Marie Ellen Hepler

 

Marie Ellen Hepler, 87, Paragould, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2012 at her home.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law: Chester and Linda Travis, of Marmaduke, Mabern and Sharon Travis of Imboden, Dwight and Barbara Travis of Paragould, Jocebet and Charlotte Travis of Maynard, Jessie and Connie Travis of Van Buren, Glenn Travis of Paragould, Omer and Vickie Travis of Reyno; daughter and son-in-law: Joyce Jeter, Jessica and Jody Austin,all of Paragould; 27 grandchildren, several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Monday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. Her life will be celebrated at the Heath Colonial Chapel, Tuesday, January 3rd, 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Nathan Gramling officiating.
Interment will follow at Harvey's Chapel Cemetery.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

Goldie Sanders

 

Goldie Sanders, 89 formerly of Paragould, passed away January 3, 2012 in Rochester, NY. She was a resident of St. Ann's Nursing Home in Rochester. Goldie was very caring and loving. She thought the world of her family, grandchildren and many friends. She worked at VM Corporation in Michigan for many years before retiring. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Paragould.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Sanders and grandchildren, Mark and Melissa.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law: Bill and Marianne Sanders of Rochester, NY; Gary and Connie Sanders of Stevensville, MI; sister: Erma Richardson of St. Charles, MO; grandchildren: Jeff Sanders of Florida; Greg Sanders, Jennifer Sheldon both of Michigan; Cris Sanders of West Virginia; nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Sunday, 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Heath Funeral Home. The celebration of her life will be Monday, January 9th, 10:00 a.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel with Reverend Kenny Johnson officiating.
Interment will follow at Linwood Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 10411 West Markham, Suite 130, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Emma Mae Morris

 

Emma Mae Wright Morris, 77, of Paragould, has gone to be with her Lord. She departed Wednesday, January 4, 2012, at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center.

Emma Mae was born August 11, 1934, in Marmaduke, to Ira and Lucille Wright. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mildred Bolen and a son, Randy Lee Morris. Emma Mae was a homemaker and a member of Brown’s Chapel Baptist Church.

She leaves a loving legacy in her family. She is survived by the love of her life for the last 61 years, her husband, Aaron Morris of the home; three daughters and sons-in-law, Dianne (Holcomb) Dickens and David Dickens, Linda and Rick Dickinson, and Pam and Dean Lackey, all of Paragould. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and their spouses, Lisa and Billy Martin of Forrest City, T.J. and Laura Holcomb of Jonesboro, Misty and Shannon May, Chris and Stacey Dickinson, Quincy and Lindsay Roberts, Aaron Lee and Melissa Morris, and Levi Lackey all of Paragould, and Caci Lackey of Morris, Oklahoma.

Survivors also include nine great grandchildren, Lauren, Alex, and Chandler Martin, London May, Reed and Ross Dickinson, Randy Morris, Harrison Holcomb, Amber Butler, yet to be born another great granddaughter, Ella Elizabeth Roberts; and one brother and sister-in-law, Raymond and Betty Wright of Detroit, Michigan

Friends may visit Friday evening 5:00 until 8:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home of Paragould.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 7th, 1:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with Royce Boling and Tim Wooldridge officiating. Burial will follow in Woodland Heights Cemetery, Rector.

Memorials can be made to the Brown’s Chapel Baptist Church Youth Fund, P.O. Box 858, Paragould, AR 72451-0858.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Zella Mabry Harris Chambers

Zella Mabry Harris Chambers passed away peacefully January 4, 2012 at Good Samaritan Florida Lutheran skilled nursing facility, DeLand, FL., at the age of 85. She was born on May 5, 1926, in Corning, to Elsie Mae Cheek and Robert Sheldon Mabry.

The family survived the Great Depression by raising the food they needed on their farm, helping feed neighbors. Faith in God and respect for education were cherished family values. She earned her bachelor’s degree attending Ouachita College in Arkadelphia and Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.

Married in 1946 to James Edward Harris, she lived several years in Cicero, IL. Divorced, she married Worthy Lovell Chambers in June 1966. Blending his three grown children with her three children, they moved to Lombard, IL. She had worked many years in market research for Sunbeam Corp. She later worked in several sales endeavors including licensure to sell real estate and life insurance. Zella and Worthy were members of the First United Methodist Church in Lombard, Ill., had an active social life and participated in their local homeowner’s association. She served as president of the DuPage County (Illinois) Republican Women’s Club and president of the local PTA.

She is survived by stepson, Worthy (Paula) Chambers Jr. of Eddyville; stepdaughter, Cynthia Drake and long-time partner, Dick Terry, of Glenview, Ill.; stepson, Jeffrey Chambers of Eddyville, Ky.; daughter, Celia (Frederick) Cole of DeBary, Fla.; and son, Phillip (Stacy) Chambers of Batavia, Ill.; grandchildren, Susan Edgington, Jim Drake, Kristen Johnson, Daniel Chambers, Janet Johnston, Mathew Chambers, Michael Kellogg, Gerald Scalpone, David Scalpone, Theresa Kellogg, Jennifer Kellogg, Mark Bose, Valerie Erlandson and Diana Feil; many great-grandchildren; sister, Ora McLin of Apple Valley, Calif.; and 36 nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Worthy Lovell Chambers; her daughter, Julia Harris Kellogg; brothers, Joseph, Charles, Frank and Bill Mabry; and sisters, Roberta Gambell and Mary Ella Richardson.

A memorial service will be held later this year in Plainwell, MI. Interment is planned at Green County Memorial Gardens alongside her beloved husband, Worthy.

Arrangements are being handled by Allen Summerhill Funeral Homes in DeLand, FL., and Mitchell Funeral Home. Memorials in her name may be sent to the American Heart Association. The family wishes to thank Halifax Hospice and Good Samaritan Florida Lutheran for the excellent, loving care provided to Zella during her last days. Zella marked several meaningful passages in the meditation book she kept close to her, including Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I made you in your mother’s womb, I chose you. Before you were born, I set you apart for a special work,” says the Lord. Her strong, good-humored, life of service to others was a testimony to her belief that she was made for that work.


Online Condolences: Allen Summerhill Funeral Homes

 

Doris J. Cole~White

 

Doris J. Cole White, 78, of Mountain Home, formerly of Paragould, went to be with the Lord, Thursday, January 5, 2012, at Hospice of the Ozarks in Mt. Home. Doris was born December 16, 1933 in Marmaduke, Arkansas the daughter of the late John Sullivan and Stella Marie McBride Cupples. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, Robert William Cole, second husband, Howell White, son, Mark Robert Cole, and 4 brothers and one sister. She was the owner and operator of Cole's Clothing Stores in Paragould, Rector and Corning and was a member of First Baptist Church in Paragould.

She is also survived by her son and daughter-in-law: Scott and Kristi Cole of Paragould; daughter and son-in-law: Julee and Mark Hopper of Mountain Home; grandchildren: Kiana Cole, Gage Cole, Cole and Michelle Hopper, Conner Hopper and Cameron Hopper; stepchildren: Danny White and Margaret White.

