Sherry Lyn Dozier, 57 of Benton, passed away November 2, 2017. She was born on January 3, 1960 in Benton to Wesley and Mary Cady. Lyn was retired from the Arkansas Dept. of Corrections. She loved to fish, dance and spoil her fur babies, Cady, Cody and Pug, but the love of her life was her grandbabies. She was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Cady. Lyn is survived by her daughters, Torrie (David) Jones, Sunny (Will) Allen and Amanda Dozier, parents, Wesley and Mary Cady, brother, Terry Cady, and her two most precious gifts, were her grand babies, Aydin Michael Wesley Jones and Aurora Page Allen and numerous family and friends. Chapel services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday with Bro. Glen Tropp officiating. Burial will follow at Smith Rosemont Cemetery. Visitation will be 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday at Ashbys. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ashby Funeral Home to help with funeral expences. On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Lucy Inez Hart, age 90-, of Benton passed away on Friday November 3, 2017. She was born May 26, 1927 in Ola, Arkansas. Inez was a graduate of Bauxite High School and was retired from Alcoa after 34 years. Inez was a member of Trinity Missionary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Janie Billingsley, husband of 53 years James P. Hart, brothers, Robert Billingsley, Tom Billingsley, Bruce Billingsley, and Calvin “Joe” Billingsley, sisters, Elaine Pettus, Bennie Jane Purifoy, Lena Nell Massey, and Hannah Jane Billingsley, and a great-great-granddaughter, Robyn Marie Yates. Survivors, son, Thomas “Tommy” Paul Hart, Benton; daughter, Janie Karol Hart Cole, four grandchildren, Kristina (Kirk) Ward, Newberry, Florida; Dane (Cinde) Hart, Bryant; Cale Hart, Little Rock; and Deana (Brad) Simmons, Benton; eight great-grandchildren, Meaghan (Chance) Harder, Provo, Arkansas; Dylan Ward (Tabitha), Gainesville, Florida; Katie Simmons (Cole), Mt. Ida; Justin Long, Mabelvale; Lauren Hart, Bryant; Austin Hart, Bryant; Mitchell Holt Simmons, Bryant; and Lydia Simmons, Benton; four great-great-grandchildren and a number of other relatives and friends. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday at Ashby’s. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Wednesday at Ashby Funeral Home Chapel with burial at Pine Crest Cemetery. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
MARION T. “Buddy” HARP, 91 of Bauxite, completed his service to his country in this life October 30, 2017. He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents Garland A. and Alice Harp, wife, Marian L. Harp, brother, Garland Harp and sister, Ann Taylor. He served in the US Navy during WWII in the Pacific Theater from 1944 – 1946 aboard the USS Admiralty Islands (CVE-99), an Escort Carrier in the Pacific Fleet Carrier Transport Squadron which was responsible for transporting personnel, aircraft, ordinance weapons, fuel, food and other materials to military bases throughout the Pacific Ocean. After he returned from wartime duties, he worked for JA Riggs and other heavy equipment related employers before joining Reynolds Mining Corporation as a Maintenance Supervisor and retired after 37 years’ service. He then joined Arkansas Reclamation and worked for five years in the land reclamation of open pit mining before retiring and devoting most of his time and talents to Parkview United Methodist Church. He is survived by two sons, Robert S. “Bob” Harp (Carol) of Little Rock and William T. “Bill” Harp (Gail) of Benton. Grandchildren Richard Harp (Brandy), Bryan Harp (Joanie), Jennifer Gomez (Andres), Chris Harp (Jennifer), Katie Soliman Traci Halbert (Russ), Kimberly Holmes (Alan) and Michael Taylor. 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held on November 10, 2017 at 4:30 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton. Visitation will be held 4:00 p.m. until service time at Ashby’s On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Catherine was born August 22, 1931, in Saline County, Arkansas, and passed away peacefully November 2, 2017. As a child, Katsy was sassy, fun and full of life and never outgrew many of those attributes. Catherine attended Owensville and Fountain Lake Schools. She was a wonderful wife, doting mother and devoted daughter and caregiver during her parents’ times of need. Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Waterson “Watts” Ferguson and Sarah Elizabeth “Sally” Thomas Ferguson; husband Edmond Davenport; only son, Jeffery Davenport; infant grandchild, Christopher Davenport; brother, Alvin (Rosa) Ferguson; and infant sister, Francis Alta Ferguson, all of Benton. Survivors include: loving sister, Alma (Bob) Nichols of Lonsdale; cherished grandchildren, Allison (Brian) Ledbetter of Bauxite, and Stephen (Danielle) Davenport of Benton; her sweet babies, great grandchildren, Hunter and Baylee Ledbetter and Dallas Davenport. Also surviving their Aunt Kat or Cat are numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved very much. Members of the Davenport, Thomas, Ferguson, Carlisle and Arey families of Saline County also survive her. A Christian in her faith, Catherine was a member of Highland Heights Baptist Church of Benton. A celebration of her life will be held graveside at Sharon Cemetery on Tuesday, November 7 at 11:00 a.m., with Brother Clarence Shell, Jr. officiating. Online guest registry is at ashbyfuneralhome.com
James Rufus (Boots) Hawthorne January 11, 1946 – November 06, 2017 of Traskwood died Monday. Arrangements are by Ashby Funeral Home.
