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, at arkansasonline.com/obituaries/.
PULASKI COUNTY
Charles David Adkins, 69, of Sherwood.
Frankie Jean Baltz, 86, of North Little Rock.
CharlesEtta Bolden, 84, of Little Rock.
Tommy Lee Bolden, 56, of Little Rock.
Susie Ann Carr, 63, of Little Rock.
Ina Louise Chandler, 75, of Little Rock.
Goforth Gordon Coleman, 70, of Little Rock.
Bruce Anthony Connelley, 49, of Little Rock.
Betty Jean Daniels, 75, of Little Rock.
Horace Alvin Elliott, 76, of Little Rock.
Velma Lucile Fowler, 84, of Little Rock.
Linda Griswold, 48, of Little Rock.
Maxine Honda of Mabelvale.
Elizabeth “Liz” Miller Jones, 52, of Little Rock.
Guy Stanley Long, 55, of Sherwood.
Emma Lee McMaster, 67, of Jacksonville.
Jalen Montgomery, 8, of North Little Rock.
Billy Rhodes, 59, of North Little Rock.
Dovie Ruby, 100, of Little Rock.
Edward “Smitty” Smith, 81, of Little Rock.
Rebecca June Taylor, 54, of Little Rock.
Garland Max Thorn, 88, of North Little Rock.
Steven Randall Thurman, 52, of Little Rock.
Judith Sandra Vogel, 70, of Little Rock.
Fernell Warren, 89, of Little Rock.
James Richard White, 86, of Little Rock.
Vernon A. Williams, 91, of Sherwood.
Mary L. Williamson-Smith, 79, of Little Rock.
ELSEWHERE IN ARKANSAS
BATESVILLE Gracie Lorene Parker, 89.
BEEBE George Oliver, 72.
BENTON Bruce Ryan Simpson, infant. William Traywick, 83.
Mary Catherine Willis, 74.
Donna Jane Wood, 69.
BRYANT Amy M. Johnson, 40.
CABOT Frankie Emogene Gray, 91.
DUMAS Mary Grant, 67.
EUREKA SPRINGS Ruby King, 75.
FAYETTEVILLE Patricia Keith Hedges, 57.
GREENBRIER Larry Glen Freeman, 62.
HOT SPRINGS James Hardy Sr, 51.
LAKEVIEW Bobby D. McWilliams, 58.
MARSHALL Ula Lee Lawrence, 60.
McCRORY Billy Dave Smith. 80.
McDOUGAL Zane Grey Wright, 86.
PANGBURN Earl Dean Wise, 83.
PANSY Willie John Johnston, 79.
PINE BLUFF Michael Eugene Brooks, 58.
TUMBLING SHOALS Forney “Bob” Ward, 78.
WHITE HALL Lanera Beatrice Jackson, 84.
WRIGHT Jay Lynn Oswalt, 52.
OUT-OF-STATE
CANAL WINCHESTER, Ohio Lucille Virginia Pressnall, 89.
Pulaski County
CHARLES DAVID ADKINS SR., 69, Sherwood, died February 27, 2012. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Adkins; children, Charles Adkins Jr. and Angelina Adkins; two grandchildren, and three siblings. Baring Baptist Church will be receiving family/ friends Friday, March 2, 2012 from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Arrangements by Arkansas Funeral Care.
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FRANKIE JEAN BRIGGS BALTZ, age 86, of North Little Rock, died Sunday, February 26th , 2012 at her home. She was born May 10, 1925 in Briggsville, Arkansas. After graduating from Draughan’s School of Business, Frankie married George Edward (Jack) Baltz on August 19th, 1950. They were married for 59 years. She worked for International Harvester Company for 18 years and for Frank Lyon Company for 31 years, making lifelong friends during this time.
Frankie was preceded in death by her husband George E. (Jack) Baltz; her parents, James Patrick “Budger” and Bertha Buford Briggs; and one brother, J.B. Briggs. She is survived by one brother, O.L. Briggs of Briggsville, Arkansas and a number of nephews and nieces.
Frankie touched the lives of all who knew her with her smile, charmand wit, and maintained her sense of humor throughout her entire life. She was a joy to be near and will truly be missed.
