Virginia Sue Beasley Brumfield age 83 of Pine Ridge, Arkansas passed away Monday, April 29, 2019 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

She was born on August 2, 1935 in Morrow, Arkansas to the late William “Bill” Bates and the late Hester Beasley Bates. Virginia was married to Ernest Wayne Brumfield, Sr. until his passing in 2019. She was a RN in the medical field.

Virginia enjoyed her ‘porch sitting” watching birds and admiring her yard and flowers. She was very artistic and loved quilting and crocheting. Virginia was always a busy person and a amazing woman. She was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all.

Survivors are sons: Ernest Wayne Brumfield Jr. and Pam Brumfield of Pine Ridge, Arkansas, Steven Dwayne Brumfield and Kevin Zinke of Pine Ridge, Arkansas, and Gary Alan Brumfield and wife Andrea of Colorado Springs, Colorado

Grandchildren: Brooke Babin, Ashley Rogers, and Nicholas Brumfield

Great-grandchildren: River Babin and Cora Babin

Brother: Billy Bates of Pine Ridge, Arkansas

Sister: Ines Wilson of Pine Ridge, Arkansas

All of her church friends and fellow worshippers at Little Hope Baptist Church. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Hester Bates, and husband Ernest Brumfield, Sr. 

Funeral service will be Friday, May 3, 2019, 2:00 p.m. at Little Hope Baptist Church with Brother Andy Kennedy officiating. Interment will follow in the Pine Ridge Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 2, 2019 at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be Gary Brumfield, Steve Wigginton, Wesley Bates, Kevin Zinke, Ernie Brumfield, and Thurston Coker.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Little Hope Baptist Church, 2997 Southside Road, Oden, Arkansas 71961.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Fayetta Mountain passed away April 28, 2019 at the age of 87 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Faye grew up in Mena and became a proud military wife when she married George Mountain in 1955. Her favorite deployment while in the military was Italy, where they lived for three years. Faye enjoyed the outdoors and doing crafts. Upon their retirement, the couple settled on Rich Mountain where they operated a laundromat and gas station. She loved the mountains and especially fishing in their pond.

Because of her failing health, she relocated to Fort Smith in 2014 under the loving care of Sharon & Gary Loop. Faye spent her remaining years as a resident at Ashton Place. She made many friends there, and she was a volunteer in the activity department where she took part in Drums Alive, Bean Bag Toss, and everything else that she could physically do. Faye loved her nurses and aids.

Faye was preceded in death by her husband George, her mother & father Melvie & Charles Barnard, her sister Flon Springfield, her brothers Hiram & Claude James.

Funeral will be on Wednesday, May 1st at 10:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church. Visitation will be at 9:00 AM. The funeral will be under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home in Mena.

Memorials can be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church or PCDC. 
 

Rosalie Sadler

Rosalie Sadler, age 74, of Mena, Arkansas died Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at her home. She was born on Wednesday, March 28, 1945 to Everett and Lillian Kinch Mallatt in San Jose, California.

Rosalie was generous and hardworking throughout her entire life and up until her very last moment. She was a dedicated and active member of the local Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, and was proud of her work with the church. Jehovah and her family always took precedence in her life. Rosalie enjoyed working hard and always kept a happy home for her family. She enjoyed going out to dinner with her husband and getting Mexican food from their favorite restaurant. Rosalie worked at the Lighthouse Fitness Center and was well liked by everyone there. On occasion, she enjoyed oil painting meadows and other beautiful landscapes. Rosalie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and a great friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Michael Mallatt, and Stanley Mallatt; and two sisters, Hazel Mallatt, and Marion Streit.

Rosalie is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Marc Sadler of Mena; two sons and daughter in law, Marc and Nicole Sadler of Texarkana, Texas, and Everett Lynn Sadler of Pipestone, Minnesota; one brother and sister in law, David and Peggy Mallatt of Santa Cruz, California; one nephew, Stephen Mallatt; three nieces, Kathy Mallatt, Marie Streit, and Paula Floyd; five grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; several other nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Mena, with Brother John Crouch officiating. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

4-26-19 8:31 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

Fred Blaine Sikes, Jr. age 98 of Norman, Oklahoma formerly of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, April 19, 2019 in Oklahoma.