Ricky Ray Raper, age 59, of Benton, passed away Saturday, November 11, 2017. He was born July 9, 1958 in Highland Park, Michigan. Ricky worked as a Glazier. He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Raper. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Connie Raper; son, Christopher Raper; three daughters, Candice Elrod (Cole), Katelyn Camp (Johnny) and Tara LaRue (Larry); mother, Wanda Raper; brother Kent Raper; sister, Gina Raper Cox (Derrell); eight grandchildren, Makaila Kutchka, Haidyn Camp, Leightyn Camp, Blakely Camp, Kaylee Ray Raper, Jordan Dee Raper, Zachary Meredith and Tyler LaRue; many other family members and his faithful sidekick, Gidget. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, November 13 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 14 at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Joy with burial at Bowden Cemetery in Russellville. Family Comments: Ricky loved his family and spending time with his grandchildren. He loved fishing and being outdoors. Ricky will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
John Edward Erickson, age 76, of Bryant passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017. He was born August 12, 1941 in Wisconsin. John was a retired furniture refinisher and a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Ethel Williamson Erickson, and his sister, Mary Hare. Survivors, wife, Clara Ruth Erickson, Bryant; sons, Johnny Erickson, Kansas; Dusty Erickson, Missouri; and Edward Erickson, Little Rock; daughter, Julie Dart, Kansas; Five grandchildren. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday at the Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla with burial at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Pastor Mike Schleider will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 AM Monday before the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made the Zion Lutheran Church Food Pantry or to Saline Hospice in Bryant. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Mary Jo Burnett, age 88, of Benton, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2017. She was born December 4, 1928 in Little Rock. Mary was a member and music director at Trinity Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Fannie Henson Gachot and her husband O. J. Burnett. She is survived by her son, Joseph Burnett of China; daughters, Carolyn Wells of Benton and Kathi Somers of California; five grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 18 at Pine Crest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials in her name to the Salvation Army or the Christmas Shoe Box. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
Marilyn Kay (Day) Judd, age 67, of Hot Springs Village, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2017. She was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma on August 9, 1950 to Wayne and Clara Abney Day. Marilyn was a selfless and giving person. She had a heart of gold that blessed people wherever she went. She enjoyed doing various things at home- spending time with grandchildren, being at the top of the list. She especially loved attending basketball and softball games of her oldest granddaughter. She was an excellent cook, and enjoyed it, too. Shopping was something that highly sparked her interest, and never went anywhere without a beautiful purse in her arm. Her dog, Molly, was an especially important companion and part of her life. She is preceded in death by her parents; her mother-in-law, Lela Judd; her father-in-law, Kenneth M. Judd; a sister-in-law, Irene Rice; and a nephew, Kyle Day. Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Ken Judd; her son, Matthew Junk and his wife, Brooks; her daughter, Angela Patterson and her husband, Harlen; a stepson, Steven Judd and his wife, Natalie; one stepdaughter, Sheri Smith and her husband, Kevin; a sister, Vickie Winters and her husband, Bill; another sister, Janet Garcia and her husband, Will; one brother, Bruce Day; and five grandchildren. A memorial service will be Monday, November 13, 2017, 2:00 p.m., at Christ Lutheran Church; 103 Ponferrada Way, Hot Springs Village, with Pastor Kurt Kovanen officiating. The family requests memorials be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; https://shop.stjude.org/GiftCatalog/donation.do?cID=14262&pID=24671&sc_icid=wtg-lz-donatenow
Joyce Case, age 82, of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 in Hot Springs. She was born May 18, 1935 in Winnebago, Minnesota to Jay and Mary Rose Nawrocki Letcher. She was a faithful member of Christ of The Hills United Methodist Church, the Ester Circle, DAR, and was an active volunteer at the Good Samaritan Society and at the thrift store in Hot Springs. Joyce was a giving person. She was selfless and put the needs of others before her own. She was a very faithful wife and loving mother. Through the many times she and her husband, Lee, moved around the country, she never once complained. She taught bible classes and her faith was so very near and dear to her. Her legacy will be carried on through the many people who loved her so much. She is preceded in death by her parents. Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Lee Case; her daughter, Kerry Reynolds and her husband, Randy; her son, Craig Case and his wife, Deborah; a son, Doug Case; her granddaughter, Rebecca Case; one grandson, Jay Case and his wife, Brooke; one sister, Delores Anderson and her husband, Jerry; a brother, Duane Letcher and his wife, Nancy; brother, Gary Letcher and his wife, Karen. A celebration of life will be Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Christ of The Hills United Methodist Church. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please send a memorial in Joyce’s name to any cancer or Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.
