LITTLE ROCK — OBITUARIES Information for
the obituaries and funeral
notices below was supplied
to the Arkansas Democrat-
Gazette Advertising Depart
ment by funeral homes.
INDEX
Some obituaries may appear in certain editions of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and not in others. This list shows the names of all people whose obituaries are in at least one edition. For obituaries not in this edition, please see our website, Arkansas Online, arkansasonline.com/obituaries/.
PULASKI COUNTY
Bobby Ray Bell, 57, of North Little Rock.
Hazel Josephene Blessing, 89, of Little Rock.
William Randall Byars of Little Rock.
Mary E. Cagle, 79, of Jacksonville.
Jon Paul Chapman, 66, of Little Rock.
Willis Felix Clark Jr., 56, of Little Rock.
Virgil L. DeLaney, 91, of Jacksonville.
Joyce Ponder Pattison Dunn, 88, of Little Rock.
Latisha Faith Jennings, 22, of Jacksonville.
Ethel I. Jones, 81, of Little Rock.
Aretha M. Kendall-Jones, 37, of Little Rock.
Betty Sue Mills, 80, of North Little Rock.
Hilda Edith Moore, 91, of Little Rock.
Glenda Fai Newton, 68, of Little Rock.
Alice Brehm Riggle, 85, of Jacksonville.
Geneva Arnold Rodman, 93, of Little Rock.
Bernadine Kenney Savary, 84, of Little Rock.
Gregory J. Smith, 25, of Little Rock.
Helen St. Martin, 86, of North Little Rock.
Cody E. Stuart, 92, of Sherwood.
Carrolle Hickman Taegel, 83, of Maumelle.
Nelson Anthony Watson of Little Rock.
Judy R. Wilson, 64, of North Little Rock.
ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS
ALEXANDER William Edward “Bill” Pope, 87. AUSTIN Vetrice Imogene Taylor, 84.
BATESVILLE Wanda Lee Casey Girtman, 77.
BEE BRANCH Mary Katherine Goodwin, 78.
BEEBE William Robert Clark, 79.
BENTON John “Johnny” Brown, 53.
Robbie Moseley Clark, 78.
William “Bill” Jay, 67.
Sharon LaNan Ottens, 58.
BRYANT Charles Curtis, 66.
CAMDEN James C. Fultz, 91.
CONWAY Iona Gwin, 78.
Gloria Ann Anderson Nunley, 65. DANVILLE Ann Reynolds, 77.
GLENWOOD Gertrude Hunter Duck, 73.
GOSNELL Mitsuko Ishida Patterson, 78.
GURDON Darlene Stubbs Hendricks, 84.
HOT SPRINGS Louise Galbraith Dierks, 93.
Joe Langford, 91.
HUFFMAN Mary L. Huffman, 77.
LONDON Rickey Lee Simpson, 61.
LONOKE Martha Carlene Hester, 85.
Joseph Phillip Melton Jr., 82.
MARKED TREE Harry Joseph Webb Jr., 61.
MAYFLOWER Shelba J. Miller, 73.
Minnie Lou Wilson, 72.
MIDWAY Martha A. “Marty” Baker, 75.
MORO Wilma Baker, 62.
MORRILTON Iva Durbin, 81.
MOUNTAIN VIEW Bessie Frances Gentry, 76.
PARIS Ola Jane (Manning) Bean, 80. PINE BLUFF Patricia “Pat” Jo Quarles, 67.
SHERIDAN Mary Tolson Bailey, 82.
Mason Allen Walters, infant.
SULPHUR ROCK Thomas W. Smith, 74.
WHITE HALL Eva Donaldson, 70.
WYNNE Jack “David” Collins, 69.
OUT-OF-STATE
GREEN VALLEY, ARIZ.
Nan LaVerne Faucett, 88.
GREENSBORO, N.C.
Martha Helen Canaday, 93.
SALISBURY, N.C.
Robert Alan Sorrels, 48.
MEMPHIS William Earl Maxwell Jr., 57.
DALLAS “Keye” Richard Harkey Ratley, 35.
Pulaski County
BOBBY RAY BELL, 57, of North Little Rock passed on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011. Survivors include: son, Lee H. Bell of North Little Rock; daughter, Aurora Bell of Turlock, Calif.; one grandchild; his mother, Jannie Johnson of North Little Rock; brothers, Robert Bell (Anita) of North Little Rock and Dennis Bell (Cheryl) of Arlington, Texas; a host of family and friends.
The family will receive friends 5-6 p.m. Monday at Robinson Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at King Solomon Baptist Church, 1304 N. Pine Street, NorthLittle Rock, Pastor Charles Caradine Jr., officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Little Rock (501) 371-0111. Sign online guestbook at www.robinsonmortuary.com, “Service You Can Trust”.
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HAZEL JOSEPHENE BLESSING, 89, of Little Rock, with her strong religious belief, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, and has joined her Heavenly Father and husband in eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her husband, Randal O. Blessing and her parents, Sanner and Ester Frazier Waddle. She is survived by a sister, Ethel Hicks of England, Ark.; a brother, Jimmy Waddle of El Paso, Texas; several nieces and nephews; and a dear friend and caregiver, Janet Plunkett.Entombment services will be held Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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There will be a memorial funeral service for WILLIAM RANDALL BYARS, who died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011, after a long illness, Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012 at 1 p.m. in St. Mark’s Episcopal Church officiated by The Reverend DannySchieffler and The Reverend Lisa Fry. Burial of cremains will follow in the church garden.
Randy is survived by his wife of 34 years; Janice Parsons Byars of Little Rock, sister Georgianna McKown and husband Conrad of North Little Rock, a sister-inlaw Ann Byars of Fort Smith, and three nephews; Joe Dan, Blake, and Andrew Byars all of Fort Smith. He is also preceded in death by a brother Joe Dan Byars. A celebration of Randy’s life will be held at his residence at 5 p.m. following the services. All friends are welcome. Memorials in lieu of flowers should be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1000 N. Mississippi Street, Little Rock 72205. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
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MARY E. CAGLE, 79, of Jacksonville, passed away on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and two sons. Graveside Service will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012 at Gravel Ridge Cemetery on Gibson Road. Arrangements made by Arkansas Funeral Care.
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Dr. JON PAUL CHAPMAN SR. died of a heart attack at his homeon Dec. 29, 2011. Dr. Chapman owned Chapmans Eye Care in Hot Springs, Ark.
Following graduation from Southern College of Optometry, Jon Paul served in theUnited States Army, and retired as a Lt. Colonel in the reserves after 23 years of service. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Beverly Boone Chapman, and two sons: Paul with his wife Lori, and Mike with his fiancee Liz, as well as his three sweeties Blakeley, Allison and Sophie and his two big guys Caden and Josh, all children of Paul and Lori. He was the ultimate father and grandfather. He loved and adored his grandchildren, and they loved their Poppy. His death will leave a vast void in all of the lives of his family and friends, but his legacy of love and laughter will be forever.
There will be an open viewing at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home during normal business hours Monday and Tuesday. A family burial at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery on Jan. 4 will be followed by a celebration of his life in the chapel at Fellowship Bible Church, 1401 Kirk Road, Little Rock, at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to come and share this time with the family. There will be a potluck at the church; sides or desserts are welcome. In lieu of flowers donations in Jon’s name can be made to Hidden Creek Ministries 10905 W. Markham Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72211. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.
