Jimmy Lee Guidry, 78 of Alexander, passed away September 20, 2017. He was born January 21, 1939 in St. Martinville, Louisiana to the late Vincent and Elienta Dugas Guidry. Jimmy was the owner of R. J. Enterprises, a US Army Veteran, and a Catholic. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lottie Louviere. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Ruth Guidry, daughters, Lisa (Bryan) Hawley of Little Rock, Davena (Randy) Hickmon of Alexander and Andrea (Kevin) Goodwin of Benton, granddaughter, Astin Hawley and great grandson, Carbon. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 22, 2017 at Ashby Funeral Home, 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. No services are scheduled. Cremation was entrusted to Ashby Funeral Home.
Larry Joe Cook, often better known as “Joe” or “Pappa Joe” died in his home in Benton on the night of Tuesday, September 19, 2017. He was born in Florence, Alabama on October 8, 1954 to Joe Nell and George Windham Cook of Benton, Arkansas, but lived most of his life in Saline County Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his mother, father and niece, Angela Michelle Eckhart of Hope, Arkansas. Larry was survived by his brother, Windham Cook of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; sister, Marsha Cook Eckhart of Arkadelphia, his daughter and son-in-law, Courtney and Amos Cochran of Van Buren, Arkansas, grandchildren, Madelaine, Jude, and Lucy Cochran of Van Buren, Arkansas. Larry graduated from Benton High School in 1973, from the University of Arkansas in 1977 and held two additional master’s degrees from the University of Arkansas, one in education, and one in counseling. A true Renaissance man, Larry loved running, playing the harmonica, reading, writing (constantly), and giving back to the community through substitute teaching and through organizations such as the Saline County Library “Friends,” the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association and the Saline County Democrats. Despite being extremely successful in his own right, his greatest source of pride came when his daughter was named the 2017 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Larry was enjoying his second year of retirement from a legendary career in teaching high school World History. He was also a legend in local politics, on the dance floor, on BuzzTime Trivia, and in karaoke bars, but most importantly, as the best dad and grandad of all time. Memorial services will be held on Thursday, September 28th at Ashby Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be held on Thursday, 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. before services. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Joyce R. Campbell, age 77, of Bryant; passed away Friday September 22, 2017. She was born April 6, 1940 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Joyce was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Austin Wade Young and Elva Harvey Young; husband, Billy Jack Campbell; daughter, Joy Bowers; two brothers, Darrell and Larry Young and three sisters, Elva Gayle, Dolores Pinkerton and Patsy Spikes. She is survived by two sons, Austin Rush (Rhonda) of Bryant and Jim Morgan (Susan) of Romania; three daughters, Vanessa Allison of Little Rock, Lisa Gulledge (Don) of Conway and Becky Baxter (Keith) of Texas; three brothers, Terry Young of Sherwood; three sisters, Carol Zorn of Little Rock, Jane Sanders of Sherwood and Teresa Torres of Little Rock; twenty-three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 25 at Calvary Chapel Church @ 5310 Word St. in Bauxite.
Nancy Hale Stone (Thompson), age 68, said her final goodbye on September 21st, 2017, in her home of Benton, AR. Obituaries are boring, and Nancy lived a more colorful life than the typical obituary allows. She was so colorful, in fact, that she was born in Orange, NJ. Nancy started making the world a better place on June 21, 1949, daughter of the late Roy and Janet Thompson and eventual middle sister of Susan Smith and Drew Thompson. Nancy was a gifted quilter, talented baker, project starter, and lover of the great outdoors. She had a fierce love for family, friends, and butter. Nancy was an inspirational teacher who brought color to the lives of her students for 20+ years, teaching all over the country, thanks to moving 17 times with her husband. Her favorite job was at the Eastern NC School for the Deaf, where she exercised her passion for sign language. Always the lifelong learner, she went back to school for her master’s degree in education at age 50 and graduated with honors and a 4.0. Nancy will be most missed by her husband of 48 years, Warren Stone and the loyalist of dogs, Sperry; their four children, Bret (Layci) Stone, Ellie (Jerry) Keever, Audrey (Tres Hinds) Stone, and Donna May (Stephen) Mostrom; six grandchildren, Nekoda, Samuel, Lucy, Peyton, Sophia, and soon-to-the-stage, baby Nancy. Nancy touched the lives of many, and her family will welcome loved ones to say goodbye. A viewing will be held at Ashby Funeral Home at 108 W Narroway St, Benton, AR 72015 on September 25, 2017 from 6-8pm. Nancy also loved a good party, so the final celebration of her life will take place at the same Ashby Funeral Home on September 26, 2017 at 3pm. A reception in her honor will follow at their home at 1105 Rocky Mountain Drive in Benton, AR. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Saline Memorial Hospice in Benton, AR.