Eileen Bonderud Bulls, of Hot Springs Village, peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 29th, 2017. She recently celebrated her 94th birthday and was so vibrant, that it caught us all by surprise. Eileen was an Interior Decorator and brought balance and beauty into all that she did. She was always inquisitive, gracious, and very independent. Her spunk at 94 years of age surpassed the expectations of many. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her example will be a beacon for those she leaves behind. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerald Bulls; daughter, Janet Sue Hess; brother, Ernie Bonderud; and a stepson, Patrick Bulls. Left to cherish her memory is her daughter and son in law, Judy and Richard Nelson; grandsons, Jacob and Christian Maillot from Jessieville; granddaughter, Jill Sunquist and husband, Dan, from Greenland; grandson, Garey Hensley and wife, Rhonda; great-grandsons Austin Hensley and wife, Kayla, Ethan Hensley from New Hampshire; nephew, Glen Bonderud and wife, Rosemary; sister-in-law, Joan Bonderud from British Columbia, Canada; stepson, Ross Powell; two step-grandsons, Christopher and wife, Darla, John Bulls; along with two step-granddaughters; Cheri Hawes and husband, Bruce, Cathie Bailey, and six step-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be Friday, November 17, 2017, 3:00 p.m., at Good Samaritan Chapel of Hot Springs Village. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Good Samaritan Society; 121 Cortez Rd, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909.
Jessica Leigh Crutchfield, age 27 of Benton, passed away on November 12, 2017. She was born on February 16, 1990 to Benjamin Crutchfield and Karen Blaylock in Little Rock, Arkansas. She loved to garden and grow sunflowers. She looked forward to babysitting and enjoyed children, as well as anything Arkansas Razorback. She is preceded in death by her father, Ben Crutchfield and her grandfather, Irwin Schall. Jessica is survived by her parents, Karen and Dewayne Blaylock; brother, Frankie Crutchfield; sister, Sarah Crutchfield as well as a host of family and friends who all love and miss her dearly. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November17, 2017 at 2:00PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home. To sign online guestbook, visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Mildred S. Glaze was born November 24, 1922 in Newport, Arkansas to J.K. and Ada Gilliam Shelton. She went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 in Benton, Arkansas, surrounded by her family. In addition to her parents Mildred is preceded in death by her husband Earl, two sons, John Wayne and Jerry Glaze, five brothers, Jim, Max, Kenneth, Maurice and Bob Shelton, two sisters, Dot Winans and Jean Blevins, two half-sisters, Earnestine Sulephen and Fanny Hall, two half-brothers, Leon and Pat Shelton. She is survived by her daughter-in-Law, Gwen Glaze, one granddaughter, Debbi (Steve) Ballard, one grandson, Scott Glaze, four great grandchildren, Anna and Harrison Ballard and Parker and Kennedy Glaze, all of Benton, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mildred spent her life in the Lord’s service working diligently in several churches. While at Calvary Missionary Baptist in Minden, she and her husband Earl met the Lord and were both saved in 1948. Later, in 1993, she joined First Baptist Church in Bossier. In March of 2000 she moved to Benton, started a new life and joined First Baptist Church. In addition to her love of church work, she taught in the Louisiana Missionary Baptist Institute and Seminary in Minden, had a greenhouse business located at their home in Minden and was a part of the family business, Pasta Jack’s Restaurant in Benton. Visitation will be held at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton, Friday, November 3rd, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., and a Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 4th, at 2:00 p.m. at Rose Neath Funeral Home in Minden, Louisiana, officiated by Dr. James A. Crain. Committal service to follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Minden. Serving as pallbearers will be, Dr. Carl Hines, Morris Busby, John Jackson, Freddie Frye, Scott Glaze, and Harrison Ballard. Special thank you to the caring staff at Four Seasons Residential Care Center, Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center, and Saline Memorial Hospice.