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WILLIS FELIX CLARK JR. “WILLIE”, 56, of Little Rock departedthis life Dec. 28, 2011. Preceded in death by his mother Louise Clark, Waverly and Gemmie Clark, (paternal grandparents), Joshua and Mary Scales, (maternal grandparents).He leaves to cherish his memory: one son, Demetrius Clark, four sisters, Brenda Allen, (Johnnie), Valerie Clark, (Larry), Felicia Jones, California, Judy Clark, Dallas, Texas; three brothers, Jimmy Clark, (Patricia), Gerald Clark, (Audrey), and Felix Clark Jr., Pine Bluff; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild and a host of family and friends.
Family hour: 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 at Robinson MortuaryChapel. Funeral service 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 at Robinson Mortuary Chapel, Little Rock, Minister Eloise McBride officiating. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Little Rock, (501) 371-0111. Sign online guestbook at www.robinsonmortuary.com. “Service You Can Trust”.
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Mr. VIRGIL L. DELANEY of Jacksonville passed quietly awayDec. 29, 2011. He was born Jan. 15, 1920 in Fort Scott, Kan. He was a retired Army officer and served in the Asiatic Pacific, Mediterranean, and European theaters of operations during the Second World War and earned several awards, decorations and commendations. Upon retirement from the military, he entered the fiberglass-boat business and was founder and president of Caravelle Boat Manufacturing Company located in Jacksonville and Conway.
Mr. DeLaney is survived by daughters Gayle Neunherz (husband Edward) and Deborah O’Bar of Spokane, Wash.; grandson Gregory (wife Darlene) and great-granddaughter Alexis and great-grandson Kaden Neunherz of Pullman, Wash.; grandsons William and Samuel O’Bar of Memphis, Tenn.; grandsons Cole DeLaney, Brett DeLaney and Grant DeLaney of Jacksonville; sister Jaunita Denton and husband Bob of Topeka, Kan.; sister Launita Helms of Concord, Calif.; and several nephews and nieces in Arkansas, Kansas, California and Georgia.
A memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012 in the chapel of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Jacksonville; 1208 W. Main Street; Jacksonville, Ark. 72068. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
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JOYCE PONDER PATTISON DUNN, 88, of Little Rock passedaway Dec. 23, 2011. She is survived by her children and their spouses; Gloria Magee (David) of Little Rock, Dwight Pattison (Darcy) of North Little Rock, and Harry Pattison (JoyArcher and daughter, Shayla Archer) of Bainbridge Island, Wash.; grandchildren, Jonathan Magee (Cindy) of Warren, Laura and Nancy Magee, both of Little Rock, Sara Cougill (Nate) of Denver, Colo., Jinny Richardson (Sean) of Waukesha, Wis., Amy Roberts (Clay) and Luke Pattison, both of North Little Rock, Hannah Pattison of Eugene, Ore., and Sophie Pattison of Tacoma, Wash.; great-grandchildren, Abigail and Emily Magee, Haileigh and Bruce Roberts, and Zeke Richardson; sister-in-law, Catherine Ponder and nephew, Stephen Ponder (Becky) of Houston, Texas, and nephew, Tom Ponder (Audra) of Itasca, Ill.
Joyce was born Nov. 12, 1923 to Ruth Hopper and Harry Lee Ponder at the home of her grandmother, Louella Majors, in Tuckerman, Ark. The family moved to Little Rock in the fall of 1929, to Memphis the following springfor three years, and then back to Little Rock in October 1933. She graduated from Little Rock High School in 1941 and entered Ouachita Baptist University that fall. Transferring to East Texas State University in May 1944, she received her degree in biologyin 1945. She then entered the Kilbury School of Medical Technology, becoming a registered medical technologist in 1947. In 1949, she married Dwight Nelson Pattison, who preceded her in death in 1956. Shortly thereafter, Joyce began working full-time in clinical chemistry at St. Vincent Infirmary, later became the instructor for the Clinical Laboratory Assistant Program for five years, and then worked in hematology for 13 years at Baptist Memorial Hospital in North Little Rock before she retired. In 1984, she married Silas Theron Dunn, who died in 1989. Also preceding her in death were her brother, Thomas C. Ponder and nephew, Harry Ponder, both of Houston.
Joyce’s favorite hobby was exploring the country in her travel trailer with her mother and children in tow. They made their first trip in 1958 and eventually visited all of the contiguous states and five Canadian provinces, touring many historical sites and national parks, and taking trips that lasted as long as 55 days. An active member of Immanuel Baptist Church for 78 years, she taught fifth-grade Sunday school for 16 years, assisted with choir, GA’s and youth programs while her children were growing up. In later years, she participated in Sunday school, WMU, and XYZ. She was elected a lifetime member of the PTA due to her active participation while her children were in school. Joyce was an avid reader, a crossword puzzle fanatic, an accomplished seamstress (she made all her own clothing for over 50 years as well as most of her daughter’s), and she loved to cook.
Visitation will be Wednesday, Jan. 4 from 6-8 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court (northwest corner I-630 and Barrow Road). Funeral services will be Thursday, Jan. 5 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Immanuel Baptist Church, with Reverend Gary Hollingsworth and Reverend Rick Jaggers officiating. The family will greet friends at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Immanuel Baptist Church Library. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Joyce’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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Former Alaskan resident LATISHA FAITH JENNINGS, 22, ofJacksonville, left her loved ones on the morning of Dec. 25, 2011 at University of Washington Medical Center.
Our “Little Poo Bear” was born Sept. 14, 1989 in Jonesboro to Melissa Garrett. You had so much courage from day one.
Although your life was taken too early for us to understand, you taught us so much about life: how to nurture our children and smile throughour hardships. She expanded our hearts with her giving and humorous nature. We will count the days until we reunite. We miss you more than words can express.
Latisha is survived by her husband Aaron Jennings; sons, Brayden Alexander and Ezekiel Jennings; mother, Melissa Garrett and sister, Heather Williams. She was preceded in death by her uncle, Chad. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 at Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Faith Baptist Church in Cabot with Reverend Brent Summerhill officiating. Burial willfollow at Rest Hills Memorial Park under the direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
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ARETHA M. KENDALL-JONES, 37, of Little Rock, passed away peacefully Tuesday, surrounded by family and friends after her three-year battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband, Cedric, North Little Rock, her loving mother, Jonia Newsome (Charles), Little Rock, her father, Arthur Kendall (Frances), College Station, a special aunt, Gloria Scott, Little Rock, and a host of uncles, aunts, other relatives and friends. Service is 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, Mt. Nebo AME Church, Frazier Pike, College Station; visitation is 3:30-6:30 p.m. today at Dubisson Funeral Home, 374-5025.
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ETHEL I. JONES, 81, of Little Rock passed away Dec. 13, 2011. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion E. Jones Jr.; and a son, Terry Jones. She is survived by son, Marion E. “Skip” Jones; three daughters, Sandy Bergman, Alisa Branigan, and Laurie Jones. Ethel will be fondly remembered for her love of family and appreciation of the arts. The family would like to express special gratitude to Briarwood Nursing and Rehab and Chenal Adult Day Services for their kind and loving care.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at St. Luke United Methodist Church of Little Rock. Arrangements are by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth. Online guestbook for Mrs. Jones, www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.
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BETTY SUE MILLS, 80, of North Little Rock passed away onThursday, Dec. 29, 2011. She was born July 9, 1931 in Des Arc, Ark. to Bill and Vida Gingerich. She was a dedicated mother, wife and grandmother. After living in Lonoke, Ark., for a number of years, she moved to North Little Rock and raised her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill Martin and Arvin Mills Jr.; and her daughter, Pam Mills.
