Philip Harold Maser, age 63, passed away on August 11, 2016, in his home in Hot Springs Village, AR, after battling cancer. He is survived by his loving wife, Susan (nee Rammacher); his devoted sons, Daniel (Madeline) and Andrew (Jennifer); his loving grandchildren, Jack and Morgan; his sister, Anna Mae (the late William) Garapolo; his brothers, Clifford (Gunda) Maser and Paul (Karen) Maser; and dear extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Margaret (nee Schroeder) Maser; his brother Carl Maser and sister Judith (Maser) Karijolic. Visitation is scheduled for August 24, 2016 from 5 to 7 pm (services at 6:30 pm), followed immediately by a Celebration of Life, at Odyssey Country Club, 19110 Ridgeland Ave., Tinley Park, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, The American Diabetes Assn., or Multiple Sclerosis Foundation of America. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.
Mary Lou Jackson, 88 of Haskell, gained her heavenly wings on Thursday, August 11, 2016. She was born December 16, 1927 in Quitman, Arkansas to the late Robert and Amma New Tackett. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 65 years, Mark Jackson, infant son, Mark Edwin; brothers, Slim, Billy and Short Tackett. Mary Lou is survived by her sons, Robert Jackson (Janie), Tracy Jackson (Vickie) all of Haskell, daughter, Beverly Garrett of Haskell, grandchildren, Jimmy Garret (Kristy) of Benton, Cindy Urban (David) of Haskell, Trevor Jackson of Benton, Lyndsey Kelly (Brandon) of Haskell, and Kayla Winfield (Cole) of Jacksonville, Florida, nine great grandchildren, sisters, Ann Cotton (Pete) and Linda Statler (Buddy) all of Haskell, sister in law, Pat Tackett of Benton, numerous nieces and nephews. Chapel services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 2:00 p.m. on Monday with Bro. Randy Reed officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Harmony Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday at Ashbys, 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saline Memorial Hospice or the Traskwood Methodist Church. On line guestbook atwww.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Verna “Joyce” Sweet, 86 of Benton, entered into the Joy of The Lord on August 16, 2016. She was born May 10, 1930 in Oklahoma City to the late Edward Louis and Mildred Marie Philpot Sweet. Joyce worked for Pacific Bell Telephone Company for over 20 years. She loved people and especially her pets. She handed out Bibles and encouraged people wherever she could, saying lots of prayers in their behalf. Joyce was of the Church of God faith. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joanne Walston. Joyce is survived by brothers, Bill, Freddy and Jerry Sweet, Bobby Sweet (Tawanna), Ernie Sweet (Renee), Kenny Sweet (Pat) and Ricky Sweet (Kathy), sisters, Sharon Sweet, Donna Nichols, Patsy Kennedy, Brenda Beaty, Norma Prince (Sonny), Billy Sweet, Janice Marrs, Linda Newberry, Vicky Gold (Bill), De Anna Sweet and numerous nieces and nephews.Visitation will be held at Ashby Funeral Home on Friday, 6:00 p .m. until 8:00 p.m. with Graveside services, 10:00 a.m. on Monday at Memorial Park Cemetery in Ada, Oklahoma.Family Comments: Joyce’s desire was that when she could no longer be of service to the Lord on earth, that he would take her home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your church of choice.On line guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Teresa “Moomaw” Gilbert (63) of Bauxite unexpectedly left her earthly world Tuesday night August 16, 2016. She was born and raised in Memphis but has been a significant part of the Bauxite School District for over twenty years. Her crafty talents included scrapbooking, art, cooking, and baking. These are just a few things that will be missed in the daily lives of her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvis and Alline Lassiter of Memphis.Teresa is survived by her husband Frank Gilbert; brother, Mike Lassiter; sons, Shannon, Sean, and Shane; and four amazing grandchildren. She is greatly missed but her presence will forever remain in the hearts of her many family and friends.Services will be held at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, AR on Friday, August 19th at 2pm. Graveside services will be held at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in Bartlett, TN on Saturday, August 20th at 1pm.In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be sent in her loving memory to UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute or the charity of your choice.Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Benjamin Garrett Nix, 65, of Benton,passed away peacefully in his sleep August 17, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. Ben is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sarah Kathryn (Nix) and Donald Betzold; son and daughter-in-law, Eric Benjamin and Hailey Nix; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Pickett Nix; brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Julie Nix; sister and brother-in-law, Jena (Nix) and George Williams; and sister and brother-in-law, Vivian (Bibin) Nix and Eric Nelson. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathryn Ann Guenter Nix; son, Garrett Thomas Nix; parents, Benjamin Edison and Vivian Lucille Garrett Nix; and sister, Nancy Ann Nix Miller. Ben was a loving husband and father, a hard worker, an active volunteer for his church and community, and a fisherman. Outgoing and gregarious, he always wanted to know how you were and what was going on in your life. He seemed to know every back road and body of water in Arkansas and had at least one story about each one. Ben was happiest when he was surrounded by his family and when he was fishing. Annual summer trips to Stetson’s on the White River with Kathy, his children, and their spouses were perhaps his happiest moments. Life just couldn’t get any better than that. Ben graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1973. After working for General Electric Credit Corporation and Coca-Cola, Ben joined Sysco Foods where he served as Director of Credit until his retirement in 2012. Ben and Kathy chose Benton as their home in 1984 when twins Garrett and Sarah were just babies and Eric was not yet born. They joined the First United Methodist Church and began to make a life there. Ben often remarked that Benton had been very good to Kathy and him. They loved this town and its people. That love was returned many times over in the tremendous support for Ben and the entire Nix family during his illness. Our family thanks you. A visitation will be held Saturday, August 20 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Ashby Funeral Home, 108 W. Narroway, Benton, AR 72015. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 21 at 3:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church, 200 North Market Street, Benton, AR 72015. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to CJCOHN (CJCOHN Food Account, P.O. Box 1146, Benton, AR 72018) and Stone Soup (c/o Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church, 1601 S. Louisiana, Little Rock, AR 72206). Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Lorin William Spangler, Jr. 85 of Benton, passed away on August 18, 2016. He was born June 16, 1931 in Rolla, North Dakota to the late Lorin and Janet Spangler, Sr.Lorin was the Vice President of People’s Bank and a veteran of the United States Marine Corp. He was a hard working business man and a very loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Lorin was a very loyal and steadfast man who will live on in the hearts of family and friends.He is survived by his wife, Glenda Spangler of Benton, sons, Scott and wife, Teresia Spangler of Cleveland, Ms, Michael Spangler of South Carolina, daughters, Joni and husband, Jim Baker of Benton, Cheri Green of Benton, Holli and husband, Michael Treece of Benton, Sandy and husband, Ray Hartman of Danville, brother, Robert Spangler, grandchildren, Cameron Treece, Cole Treece, Jami Baker, Chasity Spangler, Molly Spangler, Catrina Milsap, Jennifer Lienhart, Raven Cruz, Renee Cruz and great grandson, Spencer Cantrell.Memorial services will be held at a later date.On line guestbook atwww.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Jackie Lee Lewallen, age 71, of Bryant, passed away Friday, August 19, 2016. He was born September 13, 1944 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Jackie was a retired truck driver and a member of the Teamster Union #745. He was preceded in death by two children, Kristi and Hank Lewallen and a sister, Charlotte Wilkerson.He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Lewallen of Bryant; two sons, Jeb Lewallen of Rockwall, Texas and Joe Lewallen of Bryant; parents, Charles M. and Lucille Scoggin Lewallen, Benton;brother, Terry Lewallen and wife Bitsy of Bryant; sister, Peggy Hampton and husband Jim of Benton; five grandchildren, Lindsey Belle Jenkins, Jeb Lewallen Jr., Michaela Lewallen, AnnaBeth Lewallen and Emma Lewallen; great-grandson, Luke Jenkins and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 22 at Ashby Funeral Home.Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 23 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Pine Crest Memorial Park.Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation @ 1818 N Taylor St # 186 in Little Rock, AR 72207 or the Arkansas Heart Foundation @ 1701 S Shackleford Rd in Little Rock, AR 72211.