Olen O. Cox, 89, of Benton passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at Saline Memorial Hospital Hospice House in Bryant. He was born February, 4, 1928 in Humphrey, AR. Mr. Cox was a sheetmetal worker, a Mason, and a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eva Jean Cox; his parents, Wesley and Gracie Lyles Cox; one sister, Virginia Bogy; four brothers, Loyd, Dewell, Elbert, and T.J. Cox, and one granddaughter, Jessica Amber Morgan. Survivors include one son, Gregory Olen Cox (Tonia) of Benton; one daughter, Debra Lynn Cox-Kliewer (Wayne) of Benton; one sister, Juanita Bogy of Wabbaseka, AR; 2 grandchildren, Bret A. Morgan and Sabrina Grace Cox, 5 great grandchildren, Morgan Lee George, Steven Blake Potter, Jasmine Morgan, Xander Morgan, and Alexis Morgan, several other relatives, and many friends. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 3, 2017 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Elvis Griffin officiating. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening, November 2nd at the funeral home.
Caroline Virginia Dodge (Sis), 95, of Benton was welcomed home by our Lord on Nov. 8, 2017. Caroline was born 2/28/22 to Claude Terry and Eda Gschwend in Pocahontas, AR. Caroline lost her first husband, Melvin Hilburn, in WWII in April, 1945. She was married to Adrain Dodge (A.O.), a WWII vet, on his birthday on 3/3/1946. The Dodges and Terrys were both large farm families living in Halliday (outside Paragould), AR. They moved to Benton in 1952 with their only child, Randy, so A.O. could work at ALCOA. He worked there 27 years before retiring. They lived on Hazel Street for 60+ years. Caroline’s two sisters also lived on Hazel Street, Billie Bowden (Ather) and Agnes Pierceall (Shorty), as well as A.O.’s sister Jeanette McDonald (Bud). Lots of family & cousins grew up together on Hazel Street. Randy attended all his school years in Benton through high school (1965) before graduating from University of Arkansas Fayetteville. Caroline’s mom passed away when she was 15, so she had to come home on the farm and be mother for her 3 older brothers, and 3 younger sisters. Her education ended at 6th grade, so she was determined to get Randy thru college. She started working at Curtis Mathis TV in Benton on the circuit board assembly line, and later at Fan-Tron in Little Rock to help with college expenses. Randy also worked summers at ALCOA thru college. Caroline loved to cook and bake and get together with family & friends. There were many weekend and holiday parties, catfish fries, and highly competitive Pitch card games between family & friends over the years. Caroline and Randy were members of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Benton. Caroline was also a faithful member of VFW Auxiliary. Caroline spent the last several years in Southridge Village Assisted Living in Conway. She was preceded in death by her husband A.O. Dodge, her parents, and eight siblings. Survivors include son Randy Dodge (Wendy) of Fayetteville, grandchildren Jennifer Heiby (Chris) of Louisville, KY, David Dodge (Susan) of College Station, TX, Anna Beaulieu (Jeff) and Donna Dodge-Sharp (Scott) of Fayetteville, sister Agnes Pierceall of Jonesboro, and sister-in-law Ida Terry of Phoenix, AZ, and many Nieces & Nephews. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 10, 2017 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Father Paul Worm officiating. A private committal service will be held later at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander, AR. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Kindred Hospice, 770 Factory Street suite 1, Conway, AR, 72032.