The family will receive friends Sunday evening, January 8th, 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. Her life will be celebrated at the Heath Colonial Chapel, Monday, January 9th, 1:00 p.m. with Duane Dutka officiating. Interment will follow at Linwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Greg Jackson, Quintin Bales, Donald Clayton, John Clark, Tim Clark, and Sean Combs.
Memorials may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association, 10411 W. Markum, Suite 130, Little Rock, AR 72112 or Hospice of the Ozarks, 701 Burnett Drive, Mountain Home, AR 72643.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home
 

William Maddox Elmore

 

William Maddox Elmore, 81, of Paragould, passed away Thursday, January 5, 2012 at St Bernard’s Medical Center in Jonesboro. He was born October 29, 1930 in Paragould to the late William Houston and Norma A. Maddox Elmore. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Linda D. Elmore and son, Robert "Bobby" Elmore. Bill was a graduate of Paragould High School and was retired from the United States Postal Service, and was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. He was a Navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law: David and Lisa Elmore; granddaughter and grandson-in-law: Sara and Brad Johnson; and grandson: John Elmore, all of Benton.

His life will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 7th, graveside, at St. Mary's Cemetery with Father Mike Sinkler officiating. A rosary will be held Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel.
Memorials may be sent to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 220 N. 2nd Street, Paragould, AR 72450.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Monra Choat
 

Monra Choat, 97, passed away Thursday, January 5, 2012 at St. Bernard’s Medical Center, Jonesboro.

She was born August 13, 1914 in Paragould to the late Edward and Lillian Hairell. She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.

Survivors include her children and their spouses, Pat and Bill McCaughan, Martha Ann and Ira L. Brown all of Jonesboro, Richard "Sonny" and Jean Choat of Birmingham, Ala and Kevin and Sandy Choat of Little Rock; twelve grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Richard J. Choat; a daughter, Carolyn Savoie; six brothers and sisters and two grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will be Monday, January 9th, 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, with Father Jack Vu officiating. Interment will follow in Nettleton Cemetery.

The visitation will be Sunday evening, January 8th, 6:00 until 7:00 at Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home 300 W. Matthews Ave with a Rosary service at 7:00 pm.

Online Condolences: Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home

 

Willis Webster Maxwell

Willis Webster Maxwell, 92 of Paragould, passed away Friday January 6, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. He was born September 2, 1919 in Swifton, Arkansas. Willis was the retired co-owner of Maxwell Feed and a member of First Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Bonnie Jean Holcomb Maxwell, father, Ev Maxwell, mother, Ida Nicholson Thomas, brother, Everette Maxwell and sister, Thelma Anderson.

Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Milt Loftis of Little Rock; sons and daughters-in-law, Phillip and Lori Maxwell of St. Simon, GA and Eugene and Diane Maxwell of Collierville, TN, and 5 grandchildren.
 

Visitation will be Sunday evening 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. His life will be celebrated Monday, January 9th, 3:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church with Reverend Bill Steeger officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to: First Baptist Church Building Fund, 120 N. 3rd Street, Paragould, AR 72450 or Williams Baptist College, PO Box 3673, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Sandra McMahan

October 21, 1963 - January 6, 2012
 

Sandra McMahan, 48, of Cardwell, Mo., passed away Friday, at Arkansas Methodist Hospital in Paragould, AR.

Visitation will be Wednesday, January 11th, at McDaniel Funeral Service in Senath.
Graveside services will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Silverdale Cemetery in Arbyrd, Missouri

Online Condolences: McDaniel Funeral Service

 

Thomas Murphy

 

Thomas “Rand” Murphy, 59, Paragould passed away Saturday January 7, 2012 at his home. He was born February 3, 1952 in El Dorado. He was the owner of Randy's Classic Cars. Randy was an outdoorsman, enjoyed yard work, loved his grandkids and pets.

He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Ryan Murphy, sister, Janice Luxon, father, Tommy Murphy.

He is survived by his daughters and son-in-law: Janell and Troy Sinquefield of Brighton, TN; Jena Murphy and Sherri Murphy both of Paragould; mother: Jennie Lee Murphy of West Palm Beach, FL; sisters and brothers-in-law: Sherry and Joel Nyquist of Houston, TX; Barbara and Paul Tippy, Vickie Caringola all of Little Rock; Laura Beth and John Bracey of Fayetteville; grandchildren: Christopher Murphy, Alexa Stone, Asher Worsham.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. The celebration of his life will be Wednesday, January 11th, 10:00 a.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel with Reverend Royce Boling officiating.
Interment will follow at Linwood Cemetery.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Ricky Gene Hyde
 

Ricky Gene Hyde, 57, of Paragould passed away Sunday, January 8, 2012, at his home.

He was born July 9, 1954, in Greene County, the son of the late Roy E. and Geneva Reece Hyde. Also preceding him in death were his daughter, Amy Stone Hyde, and brother, David W. Hyde.
He was a bricklayer most of his life.

Survivors include his siblings, Sharon Couch, Glen Andis, Bobby Hyde and Susie Dickerson, all of Paragould, Evah Highfill of Williford, and Julie Montgomery and Randy Hyde, both of Trumann.

No services are planned.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Ronnie Gene Fortson, Sr.
 

Ronnie Gene Fortson, Sr., age 62, of Leachville, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2012 at St. Bernard’s Medical Center in Jonesboro. Born at Manila, he was the son of the late William Thomas and Delilah Marie Hicks Fortson. Ronnie was a retired farmer and a lifelong area resident. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Ronnie Fortson, Jr., 4 sisters, 3 brothers, and a granddaughter, Casey Shepard.

Survivors include his wife; Connie Anzar Fortson of the home, three sons, Alfred Brown of Jonesboro, Frank Brown of Manila, Jeff Brown of Manila, four daughters, Diana Shepard of Leachville, Della Brown of Leachville, Marie Thompson of Manila, Amy Parker of Manila, three brothers, Randy Fortson of Hornersville, Missouri, Earl Fortson of Barnesville, Georgia, Billy Fortson of McDougal, Georgia, one sister, Shirley Hamilton of Hackett, Arkansas

He also leaves 22 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren

Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 11th, 1:00 p.m. at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. Rowdy Fortson officiating. Burial will follow in Gainesville Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Blake Miller, Jeffrey Brown, Gavin Parker, Nicholas Carmichael, John Thompson, and Sean Parker. The family will receive visitors Tuesday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home

Online Condolences: Howard Funeral Service
 

Norma J. Beck
 

Norma J. Beck, 80, of Salem, Wisconsin, passed away Monday, January 9, 2012, at Milwaukee.

She was born June 16, 1931, at Fontaine, Arkansas the daughter of the late Thomas and Violet St. Claire Lawson. She moved to Illinois in 1947, and she settled in Wisconsin in 1982.

Norma graduated from Lighthouse Christian College in Beebe, was a member of the Apostolic Jesus Name Assembly Church of Salem, Wis., and was a teacher at the church school until her retirement in 2003. She enjoyed singing, crocheting, gardening and reading (being known as quite a scholar), and she had a great love for her church and faith.