Mary Maxine Witham Russell, age 88, of Benton, AR, was born September 23, 1929. She died peacefully on Friday September 22, 2017, She was preceded in death by her parents Frank Witham and Bessie Baker Witham of Benton, AR daughters Madeline Russell of Benton, AR and Pauline Cornwell of Carlsbad, NM, sons Jimmy Russell, Dennis Russell, J.W. Russell, and Dewayne Russell all of Benton, AR. She is survived by two daughters Sandra Newcomb (Barry) of Glen Rose, AR, Penny Cooper of El Dorado, AR and one son Larry Russell of Benton AR. Mary also is survived by 28 grandkids, 52 great grandkids and 15 great great grandkids. Mary was a proud homemaker and loved to work outside in her garden and flower beds. She also loved her two little dogs Kowa and Nikki and was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Benton, AR. There will be no visitation or funeral services but a Memorial Service will be held this Sunday September 24, 2017 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Benton, AR at 2pm. Bro. Gary Melton will preside over the services. Mary’s grandsons will be honorary pallbearers. Robert Russell, Greg Hendrix, William Russell, David Russell, Jimmy Russell, Mark Russell, Gary Russell, and Luke Russell. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Debra Anne Kindy, age 58, of Benton, passed away Sunday, September 24, 2017. She was born January 28, 1959 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Debra graduated from the Baptist School of Nursing as an RN and specialized in Oncology. She worked in the Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy at UAMS. Debra was a member of Spring Creek Missionary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Billy and Opal Collins and a brother, Danny Earl Kimbrough. She is survived by her husband, Jim Kindy (they celebrated their 41st anniversary just last week); five children, David Kindy (Michelle), Daniel Kindy (Jayme), Douglas Kindy (Sherry), Billy Kindy (Lorrie) and Katie Sullivan (Joshua); two brothers, James Kimbrough and David Collins and thirteen grandchildren, Kaelan Kindy, Jacob Kindy, Kelsi Owens, Kyler Kindy, Maddi Best, Braxton Best, Kristen Higginbotham, Keith Kindy, Karys Kindy, Jared Kindy, Elizabeth Kindy, Lillie Sullivan and Jage Sullivan. Visitation will be 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 27 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 28 at Ashby Funeral Home. Bro. Terry Parrish will be officiating. Family Comments: She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She took great pride in her work; having went above and beyond for her patients to make them feel special and they loved her in return.
Lydia Lucille Colquitt, age 81, of Benton passed away Saturday September 23, 2017 at her home. She was born March 10, 1936 in Hemlock, West Virginia. Lydia retired from AT&T after 30 years, and was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard Cecil and Lydia Frances Daniels, husband Homer Junior Colquitt, one brother and one sister. Survivors, son, Larry Colquitt, Benton; daughter, Joyce Turton, Denver, Colorado; brothers, Charles Daniels, and James Daniels, both of West Virginia; sister, Rosetta Allen, North Carolina; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday at Ashby’s. Graveside services will be 10:00 AM Wednesday at Pine Crest Cemetery. Minister will be Bro. Scott King. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Horace R. Whitfield, age 73, of Bauxite; passed away Monday, September 25, 2017. He was born September 2, 1944 in Bauxite, Arkansas. Horace was a member of Free Will Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace B. and Alma Whitfield; son, Michael Whitfield and two sisters, Patsy McCool and Gail Craig. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Sue Whitfield; daughter, Elizabeth (B. J. ), Webb; sister, Levoy Henson and three grandchildren, Olivia Webb, Naaman Webb, and Savannah Webb. Close family friend, Carolyn Salyers, honorary brother, Richard Hogans. He loved spending time with his grandkids and praying and reading his Bible. If there’s a farm in heaven that’s where you’ll find him. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 28 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 29 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Mars Hill Cemetery. Bro. Randy Spears and Bro. Richard Hogans will be officiating.
