Juddie Lee Wachtel age, 83 of Hot Springs Village, AR passed away on November 19, 2019. She was born in Dumas, AR on November 22, 1935 to Carl Delmar and Sarah Juddie (Levy) Wachtel. She graduated from Bald Knob High School and attended St. Edwards School of Nursing in Fort Smith, AR as an R.N. Juddie received her Bachelor’s Degree from Park University and her MA & MPA from Webster University. She was a Lt .Col. in the United States Air Force, where she spent many years as a flight nurse and after 25 years of service retired as a Director of Nursing. Juddie was a member of the Society of Nurses, Military Order of World Wars, Military Order, the Village Pine Garden Club, and former Chapter President of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). She served many years on the Episcopal Church Women’s Board as Alter Guide Director for the Diocese of AR. She was a member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church where she served on many Outreach Committees and was Alter Guide Director, Episcopal Church Women, Community of Hope, and the Order of the Daughters of the King. She is preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her nephews, John Randall Wachtel (Wendy), Ruston Dee Wachtel, and Thomas Scott Wachtel; and her brother, Thomas Wachtel (Peggy Sue). Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at Hoy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hot Springs Village, AR with Rev. Neil Kaminski officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Holy Trinity Episcopal Church Memorial Fund.
Beth Emily Goeden (Edict) was born January 6, 1938 in Iron Mountain, MI. She was the youngest child of seven and the first to be born in a hospital. Her home was in Hot Springs Village, AR at the time of her passing on November 21, 2019. Beth’s beloved parents were Lee Edward Edict and Bertha Anna Rosalie (Schwabe). They raised a large family during the depression and World War II. On a small Niagra, WI farm they thrived, finding joy in turning hard work and austere resources into a rich life. Beth fondly reminisced about sledding, hot summer days ending with a swim on Timms Lake, fishing and hunting for meals, pumping water, caring for chickens, pigs and horses, running to the outhouse on cold winter nights, and receiving a lot of attention from a loving family who doted on her, the baby of the family. She was a talented student and attended Niagra, WI schools while active in 4-H, bible study, and choir. Those who heard her sing in church remembered her beautiful voice their entire life. In 1955, Beth graduated from Niagra, HS and went on to collegiate studies to become a legal secretary, working in law offices in Manitowoc, WI and Milwaukee, WI. She and husband Dan Crooks raised their two girls in Milwaukee. Beth advanced her career, eventually becoming a successful business owner of financial services. Beth enjoyed her work and the travel involved as she met with clients while honing her excellent organizational, sales, and supervisory skills. She also enjoyed Toastmasters, swimming, camping, snowmobiling, hunting, friends, decorating, and became an expert cook and hostess. If you knew her, she fed you, and you liked it! In early retirement, she enjoyed lake living with husband Paul Warzala. These years on Lower Genesee Lake in SW Wisconsin were full of music, parties, family fun, ice-skating, tubing and outdoor living as well as volunteer work for charitable and political causes. They moved to Cape Coral, Fl and learned to navigate the ocean right from their backyard channel pier. More lifelong friendships began. After Paul’s death, Beth was blessed to find love and marriage again with Kenny Goeden. They enjoyed years together in West Bend, WI; Daytona, FL; and moved to Hot Springs Village, AR in 2007. These happy years were filled with rich friendships, gardening, boating, travel, cooking, and entertaining. Beth became a Christmas cookie celebrity, baking and distributing thousands of cookies across the village and to friends and family all over the country. Kenny and Beth could often be seen taking a drive in their red hot-rod, with their dog, Nosey, on her lap. Beth served in leadership positions in the Village Pines Garden Club and Vapor Valley Questers as she used the skills accumulated over a productive life to serve her community. In her final days, she said she was still here to tell us to enjoy this beautiful, wonderful world and to love God and each other. Beth is survived by her husband, Kenny Goeden; daughters, Julie Beth Gibeault (Glenn) and Amy Lou Jenkins (Paul); Sisters, Evelyn Patterson, Lillian Leonard; Grandchildren, Justin