She married Hildred Beck in Jonesboro September 11, 1947.

Survivors include her husband of 64 years, the Rev. Hildred Beck; two children, Linda (Randy) Coffelt of North Aurora, Ill., and the Rev. Garey (Patsy) Beck of Moss Point, Miss.; three grandchildren, Sonya (Tim) Greene, Gwendolyn (Mark) Smith and Randall Coffelt Jr.; four great-grandchildren, Aubrie and Alyssa Smith, and Logan and Wyatt Greene; a sister, Violet Hoffman of Arkansas; a brother, Ivan (Sylvia) Lawson of West Sacramento, Calif.; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Clyde, Roy, T.G., Garman, Clifford, Joy Dean and Emmaevelyn.

Funeral services will be held today at the Strang Funeral Home in Antioch, Ill.

There will be a visitation Friday evening 5:00 until 8:00 at Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home, 300 West Matthews Ave., Jonesboro.

Graveside services will be Saturday, January 14th, at 11:00 a.m. in Lorado Cemetery at Lorado.

Online Condolences: Strang Funeral Home
or Greggg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home

 

Nellie McCrady
 

Nellie McCrady, 94, of Paragould, passed away Monday, January 9, 2012, at Belle Meade Healthcare.

Born May 25, 1917, in Greene County, Mrs. McCrady was a homemaker and a member of West View Baptist Church.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Rudy Olyn and Janey McCrady of Rock Falls, Illinois; two grandchildren, David O. McCrady of Pontoon, Illinois, and Carol Kaim of Salt Lake City, Utah; and a special grandson, Santiago Rodriguez of Paragould. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Mareda Dortch of Rock Falls, Illinois; and three nieces, Virginia Stokes of Paragould, Linda Morgan of Coulterville, Illinois, and Terry Albert of Rock Falls, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sidney and Bertha Dortch; her husband, Rudy E. McCrady; one son, Levon W. McCrady; two grandchildren, Donna K. McCrady and Dale W. McCrady; and one brother, Delbert O. Dortch.

Visitation will be Thursday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home, Paragould.

Funeral services will be Friday, January 13th, 10:00 a.m., at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with Marc Reeves officiating. Burial will follow in Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Elva Dean Fletcher

Elva Dean Fletcher, 85, Paragould, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at St Bernard’s Medical Center in Jonesboro. She was born September 22, 1926 in Greene County the daughter of the late Richard and Elsie Cora Stout Speer. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Elmer Fletcher and son, Ray Neal Fletcher. Dean was a homemaker and farmed with her husband and was a member of the House of Prayer.

Survivors include her grandchildren: Lindy Fletcher Benson and John Fletcher; great grandchildren: Tyler, Logan, Abbie and Braxton Benson, Zane, Alexis and Makayla Fletcher; sisters: Doady Roush and Novil Boots Thompson, all of Paragould.

The family will receive friends Friday morning, 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Heath Funeral Home. Friends and family will meet at 11:30 following visitation for a graveside service, Brown's Chapel Cemetery, with David King officiating.

Pallbearers are Ed Curtwright, Shaun Gladdish, Terry Agee, Jerry Agee, Tommy Arant, John Hambrick, and Patrick Gauthier.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Alberta Percifull Hooks

August 22, 1929 – January 10, 2012

 

Alberta Percifull Hooks, 82, passed away Tuesday. She was the owner of Two Sisters Ceramics in Paragould before moving to Tennessee and a retired seamstress with Levi-Strauss.

She is survived by one daughter, Mary Jane (Jerry) Sanders of Burlison; one son, Jim (Sharon) Yates of Covington; one sister, Louise Wright of Paragould, AR; five grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, J.A. Percifull and Geneva Taylor; one brother, David Percifull; one sister, Sharon Yopp and three children, Marion DeWayne Yates, Edward Eugene Yates and Susie Yates.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 12th, 11:00 a.m. at the Covington Funeral Home chapel with interment services to follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Linwood Cemetery in Paragould, AR.
The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, January 11th, 5:00 until 7:00 at the funeral home.


The family requests that any memorials be made to the Tipton County Commission on Aging.

Online Condolences: Covington Funeral Home

 

Charles Lee Phillips
 

Charles Lee Phillips, age 81, of Paragould, passed from this life, Thursday January 12, 2012 at the Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould. Born at Manila, he was the son of the late Raymond and Gennie Mae Boyd Phillips. He was a U. S. Army veteran of the Korean War and had lived many years in Florida where he worked for the Velda Farms Milk Pasteuriztion Plant. He returned to northeast Arkansas in 1987 and later retired from Monroe Automotive in Paragould. Charles was a member of the Newhaven Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Kay Hinkle Phillips of the home, three daughters, Donna Phillips of Venice, Florida,
Sandy Morrow of West Virginia, and Rhonda Quintana of Washington, two step-sons, Chris Leipert of Paragould,
Darrell Leipert of Black Rock, two sisters, Raymell Hart of Paragould, Maude Alice McCarter of Pontotoc, Mississippi

He also leaves two grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Funeral services will be Monday, January 16th, 2:00 p.m. at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. William Piercy officiating. Burial will follow in Manila Cemetery.
The family will receive visitors Sunday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at the funeral home.

Online Condolences: Howard Funeral Service

 

Manuel Melton Priest
 

Manuel Melton Priest, 58, of Delaplaine passed away January 12, 2012 as the result of an automobile accident in Delaplaine. Born August 2, 1953, in Trumann, he was the son of the late Manuel and Dora Owens Priest. He was a member of the Baptist Church in Delaplaine and served his country in the United States Air Force. He enjoyed playing golf and fishing.

He is survived by one daughter, Bridgette Priest of Marmaduke; two brothers, James Priest of Arizona and Delbert Priest of Walnut Ridge; and one sister, Joyce Bari of Jonesboro.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Elbert and Carroll Priest; and one sister, Joan Cook.

Memorial services will be Saturday, January 21st, 3:00 p.m. at the Southside Church of God in Paragould with the Rev. Mark Ollenberger officiating. Faith Funeral Service of Manila is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences to: Faith Funeral Service

Laren Leilanai Vickers

 

Laren Leilanai “Lollie” Vickers, 66, of Paragould, passed away Friday, January 13, 2012, at Five Rivers Medical Center, Pocahontas.

Mrs. Vickers was born March 7, 1945, in Paragould. She was a homemaker and of the Methodist faith.

Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, Lonnie and Christi Vickers of Bernie, Missouri, Dennis and Shelley Vickers and David and Stephaine Vickers, all of Paragould; and one daughter and son-in-law, Tammie and Kenneth Swink of Paragould. She is also survived by two brothers, Randy Hollis of Paragould, Ronald “Tiny” Hollis of Stuart, Florida; twelve grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Ray Vickers; her parents, Howard and Helen Hollis; and two brothers, Donald and Joey Hollis.