He was born on September 26, 1920 in Board Camp, Arkansas to the late Fred Blaine Sikes, Sr. and the late Vada Edward Sikes. He was married to Oma Jean Goodner Sikes until her passing. Fred proudly served his country in the Army during World War ll. He worked in construction/carpenter trade and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren the art of woodwork. He loved playing his fiddle for family and friends, and gardening. Fred appreciated taking long walks with his grandchildren and enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife. The conversations they had were precious to him. Above all he loved his family and especially his grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by grandchildren: Deidra Presley of Graham, Texas, Casey Sikes of Jones, Oklahoma, and Derril Sikes of Jones, Oklahoma

Great-grandchildren: Samantha Harvey of Bridgecreek, Oklahoma and Robert Harvey of Mustang, Oklahoma

Great-great-grandchildren: Rocky Sikes of Jones, Oklahoma, Kinlei Harvey of Mustang, Oklahoma, and Eisley Brumley of Bridgecreek. Oklahoma

Nephew: Martin White 

Daughter-in-law: Elaine Sikes

Numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Blaine Sikes, Sr. and Veda Edwards Sikes, wife Oma Sikes, son Derril Sikes, daughter Phyllis Presley, brothers and sisters, Lee, Dottie, Loui, John an infant, Carney, and Jorli, granddaughter, Kim Sikes, grandson Matthew Sikes.

Funeral service will be Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Interment will follow in the Liberty Cemetery in Board Camp, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. 

Visitation is General.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Mrs. Shirley Jean (Wright, Higgins) Moore, of Mena passed away on March 25, 2019 at the age of 74, after a battle with Leukaemia. Loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and aunt.

Shirley was born January 29, 1945 in Hartly Arkansas to the parents of Jeanella and Henry Wright. 

At 18 she married John Higgins of Wickes who passed away in 1993. She married Robert Moore in November of 2005. 

Shirley loved nature. Some of her favourite pastimes included camping, fishing and nature walks. She loved animals and has had many dogs, birds and chickens in her lifetime. She went to correspondence school and got her high school diploma, a diploma in forestry and in her 60’s she completed an upholstery course.

Her surviving children are Pollyanna Higgins-Dunce (husband Roger) of England United Kingdom, Dale Higgins (wife Tonya) of Mena Arkansas, Johnny Higgins (wife Debbie) of Tomahawk WI, John Higgins (wife Tarra) of Mena, Bobbie Moore of Mena, Nephew/son Leroy Reid of Ft. Smith. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is predeceased her son Robert Higgins, her daughters Loretta Miller and Judy Joyce.

Her ashes will be scattered with her parents in a private ceremony at the Hartly Cemetery and there will be a family and friends gathering organized by her children to be had on a separate date. 
 

Mary May Johnson, 98, of Watson, Oklahoma passed from this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, April 18th, 2019. She was born in McGee, Missouri on August 8th, 1920 and was the daughter of the late William Barks and Bessie Steward Barks.

She was saved at Bright Prospect Baptist Community Church in McGee. After high school, she lived and worked in St. Louis before traveling to Oregon with her brother and sister-in-law for work. While working in a café she met the love of her life, Billie Johnson of Watson, and they were married in Cove, Arkansas on November 16th, 1946. Mrs. Johnson enjoyed crocheting, quilting, gardening and cooking. But she really loved to attend church and teach young children. She enjoyed teaching them to “mind” and helping them memorize God’s Word and the Books of the Bible. She was an active member of Sulphur Springs Missionary Baptist Church for 60 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billie, one daughter, Peggy White, one granddaughter, Rosemary Youngblood, brothers, Sherman, Ivan, Eli, Joe, and Lloyd, and sisters, Goldie, Irene, and Bertailee.