A private burial service will be held at a later date at Briggs Memorial Park, Briggsville, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Please visit Frankie’s online registry at: www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
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CHARLESETTA BOLDEN, 84, of Little Rock, departed this life February22, 2012. Family hour: 6-7 p.m., Friday at Robinson Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Service: 11 a.m., Saturday at Paradise Baptist Church, 820 H Street, North Little Rock. 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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TOMMY LEE BOLDEN, 56, of Little Rock, departed this life February 26,2012. Tommy was a truck driver and also a bus driver in the educational field. He leaves to cherish his memory: wife, Janette Bolden; daughter, Tasha Nicole Bolden; step-son, Aubrey Cross; step-daughter,Valencia Cross; two grandchildren, Tashunna Lowe and Tyler Lever; a host of brothers, sisters, other family and friends. Family hour: 6-7 p.m., Friday and Funeral Service: 11 a.m., Saturday, both to be held at Liberty Hill Baptist Church, 2801 South Spring Street, Little Rock, Pastor Frederick Haynes, eulogist. 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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SUSIE A. CARR, 63, of Little Rock, departed this life February 22, 2012.Previously omitted: sister, Pearl Smith. Funeral Service: 11 a.m., today at First Baptist Church, 2015 Main St., North Little Rock, Pastor D.L. Richardson, eulogist. Services entrusted to RobinsonMortuary, 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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INA LOUISE CHANDLER, 75, of Little Rock, Arkansas went to bewith the Lord on Sunday, February 26, 2012. She was born September 2, 1936 in Washington, Oklahoma to the late Ray Smith and Evelyn Chitwood Smith. She was a homemaker and member of the Mabelvale Pike Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Marcy Louis Flynn; sister, Deloris June Nichols; brothers, Eddie Lynn Smith; Phillip Ray Smith and stepmother, Polly Smith. She is survived by her husband, Maurice C. Chandler; sons, Stephen Brent Chandler of Little Rock; Clinton Craig Chandler (Jane) of Centerton; nine grandchildren, Christopher Michael Flynn; Bryan Paul Flynn; Alex Keith Flynn; Aaron Scott Flynn; William Blake Chandler; Victoria Rose Chandler; Bethany Grace Chandler; Isaac Duran Flynn; Anna Louise Flynn; sisters, Carol Ann Julian of Van Buren; Mary Evelyn Shumake of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; brother, Kerry Wayne Smith of Branson, Missouri; and stepfather, Paul Branson of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Friday, March 2, 2012 at Roller-Drummond Funeral Home, 10900 Interstate 30, Little Rock, Arkansas 72209 (501) 455-5800 with Mr. Don Pruitt officiating. Burial to follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/drummond.
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GOFORTH GORDON COLEMAN, 70, of Little Rock, Ark. passed February 25, 2012. He was known for his compassion, gentle spirit, and giving heart. Goforth was a devoted family man, community oriented and an advocate for humanity.
He was preceded in death by both parents, Rural and Sallie Coleman; brother, Chester Coleman; and sister, Pauline Coleman Trotter. Goforth was a graduate of Horace Mann High School Class of 1961 and Philander Smith College Class of 1965. He is survived by his son, Derrick Coleman (Kristi); daughter, Ashley Coleman both from Little Rock; five grandchildren, Kolbi, Kaydon, Kristian, Asheik, and Skye; brothers, Edward (Bernadette) and Melvin (Stephanie); sister, Mary Williams; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be Saturday, March 3, 2012, 11 a.m., at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, 1109 S. State Street, Little Rock, Ark. The family will receive friends, Friday, March 2, 2012, 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202. (501) 372-1305.
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BRUCE ANTHONY CONNELLEY, 49, died February 20, 2012. Services will be held on Saturday, March 3 at 1:30 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), officiated by Deacon Bill Wrape. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Bruce’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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BETTY DANIELS of Little Rock passed away Sunday, February 26, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clause and Emma Daniels; her brothers, W.D. “Red” Daniels and Walter “Pete” Daniels; and sister, Espa Walmsley. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great great-nieces and nephews, all of which loved, cherished, and respected her. She will be missed by all. Thanks to her special friends, Elaine Tidwell, Anna Brent, Marilyn Fitzgerald, and Jean Harkrider. To honor her, do a good deed and help someone today. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Thursday, February 27, 2012, at the funeral home. Funeral will be 2 p.m., Friday, in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 W. 12th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Cemetery, 10200 Hwy. 5 North, Alexander, Arkansas. 501-661-9111. Online guestbook for Betty is available at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to your favorite charity. The family wishes to thank the staff of Good Shepherd Rehab and Nursing Facility for their excellent care during her stay there. Also, Odyssey Hospice Center for their excellent care.