A memorial graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 20th, at the New Friendship Cemetery. No visitation is scheduled. Arrangements are under the direction of Mitchell Funeral Home.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Marjorie Nadine Pruett
 

Marjorie Nadine “Marg” Pruett, 71, of Walnut Ridge passed away Saturday, January 14, 2012 at St. Bernard’s Medical Center.

Born April 6, 1940 at Fontaine, Marjorie lived most of her life in Walnut Ridge. She worked 18 years for Lawrence Garment Manufacturing before the factory relocated.

Marjorie was a member of Free Worship Pentecostal Church in Sedgwick and was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Pruett; her parents, Guy and Dora Davis Hancock; a grandson, Mike Edward Willfond; and a brother, Curtis Hancock.

Survivors include one son, Timothy Murphy (Tina) of Wood River, Ill.; two daughters, Geyvon Crest (Mark) of Corning and Dorsie Shaw of Bentonville; two stepsons, Gary Liles (Cheryl) of Lorado and Kelly Pruett (Vivian) of Hoxie; two stepdaughters, Jammie Houston (James) of Black Rock and Janice Parsons of Paragould; two sisters: Mamie Schlobohm of Alton, Ill., and Florene Ivie of Hoxie; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 17th, 11:00 a.m. in Emerson Memorial Chapel with David Moore and Danny Murphy officiating. Burial will follow in Lorado Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Brad Vanzandt, Gary Ellison, Mark Ellison, Rex Ellison, Matthew McQuay and Ernie Fultner.

Visitation will be Monday evening, 5:00 until 8:00 at Emerson Funeral Home.

Online Condolences: Emerson Funeral Home

 

Mary Ethel Roberson
 

Mary Ethel Roberson, age 75, of Manila, widow of Mr. Bill Roberson, passed away January 15, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould. Born at Manila she was the daughter of the late James Nolen and Emily Smith Bollinger. She was a 1954 graduate of Manila High School and had been employed as a proof reader in the text book publication industry. She was a longtime resident of St. Louis, Missouri area before returning to Manila in 1989.

Survivors include, son, Philip Foley and his wife Debbie of Florissant, MO., daughter, Regina McBride and her husband Keith of St. Ann, MO., three grandchildren to whom they affectionately called "Nanna", Kevin McBride, Colleen Thornburgh and her husband Travis and Brian Foley.

Memorial services will be Monday January 23rd, 11:00 a.m. at the Howard Funeral Chapel in Manila. The family will receive visitors from 10:30 until service time.

Online Condolences: Howard Funeral Service


 

Earl Edward Songer
 

Earl Edward Songer, 83 of Paragould passed away January 15, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. He was born November 11, 1928 in Fontaine to Willy and Minnie Songer. He liked NASCAR racing, stock car racing, auctions and spending time with his grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Laverne Songer and one sister, Earline Moore.

He is survived by one son, Kevin Hancock; a brother, Junior Songer of St. Louis, IL., one sister, Glenda Miller of Salem, AR.; three grandchildren, Shana Bradey, Kein Hancock and Kevin Hancock, Jr.; one great-grandchild, Timothy Bradey.

The family will receive friends Friday, January 20th, 10:00 a.m. until noon, at Phillips Funeral Home. Graveside services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Lorado Cemetery with Danny Murphy officiating.


Online Condolences: Phillips Funeral Home


 

Teddy Joe Ford
 

Teddy Joe Ford, 71 of Paragould passed away January 16, 2012 at his home. He was born May 17, 1940 at Stanford to William “Ted” and Ida Pearl Ford. He was Church of Christ faith, a veteran of the US Navy and retired from Monroe.

Preceding him in death was his father, William “Ted” Ford.

He is survived by his mother, Ida Pearl Ford; three daughters, Suzanne Eubanks, Lisa (Brett) Carlile, and Kelly (Tim) Roswell all of Paragould ; one sister, Janie (Charles) Brogdon; three brothers, Russell Ford, Andy (Alice) Ford and Jim (Phyllis) Ford; five grandchildren, Tiffany and Emily Eubanks, Megan and Mallory Carlile and Halle Roleson and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, January 17th, 6:00 until 8:00 at Phillips Funeral Home, Paragould. Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 18th, 2:00 p.m. at Pine Knot Church of Christ with Brett Carlile officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Knot Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Russell, Andy, Jim and Gabe Ford, Allen Brogdon, Brant Johns and Marty Browning.

Online Condolences: Phillips Funeral Home

 

William Lee Seats

 

William Lee Seats, 80, of Brookland, passed away January 17, 2012, at Belle Meade Healthcare. Born September 18, 1931 in Goobertown, he was a sheet metal worker and a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include two nephews, Tom Davis of Brookland and Chris Seats of Jonesboro, along with several other nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Vernie Seats; two brothers; and three sisters.

Visitation will be Thursday evening, 6:30 until 8:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home, Paragould.

Graveside funeral services will be Friday, January 20th, 10:30 a.m. at Pine Log Cemetery, Brookland, with Monty Huffman officiating. The procession will leave Mitchell Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations toward funeral expenses at Mitchell Funeral Home would be appreciated.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home


 

Marie Winn Jones
 

Marie Winn Jones, 85 of Paragould passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at Greene Acres Nursing Home. She was born June 23, 1926, in Greene County. She had lived in Paragould all but 7 years of her life in Fresno, CA. She was a Christian, attending Church of Paragould. She was an LPN working at Community Methodist Hospital 10 years, 6 years at Greene Acres Nursing Home, 8 years in nursing homes in Jonesboro and 1 year at St. Agnes Hospital in Fresno, CA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Myrl Morgan Skaggs, son, Elmer Winn; brothers Bill and Burl Skaggs; her first husband, Charley Winn; second husband, Bill Jones; sister, Bernice Garland and a great grandson, Lane Winn.
Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Gerald and Roberta Winn of Paragould; daughter-in-law, Sue Winn of Paragould; brothers, Joe Skaggs of Paragould and Alvin Skaggs of Jonesboro; sister, Geraldine Young of Clovis, CA; grandchildren, Ricky Winn, Chuck (Vicky) Winn, Kimberly Bishop, Danny (Nicki) Winn, David (Jamie) Winn, Johnny Winn, Brandon (Amy) Winn, Angel Box, Chance Winn, Bonnie Mathis, Becky Box, and Anna Wince. 10 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Friday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 21st, 3:00 p.m. at the Heath Colonial Chapel with Rev. Bill Bass officiating. Burial will follow in Brown’s Chapel Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to the Church of Paragould.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home


 

Roy Boggs

 

Roy “Pete” Boggs, 73, of Lafe passed away Wednesday January 18, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. He was born December 13, 1938, in Leachville to Roy and Floy Boggs. He was a member of the Gainesville Church of Christ and a former member of the Lafe Fire Department. He was a retired employee of L.A. Darling.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Gewanda Boggs; and one grandson, Dillon Brown.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Blake Edward and Tina Lynn Boggs; daughter, April Dawn Brown; brother, Leonard Boggs; three grandchildren, Miranda Boggs, Emileigh Brown and Jessica Boggs.