Gibeault (Nicole), Colleen Forque (Frank), Sally Sniedze (John), Dylan Jenkins (Maggie); Great-grandchildren, Shane, Shawn, Julian, Allison; Step-children, John Goeden (Jeanette), Debbie Kugath (Nat), Scott Goeden; Step-grandchildren, Chris, Brian, Jessica, Brittany, Kattie; Step greatgrandchild, Sage; and Step-children, Sandy Beach (Frank), Paula Warzala, Jeff Warzala; Step-Grandchildren, Cassie, Jamie, Jonathan, and Nick. She is preceded in death by Paul Warzala, Dan Crooks; Parents, Lee Edward Edict, Bertha Anna Rosalie (Schwabe); Edict Siblings, Lee (WWII), Kenneth, George, and Alice Welch. Arrangements entrusted to Caruth-Hale Funeral Home, HSV, AR and Village Bible Church, HSV, AR with services planned for December 4, 2019 at 10 am. Visitation: 9 am. Services: 10am. A reception will follow. A Wisconsin service will be planned for July, 2020. Watch her beth-edict-goeden.muchloved.com memorial site for details. If you would like to offer a memorial to honor Beth, contributions to Gloria Alford, President, Vapor Valley Questers, 26 Emanuel Drive, Hot Springs Village, AR, 71909
Susan Lee, 94. On Valentine’s Day in 1925, George and Laura Jobe welcomed their thirteenth child, a girl they named Susan. The Jobes lived on an 80-acre farm in St. Clair, Missouri, where they raised dairy cows, chickens and all the vegetables they needed to feed their large family. To help supplement their income, Sue’s mother cooked lunch for the town’s factory workers, and Sue’s job was to wash all the dishes when she came home from school. At a very young age, she learned the value and importance of hard work, a lesson she continued to live by throughout her long career. As a youngster, Susan and her twelve siblings—seven sisters and five brothers—enjoyed what she later called a “fabulous” childhood. Their parents were strict disciplinarians who imparted to their children a strong set of values and encouraged them to be their best selves. They had very little in the way of material possessions—Susan never had any new clothes until she was twelve years old—but their house was filled with love and music. All of the children played instruments and sang, and their parents were members of the church choir. The church was the center of their activities and the hub of their social life.After graduating from high school, Sue enrolled at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri, where she studied for two years, until her father died and her mother needed her at home. Shortly after that she reconnected with Dean Lee, a friend from Tower Grove Baptist Church in St. Louis, and in 1948, they were married. Early in her professional life, Sue began working for Maritz, Inc., and during her long tenure there, she rose to the position of Executive Secretary and Assistant to the President. She and Dean lived comfortably in St. Louis and in High Ridge, Missouri, where they were active in their churches and sang in the church choirs. In 1980, they both retired and moved to Hot Springs Village.They enjoyed ten years there, playing golf and occasionally traveling, before Dean died and Sue moved from their home to a townhouse and then to Good Sam. In her new home she took advantage of the many opportunities open to her. She played golf and bridge, and she traveled to some of the places she had always longed to see—including Hawaii, Canada and Bermuda—and she began to frequent local casinos where she experienced extraordinary good luck at the slot machines! While at Good Sam’s, Sue met a gentleman who became a good friend, and, much to her surprise, her second husband. His name was Don Janes, and they enjoyed two very happy years together before Don died in 2008, and Sue was, once again, on her own. A few years later, Sue became friends with another Good Sam’s resident, Bill Kuykendall, and, as a duo, they had a lot of fun traveling, eating at local restaurants, playing cards, and just spending time together.Until shortly before her death, Sue enjoyed good health, and she was known for her optimistic attitude and sunny disposition. She was a strong Christian and a good sport, always looking for the best in people and taking a positive stance in all situations. Her upbringing had taught her to accept whatever hardships came her way and to appreciate every blessing. Her loved ones have been the recipients of her generous spirit and her policy of giving a lot and asking for nothing. She will be missed by her nieces and nephews and many friends. Arrangements entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home in Hot Springs Village, online condolences may be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.