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HORACE ALVIN ELLIOTT, 76, of Little Rock, departed this life February 24, 2012. Horace loved driving trucks and was employed as a truck driver for over 40 years. Preceded in death by his children, Ophelia Elliott Rudley and Lisa Elliott Smith; parents, James andThessia Elliott Sr.; brothers, Harold and Dois Elliott. He leaves to cherish his memory: wife, Thelma Jean Pennington Elliott; children, Teresa Waits, Marcus Elliott, Jenesha, Brandy, Nicole, Cedric, Fredrick and Deshaun Pennington; brothers, James Elliott Jr. and Willie Lee Elliott; sister, Hattie Loraine Moore; 22 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; other family and friends. Family hour: 7:30-8:30 p.m., Friday at Robinson Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Service: 12 noon, Saturday at First Baptist Church of Roland, Pastor George Moore, eulogist. Service 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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VELMA LUCILE FOWLER, 84, of Little Rock, passed away February 25, 2012. Graveside services will be held today, Wednesday, at 10 a.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mrs.Fowler’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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LINDA R. GRISWOLD, 48, of Little Rock, departed this life February26, 2012. She leaves to cherish her memory: children, DaThena Roots, Dave Lee Dumas III (Nakia), DaShundra Slade (Courtney); mother, Betty Mc-Coy. Visitation: 1-5 p.m. Thursday and FuneralService: 11 a.m., Friday, both to be held at Robinson Mortuary Chapel, Brother Robert Sinclair, 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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MAXINE HONDA passed away Sunday, February 26, 2012. Services will be Thursday, March 1 at 10 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, 222 E. 8th St., Little Rock, with interment at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Visitation will be this evening, Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mrs. Honda’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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ELIZABETH “LIZ” MILLER JONES, 52, of Little Rock, died peacefully inher sleep on February 26, 2012. One of God’s angels on earth, Liz was a loving mother and a devoted nurse. She spent her nursing career at ACH, where she began in 1982. She was a specialty RNin the Sleep Disorders Center. Liz will be remembered by her family, friends, colleagues, and patients at ACH. All are richer for knowing her. Although plagued with numerous health challenges, Liz always had a smile on her face. She receivedgreat comfort from Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church, where she was a Eucharistic Minister. She loved nature and enjoyed taking photographs.
She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Rickey, her daughter and son-in-law, Lauren and Logan Parsons, her son, Adam, her mother, Rose Marie Miller, her sisters, Cindy Stabnick and Margaret McGinness, her brothers, Henry Michael, Robert and Stephen Miller, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and pets.
Visitation will be Thursday, March 1, from 6 to 7 p.m. with a Rosary to follow at 7 p.m. at Holy Souls Church. A Mass will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at Holy Souls Church with burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery. Donations in Liz’s name can be made to ACH or the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Arrangements are by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 501-661-9111.
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GUY STANLEY LONG, 55, of Sherwood, formerly of Blytheville, died February 25, at home. Born in Blytheville to Bill and Aurita Ashford Long. Memorial services February 29, 2 p.m., Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church. Online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com.
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EMMA “LEE” McMASTER stepped into the arms of the Lord Monday,February 27, 2012. Lee was 67 years old, born in Gurdon, Arkansas on February 17, 1945 to the late Sue and Delton Fallin.
She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Johnny McMaster; her two sons, JohnMichael McMaster and his wife Lisa, Mark McMaster and his wife D.J. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Rachel McMaster, Rebekah McMaster, Andrew Mc-Master, and Jack T. McMaster. She had two surviving step-grandchildren, Matthieu and Deianara Thibaudeau, one brother, Billy Fallin and his wife Nina, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins that she loved dearly.
She would like to give a special hug to Joyce Ham and Joyce Golden who were like sisters to her. Many years ago Lee dedicated her life to Jesus Christ. She served the Lord faithfully through her church and Bible Study Fellowship. She touched the lives of many, many ladies while serving as a group leader in Bible Study Fellowship for nearly 20 years.
A special thanks goes out to Sharon, Betty, Linda, Carla, and LaRue from BSF who were always checking on Lee. She would also like to thank our church families from Bayou Meto Baptist Church and Marshall Road Baptist Church for their Christian love throughout the years.
Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the funeral home. Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 1, 2012 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Arkansas State Veteran’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Lee McMaster to Bible Study Fellowship International Headquarters, 19001 Huebner Road, San Antonio, Texas, 79258-4019. Arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.
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JALEN MONTGOMERY of North Little Rock died Monday. He was eight years old when God called him home. Jalen’s time on earth was cherished by his parents, family and friends. Jalen’s life was short, but he will be greatly missed by his parents, Ernesta Burton and Bryan Montgomery; one sister, Breannah and two brothers, Bryan Jr. and Deon Montgomery. Family hour 6-7 p.m., Wednesday at Watson-Northcrest Funeral Home. Graveside service will be 11 a.m., Friday in Patterson Cemetery in Henderson, Tenn. Arrangements by Watson-Northcrest, 1801 Maple, 812-5303.
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BILLY RHODES, 59, of North Little Rock, passed away Feb. 21, 2012.Survivors wife, Cynthia; children, Tiffany Marks, Bernard Rhodes; five step-children; siblings, Marjorie Rhodes, Eddie James; nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Funeral: 11 a.m., Saturday, St. Stephen Baptist Church. Family hour 6-7 p.m., Friday. Hubble Funeral Home, 374-3134.
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DOVIE RUBY went to be with the Lord February 27, 2012. She was born March 3, 1911 in Little Rock, Arkansas and would have celebrated her 101st birthday Saturday.
Dovie is preceded in death by her only son, Robert A. Barth and his wife Dollie I. Barth of Scott, Arkansas. She is survived by her grandchildren, David A. Barth of LittleRock and Robyn A. Arnett of Cabot, and was the loving greatgrandmother of David R. Barth, Cole Arnett and Dallas Arnett.