The family will receive friends Friday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Phillips Funeral Home. Services will be Saturday, January 21st, 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Tim Wooldridge officiating.
Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Online Condolences: Phillips Funeral Home

 

Amos George Thompson, Sr.
 

Amos George Thompson, Sr. was born in Monette on November 6, 1924 to Horace and Bessie (Bell) Thompson. He passed away Thursday, January 19, 2012 in Paragould.

Mr. Thompson was of the Pentecostal faith and retired from the Craighead County Road Department.

He was drafted into the Army in January, 1944 and served in Okinawa and Panama Canal Zone before being discharged in November, 1948. While serving in the Army he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

He married the mother of his children, Annie Bell Cantrell on October 31, 1949. She preceded him in death on July 23, 1982. Also preceding him in death was a grandchild, Kenneth W. Thompson on May 24, 1986; his parents; four sisters, Emogene Burks, Pauline Finley, Wanda Johnson, and Maxine Turner; and one brother, David Thompson. His wives, Georgia Andrews Thompson and Jewel Whitworth Thompson also preceded him in death.

He is survived by three sons, Amos Thompson, Jr., and Horace Thompson, both of Jonesboro, Jimmy Thompson and his wife, Hazel of Drasco; and one daughter, Bessie Hudson of Elaine. Also surviving are six stepsons; four stepdaughters along with numerous step grandchildren; and step great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Saturday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home, Paragould.

Funeral services will be Sunday, January 22nd, 1:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with Kevin Edgar officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Log Cemetery, Brookland.


Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Joyce Fay Harmon Smith
 

Joyce Fay Harmon Smith, 65, of Paragould passed away Thursday, January 19, 2012 at St. Bernard’s Regional Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Born Joyce Fay Braman, February 21, 1946, to James and Lorene (Bennett) Braman. She was united in marriage to James Winslow Harmon on November 18, 1962, and to this union one son, Daniel Steven Harmon was born.

She began her service to the Lord as a young child by accepting Christ as her Savior. She was a child of God.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Harmon on June 12, 2002; her mother and father; her brother, Jimmy Dale Braman; and her niece, Melissa Ann Mack.

She was a registered nurse at Arkansas Methodist Medical Home Health in Paragould and was a member of Brown's Chapel Church in Paragould.

She was united in marriage to Doug Smith on March 1, 2008.

She leaves behind a loving family; husband, Doug Smith of Paragould; son, Daniel Steven Harmon and wife, Bonnie, of Paragould; daughter-in-law, Robin Harmon; grandson, Bradley Adam Harmon of Rector; two granddaughters, Skyler Harmon White and Elizabeth Cardwell of Paragould; four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Rudy Joe Braman and wife, Elizabeth, of Lafe, Timmy Wayne Braman of Rector, Jeffrey Matthew Braman of Nashville, Tenn.; sister, Melba Kaye Mack and husband, Michael, of Piggott; and many other relatives, friends, and co-workers.

A memorial visitation will be Sunday, January 22nd, at 2:00 p.m. with a memorial service at 3:00 p.m. in the Hoggard and Sons Chapel with Royce Boling officiating. Hoggard and Sons Funeral Home of Piggott is in charge of arrangements. It was Mrs. Smith’s request to be cremated and burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 5005 L.B.J. Freeway, Suite 250, Dallas, Texas, 75244.

Online Condolences: Hoggard and Sons Funeral Home

 

Lloyd Jayson Johnson
 

Lloyd Jayson "Jay" Johnson, 81, was born April 6, 1930 in Brookins, Clay County, to Jimmy and Delcie Johnson. He passed away Friday, January 20, 2012, after a lengthy illness. He was surrounded by friends and family when he joined his Lord. Jay was a veteran of the US Army. He was a retired carpenter and cabinet maker and was formerly employed by L.A. Darling and Brown Shoe Company. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church. Jay was preceded in death by his parents, several brothers and sisters, and one granddaughter, Jessica Liddell.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Anna Lee; two daughters and sons-in-law: Kathy and Douglas Threlkeld, and Robin and Greg Trout; one brother, Vernon Johnson of Potosi, Missouri; 7 grandchildren: Justin and Crystal Threlkeld, Barkley Threlkeld, Chelsea Liddell, Kristen Wimberly, Katie, Ory and Ethan Trout; 3 great grandchildren, Kyleigh Threlkeld, and Brantlee and Berkely Trout, all of Paragould; several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

The family will receive friends Monday, January 23rd, 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel. His life will be celebrated Monday at 1:30 p.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel. There will be a private family burial.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Paul Dean Crews
 

Paul Dean Crews, 62, of Leachville passed away Saturday, January 21, 2012, at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould.

He was the son of the late Eugene and Ethel Mary Pilgram Crews and had been a lifelong Leachville area resident. He was a former longtime employee of Hytrol Conveyor in Jonesboro and was a member of the First Assembly of God in Leachville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Tina Pauline Crews, and one sister, Wanda Crews.

Survivors include his wife, Darlene Mansfield Crews of the home; two stepsons, Michael Skaggs of Arbyrd, Mo., and Donald Skaggs of Leachville, his daughter, Angela Crews Costilla of Leachville; two stepdaughters, Karen Faulkner and Robin Davis, both of Leachville; three brothers, Ray Crews and James Crews, both of Leachville, and Jimmy Hoskins of Fallbrook, Calif.; three sisters, Alice Henson of Corpus Christi, Texas, Barbara Ballard of Leachville and Frances Thompson of Fayetteville, N.C.; 19 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 24th, 2:00 p.m. at the First Assembly of God in Leachville with the Rev. Tom Newman officiating. Burial will follow in Leachville Cemetery.

The family will receive visitors Monday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Howard Funeral Chapel in Leachville.

Serving as active pallbearers will be Jimmy Ballard, Robert Ballard, Vent Holt, Billy Holt, Justin Davis and Randy Scroggins. Honorary pallbearer will be Lyndon Costilla.

Online Condolences: Howard Funeral Service


 

Lucille Ainsworth Yesh

 

Lucille Ainsworth Yesh age 87, was born July 10, 1924 passed January 22, 2012 and was received by her saviour Jesus Christ. Her final days were at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.
She was a member of First Baptist Church Paragould and a member of the Evening Star Chapter 777 of Irving Texas.

Lucille is survived by her grandsons, Rodney and Jan Combs of Paragould and Sean and Katie Combs of Mountain Home, great grandchildren, Jacob, Matthew and Allie Combs and step son Colin Hudson of Texas. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Mary Carolyn Russell, two brothers, her first husband Wilborn Wince and her second husband. David Yesh.

Early years Lucille was an employee of the shirt factory, shoe factory and Emerson Electric before moving to Texas. She was a dress maker and inspector in Texas Textile industries and later a floor manager at Furrs Cafeteria before moving back to Paragould to be close to her family. Lucille was a gifted professional seamstress and a talented quilt maker and drapery artist. She was an excelling bowler and enjoyed many hours in her yard receiving yard of the month 2 times. She loved Christmas decorating and was a wonderful cook and candy maker. Lucille had great devotion to her family and friends. She believed in helping those in need. She was a perfectionist, no job done by her was less than perfect and she kept a meticulous house, car, yard, ironed all her clothes and set high standards for herself and others. She was a devoted Christian and read her Bible.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home and her life will be celebrated Wednesday, January 25th, 1:00 p.m. at Heath Chapel. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Rodney Combs, Sean Combs, Jacob Combs, Matthew Combs, Jack Bishop. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund Paragould, AR.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Billy Joe Fletcher

 

Billy Joe Fletcher, 80, of Paragould, passed away Sunday, January 22, 2012, at St. Bernard's Medical Center.