Robert Geraghty, 72, of Hot Springs Village passed away, Monday, November 25, 2019. Robert was born June 7, 1947 to Frank Geraghty and Terese Morse in Chicago, Illinois. He served two years in the Army. Robert loved spending time with his friends and family as well as playing golf, watching horse races, the Chicago Cubs, college basketball, eating Italian beef and hot dogs and anything that led back to his proud roots of his hometown Chicago. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Joyce Geraghty; sons Eric (Kelli), Kevin (Kellie); daughters, Kristin (Pete), Erin (Nick) and 10 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Gail Pierce and Terri Mirabelli, and brother Don Geraghty. Visitation will be from 9:00am to 10:00am with services starting at 10:00am at Saint Mark Lutheran Church, 1822 East Grand Avenue, Lindenhurst, Illinois. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to www.arkansashospioce.org. Arrangements entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home of the Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Online condolences can be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com
Marion Lucille Sanders, age 82, of Benton AR, went to be with the Lord on Saturday Nov. 23, 2019 she was born May 16, 1937 in Saline Co. She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband, 6 siblings, son-in-law, and daughter-in-law. Survived by 1 sibling; her children, Sheila Neal, Glenn Sanders, Mike Sanders and wife Robin, and Annette Sanders. Also 5 grand kids, 5 great-grand kids, and 2 great-great grand kids. She enjoyed cooking, going to church, the Razorback’s basketball and wrestling and spending time with her family. Visitation will be at Ashby’s funeral home Tuesday Nov. 26th 6 to 8. Services will be held Wednesday Nov 27th @ 10am at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 2909 Congo Road in Benton AR 72019.
George D. “Bucky” Ellis, age 73, of Benton, died peacefully in Little Rock on November 24, 2019, surrounded by his family. Bucky was a long-time attorney practicing in Saline County, a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, and a Fellow of the Arkansas Bar Foundation. Bucky had three appointments as Special Justice to the Arkansas Supreme Court. He was a delegate to the Arkansas Constitutional Convention in 1968. Bucky was a member for many years of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Benton, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, Adult Sunday School Teacher, and a member of the Vestry. He was a past President of the Benton Chamber of Commerce and named its Citizen of the Year. Bucky was the chairman of the Benton Planning Commission, the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Saline County Boys and Girls Club, and a founding member of the Royal Players community theatre. Bucky enjoyed writing his weekly column for the Saline Courier in which he expressed his commentary on current events. He was a member of the Benton Rotary Club, the Saline County Public Library Board, the Vice Chair of the Arkansas State Library Board, and the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion Committee. His parents, D. C. “Peck” and Joan Ellis, and his sister, Judy Ellis Eichenbaum, predeceased him. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Selena Ellis, by his children, John Andrew Ellis and Beth Ellis-Dickson (Eric), by his sister, Jane Puckett (Larry), by two adoring grandchildren, Colin and Joshua, and by a multitude of nephews, nieces, and cousins. Visitation (10:00 a.m.) and a memorial service (11:00 a.m.) will take place at Ashby’s Funeral Home in Benton on Saturday, November 30, 2019. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 1818 N Taylor St # 186, Little Rock, AR 72207 and/or St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church, 1112 Alcoa Rd, Benton, AR 72015.
Dara Louise Lawrence 54, passed away on November 24, 2019 with her family by her side. She was born on January 1, 1965 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late Cleo and Louise Keeney. Dara loved to shop and spend time with her family. She is preceded in death by her parents; and grandmother, Eva Johnson. Dara is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Richard Lawrence; one son, Corey Lawrence; one daughter, Miranda Lawrence; one brother, David Keeney; two sisters, Debbie Honeycutt and Donna Hefley; and a host of other family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly. Celebration of life will be announced at a later date. To sign guestbook, please visit www.dialdudleyfuneralhome.com.