Dovie will be missed by her loving church family at First Assemblyof God in North Little Rock where she was a devoted member for over 40 years. She will also be missed by the staff at Sherwood Nursing and Rehab Center who lovingly cared for her the last few years of her life.
A Graveside Service will be held Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Sumner Cemetery in Cabot, Arkansas with Pastor Rod Loy officiating. Visitation will held from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116 (501) 791-7400. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
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EDWARD “SMITTY” SMITH of Little Rock, Ark. born August 22,1930 passed February 23, 2012. He served the community for over 40 years in various capacities. He started out as a barber in the Village Square area, later moving down the street and opening the Ebony Club. During his tenure as a businessman, he was also a great asset to other individuals who also wanted to start businesses. His love, kindness and his giving heart will truly be missed. Survived by wife; Picola Smith, four sons; Don (Theresa) Brown, Victor (Ivory) Smith, Michael (Shanita) Smith, Quintin Smith, one daughter; Linda Smith, one brother; Harold (Trudy) Smith, nine grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Family Hour will be held Wednesday February 29, 2012 at Gunn Funeral Home Chapel from 6-7 p.m. Funeral Services will be 11 a.m., Thursday, March 1, 2012 at Cannan Baptist Church, 1700 South State St., LR, Ark. 72206. Services entrusted to Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 West 29th, LR, Ark. 72204.
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REBECCA JUNE TAYLOR, 54, of Little Rock, died February 26, 2012.She was born January 1, 1958 in Searcy, Arkansas the daughter of Jody and Jackie Taylor. In addition to her parents, she is survived by three sisters, Jean Spence (Joe Harris), Joanna Taylor (JohnnyJohnson) and Janet Baker (Ed), all of Searcy; two nieces, Ondra Jo Cullipher and Taylor Hopper; andone nephew, Jordan Hopper. She is also survived by three very special friends, Gayle Mawhinney, John Garner and Brenda Walker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Shue. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m., Thursday, March 1, at First United Methodist Church, 8th and Center streets in Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice or the Pulaski County Humane Society. Memorial arrangements entrusted to Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home. Share a Memory: www.searcymceuenfuneralhome.com.
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GARLAND MAX THORN, M.D., 88, of North Little Rock, died February26, 2012. He was born November 15, 1923 in Harrisburg, Ark. Preceding him in death were his parents, Sadie and Harve Thorn, sisters Nita, Maurine, and Margaret, and his brother, H.B. He was married for52 years to his eternal sweetheart, Mary Elizabeth Brigance Thorn of Marked Tree, Ark., who died in 2002.
Max proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Army, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. He served both stateside and in Japan. His sense of patriotism lasted his entire life. After the war, Max graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1949, and from the University of Arkansas College of Medicine in 1954. He served his internship and first year of a pediatric residency at Crawford Long Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Ga. and the second year of the residency at the U of A Medical Center.
In 1957, he and his classmate, Dr. Frank Stroope, founded the North Little Rock Pediatric Clinic. In 1964 he left private practice and joined the staff at St. Vincent Infirmary as their Director of Medical Education, recruiting interns and planning the training program. In 1967 he became an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Med Center and spent mornings seeing patients in their Outpatient Clinic. Also that year he was appointed by Governor Winthrop Rockefeller to the State Healing Arts Board.
In 1972 he used his design skills and his gift for treating critically ill newborns by designing and implementing the first intensive care nursery in the state of Arkansas at St. Vincent. This new unit provided the latest monitoring equipment and a staff trained especially for intensive infant care.
In 1973 he became the full time Director of Medical Affairs at St. Vincent, acting as the liaison between hospital administration and the professional staff. He retired from St. Vincent in 1991. Max was active in many civic organizations. He served on the boards of Camp Aldersgate, the United Methodist Children’s Home, and the Arkansas Chamber Singers. He was a Paul Harris Fellow with the West Little Rock Rotary Club. Max was an active member of Lakewood United Methodist Church, having served on many of its boards and committees over the years.
Max and Liz loved their time with family and friends at Mountain Harbor on Lake Ouachita. They also loved to travel to Razorback football and basketball games, or watch them on television with a very special group of fellow Hog fans. With a lifetime passion for woodworking, Max enjoyed spending time in his workshop. Upon retirement, he became a Pulaski County Master Gardener and helped landscape the Old Mill in North Little Rock.
Later in life, he enjoyed building and flying radio controlled airplanes and was an active member of M.A.R.C.S., the flying club. In 2003 Max was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. In 2009 he sold his home of 42 years and moved to Fox Ridge Assisted Living Center in North Little Rock. The family wishes to express their love and respect for the entire staff there, as well as a very special team of additional caregivers hired during his final months.