Sandra Jo Bruce, age 65, of Mabelvale passed away Friday August 19, 2016. She was born July 13, 1951. Sandra was a Medical Transcriptionist for the Nuance Co. She was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Tucker Corey, and a sister, Nancy Stebbins.Survivors, son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Andria Bruce, father, Harvey Corey, sister, Cindy Corey, two grandchildren, Savana and Alyssa Bruce.No services are planned at this time.Guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
June Emeline Ramsey, age 81, of Benton passed away Saturday August 20, 2016. She was born July 10, 1935 in Haskell, Arkansas. June was a retired Assistant Manager at Arkansas Health Center Credit Union and a member of Calvary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ovie and Gladis Stirman Callahan, husband, Davey Lee Ramsey Sr., brother, Arthur Callahan, sister, Joyce Gale Cooper.Survivors, son, Davey Lee Ramsey Jr., Farmington, Arkansas; daughters, Lorie Bowen, North Little Rock; Deborah Hochstetler, Colbert, Georgia; sister, Shirley Jones, Haskell; nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren.Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Monday at Ashby Funeral Home.Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday at Calvary Baptist Church with burial at New Friendship Cemetery. Minister will be Rev. James Thomason.Pallbearers: Kevin Ramsey, Garrett Hochstetler, Hunter Bowen, Austin Bowen, Chase Ramsey, Greg Jones, Terry Callahan, Luke Osborne. Honorary Pallbearers, Mike Callahan and Mark Jensen.Memorials may be made to Alzheimers Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr., Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 or to Calvary Baptist Church, Benton, Arkansas.Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com
Linda Lou Davis, age 72, of Benton, passed away Sunday, August 21, 2016. She was born June 13, 1944 in Saline County, Arkansas. Linda retired from Saline Memorial Hospital and was a member of Fairplay Missionary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, James C. and Alma Windham; husband, Jackie D. Davis and a sister, Jannie Riggan.She is survived by her son, Jimmy Don Davis of Benton; daughter, Ellen Ziegler of Lonsdale; sister, Mary Wright of Benton; two grandchildren, Jenny Gipson and Jimmy Don Davis Jr. and two great-grandchildren, Karsyn and Natalie Davis.Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 23 at Ashby Funeral Home.Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 24 at Fairplay Cemetery. Bro. Mark Shelnut and Bro. Mitchell Shelnut will be officiating.Family Comments: A special thank you to Stacy, Reesa, Cindy and Johnny for your special love and care.Memorials may be made to Saline Hospice or Fairplay Missionary Baptist Church.
Cecil Wendell Smith, age 86, of Benton, passed away Tuesday, August 23, 2016. He was born May 17, 1930 in Scott, Arkansas to the late Sin Clair Jerome Smith and Alice James Smith. Cecil served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War and retired from Alcoa as a pipe fitter. He was a member of Crossroads Missionary Baptist Church. Cecil was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and four sisters.He is survived by his wife, Dollene Smith; two sons, Phillip Russell Smith and Derek Allen Smith Sr. and four grandchildren, Derek Allen Smith Jr., Dylan Arron Smith, Parker Smith and Tiffany Smith.Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 26 at Ashby Funeral Home.Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 27 at Crossroads Missionary Baptist Church with burial at Fairplay Cemetery. Bro. Larry Campbell will be officiating.
Margaret Hanson, age 90, of Benton, passed away Wednesday, August 24, 2016. She was born November 24, 1925 in Bay Village, Arkansas. Mrs. Hanson was a retired L.P.N. and was of the Methodist Faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Blanche Olson; husbands, Charles Hanson and Lester Maitland and a sister, Bettye Bates.She is survived by her son, Jerry Maitland and wife Tarja of Benton; daughter, Johnita Maitland of Largo, Florida and grandchildren, Kelsey Weber and husband Pete and Marliisa Yarberry and husband Chris.Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, August 28 at Ashby Funeral Home.Graveside services will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 29 at Bay Village Cemetery in Cross County, Arkansas. Bro. Pete Weber will be officiating.