James (Guss) Robey, age 73, of Benton passed away Friday September 22, 2017. He was born January 27, 1944 in Little Rock. James was a US Army Veteran serving in Vietnam. He was a Coach and a Teacher for 38 years (1969-2007). James was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Jack Robey Sr. and Louise Ross Robey, two brothers, Robert Jack Robey Jr. and William Ross Robey. He loved to fish, and spend time with the grandkids. Survivors, wife of 47 years, Diane Sims Robey, Benton; four very special daughters, Ashley Harrell, Andrea Robey, Amy Corvin and Angela Brown, nieces, nephews and students that he loved and touched in a very special way, grandchildren, Jordan Duran, Emily Corvin, Ava Brown and Andrew Brown. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday at Ashby’s. Funeral services will be 10:00 am Wednesday at Ashby Funeral Home Chapel. Burial at Arkansas Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock will be 12:00 Noon on Thursday. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Glen Rose Athletic Dept. and the Benton Athletic Dept. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Robert Jasper Bryant Jr., age 75, of Bryant; passed away Tuesday, September 26, 2017. He was born November 2, 1941 in Watervliet, Michigan to the late Robert Jasper Bryant Sr. and Beulah Minnie Bryant. Robert served in the U. S. Air Force and was a Tool & Die Maker. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Bryant, three brothers, Ed, Roy and Ronnie Bryant He is survived by his son, Timothy Bryant; daughter, Melissa Hilton (Derick); brother, Don Bryant; sister, Norma Sirk and two grandsons, Connor Blake Hilton and Cyler Reede Hilton. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, September 29 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 30 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Pine Crest Memorial Park. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Billie B Lefler, 83 of Hot Springs Village, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2017. Major General Bill B. Lefler was born in Rawlins, Wyoming on 20, October 1933. Bill grew up in Clinton, Arkansas where he was active in sports church and his community. He attended Hendrix College from 1951-1953. While at Hendrix, He met his future bride, Carolyn Ellis. They were married in 1955. He graduated from the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry in 1956 and was commissioned in the Army in 1956. During his military career of over 34 years, General Lefler distinguished himself as a clinician, teacher, administrator, and leader. He held a wide variety of important command and staff positions culminating in 1986, when he was selected as the Assistant surgeon General for Dental Services and the twentieth Chief of the Army Dental Corps and promoted to Major General. Following his retirement, General Lefler joined the staff of the American Dental Association as Assistant Executive Director for the Division of Legislative Affairs and director of the Washington, DC office of the American Dental Association. In January 1995 General Lefler moved back to his home state of Arkansas. He practiced dentistry at Cordoba Center Dental Clinic (now Lefler Dental) from 1996 until 2013. He served on numerous boards and committees such as the Boys and Girls Club and the Donald W Reynolds Center for aging. He was proud in helping to get recognition for Hot Springs Village as a volunteer community of the year for Arkansas in 2000. The governor appointed him as the initial Chairman of the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission. Bill was an active member of the village United Methodist Church, where he was on the pastoral council, sang in the choir, played in the band, and taught an annual bible study class for 17 years. He was involved in many organizations. Some of them were VFW, MOAA, Evening Lions and Cedar Mountain Singers where he was the Master of Ceremonies. He was well known for telling corny jokes. If he wasn’t a member of an organization, he was always seen in the audience enthusiastically supporting them. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Carolyn, daughter Tracey Salter (Jack), sons Dr. Tom Lefler (Cindy) and Dr. Mark Lefler (Katherine), 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. General Lefler was a man of passions-family, friend’s community, and country. The celebration of his life will be 11 AM Saturday, October 7th at the Village United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers the family request gifts to be made to the Village United Methodist Church, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, or Intrepid Fallen Hero’s Fund, (www.fallenherosfund.org) Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home. For online condolences visit at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com