Survivors include his children, Liza and Hank Godwin of North Little Rock, Julia and Dr. Gary Thorn of Fayetteville, and Clif Thorn and Jim Testa, of New York, N.Y. Grandchildren are Jason Godwin (Carissa) of North Little Rock, John Godwin (Anne) of Kansas City, Mo., and Max Thorn III, Audrey Thorn, and Andrew Thorn, all of Fayetteville. He also leaves several nieces and nephews, whom he loved very much.
A celebration of Dr. Thorn’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, March 1st, 2012 in the sanctuary of Lakewood United Methodist Church, 1922 Topf Road, North Little Rock, Arkansas, with Rev. Richard Lancaster officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, February 29th, 2012 at Griffin Leggett-Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 835-3515.
Memorials may be sent to Lakewood United Methodist Church Endowment Fund, 1922 Topf Rd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116 or to Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Cir., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. The online obituary, guestbook, and memorial tribute are available at www.griffinleggettresthills.com.
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STEVEN RANDALL THURMAN, age 52, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away on February 27, 2012. He was born on December 23, 1959 in Crossett, Ark., to his parents, Marion and Lila Thurman. Steve was a 1978 Crossett High School graduate. He graduated with a BS Degree in Journalism and Public Relations from ASU in 1983. Steve then graduated with a Masters’ Degree in Education from UCA in 1995. He taught in Arkansas Schools at the Junior and Senior High and college levels. Steve also traveled with the United States Navy and taught English courses. Steve was a member of the Episcopal Church in Little Rock. He was preceded in death by his father, MarionThurman.
Survivors include his mother, Lila Thurman; a brother, Doug Thurman and his wife, Kristi; a niece, Katie Thurman and a nephew, Taylor Thurman, all of Crossett, Ark.
Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., March 1, 2012 at Jones Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mike Griffith officiating. Interment at Crossroads Cemetery at a later date under the direction of Jones Funeral Home of Crossett, Ark. (www.jonesservice.com). Family requests that donations may be made to a charity of choice.
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JUDITH SANDRA VOGEL, 70, of Little Rock, Ark., died Monday. She was affiliated with Second Baptist Church in Little Rock.
Memorial service 2 p.m., Friday Second Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 222 East 8th Street, Little Rock, with Pastor James Thomason officiating. Arrangements by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth. www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.
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FERNELL WARREN, 89, of Little Rock, passed away February 27,2012. Born in Delight, Ark., she was a member of the Mabelvale Church of Christ.
Preceded in death by her parents, Otis and Josie Riley, husband, Leon Hayes Warren and siblings, Louise Lancaster, Willie Smith, Lucille Diemer, Romie Riley and Pete Riley, she is survived by her son, Lonnie Charles Warren and his wife, Katy, of Roland; grandchildren, Bryce Warren of Little Rock, Rachelle Driver of Nashville, Tenn., and Kate Tokar of Fort Worth, Texas; and three greatgrandchildren.
Services will be Friday, March 2 at 1 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), officiated by Mr. Dennis Gulledge. Burial will be private. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 12 noon.
Memorials may be made to Southern Christian Home, 100 West Harding St., Morrilton, Ark. 72110. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Mrs. Warren’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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JAMES RICHARD WHITE, 86, of Little Rock passed away Saturday, February 25, 2012. Graveside services will be today, Wednesday, at 2 p.m. at Antioch Cemetery in Beebe, Ark. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (NW Corner of 1-230 and Barrow Rd), Little Rock, (501) 224-2200. Mr. White’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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VERNON A. WILLIAMS went to be with the Lord February 28, 2012.He was born November 7, 1920 in Gurdon, Ark. He worked as a Railroad conductor (MP/UP) for 45 years, was an active member of the Sylvan Hills Community Church, was a 32nd degree Mason, and an Army veteran of World War II. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Mack Elyett Williams and Eula Newton Williams and his wife, Edith Arlene Jones. He is survived by one son, Wayne James and wife Doris, three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two greatgreat-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. A Graveside Service will be held Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Edgewood Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark. 72116 (501) 791-7400. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.
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MARY L. WILLIAMSON-SMITH, 79, of Little Rock, departed this lifeFebruary 23, 2012. Family hour: 5-6 p.m. Friday and Funeral Service: 11 a.m., Saturday, both to be held at Robinson Mortuary Chapel, Pastor Henry Adams, eulogist. 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.” Arkansas
BATESVILLE - Gracie Lorene Parker, 89, of Batesville died Monday. Survivors: sisters, Wilma Brandenburg, Ina Branscum; six nieces; two nephews. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home, Batesville. Burial: Mac’s Chapel Cemetery near Sulphur Rock. Memorials: Independence County Humane Society, #5 Environmental Drive, Batesville, Ark. 72501. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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BEEBE - George Oliver, 72, of Beebe, formerly of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, was born August 15, 1939, at Fountain Hill, Arkansas, to Curtis and Willie (Moses) Oliver; and he died Sunday, February 26, 2012. He served in the Air Force and was a member of Missionary Baptist Church in Ward.