She is survived by her children, Sherry Thresher of Bakersfield, Calif., Susie Buell of Sun Lake, Ariz., Billie Redd of Cabot, Ark., and Marvin Mills of Mabelvale, Ark.; sisters, Jean Medlock, and Ann Thrasher; her brother, Bud Gingerich; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and close friends.
A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012 in the chapel of Griffin Leggett-Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock (501) 835-3515, with Rev. Roy Thompson officiating. Thefamily will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., on Monday at the funeral home. The online obituary, guestbook, and memorial service are available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
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HILDA EDITH MOORE, 91, formerly of Little Rock, Ark., died Dec. 29, 2011 at Bedford Care in Hattiesburg, Miss. Graveside services will be at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012 at Forest Hills Cemetery in Little Rock. Mrs. Moore was preceded in death by her husband, Curtis A. Moore and her parents, Roy and Aurora Ramer. She is survived by a son, Curtis Andy Moore and his wife, Peggy, of Hattiesburg; three grandchildren, Lynn Lawrence and her husband, Bill, of Jackson, Chris Moore and his wife, Jennifer and Beth Moore all of Hattiesburg; and four greatgrandchildren.
Born Aug. 3, 1920, she was a graduate of North Little Rock High School and retired director of child care services for St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock, Ark., and a homemaker. She was a member of Parkway Heights United Methodist Church. Memorial donations may be directed to Homes of Hope for Children in Purvis. You may sign the guest book at www.moorefuneralservices.com.
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GLENDA FAI NEWTON, 68, of Little Rock, born Oct. 11, 1943,passed away on Dec. 28. Glenda is survived by sons William Newton III and Robert Cupples. Graveside service 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 3, Pine Crest Memorial Park, Little Rock.Sign her guestbook, visit www.arkansasfuneralcare.com. Arrangements by Arkansas Funeral Care.
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ALICE BREHM RIGGLE, 85, of Jacksonville died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. She was born Jan. 18, 1926 in Memphis, Tenn., to the late Samuel and Louise Dillingham Brehm. Mrs. Riggle was a graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and a member of Sigma Psi sorority. She was a member of the Jacksonville United Methodist Church, a longtime supporter and volunteer for the Pet Angels organization and an American Red Cross volunteer at Little Rock Air Force Base for many years.
Mrs. Riggle was a wonderful wife and mother. Mrs. Riggle is survived by her husband of 65 years, Lt. Col. Lewis Riggle (USAF retired), two children,Anne Northup of Loveland, Ohio, and Michael Riggle of Midway, Ga.; two grandchildren, William Fisher and Alice Sowers, both of Cincinnati, Ohio, and one great-grandson, William Sowers.
Visitation will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home chapel with Reverend Mark McDonald officiating. Entombment will follow in Chapel Pines Mausoleum on the grounds of Chapel Hill Memorial Park under the direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society; 14600 Colonel Glenn Road; Little Rock, Ark. 72210-2223. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
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GENEVA RODMAN visitation: Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012 2 p.m.
until 3 p.m. Howard Funeral Service Chapel, Leachville, Ark. Service: Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, 3 p.m., Howard Funeral Service Chapel, Leachville, Ark., view/send condolences.
Mrs. GenevaArnold Rodman, age 93, of Little Rock, former longtime Leachville resident, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at her home. She was the widow of longtime Leachville physician Dr. T.N. Rodman, who died in 2003. Born at Norfork, Ark., she was the daughter of the late Jefferson G. and Nancy Q. Rogers Arnold and had been a Leachville resident since 1946. She was a 1934 graduate of the Calico Rock High School and later graduated from the Batesville Business College. After moving to Leachville, she assisted her husband as parttime bookkeeper for the Rodman Clinic and Hospital. She joined the Galatia Methodist Church in Baxter County, Ark., when she was 10 years old and remained an active and devoted Methodist all her life. As a member of the Leachville First United Methodist Church, she served as a Sunday school teacher, a member of the administrative board, and was also active with the church youth program.
Survivors include one son, Dr. Tasker Rodman II, and his wife, Mary Lou, of Little Rock; two daughters, Mrs. Linda Jett and her husband, Tom of Arlington, Texas, Mrs. Rita Hitt, of Little Rock, and her late husband, Dr. Jerry Hitt. She also leaves six granddaughters and eight great-grandchildren, Brian Hyde, husband Chuck, and sons, Charley and Jonathan of Siloam Springs, Cortney Singleton, husband Paxton, and sons, Pax II and Tasker, of Heber Springs, Ark., Emily Wakefield, husband Brent, and children, Hollis, Weston, and Eli, of Bryant, Ark., Jennifer Sprinkle and husband Jon, of Garland, Texas, Andee Melson and husband Nate, of Denver, Colo., Jill Scheuermann, husband Ben, and son, Bennett, of Arlington, Texas. She also leaves two sisters, Jaydine Morton, and her husband Larry, of West Plains, Mo., VaRue Guthrie, of Guion, Ark., and her husband, the late Bob Guthrie.
Funeral service will be 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Leachville with Ronnie Kennett and Bobby Austin officiating. Interment will follow in the Leachville Cemetery. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Leachville First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 691, Leachville, Ark. 72438 or Hospice Home Care, 2200 South Bowman Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72211. Guest register at www.HowardFuneralService.com.
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BERNADINE KENNEY SAVARY, 84, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. Shewas born Aug. 23, 1927, in Little Rock, to the late William and Mary (Allen) Kenney. She was an X-ray tech and nurse. Mrs. Savary is survived by her husband of 63 years, Joseph Savary, her three children, SuzanneSavary, Dana Remsing (Steve), Jo Ann Grace; seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, one sister, Evelyn Maxwell (Charles).
The rosary will be held at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 2, 2012. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church, with Father Erik Pohlmeier as celebrant. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Little Rock, under the direction of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth. Mrs. Savary’s online guest registry is at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com. --◊--
GREGORY J. SMITH, 25, of Little Rock, Ark., departed this life Dec.30, 2011. Survived by his parents, Tony and Johnetta Shelton and Ronald Smith; two children by Sheena Anderson, Tayvion and Jakiyah Smith; siblings, Tony Jr., Candace, Ebony Shelton, Angelaand Jessica Smith; grandparents, Robert and Louise Austin, James and Nearo Ervin, Lorene Shelton and Lillie Smith.
Family hour will be held Friday Jan. 6, 2012 from 7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Homegoing services will be held Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012, 12:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 9700 Hwy. 365 S., in Higgins, Ark. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202, (501) 376-4800, “Only Heaven Can Serve You Better !”--◊--
HELEN MARGUERITE ST. MARTIN walked alone into heavenbut was met by her husband, Don, her daughter Lynda, her parents and siblings. She passed away on Dec. 28 in Bentonville, Ark.
Helen Marguerite St. Martin was bornJan. 18, 1925, in Baird, Texas, to John F. and Mary E. McClendon. After graduation from Baird High School, she attended nursing school at Shannon Hospital in San Angelo, Texas, where she obtained her R.N. Prior to and during her schooling she worked in a hospital in Abilene, Texas. It was while working in Abilene that she met then Capt. Donald A. St. Martin, who was stationed at Roswell Air Force Base, N.M. After the completion of her nursing studies, she joined the U.S. Air Force as an RN stationed in New York. She and Don married in 1956. Helen completed her service in the Air Force as Don was transferred to Little Rock AFB Jacksonville, Ark., and they began their family. While living in Jacksonville, she was active in her church, the Alter and Rosary Society, the Officer Wives Association, and nursing. Helen worked as a Pulaski County Health Department nurse and at UAMS in Little Rock. After Don’s death in 1983, Helen and Susanmoved to Oklahoma City, Missouri and Arkansas to be near each of her children.