Melanie Lynn Wilson-House 50, was granted her angel wings on November 25, 2019 at home with her family by her side. She was born on February 26, 1969 in Evanston, Illinois to Eric and the late Wilma Boyce-Wilson. She married Hugh Marc House on December 31, 2011 in Austin, AR. Melanie is preceded in death by her loving mother. Melanie is survived by her husband, Marc; stepson, Stephen Marcus House; stepdaughter, Sophia House; step-grandon, Grayson Noah House; father, Eric Wilson “Nancy” of Bryant; sister, Michele Wilson Blakely of Cabot; niece, Ashlea Blakely of Maumelle; great niece, Annie Ballard of Maumelle; and a host of other family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly. Celebration of life will be announced at a later date by the family. To sign guestbook, please visit dialdudleyfuneralhome.com.
Brett Hanna, 59 of Bryant passed away on November 19, 2019 with his family by his side. He was born in Arkadelphia on July 12, 1960 to the late Jerry Phillip and Patsy Louise Hanna. He loved going to concerts to see his favorite 70’s and 80’s bands, especially The Rolling Stones at War Memorial Stadium. He was also a lifelong volunteer at War Memorial Stadium with his brother helping with handicap assistance. Brett was an avid Razorback fan. He was the younger twin and also had siblings who were twins, too. Brett is preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; and sister in law, Sandra. He is survived by his son, Reid Hanna of Little Rock; brother Brian Keith Hanna of Bryant; sister Sheila Britt of Bryant; brother, Shane Hanna “Mary” of Bryant; four nieces; two nephews; three great nieces; two great nephews; and a host of other family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. All services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Veterans Organization or the American Cancer Society. To sign guestbook, please visit www.dialdudleyfuneralhome.com.
Clara Louise Price, 91, of Benton, Arkansas went to be with the Lord November 22, 2019. She was born November 7, 1928 in Lonoke County, Arkansas to the late Grover and Winnie (Thornton) Tippitt. Clara was a member of Holland Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. She supervised the church kitchen for over seventeen years and was active in the Bereavement Ministry where she cooked and served meals for families during their time of loss. Clara was past-president with the Pine Forest Extension Club and the Saline County Extension Club. Clara loved to work and make people laugh-even at her own expense. She retired from Tanglewood Safeway in Little Rock. Clara’s heart was full with the love of her family and friends. She asked for everyone to smile and give each other hugs. She also asked to be remembered as someone who considered it a privilege to serve God in any capacity for His honor and His glory! Preceding Clara in death are her husband, William H. Price; daughter, Karen Bell; parents; and siblings. She is survived by her children: Larry Bell of Damascus, Arkansas; Kimla Carter and husband Ronnie of Lonoke, Arkansas; grandchildren: James Bell and wife Kimberly, Joshua Bell and wife Ashley, Leslie Bell, Laura Patrom and husband Scott, Lindsey Sallinger and husband Thomas, Bethany Carter, LeeAnna Wooten and husband Daniel, Kellie Crutchfield and husband Wesley, and Hannah Rye and husband Anthony; twenty-three great grandchildren; and many family members and friends who love Clara and will miss her always. Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 3, from 10:00-11:00 AM, followed by memorial service officiated by Rev. Kim Hammer, Bro. Jay Jacobs, and Bro. Keaton Harper, at 11:00 AM, at Holland Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Benton. Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Willie “Bill” Jones, 98, of Benton, went to be with the Lord November 23, 2019. On March 29, 1921, in Dolph, Arkansas he was born to John Franklin and Mittie Jones. As one of 6 children growing up on a farm, responsibility was something he knew all too well. At the age of 18, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps in an effort to help his family and keep his siblings in school. In 1942 he left the C.C.C. and enlisted in the Army serving in WWII, the reserves, and Korea. He was honored as a hero being awarded 5 Bronze stars for his efforts and courage as a surgical technician. When he returned home, his sense of helpfulness continued as he was