Survivors include one sister, Berneice Adams of Puxico, Missouri, two sons, Ralph and wife Saundra of Pryor, Oklahoma, Richard and wife Candy of Fort Smith Arkansas, one daughter, Patricia of Shawnee, Oklahoma, six grandsons, Aaron, Johnathan, Andrew, Ryan, Charles, and Clinton, two granddaughters, Rebekah and Christina, and 24 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at Sulphur Springs Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 10:00 am.

Visitation will be on Friday, April 26, 2019 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Aaron Johnson, Johnathan Johnson, Andrew Johnson, Ryan Youngblood, Charles White, and Clinton Johnson.

Honorary Pallbearers are Rebekah Rose and Christina Wilson.

Interment at Watson Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Mrs. Johnson loved the Bible, Gods Word. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Gideon’s International. You may donate online at sendtheword.org, or by calling 866-382-4243. Donation cards will also be made available at the funeral home.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Norma Mae Gaston Reed age 93 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, April 19, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas.

She was born on September 17, 1925 in Gaston Community, Arkansas to the late Grady Gaston and the late Anna Fiddler Gaston. Norma worked as an LPN for many years in the medical profession. She had a servant’s heart by helping anyone in need. She was a member of Free Will Baptist Church and enjoyed doing the bulletin board at her church and helped at Rich Mountain Nursing Home. Norma was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and friend to all who knew her. 

She is survived by son: Michael Reed of Wichita, Kansas

Daughter: Pat Murray of Gardendale, Alabama

Grandchildren: Michele Murray of Pelham, Alabama and Todd Murray and wife Lynn of Mount Olive, Alabama

Great-grandchildren: Anthony DiSalvo and wife Carmen and Dalton Murray and Braden Murray

Great-great-grandchildren: Braylon DiSalvo and Presley Kate DiSalvo

Sisters: Beth Aukes of Mt. Ida, Arkansas and Mary “Boots” Massey and husband Wayne of Hot Springs, Arkansas

Special friend: Melba Davis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Grady and Anna Gaston, sister Imogene Singleton, and brothers Darryl Gaston, Lynn Gaston, and Robert Gaston.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Freewill Baptist Church in Mena, Arkansas with Brother Donnie Jewell officiating.

 

Interment will be in Gaston Cemetery in Oden, Arkansas under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Aukes, Mike Hoover, Mac Westmoreland, Gary Threlkill, Terry Davis, and Jr. Carter.

Honorary pallbearers are Wayne Massey, Gary Alexander, Guy Alexander, Ken Singleton, Kelly Singleton, Brian Aukes, Bill Wells and Jerry Singleton.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Charles Michael Brown age 69 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, April 19, 2019 in Mena.

He was born on December 11, 1949 in Dermott, Arkansas to the late Charles Faye Brown, Jr. and the late Betty Jo Beeson Brown. He was married to Connie Ayers Brown, and was a towboat captain for 40 years. Having a servant heart, he volunteered for Samartains Purse, prison ministries, and nursing homes. Charles was an active member of the Dallas Baptist Church for 22 years and proud member of AA for 26 years. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and being “Papa” to all his grandchildren. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him.

He is survived by wife of forty years: Connie Brown of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: James Allen Ellis of Mena, Arkansas, Michael Thomas Ellis of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Charles Vincent Brown of Mena, Arkansas 

Grandchildren: Bailey Ellis of Conway, Arkansas, Joshua Bates of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Chelsi Schoeppey of Mena, Arkansas, Madison Ellis of Mena, Arkansas, Evelyn Ellis of Mena, Arkansas, Bianca Ellis of Colorado, and Ryleigh Fondren of Ft. Smith, Arkansas

Great-grandchildren: Maybree Bates of Mena, Arkansas and Easton and Juliet Schoeppey of Mena, Arkansas

Brother: Lindy Brown and wife Holly of Eudora, Arkansas

A host of nieces, nephews, and special friends Carrol Pettigrew, Monty Harris, Guy McDill, and Ronnie Wagner, and too many more to mention.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Betty Brown, and a son Joseph Daniel Brown.

Memorial service will be Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church with Brothers Ronnie Wagner and Justin Leonard officiating under the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

 

Gale Ray Henry, age 74, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, April 19, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas.