She was preceded in death by her husband Maj. Donald A. St. Martin, USAF Ret., parents John and Mary McClendon, daughter Lynda Catherine Eisert, sister Lyndall Andrews, and brother Hansel McClendon. She is survived by her children, Elizabeth Long and husband Jim, Lt. Col. USAF Ret. and their children 1st Lt. Rachel Long, USAF and Lt. Sarah Long Sparks, USN and husband Capt. James Sparks, USMC; son Donald A. St. Martin Jr. and his children, Donald and wife AnnMarie; Timothy and wife Melissa; son-in-law Randy Eisert and daughter Susan. She is also survived by grandchildren Jennifer Jeffries-Wright and children Patrick and Jamie; Michelle Jeffries-Wood and children Abigail and Gabriel. She leaves behind to remember their long talks and remembrances her sister, Frankie McClendon Baulch and children, Polly Salyards, JaniceBaulch and Byron Baulch.
A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, Jan. 2, 2011 in the chapel of Griffin Leggett-Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock (501) 835-3515, with Deacon James Long officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home, with a rosary service beginning at 6. The online obituary, guestbook, and memorial tribute are available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
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CWO4 (Ret.) CODY E. STUART died peacefully on Dec. 29 at home with his children and grandchildren around him. He was a proud WWII veteran and career military officer in the U.S. Air Force until his retirement in 1971. He then worked for the state of Arkansas as a pipeline safety officer until he retired from the state in 1984.
He was born in Nashville, Ark., in 1919, the son of a country veterinarian. He married the love of his life in 1946 and had three children. He was an honest, hardworking and diligent man who always tried to do the right thing. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clancy and Emily Stuart, all of his siblings and his wife, Norma Jean. He leaves behind his three children, Chet E. Stuart and his wife Terri Lee; Vicki L. Smith and her husband Julian; and Keith C. Stuart; his grandchildren, Shea Leslie and Casey Evans Stuart; and a niece Genell Threlkeld to cherish his memory.
Military Memorial Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, in the chapel of Griffin Leggett-Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock 501-835-3515.In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to the American Heart Association. The online obituary, guestbook, and memorial tribute are available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
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CARROLLE HICKMAN TAEGEL, age 83, of Maumelle, Ark., passedaway Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. She was born Dec. 29, 1928, in Warren, Ark., a daughter of Carroll Wood Hickman Sr. and Fonda Maefalda Brundage Hickman. She was a veterinarian assistant havingworked with her late husband Dr. William M. Taegel, and was of the Methodist faith.
Survivors include her three sons, Dan Cowling III and wife Susan, Dane Cowling and wife Virginia, and Lee Cowling and wife Karen all of Little Rock; brother, Carroll W. Hickman Jr. and wife Karin of Banner Elk, N.C.; seven grandchildren, Shannon Benetz of Maumelle, Christopher Cowling of Mayflower, Sarah Cook of Conway, Katey Cowling of Rogers, Matthew and Rose Cowling of Little Rock, and Lauren Johnson of Little Rock; three greatgrandchildren, Eliza Cook, Lanie Cowling, and Brennan Benetz; step-daughter, Susan R. West of Perryville; step-son, William M. Taegel of Anchorage, Alaska; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Emma Hickman and Helen Connor, and one brother Acie Guy Hickman.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at Hope Cemetery, Perryville. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.
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Elder NELSON ANTHONY WATSON went to be with the Lordon Dec. 29, 2011. He is survived by his wife Beverly Watson; son, Antonio (Shaunte) Burnside; daughters, Amberly and Ashley Hicks; parents, Larry and Lorene Watson; two brothers, Derrick (Ann) Watson and Steve Watson; one sister, Para West; seven grandchildren; and a host of several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Family hour will be held Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Jan. 7, 2012, 11 a.m. at Greater New Bibleway C.O.G.I.C. 2217 W. 22nd Street, North Little Rock, Ark., 501-758-9227. Services entrusted to Premier Funeral Home, 1518 S. Battery Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202, 501-376-4800, “Only Heaven Can Serve You Better!” --◊--
JUDY R. WILSON, 64, of North Little Rock went peacefully to be with the Lord on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. She was born on May 20, 1947, to the late Harley and Edith Rankin of Bigelow. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, John; her son Barrett Wilson and wife Nikki; her grandchildren Paige, Addison and Connor Wilson all of Cabot; sister, BettyDivita of Sherwood. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116 (501-791-7400). Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
Arkansas
ALEXANDER - William Edward “Bill” Pope, 87, of Alexander passed away December 30, 2011. Born in North Little Rock to William E. and Erva Metz Pope, he was a United States Army veteran of World War II. Bill retired from Southwestern Bell after 31years of service, and was an avid hunter and fisherman.
He is survived by his wife, Bess Pope; son, Phillip Edward Pope of Little Rock; stepsons, Kenneth L. Jones of Benton and Charles W. Jones Jr. of Little Rock; sister, Gladys Newcomb of Benton; four grandchildren; and nephew, George Newcomb Jr. and wife, Mary, of Benton. Services will be Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 10 a.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court (northwest corner I-630 and Barrow Road), followed by interment with military honors at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mr. Pope's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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AUSTIN - Vetrice Imogene Taylor, 84, of Austin died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. She was born July 5, 1927, in Palestine, Ark., to Raymond and Bessie (Mitchell) Black. She was known for the love she showed to everyone, her love of nature, but most importantly her love for the Lord. Her greatest joy in life was family gathering in her home.
Survivors include four daughters: Debra Johnson and husband, Leon; Mary White; Linda Hood and husband, Eugene; Barbara Billingsley and husband, Kenneth; two brothers, Lloyd Black, Floyd Black; one sister, Katie Branham; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her first husband, R.L. Sullivan; her second husband, Lemuel F. Taylor; her mother and father; one daughter, Patsy Tuttle; one sister, Louise Taylor; one granddaughter, Marla Tuttle; three sons-in-law: Tom Fortenbury, Clint White and Estil Tuttle. Visitation is Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, from 3 until 5 p.m.
Funeral services are 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at Church of God of Prophecy in Des Arc with burial in Cotton Plant Cemetery. Bro. Lloyd Black officiating. Pallbearers are Kenny Billingsley, Travis Billingsley, Eugene Hood, Aaron Johnson, Brian Plante, Justin Skidmore. Honorary pallbearers are Danny Duncan, Bob Garrett, Leon Johnson and Jerry Owen. On-line guest register www.garthfuneralhome.com.
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BATESVILLE - Wanda Lee Casey Girtman, 77, of Batesville died Friday. Survivors: daughters, Debbie Howell, Patti Hudson; brothers, J.R. Casey, Cordell Casey; sister, Margaret West; five grandchildren. Services: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Roller-Crouch Chapel, Batesville. Burial: Fairview Cemetery, Cave City. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Monday. Memorials: Shriners Hospital, Memorial Contributions, Attention: Susan Bland, 2001 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, Mo. 63131 Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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BEE BRANCH - Mary Katherine Kohl Goodwin, 78, of Bee Branch, Ark., departed this life on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at her home. She was born Nov. 17,1933, at Scotland, Ark., to the late Clem A. and Myrtle I. (Nixon) Kohl. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clem and Myrtle Kohl; her brother, Clem Kohl; her daughter, MaryKatherine Hicks; and her husband, Fred Goodwin. She is survived by four children: William R. Wheeler; Thomas J. Wheeler and wife, Sarah; Bonnie S. Payne and husband, Roger; and Charles D. Hicks Jr.; eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
In spite of a lengthy illness, she enjoyed life and spent time sharing God’s love and promise to the bereaved and others in need of encouragement and strength through her poetry for every occasion and sharing her ministry with others. Mary K. was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church and strived to help others in spiritual and physical distress until her illness kept her at home. She is dearly loved and will be missed very much.