George is survived by his wife of 25 years, Martha Sue Oliver; three sons, Curtis (Tammy) Oliver of Monroe, Louisiana, John Oliver of White Hall, Billy Joe (Lisa) Oliver of Sheridan; two daughters, Lesa Kirkendall (Jimmy) of Natural Dam, and Vonda Oliver-Gifford (Michael) of Watson Chapel; two stepsons, Donnie Vickers of Beebe and Shane Vickers of North Little Rock; nine grandchildren, Justin Oliver, Caleb Oliver, Emily Oliver, Rustin Kirkendall, Haley Gifford, Chase Oliver, Jacob Oliver, Lauren Oliver, and Ryan Gifford; one great-grandchild, Bailee Oliver; two sisters, Mary Ruth Locke of Fountain Hill and Martha White of Cabot; and one brother, John Oliver of Crossett. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Nancy Stumbaugh.
Family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m., Thursday, March 1, 2012, at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe, with funeral following at 2 p.m. Interment is 10 a.m., Friday, in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 901 N. University Dr., Little Rock, Ark. 72207. www.westbrookfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - Infant Bruce Ryan Simpson of Benton was born and went to be with the Lord on February 24, 2012. Survived by his parents, Andrew Ryan Simpson and Anissa Michelle McKnight. Graveside will be Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 5:15 p.m. at Collegeville Cemetery. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - William R. “Bill” Traywick, 83, of Benton, passed awaypeacefully on February 25, 2012, at Saline Memorial Hospice in Bryant, Arkansas. He was born on September 4, 1928 in Charlotte, North Carolina, the son of the late George Ray and Mayme Stegall Traywick.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Bobbie Taylor Traywick; sisters, Mary Lou (Tracy) Bronson of Naples, Florida, and Millie (Dick) Johnson of Nashville, Tennessee; nephews, Brent Johnson and Tom Owens; and nieces, Lisa Johnson Robbins, Jana Owens, Joan Cunningham and Jennifer Douglas.
Bill’s youth was spent in North Carolina where he went to the public schools and later attended Brevard Junior College. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at the beginning of the Korean War where he rose to the rank of Major.
After 20 years of service that included tours in both Korea and Vietnam, he enrolled at UALR and graduated in 1976. This enabled him to enjoy a second career as a science teacher at Bryant High School for 10 years. In 1978, he and Bobbie moved to Benton and it was here that he joined the United Methodist Church. An avid reader and traveler with varied interests, Bill was known and admired for his extensive knowledge of geography, geology, photography and music. His favoriteplaces in the world were the Swiss Alps and his cabin on the Ouachita River. As his health failed, he turned to crossword puzzles and certain television programs for entertainment. His integrity and gentle nature were known to all around him.
Special and sincere thanks are extended to Dr. James Kane, Mr. Danny Muilenburg and to the Saline Memorial Hospice of Bryant for the loving care provided during these last weeks of great need.
A memorial service will be held on February 29 at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Benton. Internment will be at a later date at Oakland Cemetery in Warren, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 200 North Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - Mary Catherine Willis, age 74, of Benton died Tuesday, February 28, 2012. She was born July 8, 1937, in Saline County. Catherine was a homemaker, charter member of the Lonsdale Volunteer Fire Department Board, member of the Sharon Home Extension Club and a member of Ten Mile Missionary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Cledies Williams Elliott; husband, Harley Gene Willis. Survivors, daughters and son-in-law, Peggy and Joe Bob Smith, Hot Springs; Anita Willis, Benton; special friend, Ella Pennington; and her grand dog, Khati. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday at Ashby’s. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday at Ten Mile Missionary Baptist Church with burial at Ten Mile Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Ten Mile Cemetery Fund or to the Lonsdale Volunteer Fire Department. Online guest book at ashbyfuneralhome.com.
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BENTON - Donna Jane Wood, 69, of Benton passed away February 26, 2012. Services will be Thursday, March 1 at 2 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.), followed by interment at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Visitation will be this evening, Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Ms. Wood’s online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.
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BRYANT - Amy Johnson, 40, Bryant, passed away Monday. Survivors: son, Christopher Gipson, Benton; sister, Deanna Kinchen, Benton; mother, Sandra Anthony, Benton; grandmother, Reba Rollon; many nieces and nephew; special friend, Kelly Shoemaker, and son, Robbie.Arrangements were through Ashby Funeral Home. Private Memorial Service will be held by family at a later date.
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CABOT - Frankie Emogene (Gene) Gray, 91, of Cabot died Monday, February 27, 2012. She was born June 15, 1920, in McKinney, Texas, to the late Frank and Iva Cashion Kelly.She was Baptist and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter in Hurst, Texas.