a Free Mason and member of the Roland Lodge. Being a born-again Christian, he dedicated his time to being a deacon and Sunday school teacher. In his free-time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather. He lived a long, blessed, and purposeful life. From being raised in a small town during the depression, and seeing advancement of modern technology to traveling the world, his last journey to the Lord was his final call of duty. He is survived by love in the hearts of his wife Bernice; daughters: Shirley, Darlene, and Sharlene; his brother, Rudell; his grandchildren: Nala (Jeff), Shana and Dillon; as well as his great-granddaughter, Olivia. He is preceded in death by his son, Roger; his parents; and siblings: Violet, Zola, Ed, Arlis, and Carroll. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, December 2, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton. Interment with military honors to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Linda Richardson Brod, 82, of Bryant passed away November 23, 2019. Linda was a member of First Baptist Church, Bryant and retired from Alcoa. Her greatest joy was being “Nana” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death are her husband, Billy Brod; parents, Gordon and Hazel Richardson; granddaughter, Anna Brooke Robertson; and sister, Laverne Cole. Linda is survived by close friend, Fred Briner; daughter, BI Robertson and husband Terry; granddaughter, Staci Robertson Huber; great-grandchildren, Haley Brooke Huber, David Brian Huber, and Paul Frederick Huber; sisters: Nancy Williams and Vera Ferguson and husband Curtis. Visitation will be held 9:30 – 10:30 AM, Wednesday, November 27 with funeral service, officiated by Bro. Bill Jennings, following at 10:30 AM, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Committal service following at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Cliff Ray McAdoo, 74, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away November 26, 2019. He was born January 7, 1945 in Los Angeles, California to the late Sam and Lorraine (Taylor) McAdoo. Cliff was a member of Holland Chapel Baptist Church. He was an active member of Central Arkansas Street Rodders Car Club. Preceding Cliff in death are his son, Troy McAdoo; and his parents. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of fifty-one years, Martha McAdoo; son, Sam McAdoo; daughter, Karla Otts and husband Chris; grandchildren: Jonathan Otts, David Otts, Todd McAdoo, and Bethany McAdoo; great-grandchildren: Lock Otts and Elyza Otts; brother, Sam McAdoo and his wife Jane; sister, Linda McAdoo-Bledsoe and husband Curly; and many family members and friends who love Cliff and will miss him always. Memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, December 2, 2019 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Fellowship and visitation will follow the service. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Phillip Cavanagh, age 49, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away Sunday, November 17, 2019. Born in Waikaia, New Zealand on September 4, 1970, he was the beloved son of Murray Cavanagh and Gail Cavanagh and step-father, Bob, plus the beloved brother to Todd, Roseanne, Becky, Vicki, Laura and Paul and their respected partners. Phil was a loving Uncle, Great Uncle and Nephew. Phil will be loved and missed by family and friends. Phil’s enjoyments in life were caring for his dogs, music and making things with his hands. In his last days here he poured a concrete Cross into a form he designed and welded together. The owners of Lucky’s Towing, William and Kassidy Bowden will miss him greatly. Phil’s greatest joy was driving the big wrecker. He had a natural ability for working wrecks. He was always willing to do anything and went above and beyond. If Phil ever had a problem, he always had a bush fix. Phil was an outstanding employee and a loyal friend. He enjoyed helping people, and working for Lucky’s Towing for over 10 years made that possible. Phil drove that big wrecker to Heaven taking all our love with him. A celebration of Phil’s life will be held at 7:00 pm, Friday, December 6, 2019 at Grace Church East End, 24300 Hwy 167 Hensley, Arkansas, 72065 with visitation thirty minutes prior to the service.
Evon R Levisee was born on October 31, 1939 and passed away on November 24, 2019. No services are planned at this time. Pinecrest Funeral Home and Memorial Park.