Mr. Henry was born October 10, 1944 in Mena, Arkansas to the late William “Bill” Henry and Olive Burgess Henry and was happily married for 53 years to Sally Henry. He retired after 36 years from U. S. Motors. For many years prior to working at U. S. Motors, he worked with his father, brothers and nephews running Henry’s Logging. Gale loved to work, even in his spare time. He was a friend to everyone he met and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. He will be dearly missed by all.

Survivors are wife: Sally Henry of the home

Children: Danny Ray Henry and wife Lisa of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Gregg Henry and wife Tammy of Mena, Arkansas, and Shane Henry and wife Loretta of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Aaron Henry of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Nikki Henry of Bentonville, Arkansas, Dylan Blaylock of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Lauren Gage and husband Devin of Mena, Arkansas, Christopher Henry and Fiancé Kristin Mayo of Mena, Arkansas, Dillion Gage and wife Charli of Mena, Arkansas, Derrick Gage of Mena, Arkansas, Shawna and Israel Garcia of Mexico, Ashley Hernandez of Mena, Arkansas, Joey Sparks and wife Lisa of Texas, Jesse Henry and wife Ashley of Mena, Arkansas, Mandy Henry of Mena, Arkansas, and Brendon Henry and wife Brianne of Mena, Arkansas

Brothers: Carl Henry and wife Ruby of Little Rock, Arkansas and Wendell Henry and wife Jodene of Mena, Arkansas

Sister: Brenda and husband Jerry Davis of Springdale, Arkansas

Special Friend: Wayne Simpson

Twenty great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Olive Henry, and brothers William and Wayne Henry.

A Memorial Service will be Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home with Minister Dana Kinsey officiating.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Anselmo Candelaria age 74 of Hatfield, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2019 in Hatfield.

He was born on April 16, 1945 in Santa Fe, New Mexico to the late Redolfo Candelaria and the late Amelia Martinez. He worked as a janitor until retiring. Anselmo proudly served his country in the Army. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. Also, he liked to work on cars and listen to old country music. He loved his family with all his heart. He was a loving and kind father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

 

He is survived by Sons: Frankie Armjo, Sr., Anselmo Candelaria, Jr., and David Phelps.

Daughters: Glendora Orphy, Candy Schotic, Iva Candelaria, Terri Armjo, and Robbin Candelaria.

Grandchildren: Chrystle Phelps, Dolly Candelaria, Jami Bell, Audrey Christmas, Ethan Jewell, Jacob Haddix, Meghan Armjo, Anselmo Candelaria, III, Ciara Candelaria, Aramis Candelaria, Erica Watts, Brittany Armjo, and Tiffany Armjo, Jhon Armjo, and Frank Armjo, Jr.

 

Great-Grandchildren: Cheyenne Phelps, Jennifer Phelps, Tyler Phelps, Allan Dollarhyde, Sophia Dollarhyde, Ayden Freeman, Tia, Autumn, Jeremiah, Anastasia, Christian, Maliki, Braylee and Jozoolee.

Sister: Rita Schoolfield

Several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

All survivors are living in Mena, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by parents, wife, Iva Candelaria, son Larry Candelaria, daughter, Juaneta Kaye Candelaria, grandchildren Timmie, Katelyn and great-grandchildren Austin and Andrew.

Mr. Candelaria was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley wood Funeral Home of Mena.

 

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Dorothy June “Freelen” Jewell age 80 of Vandervoort, Arkansas went to be with our Lord on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas.