Joy Mae Smith, age 65 of Alexander, AR died Thursday, November 9, 2017 at her home. She was a retired Registered Nurse and gave many years caring for others. She was a member of Crystal Hill Baptist Church. She attended Monday Morning Prayer and enjoyed helping with the clothes closet to help the homeless and needy in the community. She enjoyed reading, spending time outdoors with family, hunting, traveling with her husband and going to her grandsons sporting events. Preceded in death by her mother Anna Frances Deaton Morris, and father Marvin Edward Morris; Joy is survived by and will be missed by her loving husband of 47 years Chuck, daughter Amy (Robert) Brown and two grandsons Walker and Ben, all of Alexander; a sister Betty (James) Fleming of Ward, and a brother Marvin E. Morris, Jr. of Mabelvale, extended family and many friends whom she loved like family. Services will be at 6:00 pm Monday, November 13, 2017 at Crystal Hill Baptist Church on Crystal Valley Road, Little Rock, by Bro. Larry Ballard. Family visitation an hour before service.
Randy Gill, 65, of Benton, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2017. He was born August 8, 1952 in Longview, Texas to the late George Gill and Merlene Schlafman. In addition to his parents, his brothers Donald Gill and Freddy Schlafman also preceded him in death. Survivors include his sister, Pam and brother-in-law, David Finney of Benton; step-father, Ralph Schlafman of Mabelvale; step-brother, Dwain Schlafman of Fredricksburg, Texas; and four nieces, Crystal Drennan, Amanda Scruggs, Alexis Rannenburg, and Star Gill. Funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 18, in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Bro. Kim Hammer officiating. Interment will follow at 2:30 p.m. in Prosperity Cemetery in Herbine, Arkansas. Serving as pallbearers are Gary Don Spakes, Josh Helton, David Finney, Brad Scruggs, Hayden Ashley, and Jeremy Estes. Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening, November 15, at the Funeral Home.
Tressa L. Flowers of Benton, AR, (formerly of Brandon, MS, passed peacefully into heaven on November 14, 2017. Tressa, known affectionately as Maw to her family, was born September 12, 1931 in Bogue Chitto, MS to Evie and J.W. Leggett. In addition to her parents, Maw was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, John M. Flowers. She is survived by her sons, John Jr. (Cindy) of Purcellville, VA, Ernest (Jackie) of Benton, and Don (Vickie) of Flowood, MS; her daughter, Evie Lou Flowers of Freelandville, IN, eleven grandchildren, and nineteen great-grandchildren. Maw was of the Baptist faith. She loved the Lord and worshipped and served Him at various churches where she lived and traveled. Maw lived her life as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her caring gentle ways, sweet smile, and wonderful wit and humor will be missed by all who knew and loved her. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 25, 2017 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Bro. Kyle Lewallen officiating. A time of visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., one hour prior to service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr., Little Rock, AR 72205.
William Joel Reeves, or as most know him, “Pop,” went to be with the Lord Monday, October 30, 2017. He was born November 9, 1956, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Duiet and Walter Reeves, and brother, Barry Reeves. Joel lived his life as an avid motorcycle enthusiast. He loved to hike and be outdoors. He was always so happy to spend time with his family. But most of all, he loved living day to day with his lovely bride, Patti Reeves. Joel and Patti were married on October 27, 1987. Joel is survived by his wife of 30 years, Patti Gail Reeves; children, Jennifer Hall and spouse, Brian Hall, Amanda Rice and spouse, Jack Rice, Jeremy Welch and Amanda Reeves; grandchildren, Hailey Sherman, Emily Sherman, Taylor Hall, Jacque Rice, Gabriel Rice, Xander Welch, Toby Witmer and Preston Welch; brother, Don Burrows; along with many close friends and family members. Reception visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, November 2, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Memorial service, officiated by Bro. Beau Walker, will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, November 3 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home.