John Sparks, 89 of Hot Springs Village, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2017. He was born March 16th, 1928 in Memphis, Tennessee to Jesse and Camille (Canale) Sparks. John is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 44 years, Virginia, and daughter; Catherine (Brian) Seiler of Lakewood, Ohio, one son; Stephen (Erin) Sparks of Mesa, Arizona, grandchildren; Owen Seiler, Camille Seiler, Evan Seiler, Lauren Sparks, an Joseph Sparks. John is preceded in death by his parents. John served in the Navy during the Korean War. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, September 30th, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with a Rosary beginning at 10:30. Officiating will be Father Bill Elser. Interment will follow at CedarVale Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home. For online condolences visit at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com
Ruth Imogene Robertson DeAscentis Dudley, 76 of Benton, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 19, 2017 after a long and heroic battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born on July 27, 1941 to James and Ida Robertson in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was of the Pentecostal faith, and was a Sunday school teacher and superintendent for many years. She loved to play the piano and sing. Her life revolved around her faith and her family. Her family would like to thank all the wonderful people at the hospice house for their wonderful care of their mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She is proceeded in death by her loving parents, her first husband, Arthur J. DeAscentis SR; second husband, Austin W. Dudley; two brothers, Rev. Ralph R. Robertson and Rev. James L. Robertson; three sisters, Vinita B. Woodhull, Katie E. David, and Janett L. Jones; and two great grandchildren, Madilyn M. Bledsoe and baby Bledsoe. She is survived by a daughter Janett M. Bledsoe (Rev. Dennis), two sons, Rev. Arthur J. DeAscentis (Janet) and Jonathan H. DeAscentis; and six grandchildren, Rebecca J. Primm (Jeff), Joel C. Bledsoe (Kendra), Chalsie M. Sublett (Chris), Aletha M. Kusturin (Brad), Amber R. Doran (Jared), and A.J. DeAscentis; ten great-grandchildren, Brady Kusturin, Noah Whitley, Kayden Bledsoe, Zoie Primm, Logan Primm, Easton Primm, Asa Sublett, Azrielle Sublett, Maeya Kusturin, and Kylie Doran; a sister-in-law, Bessie Robertson, and many nieces and nephews who love and miss her dearly. Celebration of life will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Friday, September 22, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. There will be no visitation. To sign online guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Elnore Christine Francisco, age 92 of North Little Rock, went to her Heavenly Home on September 22, 2017. She was born to the late, A. D. White and Martha Brown White on June 6, 1925 in Somerville, Alabama. She loved flowers and gardening in her yard. Even though she only stood 4’10”, she would try just about anything! During the last few years of her life, she loved listening to gospel music and talking about Jesus. She is preceded in death by her husband, Art Francisco; her parents; two daughters, Donna Jean Martin and Sue Lay; four sisters, Ruth Welch, Geraldine Hawkins, Vita Marie Adcox and Joe Ann Martinez; and two brothers, Buddy White and Elton Martin. Christine is survived by her daughter, Sherlene Moody (Jerry) of Arkansas; son, Ray Martin (Susan) of California; brother, Jean White (Connie) of Virginia; two sisters, Ollie Pollard (Bill) of Kentucky, Joyce Mcartan (Colon) of Virginia; six grandchildren, as well as many great and great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends who all love and will miss her dearly. With faith, we know that we will see her again. To sign her online guestbook, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Rufus Brown, age 43 of Hensley, passed away on September 24, 2017. A memorial visitation will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 from 6-8PM. To sign online guestbook, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Gary L. Young, 56 