Dorothy was born June 21, 1938 in Texas to the late Jim Freelen and Ethel Doss Freelen. She was united in marriage to Clarence Junior Jewell her husband of 62 years. Dorothy was a humble homemaker by the grace of God. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and friend. She loved crocheting, playing bingo, cooking family meals and quilting. She was a faithful member of Vandervoort First Baptist Church, she loved singing and praising God and reading the Bible to her husband and spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by daughters: Janie Kinman and husband Allen of Big Springs, Texas, Marilyn Barrett and husband John, Jr. of Vandervoort, Arkansas, Glenda Watkins and husband Kenny of Vandervoort, Arkansas, and Kim Jobe and husband Robert of Mena, Arkansas

Son: Ronnie Jewell and wife Loretta of Cove, Arkansas

Brother: Kenneth Freelen of Alma, Arkansas

Sisters: Sue Brumbelow of Bagwell, Texas, Frankie Gurley of Amarillo, Texas

Twenty-two grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and 7 Great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Ethel Freelen, husband Clarence Jr. Jewell, daughter Kathye Martin, grandson Travis Barrett, granddaughter, Marsha Martin, and one sister, Helen and five brothers James, William, Newt, Tiny and Donald.

Funeral service will be Monday, April 22, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Vandervoort First Baptist Church in Vandervoort with Brother Aaron M. Anglin officiating. Interment will follow in the Witherspoon Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friends visitation will be Sunday, April 21, 2019 at 7:00 -8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Richard Martin, Jason Johnson, Jonathan Barrett, Brandon Martin, Kenneth Watkins, Joey Watkins, Ethan Jewell, and Jacob Jewell.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Verna May Snitker Stricklin age 81 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Tuesday, April 16, 2019 in Pencil Bluff, Arkansas.

Verna was born on March 8, 1938 in Hatfield, Arkansas to the late Henry Miller and the late Iva Brewer Miller. She enjoyed gardening, taking walks and spending time with family and friends. Above all she loved her Lord and Savior and her family. Verna was an adoring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend to all who knew her.

She is survived by daughters: Tami Pickett and husband Gary of Bentonville, Arkansas and Chandra Fields and husband Shawn of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Rodney Warford and wife Keri, Lindsey Tabb and husband Logan, Adam Beck and wife Savannah, Aaron Beck and wife Ashlea, Andrew Beck and wife Kayla, Brittany Fields, Brandon Fields, Jaeli, Austin and Ethan Fields

Great-grandchildren: Madison Sander, Andrew Cerra, Max and Stella-Anne Warford, Cody, Caydee, Charlee Jo and Case Beck, Lynnlee and Asher Cook, and Dax Beck, Kortsen Edwards and Drexley Beck

Brother: Kenny Miller and wife Lynn

Sisters: Billie McDaniel, Norma Stricklin and husband Charles, Linda Owens and husband Richard

A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Iva Miller, her first husband W. Wayne Snitker of 33 years, husband William Stricklin, daughter and son-in-law, Shari and Doug Beck, brother Donald Wayne Miller, sister Wanda McDaniel, and a grandson Seth Warford.

Funeral service will be Monday, April 22, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Hatfield First Baptist Church with Brother Scott O’Rear and Brother Keith Rose officiating. Interment will follow in the Six Mile Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friends visitation will be Sunday, April 21, 2019 at 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Kenny Miller, Jr., Jody Miller, Travis Miller, Richie Owens, Josh Owens and Jeremy Owens.

Honorary pallbearers will be her nephews.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.
 

Vester O'Donnell Parks

Vester O'Donnell Parks, age 76, of Mena, died Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at his home. He was born on Thursday, May 7, 1942 to Arlie O'Donnell and Verna Patten Parks in Mena, Arkansas.

Vester was a good man and hard worker. He worked as a local policeman in the 1970's, and later went on to work for the Polk County Road Department. Vester also worked as the Campground Manager at Wolf Pen Gap. He relished the outdoors and liked to fish and deer hunt when he could, and also enjoyed gardening and canning. He was a member of the Elks Lodge. Vester was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Vester Parks II; and his step father, Dee Cunningham.

Vester is survived by his loving wife of 5 years, Donna Parks of Mena; two sons, Mike Parks of Mena, and Richard Parks of Wilson, North Carolina; two daughters, Victoria Jones of Henderson, Tennessee, and Twana Parks of Medon, Tennessee; one stepson, Derek Miller; two brothers, Ernal Cunningham of Mena, and Jeff Cunningham of Mena; eight grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be held Friday, April 19, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at the Old Dallas Cemetery with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena. 