Joseph Belligio, 87, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away November 1, 2017 at Southern Trace Rehabilitation. Joseph was born October 12, 1930. Joseph proudly served in the United States Navy and retired after 23 years of service. He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Debra Aston of California and Donna Lazari of Israel. Services are entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com. Beverly Jean Purvis, 38, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away November 8, 2017. She was born March 3, 1979 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Gary and LaDonna Cole Horton. Beverly was very creative and enjoyed painting, writing poetry, and singing. She loved the holidays and spending time with her grandchildren. Preceding Beverly in death are her mother, LaDonna Cole Horton; and son, Marcus Yates. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Frankie Purvis; three daughters: Emily Sullivan, Ashley Drysdale and husband Justin, and Denise Purvis; son, Dustin Purvis; granddaughters: Nevaeh Dove, Annaleigh Sullivan, and MadyLynn Drysdale; father, Gary Horton; five sisters: Jamie Byrum, Tissha Meyers, Carrie Jo Horton, Amanda Lee, and Vicki Crunkleton; and a host of family members and friends who love Beverly and will miss her always. Reception visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Tuesday, November 14 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, November 15 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Burial following at Salem Cemetery. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Samuel Nicholas Lopez, infant son of Gilberto Lopez and Cindy De La Cruz, passed away November 8, 2017. He was born on October 24, 2017 in Little Rock. He was so dearly loved and will be remembered always by his loving family. Private service held by family. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Jimmy Andrew Weddle, 77, of Benton, Arkansas passed away November 9, 2017. He was born February 2, 1940 in Roanoke, Virginia to the late Howard and Minnie Meyer Weddle. Jimmy was a veteran in the United States Air Force. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Avilla. A few of Jimmy’s favorite hobbies were wood carving, picking and grinning, golf, bowling, old trucks, and gardening. Preceding Jimmy in death are his parents; and brothers, Larry Weddle, Johnny Weddle, and Samuel Weddle. Jimmy leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of thirty-five years, Carolyn Weddle of Benton; son, Kevin Weddle and wife Meagan of Salem, Arkansas; three brothers: Dewie Weddle and wife Kathryn of Troutville, Virginia, Lloyd Weddle of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Ralph Weddle and wife Eva of Roanoke, Virginia; three sisters: Alice St. Claire of Roanoke, Virginia, Annie Zupfer of Hector, Minnesota, and Linda Clemmons and husband Elmer of Roanoak, Virginia; and a host of family members and friends who love Jimmy and will miss him always. Reception visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM, Sunday, November 12, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton. Funeral service, officiated by Pastor Michael Schleider, will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, November 13, at Zion Lutheran Church of Avilla, 300 Avilla East, Alexander, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church Food Pantry or Community Garden. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:www.SmithFamilyCares.com. Florence “Cookie” Virginia Billings, 68, of Traskwood went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday November 11, 2017 while surrounded by her children. Cookie was born September 18, 1949 in St. Louis, MO to the late Robert and June (Wright) Kramer. Cookie attended Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. She was a devoted Mother and Grandmother and she spending time with her grandbabies, sewing, cross stitching and puzzles, but she’ll best be remembered for the amazing and large collection of Holiday Pins she collected over the years. Cookie is preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband John Billings II. She is survived by her three children; Elizabeth Billings of Benton; John Stephen Billings III and his wife Shari Ann of Benton and Florence “Genny” Howard of Alexander; her six beautiful grandchildren Ethan, Taryn and Aiden Howard, Ray Scott, Wanda Bruster and Jo Ann Scott and one brother: Dennis Kramer and wife Barbara Jean of St. Louis. MO. A visitation reception will be held on Thursday November 16th, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be Friday at 1:00 PM at Smith-Benton Funeral Home Chapel with burial immediately following at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery with Bro. Chris Pertuis officiating. In honor of Cookie, the family requests that guests wear something purple the day of service. Arrangements are entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guests may register atwww.smithfamilycares.com.
Patrick Charles Kauffman, 68, of Bryant died Tuesday November 14, 2017 at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock. Born July 29, 1949 in Fordyce, he was the younger son of the late Jack Kauffman and Willa Lee Whatley Kauffman. He was a graduate of Carthage High School, Henderson State University, and UAMS College of Pharmacy. He was the owner and operator of Medic Pharmacy in Bryant for 43 years. After retirement, he and his wife enjoyed many overseas trips. In his younger days, Pat was a formidable ping-pong opponent. More recently, he enjoyed starting his day by meeting with a special group of coffee buddies. Hurricane Golf and Country Club, which he referred to as “daycare”, was his next appointment of the day. Pat was an avid deer hunter. He loved to sit in his “hotel” deer stand waiting for his target to appear at 800 to 1000 yards so he could test his skills as a marksman. Although he enjoyed hunting on his own, hunting trips with his grandsons brought him the most joy. Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joe Kauffman; nephew, Kyle Kauffman, niece, Lisa Talbert; and in-laws, Ed and Eula Talbert. He is survived by his wife of nearly 51 years, Janie Talbert Kauffman of Bryant; two daughters, Carol Johnson and husband Kevin of Bryant, Cindy Coy and husband Stephen of Benton; five grandsons, Steven Johnson and wife Mary of Hensley, Mark Johnson of Springfield, MO, Wyatt Bussell of Benton, Owen Bussell of Benton, Gavin Coy of Benton; brother-in-law, Glen Edward Talbert of Sheridan; sister-in-law, Becky Kauffman of Fordyce; nephews, Kevin Kauffman of Fordyce, Shannon Talbert of Sheridan; niece, Kasey Langley of Fordyce; honorary family members, Chuck Bussell, Karla Higgins and Ryan Murphree. The family will receive friends 9:00 a.m. Friday at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton with funeral services following at 10:00 a.m. at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Hampton Springs Cemetery by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 267, Bryant, AR 72022. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visitwww.bentonfuneralhome.net.