Pallbearers: Joe McHam, Paul Rhoda, Keith Bonds, Brad Freeman, Jerry Pico and Michael Crowell. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at Roller-Mcnu*tt Funeral Home Chapel, Clinton, Ark. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Clinton First Baptist Church with Pastor Jim Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at Bradley Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Roller-Mcnu*tt Funeral Home of Clinton, Ark. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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BEEBE - William R. “Bill” Clark Jr., 79, of Beebe left us on Dec.31, 2011. Born to a minister of the church of Christ in Kansas City, Mo., Bill attended Harding University followed by Eastern New Mexico University for a master’s degree. Bill servedin the military special forces during the Korean Conflict. He then taught speech, music and Bible in high schools and served as principal before joining his brother in business in the northwest.
He reared his family in the state of Washington, serving as elder and minister of the Lord’s church. There he helped many young people, including some from the Middle East, to find the Lord and to further their education. While serving as a minister in Los Angeles with his own children in the university, he was asked to teach in Israel and subsequently became a missionary there for 17 years.
He is affectionately remembered in Israel as “The Lion” and was often asked when he was returning “home” (to Israel). In 1999, he returned to the states to serve as senior minister and as a shepherd for his sponsoring congregation, Springfield Church of Christ in Virginia. Bill was minister there until health issues limited him; he retired in August of 2003, to Beebe, Ark., just south of Harding University, where he continued to teach and to write. While in Israel, Bill researched Greek plus 20 versions of the New Testament in order to write clear, “newspaper vocabulary” translation - The Galilee Translation Project New Covenant. This was then translated into Arabic. The publications of both the English GTP and the Arabic GTP were done in East Jerusalem, and they were distributed throughout Israel and Palestine as well as parts of the U.S. Currently, this is available on web sites of the Internet.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Donnie Clark, and a dear grandson, Joseph Mouawad. He will be held in the memories of his wife, Joan; daughters: Susan (Warren Ray) Grogan, Virginia (Eddie) Mouawad, and Olla (Khantous) Hamilton; sons: David (Linda), Robert, Daniel (Barbara) and Mishel Munayyer; grandsons: Davis Beasley; Aaron, Alec and Ian Clark; and Zackary and Clinton Mouawad; granddaughters: Diana (Matt) Wisdom; Julie (Andy) Jones; Annie Beasley; Mary Catherine (Jon) Schallert; Adrienne (Tony) French; and Carmen, Kristina, Brittany and Nicole Clark; nine great-grandchildren; sisters: Betty Goyne and Dee (Carlton) Burke, and a brother, Lewis Clark.
Family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2011, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe. Funeral services will be at Westbrook Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Wednesday with burial in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock. www.westbrookfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - John “Johnny” Brown, 53, Benton, died Friday. Survivors: son, Colby Brown; daughters, Raelynn Brown and Tai Morehead; mother, Loella Brown; brother, Jerry Brown; his best friend, Tonya Brown; and three grandchildren. Visitation 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Ashby Funeral Home. Services 2 p.m. Tuesday, Ashby’s, burial, Walnut Bottoms Cemetery.
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BENTON - Robbie Moseley Clark, 78, of Benton passed away Dec. 30, 2011. She is survived by her daughter, Mitzi Huett of Benton; three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and other family and friends. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court, Little Rock (501) 224-2200. The online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - William J. (Bill) Jay, age 67, of Benton, joined handswith Jesus on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. Bill was born in Newton, Miss., on June 23, 1944, to Daniel and Lillie Adams Jay, who preceded him in death along with brother, Dan Jay Jr., andone nephew, Jay Starnes. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Frances Jay of Benton; daughter and son-in-law, Starla and Greg Morgan; two grandsons, Garrett and Eli Morgan of Alexander; two sisters, Elaine Starnes of Chalmette, La., and Lillian Hardwell and her husband Johnny of Braxton, Miss.; four nephews and five nieces.
Bill worked for the United States Department of Agriculture for 31 years. He worked his way from egg grader, poultry grades, egg products grader to be regional director for egg products, covering 10 states and Puerto Rico. Bill was a member of Spring Creek Missionary Baptist Church. Because of his generosity of purchasing shoes for needy children, he became lovingly known as “the shoe angel” at Harmony Grove Schools.
Visitation will be 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Forest Hills Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff at Baptist Memorial Hospital at Little Rock, the Heart Clinic, and especially the nurses and caregivers of the ninth floor, CVICU, CCU and the rehab center. Their care of Bill was not only excellent but the care and prayers that were given to the family were greatly appreciated. We would also like to thank the staff at Bishop Park for “cheering him on” as he tried to improve his health. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - Sharon LaNan Ottens, age 58, of Benton, passed away Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. She was born Aug. 25, 1953 in Benton, Ark., to the late John Horace Hayes Jr. and Mildred L. Reed Hayes. Mrs. Ottens was a secretary at the Alexander Youth Service Center and a member of the Salem United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her husband, Thomas Ottens; son, Scott Ottens and wife Sarah; brother, John Hayes; twin grandchildren, Aubrey and Jackson Ottens, all of Benton, and numerous aunts, uncles, extended family and friends.
Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1 at Ashby Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2 at New Rosemont Cemetery. Rev. David White will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salem United Methodist Church or any animal shelter of your choice. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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BRYANT - Charles Jeffrey Curtis, “Jeff,” age 66, of Bryant,Ark., died Dec. 29, 2011, after a long battle with cancer. Jeff was born on May 27, 1945, in Little Rock to Charles Andrew and Jimmye Raye Ramsey Curtis. He was married to Sondra SueHaile Curtis in 1974. He is survived by his wife, Sondra, and their children: Brendan Keith Moore and wife, Kimberly Lynn Moore, of Little Rock; Jordan Alexandra Curtis Sherrod and husband, Jordan Duane, of Fayetteville; Susan Elisabeth Curtis of Little Rock and father, Andy Curtis of Benton. Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Jimmye Raye Curtis, and paternal grandparents, Johnny and Jeffie Curtis of Paron, and maternal grandparents, Houston and Minnie Belle Ramsey of Shaw.
Jeff graduated from Benton High School in 1963. In 1967 he received a B.A. degree from Henderson State University, where he was president of the Theta Xi Fraternity. In 1986 Jeff earned a master's degree in health services administration from UALR. He did an administrative residency at Baptist Health and served as the night administrator for the Baptist system. Jeff also served as president and CEO of Hot Spring County Medical Center inMalvern, Ark., for over 13 years, ending his career as associate director of operations for Greenwood Leflore Hospital in Greenwood, Miss., in May of 2010, due to his health. He was a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and served on the board of the Arkansas Hospital Association.
Honorary pallbearers will be Walter Ramsey, Curtis Rickard, John Rickard, Art Patrick, Terry Kidd, Scott Curtis, Glen Hickey, Jim Teeter and Russ Harrington.