Brian Anderson, of Hot Springs Village, passed away on Saturday, August 13, 2016, in CHI St. Vincent. Born January 26, 1933, in Lancaster, England, to Stanley and Mary Ellen, he married Barbara Sykes on November 21, 1956.Born with an adventurous spirit, Brian first went to sea with the British Merchant Navy at the age of 16. After attending the Fleetwood Navigation School in England, he obtained his Master Mariner’s ticket in 1958. The following year, with Barbara and their first daughter, he moved to Nigeria to work on their inland waterways. In 1964, now with four young daughters, he joined the Royal Dutch Shell oil company in Nigeria as a marine logistics expert, where he remained until 1980. With Shell, he saw further service in the Netherlands and lastly in Kathmandu, Nepal, until he retired in 1990, when he and Barbara first came to the Village. He always said he could not have found a more beautiful place to retire. In 1997, they became US citizens.In retirement, Brian was an active Village Rotary member, a keen golfer and home improver, and a committed father and grandfather. With his four daughters spread across the globe, he and Barbara loved to travel. Family and a good laugh were what he loved most. He is survived by Barbara, daughters Jane (John), Susan (Derek), Linda (Dominic) and Carol (Eoin), grandchildren Tania (Matt), Darren (Sansanee), Stephanie, Liam, Shannon, Nicholas and Sean, and great-grandchildren Skylar, Drew, Sasiton, McNeil and Jacob.No man was ever more loved.A short memorial service was held at the CedarVale cemetery on August 19. A further celebration of his life is planned for November, when the extended family is due to gather for what would have been his and Barbara’s 60th wedding anniversary. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).Arrangements for Cremation have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home
Brenda Lucille Fisher, of Alvin, TX, formerly of Hot Springs Village, passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2016 at the age of 76.Brenda was born to parents Ralph and Evelyn Gilger on May 30, 1940 in Bakersfield, CA. She grew up an only child and graduated from North High School and Bakersfield Community College. In 1961, after a 6 week courtship, she married Karl F. Fisher. Throughout their 43 year marriage they lived in Alaska, California, Texas and finally retiring in Hot Springs Village, AR. Brenda’s passions included baking, gardening, creating crafts, sewing, knitting, traveling, line dancing, providing happiness to her grandchildren and those around her. She spent several years as a preschool teacher at a Mother’s Day Out program in Houston, TX.Brenda is survived by her two daughters, Lori Hayes (Kevin) and Karen Dorn (Grant); her grandchildren, Jacob Hayes, Derek Hayes (Krystal, great grand-daughter Rhea), Marina Sweeten, Nicholas Sweeten and Nathaniel Fisher. She is preceded in death by her husband, Karl Fisher and her parents.A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 AM on September 3, 2016 at CedarVale Funeral Home which is located at 200 Minorca Rd. HSV, AR. Family and friends are invited to come and celebrate Brenda’s life.
Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home.
Helen Ann Grabanski, age 78, of Alexander, went to be with her Lord on August 13, 2016. She was born on May 2, 1938 in Sterling, Minnesota to her parents, Murel and Eleanor Plummer. She loved working puzzles and knitting and was a long time member of the International Association of Rebekah Assemblies and recently received Christ as her personal Savior. Ms. Grabanski is survived by her son, John Grabanski and his wife, Leisa, of Kennett, Missouri and her daughter, Cheryl Allen of Bismark, Arkansas. She is also survived by her four grandchildren; Kaye Pruett and Joseph, Aaron and Hannah Grabanski, along with several great-grandchildren and two sisters, Hazel Barker and Elaine Sears. She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Elvin Plummer and James Scott, along with her sister Lucille Jarombek and a very special aunt, Grace Colvile. A Celebration of Life for Helen will be at 1:00p.m., Monday, August 15, 2016 in the chapel of Dial & Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Visitation will take place from 11:00a.m.-1:00p.m. on Monday, prior to the service. To sign the online guest book, go to www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Catherine “Cathy” Billingsley 57 of Benton was called home to be with her Lord on August 20, 2016 with her family by her side. She was born on December 10, 1958 to the late, Carlton and Gloria Beck in Branson, Missouri. Cathy loved to bake and cook for her family, she also enjoyed shopping especially for shoes and loved the Razorback Football. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Cathy’s family was her life and she always put them first. Cathy was employed for over 30 years at Lab Corp and a 1977 graduate of Bryant High School. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church. Cathy is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and brother, Bruce Beck. She is survived by her loving husband of 31 years, Paul D. Billingsley; three daughters, Shana King (Chris), Laura Sullivan (Blake) and Sarah Billingsley; two grandchildren, Carson and Cambree King; two sisters, Tracy Goodwin (Robby) and Karen Mays (Greg), sister-in-law, Sue Beck and a host of family and friends who all loved her and will miss her dearly. Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 24, 2016 at 1:00 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 23, 2016 from 5-7 PM at the funeral home. To sign Cathy’s online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
Danny Riggs Pratt 66, of Benton passed away Monday August 15, 2016. He was born October 13, 1949 to Riggs Preston Pratt and Mary Jean Story Pratt in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He enjoyed being outdoors and being with his grandkids. He was employed at Russell Chevrolet for thirty three years and took pride in his work. Danny was a member of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his parentsand one grandchild, Brandy. Survived by his loving wife of forty seven years, Deborah (Debbie) Pratt; two daughters, Lisa Rowe (Tim) and Tracy Gay (Tracy); five grandchildren, Brittany, Allison, Trevor, Andrew and Anna; one great-grandchild, Olivia; and a host of family and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 18, 2016 5-7 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. A celebration of life will be Friday, August 19 at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. Burial following service at Pleasant Hills Cemetery. To sign oline guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfunerlhome.com