Maggie Hamilton FEBRUARY 17, 1937 – NOVEMBER 21, 2019 Born February 17, 1937 in Dumas, Arkansas to the late Allen James Sr. and Vinetta (Christian) James. The fifth child of ten siblings. Educated in Desha and Jefferson County School Districts. Departed this life Thursday, November 21, 2019 at home in Benton, Arkansas after her battle with Alzheimer’s. Married Charles William Beal Sr. December 25, 1954 six children conceived. February 17, 1978 she married Willie D. Hamilton Jr. with this union thirteen siblings seven sons and six daughters formed a blended family. Maggie was a member of the Eastern Star Chapter 361. Loved singing she was a member of the Community Mass Choir, Mac-Air Singers, Hamilton Singers and Family Gospel Choir. Maggie was a teacher’s aide for Head Start. First factory position at Anchor Hockings. Employed 23 years at American Motors aka Chrysler Motors; An avid “UAW” United Auto Workers union representative of Local 72, until retirement. Leaving to cherish her memories; one sister Juanita Wheat of Kenosha, WI. Seven sister-in-law’s and one brother-in-law. Six daughters; Debra Ann Beal of Racine, WI. Clara Renia White of Benton, AR., Annie Mary Payne, Jan Alicia Green, Judith D. Hamilton, Stephanie Hamilton Six sons; Charles William Beal Jr. and Frederick Wayne Beal of Kenosha, WI., Edward Brian ( Vicky ) Beal of Dallas, TX., Keith Jerome Beal of Racine, WI., Herbert Wayne Hamilton, Richard ( Patty ) Hamilton of Belleville, lL. Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Great, Great, Grandchildren a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and other relatives too numerous to count. Preceding her in death both parents, husbands, five sisters, and four brothers.
LaVonne Perry passed away peacefully November 27, 2019, after a valiant battle with Alzheimers, at the age of 90. Mom loved family vacations in Florida, fishing, raking, and any kind of yard work. She loved watching the birds and loved to sweep anything or anywhere for hours earning her the nickname “Hazel”. She was predeceased by her husband Blande of 67 years, a daughter Sherry Glover, son James Perry, daughters Laura Paxton and Deborah Sue, and her brother, Jim Schultz. She is survived by her brother Donnie Schultz (Marylee); daughter Nancy Delgman (Freda Ivy); granddaughters, Jennifer Bratton (Candace Goodwin), Lisa Hooper (Jason), Michelle Montgomery (Jerry), Lou Anne Wade (Larry), nephews and great nieces and nephews. She loved her great-grandchildren, Clay Perry Jacuzzi and Hattie Kate Jacuzzi. They were the light of her life. She was loved beyond measure and will be missed more than words can say. Graveside services will be Saturday, November 30, at 2:30 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Following the service, friends are welcome to join the family for food and fellowship in the Event Center at Pinecrest Funeral Home. To share a memory of LaVonne with her family visit www.pinecrestmemorialpark.com
Heidie Rose Taylor, 54, of Benton, Arkansas, departed this life on Monday, November 25th, 2019. Heidie was born on March 21st, 1965 to Melvin C. Taylor, I and Rose Mills Taylor in Zanesville, Ohio. She leaves to cherish her memory; her mother; one brother; Melvin (Alisha)Taylor; two sisters, Chasity (Jay) Golden and Glendora Taylor; nine nieces and nephews and five great nieces and nephews.With sincere regret, the staff of D.L. Boyd Funeral Home, LLC., wants to extend our deepest sympathy to the Taylor Family. Ms. Heidie Rose Taylor’s earthly temple is now resting in the care of D.L. Boyd Funeral Home. John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. May God bless and keep you in the days ahead as you gain strength from the memories of Ms. Heidie Rose Taylor. Feel free to sign the guest book, leave a comment, light a candle or purchase a floral arrangement for the family of Ms. Heidie Rose Taylor.
Dr. Mary L. Good leaves behind an unmatched career and an award-winning legacy.
Little Rock, Arkansas – November 20, 2019 – Dr. Mary L. Good’s death at age 88 in Little Rock, Arkansas, ends her unmatched career and leaves behind an award-winning legacy in science, academia, industry and governmental leadership.