Memorial services at Ashby Funeral Home will be held Jan. 7, 2012, at 2 p.m. with Rev. Dooley Fowler officiating. In lieu of flowers, Jeff’s wishes were to make donations to the Humane Society of Saline County, P.O. Box 305, Benton, Ark. 72018-0305. On line guest book at www.
ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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CAMDEN - James C. Fultz, age 91, of Camden, died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011. He was born Dec. 20, 1920, at Eagle Mills, Ark. He is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Mary Beth Milner Fultz; parents, Mr. and Mrs. James E. Fultz; and sister, Rebecca FultzBarner Hutton. He is survived by his nephew, Jim Barner and wife, Zenita, of Harmony Grove; niece, Martha B. Tate of Texarkana, Ark.; and special sisterin-law, Virginia Milner Berry of Texarkana, Texas. He was a U.S. Marine veteran of World War II and awarded the Bronze Star medal and two Purple Hearts for wounds received on Guam and Iwo Jima. He was a member and elder of the First Presbyterian Church in Camden. Mr. Fultz was an avid hunter and member of Smead Deer Camp for 58 years.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Mt. Horeb Cemetery with Rev. Erin Kaye officiating. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The First Presbyterian Church of Camden, 313 Greening Street,Camden, Ark. 71701. Proctor Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register visit www.proctorfuneralhome.com.
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CONWAY - Iona Howerton Gwin, age 78, of Conway, Ark .,passed away Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. She was born Oct. 2, 1933, in Bluffton, Ark., to Robert Silas and Bertha Gertrude James Howerton. She was an aide for the Conway Human Development Center and a member of the Bigelow Assembly of God.
Survivors include three sons, Larry Paul Gwin of Golconda, Ill., Ricky Dale and Randall Lynn Gwin, both of Conway; two daughters, Patsy Jean Cullum of Vilonia, Brenda Kay White of Conway; a sister, Margaret Bryant of Dumas; two brothers, Bobby Howerton of Visalia, Calif., J.E. Howerton of Marianna; six grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at the Harris chapel, with Sister Euna Gibby officiating; burial will be at Volman Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.
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CONWAY - Gloria Ann Anderson Nunley, 65, of Conway, passed away Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. Visitation 5-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, at Roller-Mcnu*tt Funeral Home, Conway. Funeral service 9 a.m. Monday, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Conway. Graveside 2 p.m. at Smith Cemetery in Vendor, Ark. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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DANVILLE - Ann Reynolds, 77, of Danville died Friday, Dec. 30. Survivors: husband, Don Reynolds; children, Don Reynolds Jr., Jonesboro, Lawrence Reynolds, Paris, Belinda Piggott, Booneville; 12 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren. Funeral: Monday, 2 p.m., Cornwell Chapel, Danville. Interment: Macedonia Cemetery. Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville.
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GLENWOOD - Gertrude Hunter Duck, age 73, of Glenwood, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. Services will be 2 p.m. Monday in Glenwood Church of Christ with burial in Glenwood Cemetery under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Glenwood. Visitation will be Monday, 1-2 p.m., at the church. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.
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GOSNELL - Mitsuko Ishida Patterson, 78, of Gosnell, died Dec. 29, 2011 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. Funeral will be Jan. 5, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. in Cobb Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends Jan. 4, 2012, 6-8 p.m., Cobb Funeral Home. Online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com.
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GURDON - Darlene Stubbs Hendricks, 84, died Dec. 29, 2011. Visitation will be from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. prior to service at 2 p.m. with Bro. Mike Taylor officiating in the chapel of Pharr Funeral Home of Gurdon. Interment will be in Rose Hedge Cemetery. The online guest book is available at pharrfuneralhomes.com.
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HOT SPRINGS - Louise Galbraith Dierks, 93, died at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, Texas on Nov. 26, 2011. Her death followed that of her husband, Frederick M. Dierks, in April. Her exuberant life will be celebrated at the First Presbyterian Church, 213 Whittington Ave., Hot Springs, Ark., on Jan. 5 at 1 p.m., followed by a gathering of friends and family in the Fellowship Hall.
Louise Lane Galbraith was born in Evanston, Ill., on March 29, 1918, and grew up in the Glencoe, Ill., area. After graduating from New Trier High School in 1939, she attended Northwestern University as a journalism major. In 1942, she and Fred married at her family home and moved to Kansas City, where they started their family. During World War II, they briefly lived in Washington, D.C. In 1946, they permanently relocated to Hot Springs, due to Fred’s family business, Dierks Forests Inc. During her time there, she became very active in the community, particularly in the arts, and she and Fred extensively traveled the world. In 1974, they built a second home in Steamboat Springs, Colo ., chosenfor its natural beauty and varied activities to enjoy with family and friends. They later had a home in Shoreline, Wash., to spend their time with their family, including great-grandchildren.
As her life work, Louise became a professional artist. In 1962, she earned a degree in art education from Henderson State University, and continued her training at the Arkansas Art Center under the guidance of numerous wellknown instructors in sculpture, painting and other art forms. In addition, she did graduate work at Syracuse University Graduate School of Sculpture in New York. After 1974, through her joy of back country hiking and skiing around Steamboat Springs, her work became influenced by the shapes and textures found in nature. Louise became distinguished for her sculptures in cast bronze, cast aluminum and welded steel combined with blown glass. Her work had been accepted in over 20 regional and local shows and received numerous awards, themost noted being the Purchase Prize at the 1977 Delta Show at the Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock, where it was selected to be in their permanent collection. And in 1993, her work was chosen for the Arkansas Artists exhibition in Washington, D.C. Throughout her career, galleries in New York and Arkansas represented her work, which may be seen in public and private collections in Arkansas, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, New York, California, and Washington, D.C.
Louise’s passion for art was equaled by her generosity. Her philanthropic efforts included being a founding member of both the Arkansas Art Center in Little Rock and the Hot Springs Southern Artists Association, where she was director of art education for two years. She donated and helped build a bronze foundry for Henderson State University.She was appointed by Governor Winthrop Rockefeller to the Arkansas Board of National Arts and Humanities Council, and also served on the board of the Arkansas State Festival of Arts. In addition, she was an active member of both the National and Arkansas Associations of Art Education, Fine Arts Club of Arkansas, American Federation of Arts, among numerous other organizations. Her support of the arts in Steamboat Springs included Steamboat Arts Council, Strings in the Mountains, and Literary Sojourn.
She is survived by her daughters Suzanne Hooper, Constance Whitney, Kathryn Greene, six grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Her ebullient life, enthusiasm for art and nature and generosity of spirit will be missed by her family and communities. In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made in her memory to the Nature Conservancy, P.O. Box 6014, Albert Lea, Minn. 56007, or a charity of one's choice.
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HOT SPRINGS - Joe Louis Langford, 91, Hot Springs, departed this life Dec. 23, 2011. Survivors, son, Joe (Socorro) Langford Jr.; four grandchildren. Celebration of life service, 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, Levi Towers, Hot Springs. Arrangements entrusted to Larry G. Acklin Funeral Home, 8821 Colonel Glenn, Little Rock. 565-1800 www.larrygacklinfuneralhomes.com.
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HUFFMAN - Mary L. Huffman, 77, of the Huffman community, died Dec. 29 at her home. Survived by three children; one brother, three sisters. Funeral will be Jan. 1, 2 p.m., Cobb Funeral Home Chapel. Burial Elmwood Cemetery. Visitation, December 31, 6-8 p.m., Cobb Funeral Home. Online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com.