Farrell D. McCoy 75 of Benton, passed away August 21, 2016 surrounded by his family. He was born March 27, 1941 in Searcy, Arkansas to John Walter and Vera McCoy.Farrell was raised on a cotton farm in Rose Bud, and graduated from Rose Bud High School in 1959. After high school, he and his twin brother moved to Modesto, CA, where they drove fork lifts for Gallo Winery. They enjoyed the California lifestyle and studied design engineering at the local junior college. He then moved to Flint, MI, and worked as a supervisor on the carburetor assembly line at General Motors.He married Gayla Leach in 1963 and settled in Central Arkansas where he studied engineering at University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He retired from ALCOA (The Aluminum Company of America) after 27 years as a design engineer.Farrell was an active member at Hope Church, Benton, AR, and The Church at Rock Creek, Little Rock, AR. He formerly served as a deacon at First Baptist Church, Cabot, AR, and First Baptist Church, Benton, AR.He was very active in the Royal Players Community Theater in Benton, serving several years on the board and in many other capacities. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, hunting, camping and traveling.Farrell was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Gayla McCoy; his brother Tommy McCoy of Searcy, AR; his twin brother Darrell McCoy of Searcy, AR; and his parents Walter and Vera McCoy of Rose Bud, AR.He is survived by his children, David McCoy and wife Ashley of Little Rock, Dena Drennan and husband Chip of Bowdon, GA, and Kellee McCoy and wife Merideth of Benton. He was blessed with 11 grandchildren: Lawryn Downes, Brittany Drennan, Cody Phillips, Tanner Drennan, Jack Travis, Chandler Holcomb, Jon Michael McCoy, Lily Travis, Annah Kayte Holcomb, William McCoy, and Andrew Travis; and 3 great-grandchildren: Brixi, Huntley, and Charlie. He was loved by numerous friends and extended family members.A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 25, at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant.Charitable donations may be made in his name to the Royal Players through Dial and Dudley Funeral Home.In lieu of visitation, a fellowship for family and friends will take place following the service. Online Guestbook visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com
Marvin Caldwell 60 of Alexander passed away on August 22, 2016 with his family by his side. He was born on November 29, 1955 to Tommy and Joyce Caldwell in Wichita Falls, Texas. Marvin was a faithful member of New Life Baptist church where he served as a Deacon and proudly kept the grass mowed, and performed maintenance on the church. He enjoyed NASCAR, building model cars and race track sets, and taking care of his cats. Marvin was a painter for over 30 years with the Arkansas State Hospital and was actively enjoying retirement. Marvin is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Wanda Caldwell; daughter, Marie Ashley (Jeff); parents, Tommy and Joyce Caldwell; two sisters, Linda Patterson (Bill) and Pam Zimmerman (Tim); brother, Stephen Caldwell (Ginger) and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family who all loved him and will miss him dearly. Celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 26, 2016 at 11:00 New Life Baptist Church 10765 Samples Road, Alexander. Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 at the church. Arrangements provided by Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. In lieu of flowers please donate to Brazil Mission Funds @ New Life Baptist Church in Bryant, 10765 Samples Rd., Alexander, Ar. 72002
Billy (Bill) Dean Baldridge, age 89, of Benton, Arkansas went to be with is Lord on August 23, 2016 with his family by his side. He was born to the late Hershel Pete Baldridge and Elenora Badders on January 2, 1927 in Shatluck, Oklahoma. He spent most of his life in Heber Springs, Arkansas. Bill is preceded in death by wife, Betty Baldridge, two step-sons, Jimmy Burget and William Burget, and two great grandchildren, Aiden Brown and CJ Burget. He is survived by his step daughter Vanessa (Doug) Beck, two step-sons, Dennis (Liz) Burget and Tony (Veronica) Burget, and a brother Steve (Sue) Baldridge. He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and 1 nephew. Bill enlisted in the Army in 1943 and proudly served 4 years while defending our country in World War II. He then served an additional 4 ½ years in the Navy. He loved being out at sea and wanted see the world so he decided to join the Merchant Marines where he spent the next 10 years. Most people will remember Bill (Grandad) as man who loved the Lord, his wife, whom he said was his greatest joy and the love of his life, polka Joe, his cat, playing his harmonica, singing, and always wanting to dance. He is loved by many and will be dearly missed. A celebration of life will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant on August 28, 2016 at 2:00. In his last days he wanted to leave us all with a message, “We must love everyone”. He held this close to his heart and lived his life full of love. As 1 John 4:7 says, Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
Dolores Kathleen Tinsley, 72, of Bryant Arkansas passed away on August 7, 2016. Born March 17, 1944 in San Francisco, California. Dolores spent most of her life in Central Arkansas. She was devoted to her faith and family. She was a member of River of Life Church of Mabelvale and attended faithfully until her health would no longer permit. She loved spending time with her grandkids, flower gardening, bird watching, and collecting wind chimes. She was also fond of gospel music, especially the Gaither Homecoming specials featuring the stylings of Vestal Goodman.She was preceded in death by her father Elmer Jones and her husband of 36 years John Tinsley Jr.Left to cherish her legacy of love is her daughter Denise (Vince) Minick, grandchildren Jared and Josiah Minick, her mother Gisela Jones, and her sister Brenda Soliz.A celebration of her life will be held on August 10, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. with a graveside service at Forest Hills Cemetery. There will also be a visitation in her honor on August 9, 2016 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home, 10200 Hwy 5 N, Alexander Arkansas.“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18.