An Army veteran, Mr. Fletcher was born January 2, 1932, in the Finch Community, Greene County, Arkansas. He retired after over forty years as a maintenance worker and bus driver for the Greene County Tech School District. He was a lifetime member of the Finch Baptist Church.

Survivors include two sons, James Dean Fletcher and Gregory Scott Fletcher, both of Jonesboro; one sister, Helen Jean Emerson of Cuba, Missouri; one grandson, Ian Conner Fletcher of Jonesboro; and a special friend, Shirley Jackson of Paragould.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harmon and Myrtle Fletcher; and four brothers, Burley, Dutch, Vernon, and Stirl Fletcher.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 25th, 11:00 a.m. at the Finch Baptist Church with Terry Gage officiating. Burial will follow in the Finch Cemetery.

Visitation will be Wednesday morning, 10:00 a.m. until service time at Finch Baptist Church.

Bobby Fletcher, Butch Fletcher, Jim Fletcher, Buddy Fletcher, Corey Fletcher and Terry Songer will serve as pallbearers. Ed Hackworth will be an honorary pallbearer.

Memorials to the Finch Baptist Church Building Fund, c/o Gene Hargraves, 9067 Highway 358, Paragould, AR 72450 would be appreciated.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

John Joseph Urban
 

John Joseph Urban, 87, of Paragould passed away January 23, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center.

John was born February 2, 1924 in Bellwood, Nebraska. He had a very successful career in the US Navy, where he spent over 30 years and received many awards. While in the Navy he received three letters of commendation, one award for Supply work on the NAS St. Louis, one award for repair of damaged main deck on USS Samuel N. Moore D. D. 747, one for Supply Work on USS New Orleans L.P.H 11, seven Good Conduct Awards, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for Defense of Philippine Island, European Service Medal with Two Battle Stars, Asia Service Medal with Ten Battle Stars, National Defense Service Medal, and Japan Occupation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. While serving on the USS Fitch DD 462 they invaded Africa. Also, while serving in the Navy he was assigned shore duty in Iceland, Ireland, Scotland, Philippine, Japan, Africa, and Spitsbergen. While serving on the USS New Orleans LPH-11 he was promoted to Chief Petty Officer and served as an acting Division Officer for a year. He was a very active VFW member where he served in various positions on the board. He was inducted into the Arkansas Bowling Hall of Fame, and he had been a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Dennis Urban.

Survivors include his wife Joyce; seven daughters, Katherine Patterson, Joann Urban, Julia Deibert, Sherry Troidl, Brenda Ternello, Joy Morris, and Linda Trinidad; four sons, Larry Davis, Jim Davis, Danny Davis, and David Baker, 44 grandchildren; 52 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Graveside services will be Thursday, January 26th, 2:00 p.m. at Linwood Cemetery with military honors and Father Mike Sinkler officiating. Emerson Funeral Home will be in charge of all arrangements.

Visitation will be Thursday morning 10:00 a.m. until noon at the funeral home.

Online Condolences: Emerson Funeral Home

 

Billy Joe Smith

 

Mr. Billy "Big Joe" Smith, a lifelong resident of Greene County, departed this life, Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould.
He was born October 10, 1929 in Stanford, the son of the late Tom and Mammie (Dacus) Smith. Big Joe was a retired farmer from the Stanford area.
He is survived by his wife, Lenora "Tooter" Smith; children: Jeff and Frankie Smith, Gail Hedge, Jina and Gary Henson, and Gigi and Jerry Wilson, all of Paragould; seven grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law: Tommy Ray and Virginia Smith of Paragould and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. His life will be celebrated Thursday, January 26th, 1:30 p.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel with Darrell Austin and Phil Wilkerson officiating. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Katherine June Andrews
 

Katherine June “Kathy” Andrews, 60, of Walnut Ridge passed away Tuesday, January 24, 2012.

She was born April 24, 1951, at Walnut Ridge, the daughter of Jimmie and Evelyn Ward Whitmire. She was a homemaker and a member of the Light Church of Christ.

She was united in marriage to Johnnie Theodore Andrews on March 7, 1969. She was preceded in death by her father and husband.

Survivors include two sons, John and Kim, Jason and Charity Andrews, all of Walnut Ridge; her mother, Evelyn Whitmire of Walnut Ridge; six grandchildren, Tyler, Hayden, Savannah, Jacie, Zoey and Mikki Jo Andrews, all of Walnut Ridge; three brothers, David and Janice, Donnie and Teresa Whitmire, all of Springdale, and Chris and Lorra Whitmire of Clover Bend; and many other relatives and friends.

Services will be Saturday, January 28th, 10:00 a.m. in Bryan Funeral Home Chapel with Paul McFadden and Robert Davis officiating. Burial will be in the Mount Zion Cemetery near Walcott.

Pallbearers will be Evan Teague, Robert Davis, Cap Phillips, Mitch Whitmire, Greg Evans and Button Wallin.

Visitation will be Friday evening, 6:00 until 8:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations maybe made to the Children’s Shelter in Walnut Ridge.

Online Condolences: Bryan Funeral Home
 

Wilma Inez Langston

 

Wilma Inez Langston, 86, of Paragould, passed away, Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center.

She was born February 17, 1925 in Red Onion, Missouri, and was a retired state employee. Mrs. Langston was a member of First Church of God.

She is survived by her husband, Alfred Langston of the home; two daughters and a son-in-law, Barbara Arington and Connie and Richard Stuart, all of Paragould; one sister, Lavern Grooms of Leachville; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and three great great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were a son, Jerry Langston; a brother, Buddy Seymour; and two sisters, Lura Pruitt and Mary Jane.

Friends may visit Thursday evening, 6:00 until 9:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home of Paragould.

Funeral services will be Friday, January 27th, 2:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with Raymond Hill officiating. Burial will follow in Wood’s Chapel Cemetery.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Betty Jane Scott

 

Betty Scott, 76 of Sikeston passed away January 24, 2012 at her home. She was born September 17, 1935 at Stanford to Joe and Lucille Taylor. Mrs. Scott was a 1953 graduate of Stanford High School where she was an outstanding basketball player.

She remained an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching her grandchildren play. She loved to shop and spend time with her friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her first husband, Earl “Bud” Fears; twin daughters, Brenda Fay and Linda Kay Fears.