Pallbearers will be Farrell Cole, Jewell Watkins, Brent Shrader, Jim Bo Davis, Derek Miller, and Cameron Ramirez.

Honorary Pallbearers are Dwight Goodner and Joe Bill Ward.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

4-16-19 4:14 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

 

Thomas Christopher Powell age 44, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, April 12, 2019 in Oklahoma.

He was born on October 22, 1974 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Donald Powell and Patsy Borders Powell. Thomas was married to Julia Hooper and was an Oil Field worker by profession. He enjoyed camping, fishing, collecting and shooting guns. Thomas also loved the ocean, watching and listening to the waves. Most of all he enjoyed and treasured being with family and friends. Thomas was a loving and dedicated husband, and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed by all.

He is survived by wife: Julia Powell of Mena, Arkansas

Father-in-law and wife: Albert Hooper and Retha of Mena, Arkansas

Sister-in-law: Jewel and husband Tim Strother of Mena, Arkansas

Sister-in-law: Brenda Hooper of Mena, Arkansas

His sisses: Rhonda Varner, Sheila Shreve, and Tricia Gahr

Oil Rig Family Rig #135

Many many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Patsy Powell, and brother Don Powell, Jr.

Funeral service will be Friday, April 19, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Mena Church of God with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Interment will follow in 
Gann Cemetery in Potter under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Dalon Davis, Quentin Horn, Shelby Walker, Josh Hensley, and Shannon Caldwell.

Honorary pallbearers will be Aaron Kimberlin, Wes Kimberlin, Chantry Blake, Shane Shreve, Justin Shreve, Aaron Gahr, and Zachary Gahr. 
 

Ramona “Mona” Willis Stricklin age 68 of Hatfield, Arkansas was reunited in Heaven with her honey, Larry Stricklin, on Monday, April 15, 2019.

Mona was born on May 14, 1950 in Talihina, Oklahoma to the late Elesten Willis and Lilliella Samuel Willis. She was married to the late Larry Stricklin for 28 years until his passing in 2016. Mona worked in several occupations during her life, business owner, bookkeeper, truck driver, and most recently bank teller. She enjoyed watching and going to basketball games with family and friends. Mona was an active member of the Hatfield First Baptist Church for many years and sang in the church choir. She was well known to cook the best fried potatoes, pinto beans and Indian Tacos. Most of all she loved God, and spending time with grandchildren and family. She was a devoted and loving mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to everyone that knew her. She will be dearly missed by all. 

She is survived by son: Dale David Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas

Step-son: Beau Stricklin and wife Laurel of Dublin, California

Daughter: Tasha Strickland and husband Charles of North Little Rock, Arkansas

Step-daughters: Tonya Thacker and husband Ron of Mena, Arkansas and Toni Gay and husband Brad of Washington, Oklahoma

Grandchildren: Brittanie Willis of Mena, Arkansas, Paris, Elvis, Tucker, and Sailor Stricklin of Dublin, California, Tateli, Taylor, and Ty Thacker of Mena, Arkansas, Ashleigh and Alexis Gay of Washington, Oklahoma

Mother: Lilliella Willis of Battiest, Oklahoma

Brothers: Edgel Samuel of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Vernon Willis of Battiest, Oklahoma, Junior Willis of Battiest, Oklahoma, and Everett “Glenn” Willis of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Sisters: Elfreda Willis of Battiest, Oklahoma and Alice Thomas of Nokoma Park, Oklahoma

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Elesten Willis, husband Larry Stricklin, brother Norman Samuel, niece Amanda Willis, nephew Garreth Stricklin, and mother-in-law Wanda McDaniel.

Funeral service will be Thursday, April 18, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Hatfield First Baptist Church with Brother Rick Bateman officiating. Interment will follow in the Six Mile Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friends visitation will be Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be David Willis, Beau Stricklin, Charles Strickland, Elvis Stricklin, Junior Willis, and Dewayne Tonihka.

Honorary pallbearers will be Garry Stricklin, Vernon Willis, Glenn Willis, and Edgel Samuel.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

 

Ellen Rae Busch age 54 of Mena, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas.