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LONDON - Rickey Lee Simpson, 61, of London, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at the Shinn Chapel with burial in Rest Haven Memorial Park, by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Online obituary/guestbook: www.shinnfuneral.com.
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LONOKE - Martha Carlene Hester, 85, of Lonoke went home to be with her Lord Dec. 30, 2011. She was preceded in death by her husband Jake Hester, daughter Kay Hester, mother and father Carl and Margaret High Plummer, brother, Bobby Plummer and sister, Twala Plummer.
She is survived by daughter Donna Hester, one grandson Chad (Misty Hatfield) Hester, three great-granddaughters, Hannah, Sarah, and Leah Hester, one brother, Dub Plummer, sister, Betsy Lacy, all of Lonoke, and sister, Joan Herring of Stuttgart. She was caregiver to two special young people, John and Julie Pennington of Lonoke, also surviving, one step-daughter Shirley Hobbs of Batesville, Miss., and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins that she loved dearly.
Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, at Grace Chapel, Smyrna Road with funeral services following at 2 p.m., arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Burial will be in Hester Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hester Cemetery Fund or Arkansas Hospice, St. Vincent Hospital, Little Rock. Online guest book, www.boydfuneralhome.net.
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LONOKE - Joseph Phillip Melton Jr., of Lonoke, died on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. He was born on May 10, 1929, to the late Joseph Phillip Melton Sr. and Floe Reeves Melton. He attended Hendrix College and then the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville,where he was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. In 1953, at the age of 23, he was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives, where he served for eight years. In his firstterm, he was selected as one of the top 10 members of the House of Representatives by radio and newspaper reporters.
In 1955, he was appointed to the Lonoke School Board and served on the board for 19 years, several times as president. In 1960, he purchased Melton Motor Company, which he successfully ran until his retirement in 2002. In 1962, he was president of Lonoke Industrial Development Commission and he was instrumental in the location of Ottenheimer Brothers Manufacturing, Jacuzzi and Remington Arms in Lonoke. In 1973, he was appointed to the Arkansas Racing Commission and served from 1973 to 1981, and he was reappointed again in 1983 until 2000.
He was chairman of the Racing Commission for four years of his 26 years on the commission. In 1986, he served as president of the board of directors of Rolling Hills Country Club. In 1990, he was chosen as Lonoke Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year; in 1991 he served as president and in 1996 they named him Citizen of the Year. In 1991, he was chosen as the Arkansas Volunteer of the Year by Industrial Developers of Arkansas. In 1992, he was named to the board of directors of First State Bank and served on the board until his death.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Morris Melton, daughters, Belinda Downing and husband Dr. Dave Downing, Jo Anne Mincey and husband Dr. Greg Mincey, and Karen Dunne and six grandsons. He is also survived by his sister, Rosemary McKenzie and her husband Richard.
There will be a memorial service at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, at Lonoke First United Methodist Church with visitation after the service. Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. There will be a private burial of cremains later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church he attended, First United Methodist Church, 220 S. Center Street, Lonoke, Ark. 72086, or the Lonoke Scholarship Foundation, c/o First State Bank, 101 S. Center Street, Lonoke, Ark. 72086. Online guest book, www.boydfuneralhome.net.
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MARKED TREE - Harry Joseph Webb Jr., 61, of Marked Tree, formerly of Helena, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, in Baptist East Hospital in Memphis. He was a member of St. Norberts Catholic Church in Marked Tree. He was a longtime resident of Helena and Marked Tree. He was preceded in death by his father HarryWebb Sr. and one brother.
Survivors include his wife Judi Webb of the home; sons, Josh Webb of Jonesboro, Burke Webb of Southaven, Miss.; daughter, Ann Marie Webb of Conway; mother, Jane Webb of Jonesboro; sisters, Mary Jane Manning (Jim) of Crossett, Martha Mazingo (Larry) of Meridian, Miss., and Melanie Howard of Rogers.
Visitation and Rosary will be Monday from 5-7 p.m. at St Norberts Catholic Church in Marked Tree. Funeral service will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Jonesboro. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the charity of your choice.
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MAYFLOWER - Shelba J. Miller, 73, of Mayflower passedaway Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. Born in Sugar Grove, Ark., she was a daughter to the late Richard Cecil and Sybil (Pettitt) Hise. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister, who loved to quilt, sew, knit and crochet. She was a member of Little Rock West Assembly of God Church. Shelba graduated from England High School and worked in food service for the Little Rock School District.
She was also preceded in death by two infant sons, Richard Allen Miller and Allen Arthur Miller Jr. Survivors include her husband, Allen A. Miller of Mayflower, children, Stuart Miller and wife Trisha of Mayflower, Sheri Balderree and husband Jeff of Vacaville, Calif., and Susan Ellin and husband George of Bradenton, Fla.; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a brother, Jim Hise and wife Sue; sisters: Shirley Fulmer and husband Bob, Mildred Biren and husband Glen, Kay Hendrix and husband Al and Zephyr Hise and partner Lynn, and a host of extended family and friends. The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 5, at Roller Mcnu*tt Funeral Home in Conway. On line guest book:www.rollerfuneralhome.com.
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MAYFLOWER - Minnie Lou Wilson, 72, of Mayflower, diedFriday, Dec. 30, 2011. Graveside services are 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Mayflower Cemetery with Bro. Terry Long officiating. Visitation is Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, from 6-8 p.m. atRoller-Mcnu*tt Funeral Home in Conway. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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MIDWAY - Martha Ann “Marty” Baker, 75, of Midway died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, inMountain Home. A gathering of family and friends will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at the Conner-Hankins Funeral Home. Arrangements are by Conner-Hankins Funeral Home. Online guestbook may be found at www.conner-hankinsfuneralhome.com.
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MORO - Wilma Baker, 62, died Wednesday. Survivors: husband, Michael Baker, mother, Helen Walker, children, Michael (Michele) Baker, LeeAnn Baker, Terah (Kevin) Rash, Daymi (Fernando) Perez, brothers, Bobby Walker, Floyd Walker, 13 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren. Visitation 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Wheatley Civic Center. Services 11 a.m. Monday, Wheatley Civic Center. Interment Oakgrove Cemetery, Moro. Guestbook www.bobnealandsons.com.
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MORRILTON - Iva Jean Jackson Durbin, 81, of Morrilton passed away on Dec. 30, 2011. She was born Jan. 2, 1930, to Carl and Fatha West Jackson, and is preceded in death by her husband, Henry Durbin. Survivors include her son, David (Maribeth) Durbin of Atkins, grandson Phil Merriott of North Little Rock, sister Carlene (B.L.) Chambliss of Greenbrier, brother Carroll (Nadine) Jackson of Morrilton, and her special friend Ashley Schluterman of Russellville who was like a daughter to her.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Harris Chapel, Morrilton, with Rev. Dwight Scott officiating. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at the funeral home.
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MOUNTAIN VIEW - Bess Gentry, 76, of Mountain View, Ark., passed away Dec. 27, 2011. She is survived by her children: Fred Austin III, Kay Piedascalzi, Judy Passmore and Cindy Gentry; five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and her beloved dog and faithful companion, Divot. Bess was a State Farm Insurance agent for 20 years. The family is asking that donations be made to the Mountain View Art Guild, the Stone County Humane Society or the Stone County Library in lieu of flowers. Arrangements are under the direction of Kirby & Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Memorial services will be at a later date.