She is survived by two sons, Tommy (Mary Jane) Fears of Florida and Doug Fears of Oran, MO; two daughters, Pam Lara of California and Paula (Darin) Watkins of Oran, MO; one sister, Kay (Harlan) Greenway of Paragould; ten grandchildren, Seth (Amanda)Fears, Ben and Barbara Fears, Jordan and Cole Fears, Abraham, Bethany and Joseph Lara, Caleb and Zachary Watkins; three great-grandchildren, James and Olivia Fears, Alyssa Skotcher and her special friends at Wendell Apartments.

The family will receive friends Thursday, January 26, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Phillips Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, January 27, 2012 in the Center Hill Chapel at Phillips Funeral Home with Darin Watkins officiating. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery.

Online Condolences: Phillips Funeral Home


 

Celesta Waneda Nash

 

Celesta Waneda Nash, 79, of Paragould, passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. She was born May 5, 1932 in Bay, Arkansas the daughter of the late Andrew Jackson and Beaulah Estelle Pagan Mullins. She is also preceded in death by her daughter, Patricia Lee Nash and several brothers and sisters.

Celesta sold Avon and was a member of Finch Baptist Church. Survivors include her children: Judy Orick, JoAnn Wood, and Charles Michael Nash, all of Paragould; sisters: Linda Mullins of Trumann, Alicia Foster of Marmaduke and Faye Rorex of Jonesboro, nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home


 

Margaret Ann Penrod
 

Margaret Ann Hunter Penrod, 91, was born July 3, 1920, a native of Marmaduke and formerly of Campbell, MO passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012 at St. Elizabeth’s Place in Jonesboro. She was a retired beautician and a member of the First Baptist Church of Campbell.
She was preceded in death by her 1st husband, Donald Hunter; parents, Byron and Hazel Jones Hammett; step-daughters, Donna Kloessener and Debbie Clancy.
Survivors include her husband, Edward Penrod of Jonesboro; daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Martin Crain of Brookland, AR; step-sons Daniel and David Penrod of St. Louis, MO; grandson, Cary Crain; great grandson, Adam Crain; 7 step grandchildren and 2 step-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Saturday evening 6:00 until 8:00 at Heath Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Sunday, January 29th, 1:30 p.m. at Heath Colonial Chapel with Rev. Curtis Shatley officiating. Burial will follow in Hartsoe Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Cary Crain, Adam Crain, Dallas Luckett, Dominick Luckett, Danial Penrod, Ryan Penrod, Robbie Kloessener, David Hagee. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Revel Porter and the staff of St. Elizabeth's Place.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Gail Joan Kelly

 

Gail Joan Kelly, 76, Paragould passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. She was born February 19, 1935 in Anderson, Indiana the daughter of the late Ralph and Mildred J. Feurer. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Paul Garretson, aunt, Louise Cookson. She was retired from Dillard's and was a member of First Baptist Church.

She is survived by her sons: Mark McDaniel and Darren McDaniel both of Paragould; brothers: Gene Garretson of Melbourn, FL; Gary Feurer; granddaughter: Megan McDaniel of Paragould.

A memorial service will be held Friday, February 17, 2012, 4:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Paragould..
Heath Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online Condolences: Heath Funeral Home

 

Dixie Tate Rawlings
 

Dixie Tate Rawlings, 82, of Paragould, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012, at her residence.

She was born June 26, 1929, in Randolph County, AR., to Roy and Elza Rush. Mrs. Rawlings was a homemaker and a member of Center Hill Church of Christ

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Russell and Pam Tate; and one daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Coleman Rothe, all of Paragould. She is also survived by one brother, Bill Rush of Walnut Ridge; two sisters, Alzetta Bounds of Bono and Barbara Davidson of Walnut Ridge; five grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Tate; her second husband, Labearl Rawlings; twin infant sons; and by three sisters, Myrl Tate, Pearl Thomas and Luvinia Healey.

Visitation will be Friday evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home, Paragould.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 28th, 1:00 p.m., at Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with David Deffenbaugh officiating. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Nephews will serve as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Jesse Pritchard
 

Funeral services for Jess Pritchard, 85, were held Monday, January 30, 2012 at the First Baptist Church of Humboldt, TN., with Dr. Greg McFadden officiating.

Mr. Pritchard, former mayor of Humboldt, owner of the Western Auto store in Humboldt for 25 years, and owner of Pritchard Realty where he was a real estate broker, appraiser, and investor, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012, at Jackson General Hospital.

He was a long-standing member of the Humboldt First Baptist Church where, among other duties, he served as a Sunday school teacher.

Mr. Pritchard was a graduate of Paragould High School, class of 1944, and after returning from World War II he graduated from The University of Memphis. Mr. Pritchard was a member of The University of Memphis Alumni Association, the Exchange Club, Rotary Club, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the downtown merchant association, West Tennessee Regional Art Museum, West Tennessee Health Care Board, past chairman of the Humboldt School Board and past president of the Strawberry Festival.

Mr. Pritchard was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie Pritchard; a sister, Rebecca Weatherford; and a brother, Harry Pritchard.

Mr. Pritchard is survived by a daughter, Jessica P. Alsobrook and husband Bob; a son, Tim Pritchard; and four grandchildren, Rob Alsobrook and wife Emily, John Alsobrook, David Alsobrook and Matt Pritchard, all of Humboldt.

 

Mary Louise Turner
 

Mary Louise Turner, 81, of Paragould, went home to be with the Lord Friday, January 27, 2012. She had been a resident of Belle Meade Nursing Center for 3 years. She was born October 18, 1930 in Mineral Springs, AR to the late Charles and Madge Perry. She was of Baptist faith. Mary enjoyed fishing, cross word puzzles, and had a wonderful sense of humor.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Rev. Billy Wayne Gaston and Larry Turner; six brothers and sisters; and one granddaughter, Kimberly Smith.

She is survived by one son, Richard (Susan) Gaston of Paragould; two daughters, Shirley (Ron) Higginbotham of College Station, TX, and Lana (Bart) McCoy of Nashville, TN; one brother, Buster Perry of IN; one sister, Arteena Burns of CA; four grandchildren, Andrea Campbell, Amy Smith, Ron Higginbotham, Jr., and LeeAnn Alvarez; and ten great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be Monday, January 30th, 11:00 a.m. at Greene County Memorial Gardens Cemetery with a eulogy delivered by Lana McCoy.
Pallbearers will be Keith Smith, Sean Smith, Phillip Campbell, Nevada Smith, Kade Smith and Bart McCoy.

Online Condolences: Phillips Funeral Home

 

Ray Clinton Boggs
 

Ray Clinton Boggs, 94, of Paragould, passed away January 27, 2012 at Greene Acres Nursing Home. Born August 27, 1917 in Elmo, Missouri, he was a retired supervisor for Ely Walker Shirt Factory and a member of The Church At Paragould.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, R. C. and Priscilla Boggs of Paragould; one brother, Charles Boggs of Paragould; one granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Melissa and Mark Miller of Paragould; one grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Anthony and Cheryl Boggs of Roswell, Georgia; five great grandchildren, Matthew Miller of Paragould, and Michael Miller of Chesterfield, Missouri, Taylor Boggs of Dallas, Texas, Dillon Boggs of Lexington, Kentucky, and Brady Boggs of Roswell, Georgia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Christina Boggs; his wife, Lali Marion Boggs; three brothers, Floyd, Earl, and Roy Boggs; two sisters, Josephine Clayton and Sybil Skaggs; and by a daughter-in-law, Carolyn Boggs.