Ellen was born on January 29, 1965 in Mena, Arkansas to Billy Ray Rice and Rosellen Calvery Branch. She was married to Bryant Arville Busch and worked at Mena Regional Health System in the business office. Ellen enjoyed working with flowers and designing arrangements. Ellen attended Faith Missionary Baptist Church and was very involved and dedicated in serving her church family. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all.

She is survived by husband: Bryant Busch of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: Chase Busch of North Little Rock, Arkansas and Brandon Busch of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Bailey Elaine Heald of Mena, Arkansas and Bevin Elizabeth Busch of Mena, Arkansas

 

Father: Billy Ray Rice of Mena, Arkansas

Mother: Rosellen “Rose” Branch of Mena, Arkansas

Brothers: Marty Henry of Mena, Arkansas, Paul Arceneaux of Mena, Arkansas, Michael Rice of Hatfield, Arkansas, and Tracy Rice of Hatfield, Arkansas

Sister: Amanda Beck of Alder Springs, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Gene Calvery and James Wheat, grandmother, Sybil Wheat, mother-in-law, Virginia Busch, and step-mother, Barbara Rice.

Funeral service will be Thursday, April 18, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Tim Harper officiating. Interment will follow in the White Oak Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation will be Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Beasley Wood from 6:00-8:00 p.m. 

Pallbearers are A.J. Arceneaux, Braxton Arceneaux, Allen Henry, Eddie Kennedy, Matt Stockton, and Teil Henry.

Honorary pallbearer is Eric Pistol Sherrill.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.

 

Clifford E. Bentley

Clifford E. Bentley, age 89, of Board Camp, died Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at the Mena Regional Health System. He was born on Wednesday, January 15, 1930 to Raymond John and Mary Amelia Campbell Bentley in Marion, Ohio. 

Clifford was an outdoorsman who loved going fishing on the back of his farm on the Ouachita River. Clifford served his God, his country and his community. Clifford was a member of the Board Camp Baptist Church for many years, serving as a deacon and Sunday school director; served in the United States Air Force for 27 years before retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War where he received the Bronze Star; also served 30 years on the Board Camp Fire Department and former Director of the Smart Team. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed all different types of music. Clifford was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and a great friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Julia Bentley and one brother, James Bentley.

Clifford is survived by his three sons and daughters in law, Michael S. Bentley of Waldo, Arkansas, Doug and Berva Bentley of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and Chip and Suzanne Bentley of Board Camp, Arkansas; his daughter, Melanie Cowart of Board Camp; one sister, Dee Dee Bilharz of Florence, Kentucky; special friend, Barbara Hedges of Mena; twelve grandchildren, Beth Rinehart, Michelle Marlette, Gene Bentley, Josh Bentley, Vici Jenkins, Douglas Bentley, Matt Cowart, Julie Nichols, Craig Bentley, Kim Chambers, Rick Burt, Matt Edwards; nineteen great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, April 14, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at the Board Camp Baptist Church with Brother Lynn Chiles and Brother Brett Lee officiating. Interment will follow in the Liberty Cemetery at Board Camp under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Visitation will be Saturday, April 13, 2019 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena. 

Pallbearers will be Josh Bentley, Matt Cowart, Gene Bentley, Craig Bentley, Douglas Bentley, Neil Rinehart, Andy Marlette, Dan Jenkins, and Kelby Chambers. Honorary Pallbearers will be Rick Burt, Larry Eades, Jack Esary, Matt Edwards, Board Camp Baptist Church Deacons, and Board Camp Rural Volunteer Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Board Camp Baptist Church Building Fund or the Board Camp Baptist Church Food Distribution, 107 Polk Road 63, Mena, Arkansas 71953.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com 

 

4-10-19 9:24 a.m. KAWX.ORG 

 

Ernest Wayne Brumfield, age 83 of Pine Ridge, Arkansas passed away peacefully, Saturday, April 6, 2019 at his home.