CHREDONNA M. HATCH October 7, 1926 – August 7, 2016 Arrangements under the direction of Forest Hills Cemetery, ALEXANDER, AR.
Rebecca Bowen February 3, 1938 – August 11, 2016 Arrangements under the direction of Forest Hills Cemetery, ALEXANDER, AR.
Andrew Blake Davasher, 31, of Alexander passed away August 15, 2016. He was born on March 21, 1985 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Bruce Edward and Mitzi Jean Davasher. Andrew loved music, playing the guitar and spending time with his niece and nephews.Andrew is survived by his wife; Tiffany, his parents; sister; Linzi Soules (Neil), niece; Parker, nephews; Peyton and Zachary, grandmother; Inez Davasher, aunts and uncles; Shelley Youngblood, John McMillin (Sandi), Leslie Boyles (Robb), Keith Davasher and a host of loving family and friends.Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, August 18, 2016 in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Forest Hills, 10200 Hwy. 5 N., Alexander, Arkansas, a graveside service will follow 10 a.m. Friday morning at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Please share your memories of Andrew at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.
Robert “Bob” Lewis Padgett, 73, of Little Rock, died peacefully August 22, 2016. Born February 12, 1943 in Heber Springs, Arkansas, he was the son of William and Avalee Padgett. A member of the National Guard for several years, he was an avid horse racing fan, lover of all competitive sports, and a lifelong car salesman.He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Charles William Padgett. Survivors are his wife Melinda Padgett; daughter Leslee Scribner(Todd); his stepchildren Bonnie Sellers and Lee Ashcraft(Shelly) ; two sisters Jane Nowell(Dan) and Wilma Armour(Charles); sister-in-law Joyce Fulton; 8 grandchildren; 1 great- grandchild; several nieces, nephews, his beloved cat “Mister”, and many friends and colleagues.A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, August 26, 2016 at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills Funeral Home. 10200 Hwy 5 North Alexander, Arkansas 72002, 501-455-1067, with Charles Armour officiating.An online quest book at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com
Jessie Louise Harris, 80, of Alexander, passed away June 22, 2016.She was born October 19, 1935, in Biloxi, Mississippi, to D.J. and Louise Whitten. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Floyd Taylor and Ralph Harris, and sister, Jimmie Ann Wiley.She was a longtime finance clerk in the car dealership business.She is survived by three children, Nathan Taylor, Bobby Taylor, and Susan Stauber; four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Nancy Ingram and Sandra Holly.Visitation will be Sunday, June 26, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and service on Monday, June 27, at 2:00 p.m., both at Griffin Leggett Forest Hills, 10200 Hwy 5 North, Alexander, Bro. George Yarberry officiating. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
Marguerite Eliza Keenan, of Benton, was born to John B. Vaughan and Linnie Bell Lindsey Vaughan in Bearden, Arkansas. She was at the Saline Memorial Hospice House when, with her daughter by her side, she shed her earthly body to enter the presence of Jesus and many loved ones on Sunday, August 21, 2016. She attended Fordyce schools and was chosen to be Homecoming Queen her senior year. She was a beautiful and stylish lady; known for spiffy dressing including heels! Her most important attributes were her love for the Lord, joy of life, the desire to help others and love for her family and friends. She could always find something to laugh at. Her giggle was infectious! She maintained many childhood friendships, including a friend in Alabama, Byron Atkinson, with whom she had started grade school with.She trained at Hotel Dieu in Beaumont, TX to be an X-ray technician. While in Beaumont she met her future husband, “Red” Keenan. They married and she helped raise her step-son, Lynn. He was born with a life-threatening heart condition and not expected to live past