of Benton, left us to be with the Lord on September 27, 2017. He was a very good man and always treated people with respect. He was a preacher, a hard worker and never met someone he didn’t like. He had a very big heart. He was married to Tammy Young for 38 years. Many people knew him as “Big G”. He is preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Kee and a brother, Bruce Corbit. He is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Young; son, Alex; two brothers, Scott and Dennis Young; daughter-in-law, Prisca; and granddaughter, Sofia. He will be in heaven next time you see him. I thank God that he gave me 38 years of his life; I was very blessed by his love and I will miss him every day for the rest of my life, though I know he will be with me in spirit. He was a young man; too young to die. He had a lot of friends and family whose hearts he touched. He will be missed by all! A memorial visitation in celebration of Gary’s memory will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Saturday, September 30, 2017, from 11A-1P. To sign online guestbook, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Harvey Lee William Chisum, 85, of Benton passed away Wednesday, September 20, 2017. He was born October 5, 1931 in Roland, Arkansas to the late George W. and Dessie L. Chisum. Survivors include his beloved wife, Linda Joan; two sons, Larry Lee Chisum (Debra) and Michael William Chisum (Anna) both of Benton; two daughters, Vicky Lynn Sicking (Patrick) and Teresa Sicking (Fredrick) both of Malvern; one brother, Bill Chisum of Brinkley; six grandchildren; and twenty-two great grandchildren. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 23, in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton with Rev. Scotty Nalley officiating. Interment will follow at Fairplay Cemetery in Lonsdale, Arkansas. Serving as pallbearers are Dylan Chisum, Josh Sicking. Cecil Sicking, Thomas Sicking, Daniel Chisum, James Chisum, and Christopher Johnson. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, September 22, in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home.
Forrest (Bill) William Hood Sr., 90, of Bryant, Arkansas, passed away Thursday September 21, 2017. He was born January 15, 1927 in Waveland, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Artie and Mildred Rogers Hood; brother, Doyle Hood; and step-grandson, Jeffery Hardin. Bill was a veteran of WWII where he served in the Navy. He loved hunting and camping, and loved working outside in his sheds. He was a truck driver for a total of 35 years and was of the Baptist faith. He is survived by his wife, Clara Kindrex Hood; three children, Bill Hood (Sherry) of Bryant, and Patricia Glover (Walter) and Linda Toler (Jim) of Benton; four step-children, Glenda Turner (Kenneth) of Ashland, TN, Judy Goodman (Cletis) of Rockford, IL, Cindy Anderson (Troy) of Mountain Home, AR, and Robert Hurley (Gina) of Benton; and his brother Jerry Hood (Marie) of Roland, AR. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Stacey, Dustin, Travis, Jennifer, David, Tina, and Wesley; five step-grandchildren, David, Jason, Tiffany, Brandy, and Jonathan; twenty-one great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 25, at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Alexander, AR Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday evening, September 24, in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047).
James Allen “Smiley” Edmonds, 33, of Benton, Arkansas passed away September 16, 2017. He was born October 30, 1983 in Little Rock, Arkansas. James proudly served in the United States Army and served two tours during the Iraq Campaign, Operation Enduring Freedom. He was highly decorated with many awards including National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-Wheeled Vehicles. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Doris Edmonds, Recy Fuqua, Johnny Hunnicutt, and James Balding. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Hanna Klara Thurfjell; son, Gunner Wayne Edmonds of Benton, Arkansas; mother, Teresa Caskey and her husband John of Waldo, Arkansas; father, Raymond Balding of Benton, Arkansas; two brothers, Brandon Balding and girlfriend Marlie Kling of Benton, Arkansas and Cameron M. Caskey; maternal grandmother, Geraldine “Jeri” Rollans of Benton, Arkansas; maternal grandfather, James R. Edmonds, Sr. of Mabelvale, Arkansas; grandmother, Bonnie Hunnicutt of Benton, Arkansas; grandmother, Alice Balding of Benton, Arkansas; step-brother, John Paul Caskey; step-sister, Kaitlyn Srebalus; special uncle, Bobby Edmonds of Alexander, Arkansas; uncle, Rodney Balding; aunt, Kim Chilton and husband Joey; great aunt, Dianne Rollans; and a host of family members and friends who love James and will miss him always. Reception visitation will be held 6:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday, September 20, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton. Funeral service, officiated by Rev. Kim Hammer, held at 9:00 AM, Friday, September 22, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock assisted by Ben Brown, Alex Brooks, Kyle Henson, Damien Grandberry. Brian Williams, David Nelson, Bryan Casey, and DJ Comet assisting as pallbearers. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veteran Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Mrs. Judy Burton Bradford died unexpectedly on September 25, 2017, in Benton, Arkansas, at the age of 76. Judy is survived by her husband Dennis Bradford of Bryant; sister, Laura Lee Webb of Malvern; daughter, Charlotte and husband Tommy Tarver of Bauxite; sons, Lance and wife Lorraine Hicks of Benton; Lyn and wife Maggie Hicks of Traskwood; and Tommy and wife Christa Burton of Rogers. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Tyler Tarver, Chelsea Tarver, Patrick Burton, Preston Burton, Joshua Hicks, Jessica James, Austin Hicks, Shelby Hicks, Ashton Burton, and Thomas Burton. She also loved her great-grandchildren: Zoey Hicks, Payton James, Titus Tarver, Lexi Henson, Ezra Tarver, Finnick Tarver, and Luke Hicks. She is preceded in death by her brother, William Edwin Benning and sister, Betty Ann Davis. Judy was born on June 6, 1941, to Thelma Lee and William Edwin “Babe” Benning. She married Dennis Bradford, in 2003. Best known for owning Dorcas Holicer Flowers in Benton and most recently of her work at Whiting Systems of Bryant. She also attended church at First Baptist Church of Benton. Visitation: 6:00-8:00 PM, Thursday, September 28, Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Funeral: 10:00 AM, Friday, September 29th, Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Graveside service following at Philadelphia Cemetery in Prattsville. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Judy Burton Bradford’s life. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares
Jimmy Curtis Rainwater, Sr., 74, of Bauxite, Arkansas passed away September 26, 2017. He was born June 20, 1943 to the late George and Nina (Waters) Rainwater. Jimmy proudly served in the United States Navy. He was stationed during the Vietnam era in New Zealand and Antartica. Jimmy loved to fish. Prior to becoming ill, he was always going “ninety to nothing”. Jimmy retired from EXIDE Manufacturing. Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife of almost fifty years, Martha Rainwater; and his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jimmy Curtis and wife Karen of Fort Walton Beach, Florida; daughter, Deborah Richey and husband John of Bauxite, Arkansas; eight grandchildren: Adam Winegar and wife Sarah, Aaron Winegar and wife Jen, Austin Winegar, Kaley Ackley, Brittany Rainwater, Emily Bodiker and husband Rustin, Katelyn Pelkey and husband Dustin, and Sarah Richey; nine great-grandchildren; sisters, Katie and Margaret; and a host of family members and friends who love Jimmy and will miss him always. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Donald Edward Williams, 75, of Benton, Arkansas passed away September 26, 2017. He was born May 29, 1942 in Perryville, Arkansas to the late Ed and Annie (Rippeto) Williams. Donald proudly served in the United States Army. He was a Licensed Psychiatric Tech Nurse. Donald loved his family and took great care of them. He served the Lord with all his heart and was a member of The Church at Benton. Preceding Donald in death are his parents; granddaughter, Summer McCallister; and sister, Cathy Williams. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 42 years, Gail Williams of Benton, Arkansas; daughter, Robin McCallister of Benton, Arkansas; granddaughter, Cheyenne McCallister; and family members and friends who love Donald and will miss him always. Memorial service, officiated by Bro. Scotty Nalley, will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, September 30 at The Church at Benton, 126 West Drive, Benton, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at www.ALZ.org. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Dennie Ellis Gentry, 86, of Franklin, Louisiana passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 surrounded by his wife, daughters and members of his extended family. He was born February 26, 1931 in Blytheville, AR to the late Hugh and Lucille (Juden) Gentry. He was a great husband, father, and grandfather and loved his family dearly. Dennie was known by all as a kind and funny gentleman. He was of Christian faith and a Mason. Dennie (Buddy) was a football All-American at Blytheville High School where he received the honors of being named to the Associated Press’ 29th annual All-Southern team. He also played in the annual All-American East-West game in Corpus Christie, TX. Upon graduation in 1949, he was considered by sports writers and high school coaches as one of the states’ most outstanding pass receivers. He was recruited by numerous top colleges that included Alabama and LSU, but ended up following a friend and teammate to play football for the University of Tulsa under scholarship. He was also a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1955 and served until 1957. He met his first wife in Long Beach, CA during his enlistment. His love for football followed him his entire life, as he passed away watching the game play. Dennie retired from a career at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company after 35+ years of service. After retirement, Dennie and Anna Lee enjoyed traveling full-time in their motor home and he became president of the Arkansas Traveler Motor Home Association. They were also members of the Cruisin’ Cajuns. After Anna Lee’s passing, he met Martha at an RV gathering at the Valley in South Texas. He was preceded in death by his, parents; his first wife of 49 years, Anna Lee (Firestone) Gentry. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Martha (Olivier) Gentry of Franklin, LA; his two daughters, Deneen White and her husband, Larry White of Benton, AR and Tina Hilton Carter and her husband, Larry Carter of Maumelle, AR; his three step sons, Edward Olivier III of Franklin, LA, Lorrie Olivier (Carmen) of Houston, TX and Brant Olivier (Marj) of Atlanta, GA; his grandchildren, Mandy (Ben) Thompkins, Brian Baker, Stephen (Christy) Baker, Greg (Kim) White, Grant (Catie) Hilton, and Taylor Leslie; and many great-grandchildren; his two brothers, Bennie Gentry (Shirley) of Blytheville, AR and Donald Gentry (Jane) of Maricopa, Arizona; along with loving nieces, nephews, and in-laws. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to the UAMS Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging at aging.uams.edu Services will be held Monday, September 18, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Hwy 5 North, Alexander, Arkansas. Visitation will held Sunday from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
María Celia de Juárez, 88, died September 16, 2017. She was born on November 12, 1928 in the city of Las Palmeras Sonsonate, El Salvador. C. A. She is preceded in death by her husband, Hector Juárez who she married August 22, 1954. Estuvo casada por 50 años con su esposo. She was a strong-willed woman, determined and unafraid to be herself in the world. She was a beloved mother, and friend. She loved her family and will always be remembered and missed. She is survived by her children, José Héctor Juárez of El Salvador, and Marta Celia Juárez de Portillo of Little Rock, Arkansas, USA Familia doliente: José Héctor Juárez and Carmen Rodas de Juárez Miguel Alfredo Portillo and Marta Celia Juárez de Portillo Carmen Irene Juárez-Rodas Carmen Eugenia Juárez-Rodas Celia M. Portillo-Juárez de Guinyard Familia Ramírez-Juárez Familia Rivas Familia Breucop-Diaz Familia Bautista Ella fue un ejemplo para las futuras generaciones a no darse por vencida, y luchar, atender y cuidar a su esposo para mantener su hogar y la unidad familiar, la pudiéramos describir como lo que dice el libro de Proverbios 31:10 Mujer virtuosa, ¿quién la hallará? Porque su estima sobrepasa largamente a la de las piedras preciosas. El corazón de su marido está en ella confiado, Y no carecerá de ganancias. Le da ella bien y no mal Todos los días de su vida. Busca lana y lino, Y con voluntad trabaja con sus manos. Es como nave de mercader; Trae su pan de lejos. Se levanta aun de noche Y da comida a su familia Y ración a sus criadas. Considera la heredad, y la compra, Y planta viña del fruto de sus manos. Ciñe de fuerza sus lomos, Y esfuerza sus brazos para el trabajo. Ve que van bien sus negocios; Su lámpara no se apaga de noche…….
