetime. She never let this crippling diagnosis stop her from fulfilling the goals she had set for her daughters. Amongst so many other things, she taught them to believe and have faith in Jesus Christ, when she could have just as easily blamed her afflictions on Him. Her life was full of teaching others the love of Christ, and she shared this love with young children, youth, and on mission trips. Many people remember her for the lessons in God’s love that she taught them which so enriched their lives. The family moved to Benton, AR in 1976 and joined Calvary Baptist Church. Margaret’s faith was tested constantly, it seems, as she was stricken with many conditions throughout her life, the most recent being the cancer that has taken her from us. Margaret never let the pain she endured stop her from loving and nurturing the children and youth of her church. Being an accomplished pianist, she volunteered her talent for the church until her fingers could no longer strike the keys without horrendous pain. She was an active member for over 40 years until her physical state forced her to stay home, but even then, the church was always in her thoughts and prayers. Margaret touched hundreds of peoples’ lives by sharing God’s love with them. She will always be remembered as the person who gave so much of herself, no matter the pain it put her through. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Ardell Ragsdale; her second parents Charlie and Opal Cockman; and her brother Charles Cockman. She is survived by her husband, Elbert Ragsdale, their two daughters Karen Ragsdale and Tonia Cox (Greg), granddaughter Sabrina Cox, brother Rayburn Cockman (all of Benton), and two sisters, Barbara Smith (Jack), Lorrie Morris, both of California, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation will be Monday, August 21st from 6 to 8 p.m. at Caruth Village Funeral Home (4623 N. Hwy 7, Hot Springs Village). A second visitation will be held at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, August 22nd at Calvary Baptist Church (612 Valley View, Benton) followed by services at 1 p.m., with Dr. Clif Springer officiating. Interment will be at Green Cemetery on Beaudry Cir. in Jessieville at 3:15 p.m. Pallbearers are Chris Ragsdale, Layne Ragsdale, Leonard Lindley, Vernon Brooks, Tommy Collier, and Jim Martin. Honorary pallbearers are Rayburn Cockman, Doug Ragsdale, Edgar Ragsdale, and Greg Cox. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorials/donations be made to her daughters’ nonprofit organization, ARRUFF Rescue (www.arruff.org), or Calvary Baptist Church. Margaret will always be lovingly remembered by her family and the many lives she touched. Although her body was weak and frail, and she experienced near-constant pain, her spirit and faith remained strong. She was “one tough little lady” to the very end.
Jeanette D. Foster, 75, of Haskell, Arkansas will no longer be in pain and has walked in the arms of her Savior on August 16, 2017. She was born April 19, 1942 in Hope, Arkansas to the late Joe and Violet Daugherty. She was a homemaker and raised her three daughters and supported her late husband William J. Foster of 42 years. She struggled her whole adult life with health issues, which she always overcame them. This last battle she was fighting hard to beat. She was working hard at rehab, good spirits and was looking forward to eventually making it back home, but this time her body was just too weak. She loved to garden, plant flowers in her yard, collect antiques, going to yard sales, and cooking. She opened her own shop making porcelain dolls and teaching others her crafts. She loved being surrounded by her family and laughing. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers, Denver and Paul Raye Daugherty; sister, Trudy Davis; and her grandson, Bradley Gene Uekman. She is survived by her daughters, Sheila Uekman (John) of Little Rock, Lisa Mills (Randy) of Bauxite, and Amy Foster of Haskell; sister, Hazel Freeman of Hope; half- sister Suzanne and Melissa Daugherty; 5 grandchildren, Chadley Uekman, Corey Mills (Heather), Christina Richardson (Larry), Amber Perry (Caleb), and Hayden Foster, whom she has and was raising; and 5 great- grandchildren, who she had special names for, (Barrett) Wiggle Wiggle, (Bryce) Mr. Mr., (Cole) Monkey Toes, (Mia) Chunky Monkey, and (Corbin) who was born on the 11th, and she didn’t get the chance to meet. A Service will be held Monday, August 21st, at 10:00 a.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Hwy 5 North, Alexander, Arkansas 72002, with a visitation an hour prior to service. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