adolescence. However, with caring persistence she found a cardiologist to treat him and he lived to be 64.After moving to Houston, Marguerite and Red adopted a three-week old baby girl from the Homes of St. Mark and named her Eliza Samme. Marguerite abruptly quit her job as an X-ray technician and devoted her life to raising her daughter. She was a model mother and made sure to raise her daughter to love Jesus and to have a caring and compassionate heart.She and Samme moved to Arkansas in 1980 after Red’s passing. She worked at Sears, as a cashier at Razorback Car Wash, volunteered at Holland Chapel Baptist Church, and Saline Memorial Hospital.Marguerite was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Homer, Pete, Coby and Jesse Vaughan, sister, Martha Lacy, husband, Eldred Samuel Keenan, and step son, Lynn Keenan.Left to cherish her memory is daughter, Samme Wallace and husband Charles; grandchildren, Brian Keenan and Evan and Olivia Wallace; daughter-in-law, Gaylain Keenan; nieces, Judy Davis (Harrell) and Linda Sanders (Carlton), and nephews, Mike Vaughan (Connie), Billy Vaughan (Mary), and Jim Lacy (Janie). There are many more relatives and friends who loved her dearly.A celebration of life will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25th at Holland Chapel Baptist Church with Bro. Kim Hammer officiating. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. in Salem Cemetery in Millville, Arkansas. Serving as pallbearers will be Mike Vaughan, Harrell Davis, Eddie Black, Art Allen, Robert Waits, and Joe Arnn.A time of visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 at Roller Ballard Funeral Home in Benton (501-315-4047).In lieu of flowers, please donate to Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes, 10 Remington Drive, LR, AR 72204.Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears my word, and believes in Him that sent me, hath everlasting life. John 5:24
Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Bergh, 71, of Benton, Arkansas was healed by the Great Physician, Jesus Christ, on August 8, 2016. She was born August 22, 1944 in Independence, Kansas to the late Raymond and Melvina (Kelly) Lenard.Elizabeth, affectionately known as “Granny Liz” to her grandchildren, found joy in serving others. She frequently worked at her church, Glen Rose Missionary Baptist Church. She would clean, paint, and help take care of the ladies in the congregation. Liz was a do-er, and served in any way possible to help others. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents. She leaves to cherish her memories three sons, Donald Jones of Benton, Arkansas, Daniel Jones and wife Alicia of Traskwood, Arkansas, and Casey Jones and wife Sherry of Benton, Arkansas; grandchildren, Spencer, Madison, Ethan, Mackenzie, Lydia, Heath, Brittany, and Sydney Jones; one great grandson, Bryson, and one on the way; brother, Charles Lenard of Kansas City, Kansas; nieces, Kristen and Angie; special furry companion, Bella; and a host of family members and friends who loved Elizabeth and will miss her always.Memorial service, officiated by Bro. Tony Williams, will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at Glen Rose Missionary Baptist Church. Family requests that no one wear black to her service as this is a celebration of her life. Memorials may be made to Glen Rose Missionary Baptist Church, 928 Traskwood, Malvern, AR 72104. Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guest may register online at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Larry David Tackett, 58, of Alexander, Arkansas passed away August 9, 2016 at Arkansas Heart Hospital. He was born August 30, 1957 in Wynne, Arkansas to the late Charles Eugene and Alberta Rose (Pauschert) Tackett.Larry was a magnet that many children and young adults were attracted to. They affectionately called him “Uncle David”, “Paw Paw”, or “ZZ”. He positively impacted so many of their lives in many ways. Larry loved to cook. He loved his mother, and his siblings say he was definitely a “Momma’s Boy”. Larry had the biggest heart and genuinely cared for everyone he met.