In addition to her parents, Gene was preceded in death by her husband, James R. Gray, Sr.; two brothers, Alfred and Malcolm LaFollette; and her stepfather, Arch LaFollette. She is survived by her two children, Linda Hulse and her husband, Henry, of Cabot and James R. Gray, Jr. and his wife, Linda, of Little Rock; one sister, Margaret LaFollette Graham of Wichita Falls, Texas; two brothers, James LaFollette of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, and Johnny LaFollette of Frisco, Texas; three grandchildren, Bret Keaton, Melanie Keaton Morgan and Jason Gray; six great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
A visitation with family and friends will be 6-8 p.m., Friday, March 2, 2012, at Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home. The family would like to give special thanks to Southridge Village in Cabot and Heber Springs and Hospice Home Care in Conway for their wonderful care of Frankie and also to Dr. Mark Smith and thestaff at North Metro Medical Center in Jacksonville. Arrangements by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home, (501) 843-5816. Please sign our online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.
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DUMAS - Mary Rose Elliott Grant, 67, of Dumas, Arkansas, departed this life on February 26, 2012, member of Northside Baptist Church and a homemaker. Services held graveside at 2 p.m., Wednesday, February 29, 2012, Tyro Cemetery, Rev. Spencer Berry officiating. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Home, Dumas, Arkansas.
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EUREKA SPRINGS - Ruby Lee Rose Shores Shelby King, 75, formerly of Stuttgart, died Saturday. Survivors are children, Charles Douglas Shores of Hot Springs and Raylinda Strange of Eureka Springs; two brothers; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren. Funeral is 9 a.m., Wednesday at Turpin Funeral Home in Stuttgart with burial in Flynn Cemetery. www.turpin-co.com.
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FAYETTEVILLE - Patricia Keith Hedges, 51, passed away Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012, in Fayetteville. She was born in Jonesboro on March 17, 1960, to Rev. Jim and Jane Keith. Survivors include two daughters, Ashton Necessary and husband, Jason, of Rogers, and Madison Hedges of Rogers; one son, Keith Hedges of Fayetteville; parents, Jim and Jane Keith; brother, Jim Keith and wife, Pam; and sister, Sarah Boyer and husband, Andrew; one granddaughter, Nora Cate Necessary; one niece and three nephews. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday at Central United Methodist Church in Rogers with Carness Vaughn officiating. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be made to the Central United Methodist Church Building Fund. Online condolences: www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Benton County Funeral Home, Rogers, Arkansas.
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GREENBRIER - Larry G. Freeman, 62, of Greenbrier passed away on February 25, 2012. He was born on November 11, 1949, to the late L.B. and Connie (Burroughs) Freeman. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, March 1, 2012, at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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HOT SPRINGS - James Hardy Sr., 57, of Hot Springs, formerly of Louisiana, died February 26, 2012. Survivors: wife, Connie Hardy; children, James Hardy Jr., Brian Hardy, Brenda Williamson and Melinda Carnline; and eight siblings and his extended family. Funeral services and visitation will be in Florien, Louisiana. Arrangements are with Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services. (501) 623-7664. Arrangements in Louisiana are with Warren Meadows Funeral Home. (318) 256-3471.
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LAKEVIEW - Bobby D. McWilliams, 58, of Lakeview, Arkansas, passed away February 26, 2012. Services will be February 29, 2012, at 2 p.m. at Lighthouse Baptist Church in Mellwood, Ark. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. February 28, 2011, at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Helena, Ark. Burial in Sunset Memorial Park. Online guestbook www.rollercitizensfuneralhomes.com.
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MARSHALL - Ula Lawrence, 60, of Marshall died Monday at her home in the Welcome Home community. Survivors: son, William; daughters: Ula VanDyne, Betty Roberts, Melissa Dodge; four grandchildren. Arrangements by Roller-Coffman Funeral Home in Marshall. Graveside Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Thursday, March 1, at Chinquapin Cemetery in Marshall. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
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McCRORY - Mr. Billy Dave Smith, 80, died Sunday. Visitation: 10 to 11 a.m. followed by funeral at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Thompson-Wilson Funeral Home, McCrory. Interment: Woodmen Cemetery. Survivors: wife, Helen Reeves Smith; daughters, Deborah Krizman, Sharon Cathey; one brother; one sister; two grandchildren. Thompson-Wilson Funeral Directors, McCrory, (870) 731-2551.
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McDOUGAL - Zane Grey Wright, 86, of McDougal, Ark., passed away on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012 at his home. Graveside services are Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 at 2 p.m. at New Hope Cemetery in Pollard, Ark. with Leon Harvey officiating. Hoggard and Sons Funeral Home of Piggott is in charge of arrangements.
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PANGBURN - Earl Dean Wise of Pangburn, Arkansas, died Monday,February 27, 2012, after a lengthy illness. He was 83 years old. Mr. Wise was born February 18, 1929, the second child of Earl Kinsey Wise and Jessie Nora (Myers) Wise. Except for a three-year periodin the early 1950s, Mr. Wise lived hisentire life on the farm where he was born.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Wise was preceded in death by his sister, Jessie Mildred (Wise) Knight. He is survived by his wife, Angelee (Baker) Wise; two sons: Michael Dean Wise of Chicago, Illinois; and Gregory Lee Wise of Conway; one grandson, Sean Christopher Krider of El Dorado Hills, California; one granddaughter, Teri Ann (Wise) Middleton of Conway; one stepgrandson, Brent Russenberger of Richardson, Texas; and seven greatgrandchildren.