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PINE BLUFF - Patricia “Pat” Jo Quarles, 67, of Pine Bluff, Ark., passed away Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Monday at Buie Funeral Home in Sheridan. Graveside funeral service: 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Pine Bluff, Ark. Arrangements entrusted to: Buie Funeral Home & Crematory of Sheridan, 1301 S. Rock Street, Sheridan, Ark. 870-942-3231. Email: [emailprotected]. Website: www.buiefuneralhome.com.
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SHERIDAN - Mary Tolson Bailey, 82, of Sheridan, Ark., died Friday. Survivors: sons, John, Roy, James, Sandy, Tommy, and William; daughter, Mary Ann Irby; sister, Annie Howard; 19 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren. Funeral: 2 p.m. Monday, Chapel. Burial: Lost Creek Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, 1 p.m. until service time. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.
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SHERIDAN - Mason Allen Walters of Sheridan, Ark., was born and went to be with the Lord on Dec. 27, 2011. He was the infant son of Logan Thompson and Devon Walters, both of Sheridan. Graveside service: Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at 10 a.m. at Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan, (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.
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SULPHUR ROCK - Thomas W. Smith, 74, of Sulphur Rock died Friday. Survivors: wife, Joyce Smith; mother, Rosie Smith; sons, Anthony Smith, Tommy Smith, Keith Smith; daughter, Loretta Smith; four brothers; three sisters; nine grandchildren Services: 10 a.m. Monday, First Pentecostal Church, Sulphur Rock. Burial: Mac’s Chapel Cemetery by Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville. Visitation: 2-4 p.m. Sunday. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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WHITE HALL - Eva Nell Dice Donaldson, 70, of White Hall, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011. Memorial services will be Wednesday, 10 a.m. at Central Baptist Church. Private interment will follow in Hardin Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6-8 at Fuller Hale-South Funeral Chapel. Online condolences: www.Fuller-Funerals.com.
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WYNNE - Jack “David” Collins, 69, Wynne, died Friday. Survivors: wife, Helen; three children, Forrest, Roland and Delores; sister, Juanita; seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren. Funeral services, Monday, 10 a.m., Caldwell Baptist Church. Interment at Harris Chapel Cemetery. Visitation, Monday, 2-4 p.m., Thompson-Wilson Wynne Funeral Home. (870) 238-9400. www.thompsonwilsonfh.com.
Out-of-state
GREEN VALLEY, Ariz. - Nan La-Verne Faucett, 88, Green Valley, Ariz. Born September 30, 1923, in Coal Hill. Daughter of the late Howard and Bess Hess Baskin. Widow of Herman Faucett. Preceded in death by daughter, Tandy Lee Faucett; son, James Robert Faucett; brothers, Robert Howard Baskin, James Melvin Baskin. Survivors, daughter, Nancy (Doug) Sagal, Green Valley, Ariz., grandchildren, Jennifer Faucett, Conway, Neil Brashears, Texas; nieces, Roberta Coffee, Clarksville, Rebecca Richie, Clarksville; cousins, Liz Scefer, Fort Smith, Linda Anderson, Texas. Service 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, Hardwicke Funeral Chapel. Burial, Hess Cemetery.
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GREENSBORO, N.C. - Dr. Martha Helen Canaday, age 93, of Greensboro, N.C., died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, in Asheboro, N.C. She was born in Malvern on June 13, 1918, to the late Henry Newton Canaday Sr. and Martha Adkins Canaday at their home on Pine Bluff Street.Reared and receiving her early education in Malvern and Hot Springs, she graduated from Hot Springs High School in 1936. She attended Ouachita Baptist University for two years and earned her B.S.E. from Texas State College for Women in 1940, and earned her master’s degree from LSU in 1945. Dr. Canaday received her doctorate in education from Penn State in 1962. She taught home economics at Malvern High School from 1941-1944. Dr. Canaday was instrumental in starting the Malvern Chamber of Commerce. She was a graduate assistant at LSU from 1944-45.
Dr. Canaday was professor of home economics and also served as the dean of women at UCA from 1945-56. During the summer of 1956, she was a visiting professor at LSU, and from 1956-58 was an instructor at Penn State. In 1958 she began a long association with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, retiring in 1984, and currently bore the title of professor emeritus.
She was also preceded in death by a twin brother, Henry Newton Canaday Jr., and a sister, Elizabeth Canaday Green. Dr. Canaday is survived by a nephew, Henry Thomas Canaday of Washington, D.C., and by her adopted family and caregivers, Dr. Robert Shackleford, Rachel Fesmire and their children, Kristi, Kori, and Will Shackleford, Chuck Fesmire, and Julia Hanover.
Her funeral will be at two o’clock Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 2, 2012, in the chapel of J.A. Funk Funeral Home with Dr. Robert Shackleford Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service. A private committal will take place on the family plot in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorials are requested to the Helen Canaday Scholarship Fund at UNCG, 1000 Spring Garden Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27403. Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.
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SALISBURY, N.C. - Robert Alan Sorrels, age 48, of Salisbury, N.C., passed away Dec. 28, 2011. He was born July 8, 1963, in Atwater, Calif. Memorial services will be held at a later date by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton, Ark. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.
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MEMPHIS - William Earl Maxwell Jr., 57, of Memphis, Tenn., passed away Dec. 10, 2011. Survived by his wife, Rebecca; his parents, Dorothy and Earl Maxwell; brother, Richard Norris; sisters, Marilyn Grey and Glenda Morris. Arrangements will be made at a later date, by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.
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DALLAS - “Keye” Richard Harkey Ratley II, 35, of Dallas, Texas, diedSaturday, Dec. 24, 2011. He was born Sept. 2, 1976, in Little Rock, to Richard Harkey Ratley and Rosie Loveday Ratley. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Selma and L.A. Ratley, and Shirley Loveday, and his uncle Johnny Bryant. After graduating from Catholic High School for Boys in 1994, Keye attended the University of Arkansas Little Rock for one year, where he was on the dean’s list.He later moved to Dallas in 1997. He graduated from the Art Institute of Dallas in 1999, where he earned a degree in multimedia. He joined The Integer Group in Dallas in 2005 to present, where he worked as an associate director of multimedia services.
Keye was a devoted son, brother, friend and hero. He brought love and laughter into the lives of many. His quick wit and sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew and loved him. His talent, creativity and passion for technology and design were not only put into his work, but, he also extended his gift by educating others about his field. Two main unique characteristics he will always be remembered for are his laugh and his moustache.
Keye is survived by his parents, his sister, Lauren, and brother, Tyler, his grandfather Buster Loveday and his wife, Ruby, all of Little Rock; his girlfriend, Kelly Welch, of Mesquite, Texas; his aunts Sandra Bryant, Linda Carroll, and Robin Smith, his uncle Michael Smith, his first cousins Melanie Arendt-Dubose, Michael Farris, Jay Bryant, Piper Smith, and Molly Smith, his second cousins Zachary Arendt, Aaron Arendt, Annie Bryant, Baylee Bryant, Hannah Bryant, and Trevor Dubose, all of Little Rock; and, especially, his many friends and coworkers in Dallas and beyond.
A visitation will be held Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Little Rock, immediately followed by a graveside service at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Samer Salfiti, Cody Wagner, Bryan Rachal, Derek Barnes, David Morley, and Micah Alexander. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to the Thea Foundation, 401 N.Main Street, North Little Rock, Ark.; the Keye Ratley Scholarship Foundation, Keye Ratley Scholarship Foundation will be established; or First United Methodist Church, 723 Center Street, Little Rock, Ark. Arrangements under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