Ronald David Fowler, of Hot Springs Village AR, died on October 30, 2017 at the age of 65 of sudden heart failure. Less than a week earlier, he had moved from Plainview to be close to his son, Chad Fowler, and daughter in law, Kelly Jeanne Fowler. He also leaves behind a brother, Gene, and a beloved aunt, Barbara Jean. Ron was born in Long Island and spent his childhood moving from place to place while his father was in the military. As a teenager, he joined the Air Force. He hated it. Ron was not the sort of person to work in that kind of structure. Later in life he joined the United States Postal Service, which he also hated. His passion was photography. He threw away a stable career to proudly run his own photography business in Little Rock for many years. Ron was paradoxically both one of the most cynical and untrusting people you could ever meet and one of the kindest and most generous. He loved his family with ferocious loyalty. He insisted that there not be a service when he died and would be aggravated to see how much space the family has taken for this obituary. If you’d like to honor his memory, you should do so by being inappropriately generous to others. Leave a bigger tip at a restaurant than you can afford, trust someone who hasn’t yet earned your trust, or give away something you need to someone else who needs it. To sign the online guestbook go to www.pinecrestfuneralhome.com
Duane Thomas Lucky, 70 of Bryant, passed away November 6, 2017. He was born to James & Ruth Lucky on March 20, 1947 in Little Rock, AR. Duane loved the outdoors. He had a very giving heart. He was preceded in death by his son, Johnny Lucky; brothers, Billy and Daniel Lucky; niece, Jamie Hollis; and his parents, James and Ruth Lucky. He is survived by his wife, Alice Lucky; son, Duane Thomas Lucky, Jr.; daughter, Leigh Ann Mohammedi; step-son, David South; step-daughter, Brandi Tatom; brother, David Lucky; sister, Frieda Stinson; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.. Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at Pinecrest Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00pm. Funeral service will be Thursday, November 9, 2017, also at Pinecrest Funeral Home, at 10:00 a.m. An online guestbook is available at www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com.
Melvin F. “Mel” Reed, 91, of Bryant, was promoted to heaven on November 15, 2017. He was born October 2, 1926, in Unionville Center, Ohio, to Russel and Alice Reed. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife of 67 years, Arlee Washburn Reed. Mel retired from the Little Rock Fire Department after 30 years of service. He has been a member of Geyer Springs Baptist Church since 1957. He is survived by two daughters, Patricia Ann and Cynthia Marie; four grandchildren, Paige, Haley, Sarah and Emily; five great-grandchildren, Taylor, Keely, Brayden, Cade and Ryn; and brother, Fred Reed. Visitation will be Friday, November 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Hwy 5 North, Alexander. Graveside services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
William Martin Weir, 74, of Benton, passed away November 16, 2017. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He is survived by his children, Lisa Morgan of Alexander, Mary Hess of Mabelvale and James Shinault of Benton; brother, Jimmy Weir (Brenda); grandchildren, Samuel Caldwell, Katelyn Williams, Sean Morgan, Emma Morgan, Thomas Heavner and Blake Hess; and great-grandchildren, Ronan Caldwell, Alyce Hess and Tristan Hess. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Weir, wife, Eva Jo Weir, a sister, Linda and an infant brother. Visitation will be Sunday, November 19 from 3-5 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Services will be Monday, November 20 at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment with Military Honors at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Memorials may be made to the Palliative Care Unit, John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, 4300 W. Seventh St., Little Rock, AR 72205. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mr. Weir’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Maria Del Refugio Perez Velazquez, 67, of Benton, Arkansas passed away November 4, 2017. She was born November 13, 1949 to Jovita Velazquez and Jose Perez, in Mexico.