He leaves behind to cherish his memories a son, Hunter Tackett of Alexander, Arkansas; three brothers, Darrell Tackett of East End, Arkansas, Dennis Tackett and wife Angela of Benton, Arkansas, and Donnie Tackett of Benton, Arkansas; sister, Debra Kay Weathermon and husband Frank of Lawton, Oklahoma; nieces and nephews, Brian Tackett, Leslie Smith, Melissa Brown, Deborah Ryals, Rachel Tackett, Chaz Tackett, Brad Rorie, Brandon Jacoby, Katie Jacoby, and Haley Southworth; ten great-nieces and nephews; one snapping turtle; countless scores of “adopted” children and young adults who are forever grateful for his compassion; and many other family members and friends who loved Larry and will miss his always.Memorial service officiated by Bro. Doug Pruitt will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, August 12, 2016 at Midtown Church, 4037 Boone Road, Benton, AR. Visitation will be held from 10:30-11:00 AM prior to service. Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guests may register online at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Glynda Sue Logan, 71, of Benton, Arkansas passed away August 11, 2016. She was born June 3, 1945 in Abardeen, Mississippi to the late Lloyd C., Sr. and Norma (Matthews) Meeks.Glynda was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church having served in many different ministries, including Children’s Ministry. She was a civic volunteer, and worked in voting polls for several years and was active at the Bauxite Museum. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. Glynda was preceded in death by her parents.She leaves behind to cherish her memories her loving husband of over 50 years, James Logan of Benton, Arkansas; son, Coby Logan of Fort Smith, Arkansas; daughter, Lisa Crone and husband Clark of Little Rock, Arkansas; grandchildren, Savannah Logan, Alyxander Logan, Aaron Logan, Kyleigh Crone, and Blake Crone; brother, Lloyd C. Meeks, Jr. of Hot Springs, Arkansas; sisters, Anna Claire Williams and husband Bill of Paducah, Kentucky and Jo Ann Robinson and husband Rocky of Greenville, South Carolina; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and a host of family and friends who loved Glynda and will miss her always. Memorial service, officiated by Rev. Mike Tittsworth, will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 13, 2016, Trinity Baptist Church, 702 Church Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Private burial will be held at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guests may register online at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Joseph Edward Watson, 65, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away August 14, 2016 at his residence. He was born February 1, 1951 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late James C., Sr. and Barbara (Redmond) Watson.Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, William and Steve Watson.He leaves to cherish his memories son, Brian Watson and wife Tonie of Sheridan, Arkansas; grandchildren, Braiden and Trysten Watson; brother, James Watson, Jr. and wife Margaretha of Bryant, Arkansas; and many other family members and friends who loved Joseph and will miss him always.Reception visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Thursday, August 18, 2016 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas 72015. Funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 PM, Friday, August 19, 2016 with burial following at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas.Arrangements by Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Guests may register online atwww.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Diane Miller, 65, of Alexander, passed away August 13, 2016. She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Henry and Martha Canterbury Keahey.Preceded in death by her father and her husband, David C. Miller, she is survived by her daughter, Maxee Eanes and husband, Nathan of Alexander; mother, Martha Ellis of Longview, Texas; sister, Becky Birdsong (Buck), also of Longview; brother, Rick Keahey (Cindy) of Ridgefield, Washington; and a host of other relatives and friends.Services will be held on Saturday, August 27 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jessieville Church of God. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ALS Association, P.O. Box 6051, Albert Lea, MN 56007. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501)224-2200. Diane’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Tyrrel Everett DeVolin, 33, of Alexander, passed away August 16, 2016. He was born in El Paso, Texas to the late Tyrrel Glenn DeVolin and Kerri Eutsler Cummins.His survivors include his mother, Kerri Cummins (Joe) of Alexander; siblings, Amy DeVolin of Haskell, Charlotte Hartzell (Ethan) of Bryant, Joseph Cummins and Erin Cummins, both of Alexander; nieces, Maggie Pennick and Amberlin DeVolin, also of Alexander; nephews, Ethan Adrian Hartzell and Elijah Hartzell, both of Bryant; and cousin, Ryan O’Keefe of Arizona. A brother preceded him in death.Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 27 at 9:30 a.m. at Crystal Hill Cemetery, in Little Rock.Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Tyrrel’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
Michael Todd Ray, 43, of Bryant, passed away August 18, 2016.Preceded in death by his father, John D. Ray, he is survived by his wife, Loretta Ray; children, Danielle Ray, Stephani Ellis (B.J.), Michael Keith Ray, Heather Seibs and Robert Seibs; mother, Vicky Tanner, all of Benton; siblings, Tammy Ray of Benton, Tony Ray (Monica) of Haskell, Shane Ray (Stefanie) of Hot Springs and Dawn Keenom (Scott) of Malvern; five grandchildren, Gunner, Brannon, Bennett, Tyler and Masen; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.Services will be held on Monday, August 22 at 3:00 p.m. at Midtowne Church in Bryant, officiated by Doug Pruitt.Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501)224-2200. Michael’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.