Jeanette L. Martin, 97, of Benton went to be with the Lord September 25, 2017. She was born in Gurdon, Arkansas on September 21, 1920 to Marcus and Katherine Lowe. Jeanette loved her Bible, sewing, flowers, dancing, music, crocheting and her dog, Minnie Pearl. She was a remarkable women who loved volunteering at the Food Pantry, the Rice Depot and Meals on Wheels. Jeanette had four brothers and a husband that served our country in World War II. Her talent of sewing let her travel around the country making uniforms for the soldiers. Jeanette was honored with being the first female elder of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Women. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; Jerry Martin, daughter; Mary Katherine (Kathy) Griggs, four brothers; Roy, Ralph, Marcus, and Peter John Lowe, and two aunts; Molly Sawyer, Belle Merkel. Jeanette is survived by two granddaughters; Kimberly and Heather Griggs, great grandson; Michael Tyler Dickinson, chosen granddaughter; Jannine, son-in-law; Clarence (Skeeter) Griggs, grandson-in-law; John Michael Dickinson and numerous nieces and nephews. A family visitation will be held at 2 pm on Friday, September 29, 2017 at First Presbyterian Church, 501 North East Street, Benton, Arkansas with a Memorial service following at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made in Jeanette’s name to Camp Peniel, 83 Camp Peniel Lane, Solgohachia, Arkansas 72156. Please share your memories of Jeanette at www.dignitymemorial.com/pinecrest-funeral-home-memorial-park
Rickey Lee Tribble, 63, of Mabelvale, passed away September 16, 2017. Born in Pocahontas, Arkansas, he was a U.S. Army veteran and retired after 29 years with the Little Rock Police Department. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. Preceded in death by his parents, Ermon and Katie King Tribble, sisters, Mary Lou Gazaway and Karen Parten, and grandson, Jeremy Tristan Lee Tribble, Jr., he is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sandy Sullinger Tribble; son, Jeremy Tribble (Tricia Abbott) of Benton; daughter, Jamie Tribble (Ron Kindy) of Little Rock; grandchildren, Tristan Tribble of Shannon Hills, Kirstine Burk and Karri Dziemiela, both of Rison, Arkansas; siblings, Audrey Hollowa (Kenny Ray) of Russellville, Erma Steveson, Judy Roberds (Terry), and Richard Tribble, all of Pocahontas, and Kenny Tribble of Benton; mother-in-law, Dawn Sullinger-Parnell (Dennis) of Pocahontas; and a host of other family and friends. Visitation will be Friday, September 22 from 6-8 p.m. and services on Saturday, September 23 at 2:00 p.m., both at the Church at Rock Creek. Rev. Jeff Dial will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Feed Arkansas Kids, c/o Church of Rock Creek, 11500 W. 36th St., Little Rock, AR 72211. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Rickey’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Mary Ruth Cook Bidwell, 89 of Alexander, AR, passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2017. She was born in North Little Rock on August 16, 1928 to Earl and Vona Ruth (Brockington) Cook. She is survived by her children, Vona Lee Thompson (Thomas Edward) of Perryville, AR, Cyrenea Sue Mehefko (Larry) of Warner Robins, GA, and Dreama Maria Sorsby (Dr. Stephen) of Alexander, AR; grandchildren, Thomas, Jr., Teri Elen, Andrea, Daniel, Sean, Jason, Cyrenea Kay and Lincoln; nine great grandchildren; one great greatgrandchild; and sister, Martha Earlene Cook Autry. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Cyreneus Benjamin Bidwell, brother, Milton Earl Cook, Jr. “Jimmy” and great grandchild, Ashley. Funeral services were held on September 23 at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander.. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mary’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Patricia Kay Wright, 64, of Alexander, passed away September 26, 2017. Born in Augusta, Georgia on February 14, 1953, she was a “Georgia Peach” and “Valentine Girl” to her husband of 39 years, Carroll Wright. She is also survived by her pets, Princess and Patches; two brothers, Clark Smith and wife, Glenda of Benton and Eddie Smith and wife, Marcia of Little Rock; five nieces, one nephew, seven grand-nephews and one grand-niece, and a host of other family and friends, all of whom Patricia enjoyed and who will miss her. Her parents, Olin and Willie Turk Smith, predeceased her. A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 29 at 1:00 p.m. at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander. Memorials may be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society, 14600 Colonel Glenn, Little Rock, AR 72210. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501)224-2200. Patricia’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com