James Andrew Huff, 89 of Alexander, passed away August 18, 2017. He was born to Melvin and Eva Ola Huff on July 26, 1928 in Mabelvale, Arkansas. James was the owner and operator of Radford Equipment Company for 20 years. He was an avid gardener. He also loved hunting, horse racing, casinos, and traveling. He was of the Methodist faith. He was a longtime member of Mabelvale United Methodist Church. In recent years, his membership transferred to Bryant United Methodist Church. He is preceded in death by his wives, Joan Meyer Huff and Bobbie Reed Huff; two sisters, Mattie Dove Huff (Lambirth) and Norma Louise Huff (Emory); four brothers, Melvin Grogan Huff, Walter Hugh Goin II, Walter Daniel Huff, Ken Ball, and William David Huff; and his parents. He is survived by his children, James Wayne Huff (Marva), Brenda Carlene Huff Carson (Tommy), Melissa Ann Huff, and stepdaughter Cathy Ball; brother, John Thomas Huff; grandchildren, Christopher Wayne Huff, Eric Andrew Huff, James Matthew Huff, Nicholas K. Carson, Alexander K. Carson, Scotty Alexander Maison, Brett Allan Green, Brittney Ann Green, Cary Ball, Kelsey Ball (Henderson); 16 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and special consideration for all of his Costa Rican family and friends. Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 26, 2017 at Pinecrest Funeral Home at 1:30pm. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life at 12809 Huff Lane, Alexander, AR, at 5:30pm. Jim’s favorite foods will be served. An online guestbook is available at www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com.
Billy Ray Williams, 81, of Alexander, Ark., went to be with the Lord, Friday, Aug. 18, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospital in Benton. Bill was born in November of 1935 in Van Buren County, Ark. to Major and Ovnie Williams also of Van Buren County. Bill is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lynda Lee Williams; son Terry Williams of Grand Prairie, Texas; daughter Kay Holt (Robert) of Alexander, Ark.; daughter Dana Lisk (David) Harrison, Ark.; two grandchildren Amber Murray and Cameron Holt; and two great-grandchildren. Bill was a business owner and barber for 44 years and attended Abundant Life Assembly of God of Bryant, Ark. He loved to travel by land and sea. Visitation, celebration of life, and shared memories will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, August 21, at Pinecrest Funeral Home in Alexander with the service following at 2 p.m. Graveside service will be at Forest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Abundant Life Assembly of God, PO Box 764, Bryant, Ark. 72089.
Calvin Ray West, 67, of Alexander, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord August 21, 2017. He was born in Little Rock, AR, September 2, 1949 to Norman and Mary West. He served in the Army during the Vietnam Era. He is preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Christine Partington and Loraine Sledge; and two brothers, Earl and James Owen West. He is survived by his two sons, Calvin West (Keri) and Dustin West; fiancé, Bobbye Moller; one sister, Wanda George; nine brothers, Norman, Robert, Roy, Larry, Gary, Ronnie, Charles, Joe, and Jerry West; five grandchildren, Cole, Brittany, Taylor, Abbie, and Cidney; and two great- grandchildren, Devyn and Evan. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 26, 2017, at 11:30 a.m., at Apostolic Christian Center, 20121 Interstate 30 S, Benton, AR 72015.
Bethel Lorene Parish, 89, of Bryant, passed away August 18, 2017. She is survived by her son, Gary Parish and his wife, Monica of Bryant; grandchildren, Brooke Midkiff (Kyle) of Wynne, Brandon Parish and Chris Burris (Amanda), all of Little Rock, and Charlie Burris of Alexander; great-grandson, Noah Burris of Searcy; and special friends, Martha Merryman of Clinton, Kaye Ross of Little Rock and Lila Jean Williams of Springfield. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Myrtle Williams Gilliam, her husband of 47 years, Eugene Parish and daughter, Patricia Ann Thompson. Visitation will be Friday, August 25 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Services will be Sunday, August 27 at 2:30 p.m. at Culpepper Community Center in Clinton, officiated by Rev. Michael Blanchard, followed by burial at Culpepper Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Culpepper Cemetery Fund, c/o Martha Merryman, 600 Hwy. 95E, Clinton, AR 72031 or to Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 1 Children’s Way, Little Rock, AR 72202. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mrs. Parish’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.