Funeral services will be Friday, February 3rd, 1:30 p.m. the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with Bill Bass officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, 11:30 a.m. until service time.

Matthew Miller, Michael Miller, Dillon Boggs, John Brittingham, Dick Pace and Roy McSpadden will serve as pallbearers.

Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home


 

Nolan Lee Ussery

 

Nolan Lee Ussery, 93 of Paragould, passed away Saturday, January 28, 2012 at the Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould. Born September 29, 1918 at Grubbs, Arkansas, he was retired from Emerson Electric and farmer, he was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and was a veteran of World War II.

Survivors include four sons and daughters-in-law, Lowell Ussery, Phillip and Janie Ussery, Freddie and Cathy Ussery, Roland and Karen Ussery all of Paragould, nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma Ussery; his parents, James A and Mary E. Townsley Ussery: two brothers, Louis C. Ussery, James L. Ussery and one sister Ivaughn Simpson.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 31st, 1:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel with a son, Lowell Ussery officiating. Burial will follow in Wood’s Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to services Tuesday, beginning at noon at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will include; Theron Ussery, Chris Ussery, Bradley Ussery, Stephen Ussery, Heath Matthews, Derrick Montgomery, Keith Clark, Shane Burgess and Matt Clark.


Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

Telpher Emerson Campbell

 

Telpher Emerson Campbell, 87, of Paragould, passed away Sunday, January 29, 2012, at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center.

An Army veteran of World War II, Mr. Campbell was born February 2, 1924 in Marmaduke. He was the founder of Campbell Termite and Pest Control. A member of 7th & Mueller Church of Christ, he helped to start their Bus Ministry and was the first director of Compassion Outreach at 7th & Mueller.

Mr. Campbell was preceded in death by his parents, Troy Robert and Susan Catherine Campbell; his wife, Alidean Campbell; one son, Telpher “Butch” Campbell; one daughter, Deborah Lynn Hyde; three brothers, Vernon, Wayne and Virgil Campbell; one sister, Wanda “Tiny” Camp; and one grandson, John Campbell.

Survivors include three grandchildren, Shannan Prince and her husband, Chad, Bobbie Jo Hyde, all of Paragould, and Tooter Orren of Tennessee; one Brother, Robert Campbell of Paragould; and three sisters, Ellison Weatherford of Hanford, California, Phyllis Rorex of Durham, North Carolina, and Margaret Khoury of Oklahoma City. He is also survived by two great grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Donna Campbell; and a son-in-law, Jerry Hyde, both of Paragould.

Visitation will be Tuesday evening, 6:00 until 9:00 at the 7th & Mueller Church of Christ.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 1st, 10:00 a.m. at 7th & Mueller Church of Christ with Larry McFadden and Michael Cox officiating. Burial will follow in Greene County Memorial Gardens under the direction of Mitchell Funeral Home.

Memorials to the 7th & Mueller Bus Ministry or to Compassion Outreach, 7th & Mueller Church of Christ, 1000 S 7th St, Paragould, AR 72450, would be appreciated..


Online Condolences: Mitchell Funeral Home

 

Ann Chester
 

Ann Chester, 74, of Paragould passed away Sunday, January 29, 2012.

Born June 11, 1937 in New Mexico.

She is survived by husband Kern Chester of the home, daughter Deborah of Oklahoma and brother Bill of New Mexico.

A private memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Mrs. Chester was cremated. McNabb Funeral Home was in charge of making arrangements.


Online Condolences: McNabb Funeral Home

 

Gale O’Day Kellim
 

Funeral services for Gale O’Day Kellim, 91, will be held Thursday, February 2nd, 3:00 p.m. at George A. Smith and Sons North Chapel, Jackson, TN., with Minister Lonnie Sanders officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends this evening, 6:00 until 8:00 at the funeral home.

Mr. Kellim passed away Monday, January 30, 2012, after a brief illness.

He was born December 29, 1920, at Delaplaine, AR., to the late W.W. and Lola Kellim. He was preceded in death by brothers, O’Neal Kellim of Walnut Ridge and Paul Kellim of Paragould; and nephew, Julian Crider of Delaplaine.

Gale retired in 1986. He was a sales supervisor with Arkansas-Missouri Power Co. for 15 years at Walnut Ridge, Blytheville and Caruthersville, Mo. He moved his family to Jackson, TN., in 1964 to work as a sales representative with Empire Stove Co., later as sales supervisor for Century Engineering of Cedar Rapids, IA., and sales supervisor for Freedom Heating and Air Conditioning.

Mr. Kellim was a member of West Jackson Baptist Church from 1964. He was a Master Mason for the past 50 years, first at the Masonic Lodge at Walnut Ridge and, at the time of his death, Masonic Lodge 461 in Caruthersville.

He was past president of the Lion’s Club in Caruthersville and a member of the Lion’s Club, Rotary, and Veterans of Foreign Wars in Jackson.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Naval Aviation Squadron 3. He served in the South Pacific area during World War II.

Gale was a very active outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his loving wife, Edna M. Kellim whom he married in 1941. He is also survived by two loving daughters, Kathy Barnett and husband, Rickey, of Franklin, TN., and Carol Sykes of Jackson; four grandchildren, Benjamin and Allison Barnett of Franklin, and Justin and John Sykes of Jackson. Also surviving is his sister, Edna Cridar of Delaplaine.

Serving as pallbearers will be grandchildren, Ben Barnett, Allison Barnett, Justin Sykes, John Sykes; Lennie Ellis and Bob Summars.

Online Condolences: George Smith and Sons Funeral Home

 

Patricia Lynn Aljafari
 

Patricia Lynn Aljafari, 48, of Paragould passed away Monday, January 30, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center, Paragould.

She was born February 11, 1963 in Memphis, TN., and had lived in Paragould for 1and 1/2 years, moving here from Memphis. She was of the Church of Christ belief and had worked in Telephone sales. She was preceded in death by her sister Vicky Barber.

She is survived by her daughter, Carrie M. Stanley of Newport, AR., parents, Robert and Laura Gross Harder Sr. of Jonesboro, bother, Robert E. Harder Jr. of Bartlett, TN., sisters, Janette Hopkins and Carole Harder both of Jonesboro, one grandson, Ethan Stanley.

Funeral service will be Friday February 3rd, 3:00 p.m. at the Emerson Memorial Chapel, with Terry Joe Kee officiating. Burial will be private with Emerson Funeral Home in charge.

Visitation will be Friday February 3rd, 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home

Family requests that lasting memorials be made to the Anchor Point Recovery Center, Inc. 715 Josephine Newport, Arkansas 72112.


Online Condolences: Emerson Funeral Home

 

~*~Information from the following funeral homes in Paragould, AR:
Heath, Mitchell, Phillips, Irby/Marmaduke, unless other wise noted~*~