Mr. Wise held many jobs over a 50-year period, including farmer, delivery man, factory-line worker, shipping/receiving clerk, carpenter, and cabinetmaker, eventually retiring from Safeway Foods as a member of their maintenance staff. A staunch believer in the rights of workers to form unions, Mr. Wise served for 20 years as a Steward for Teamsters Local 878. His good nature and sense of decency endeared him to those who knew him. Those who worked closely with him admired and respected hiscommon sense, his commitment to fairness, and his skills as a negotiator. His infectious smile, broad laugh, and easy wit brightened the lives of friends and strangers alike. He will be greatly missed.
Visiting hours will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 1, at the Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted 2 p.m. Friday, March 2, in the Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Joe Brumfield officiating. Interment will follow at Henderson Cemetery in Pangburn. Share a Memory: www. SearcyMcEuenFuneralHome.com.
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PANSY - Willie John Johnston, 79, of Pansy, died Monday. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Thursday at Bethel #2 Missionary Baptist Church with burial in Prosperity Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Buie Funeral Home. Arrangementsby Buie Funeral Home of Rison (870) 325-6216. Online guestbook at www.buiefuneralhome.com.
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PINE BLUFF - Michael Eugene Brooks, 58, of Pine Bluff died February 26, 2012. Survivors: wife, Tonya Turley Brooks; sons, Michael, Jeremy Brooks; stepsons, Scott and Wyatt Tourtillotte; seven grandchildren; mother, Audrey Bearden Brooks; brother, RobertKavanaugh; sisters, Elizabeth Ware, Judy Buchanan. Services: 2 p.m. Thursday, Greenlee Baptist Church by Cranford Funeral Home. www.cranfordfh.com.
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TUMBLING SHOALS - Forney “Bob” Ward died Monday.
Survivors include wife, Inez Ward; sons, Ray Ward, Heber Springs and Walter Ward, Jacksonville; daughter, Wanda Shaw; sister, Louise Russell; 12 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation: Wednesday,6-8 p.m., Ralph Robinson and Son. Services: Thursday, March 1, 2012, 2 p.m., chapel of Ralph Robinson and Son. Interment: Brown Cemetery. www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.
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WHITE HALL - Lanera Beatrice Jackson, age 84, of White Hall, Arkansas passed away on Sunday, February 26, 2012 in Sheridan Arkansas. Lanera was born August 7, 1927 to the late Luther M. Keen and Netta Beatrice (Barnett) Keen. Funeral service: 2 p.m., Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at Memphis Funeral Home in Memphis, Tenn. with visitation prior to the service beginning at 1 p.m. Interment: Memorial Park Cemetery. www.buiefuneralhome.com. Buie Funeral Home & Crematory of Sheridan (870) 942-3231. Email: Buiefh@aol.com. Memphis Funeral Home Address: 5599 Poplar Ave., Memphis, Tenn. 38119. (901) 725-0100.
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WRIGHT - Jay Lynn Oswalt, 52, of Wright, Arkansas went to be withthe Lord, Sunday, February 26th, 2012. He was born in Sikeston, Missouri, February 14th, 1960 to J.L. and Patsy Oswalt.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents:Bilbo and Ruvelle Oswalt; maternal grandparents: Lee and Edna Burchfield. Jay is survived by his parents; two sons: Jeremy Oswalt and his wife Tamica of White Hall, Arkansas and Joshua Oswalt of Cabot, Arkansas; one daughter; Joanna Johnson and her husband Chad of Kennett, Missouri; five grandchildren: Alayna Gibbs, Alec Gibbs and Cayen Oswalt all of White Hall; Shaylee Fann and Abby Johnson both of Kennett, Missouri; one sister: Leanne Knisely and her husband Phil of Overland Park, Kansas; one niece Sarah Knisely and one nephew, Garrett Griffin both of Overland Park, Kansas along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.
He loved his family and was an avid outdoorsman. Jay was a retired member of the Local 690 Carpenter’s Union. He was also a member of the Plum Bayou Baptist Church.
Services are being handled by Roller England Funeral Home (501) 842-3939. It will be held at Plum Bayou Baptist Church in Wright, Arkansas, Wednesday, February 29th at 12 noon with Bro. Garry Alverson officiating. Visitation will be held at 10 a.m., two hours prior to the service. Burial will be in Mulberry Cemetery in England, Arkansas. The family request that memorials be made to Plum Bayou Baptist Church, 8614 Hwy. 256, Wright, Arkansas 72168 or Bragg City First Baptist Church, 151 W. 2nd St., Bragg City, Missouri 63827. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