Dr. Mary Lowe Good has died peacefully at her home at age 88 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was recognized nationally and internationally in high-level positions in the academic, industrial and government sectors, having been a strong proponent of science, science education and women in science. She leaves behind an unmatched career of passionate work in academia, industrial research and government.
She was born in Grapevine, Texas on June 20, 1931. Her parents, John Willace Lowe and Winnie Mercer Lowe, were country school teachers. She spent the early part of her life in central and south-west Texas. The family moved to Kirby, Arkansas when she was in junior high school; later moving to Willisville, where she completed high school. She went to college at Arkansas State Teacher’s College (now University of Central Arkansas), and graduate school at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, completing her doctoral degree in inorganic chemistry at age 24.
She began her career at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge; later becoming part of the founding faculty of LSUNO (now University of New Orleans). She was the second faculty member of UNO to receive the distinction of being designated Boyd Professor. Later she moved on to serve as the dean of the School of Engineering at LSUBR for two years prior to accepting a management position at Universal Oil Products in Chicago, and then moved on to AlliedSignal, Inc. in Morristown, NJ, as their senior vice president for technology. She was then recruited by the Clinton administration to serve as Under Secretary for Technology in the U.S. Department of Commerce, and served for a time as acting Secretary of Commerce.
Her Department of Commerce role included leading the Clean Car Initiative in developing today’s hybrid gas-electric cars, encouraging the government to fund research into the hybrid power technology in widespread use today. During the terms of Presidents Carter and Reagan, Dr. Good also served on the National Science Board, including a chairmanship role for the organization. Dr. Good was the first woman ever elected to the board of the American Chemical Society, where she also served as the society’s president. Dr. Good’s reputation is especially prominent in the field of inorganic chemistry, having contributed to the understanding of chemical catalysts. While vice president and director of research for the Engineered Materials Research division at the Signal Research Center (later Allied-Signal), she oversaw the major project of determining whether the emerging technology of the Global Positioning System (GPS) had an application for the general public. Its widespread use today is due in part to her leadership role at this crucial stage. The 143,000-member American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) elected Dr. Good in 2001 to serve as the organization’s President. In 2004, Dr. Good was recipient of the National Science Foundation’s highest honor, the Vannevar Bush Award. Two of her more than 27 awards also include the NSF’s Distinguished Service medal and the esteemed ACS Priestly Medal. She was also the 6th Annual Heinz Award Winner. She was the first female winner of the AAAS’s prestigious Philip Hogue Abelson prize for outstanding achievements in education, research and development management, and public service, spanning the academic, industrial and government sectors. Dr. Good received 21 honorary degrees, and was voted one of the “Top 100 Women of Arkansas” by Arkansas Business. Dr. Good served in recent years as Dean Emeritus (Founding Dean) of the Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology (E.I.T.) at the University of Arkansas -Little Rock. E.I.T. at UA-Little Rock was organized in 1999 and grew significantly under Dr. Good’s passionate leadership. Dr. Good also served on executive boards at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Biogen Idec, Cincinnati Milacron, Ameritech, the Little Rock Technology Park, St. Vincent Health System, the Acxiom Corporation and Delta Bank and Trust. In addition to her outstanding professional career, Dr. Good was also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was wife of deceased spouse Billy Jewel Good and sister of deceased Dr. Betty Lowe. Dr. Good is survived by a brother, John Lowe, a sister, Margaret Bogle; by two sons, Billy Good and James Good; four grandsons, Maxwell Good, Winston Good, William Good, and Walker Good; and two great-grandchildren, Oliver Good and Waverly Good. Her visitation and funeral service will be at the Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401 Hwy. 5 N (Stagecoach Rd), Alexander, AR. Visitation will be Mon. 11/25, 6—8 pm; funeral service Tues. 11/26, 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to The Girls of Promise program of the AR Women’s Foundation, the AR Repertory Theatre, or the AR Symphony Orchestra.