He was born January 9, 1936 in Hillsboro, Ohio to the late Daniel W. Brumfield and Irene Gladys Bowen Brumfield. He was united in marriage to Virginia Brumfield for many wonderful years. Mr. Brumfield retired from the United States Air Force as a Master Sergeant working as a Data Processing Machinery Supervisor and serving in Vietnam. He was very patriotic, loved his country and was proud to have served in the military. After retirement, he loved watching television and playing cards. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be dearly missed by all.

Survivors are wife: Virginia Sue Beasley Brumfield

Sons: Ernest Wayne Brumfield, Jr. of Pine Ridge, Arkansas, Steven Dwayne Brumfield of Pine Ridge, Arkansas, and Gary Allen Brumfield of Colorado Springs, Colorado

Brothers: Randy Brumfield of Utah

Sisters: Bonnie Moore of Utah 

3 Grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren

Many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Daniel W. and Irene Brumfield, 4 brothers and 3 sisters.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 11, 2019 at Little Hope Baptist Church with Brother Andy Kennedy officiating. Interment will follow in the Pine Ridge Cemetery in Pine Ridge, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 10, 2019, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home in Mena.

See online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Audrey Onna Tucker age 59 of Mena, Arkansas went to see her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 3, 2019.

Onna was born on April 13, 1959 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Dow Cooper Anderson and the late Audrey May McDonald Anderson. She was a Manager in the Hospitality Industry. In high school she was in the Top 10 in the state of Texas running track, competing in the 440 and 880. Onna had a servants heart by helping people and was a role model. She was a faithful volunteer to go to prisons and nursing homes ministry sharing God’s love to others. Onna had a huge heart and was devoted to helping others. Above all she loved God, family and her Dallas Avenue Church family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister aunt and friend to all who knew her.

She is survived by sons: William Tucker of Texas City, Texas and Joshua Tucker of Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Brother: William J. Anderson and wife Deanna of Bismark, Arkansas

Sister: Donna Marie Tyndall of Woodville, Texas

Special friends: Ken Dodgen of Acorn, Arkansas and Sherry Lord of Hatton, Arkansas

Granddaughters Faith Tucker and Patience Tucker, as well as several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

She was preceded in death her parents, and brother Dow C. Anderson, Sr.

Memorial service will be Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church with Brother Justin Leonard officiating under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

In lieu of flowers donation and memorials can be made to Dallas Avenue Baptist Church, Onna's wish of giving back. 
 

Edward “Earl” Ricks, 84 of Cove passed away Tuesday, April 2,2019 at his home.

Earl was born February 14,1935 to the late John Edward Ricks and the late Nora Lackey Ricks.

Earl was a lifelong resident of Cove. He worked for Johnston Feed Mill and Hatton Lumber Company, in addition to being a poultry farmer and cattle rancher. He served many years on the Van-Cove School Board and the Pleasant Grove Cemetery Committee. Earl enjoyed telling stories and visiting with friends, working outside on his farm, and volunteering at the cemetery.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 51 years Alice Plunkett Ricks, and twin sister Muriel Ricks.

Survivors son: Greg Ricks and wife Sharon of Cove, Arkansas

Sister: Glenda Ricks Kern of Cove, Arkansas

Granddaughter: Julie Ricks Nash and husband Stacy of Mena, Arkansas

Great Grandsons: Connor and Carson Nash of Mena, Arkansas.

Graveside services will be Thursday, April 11, 2019, 10:00 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove with Brother Larry Davis officiating under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his honor be made to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery Fund.

 

Cove, AR 71937

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Robert "Bob" Sobczak

Robert "Bob" Sobczak, age 80, of Acorn, Arkansas died Monday, April 1, 2019. He was born on Sunday, March 19, 1939 to Francis and Helen Dietz Sobczak in DuBois, Pennsylvania.

Bob graduated from Parsons High School in Parsons, West Virginia in 1957 and immediately joined the Air Force. On November 21, 1970, he married Linda Kuehne. They raised one daughter, Kelly. He retired after twenty years of service, spending time at various military bases around the world, including Vietnam. In 1977, after retiring from the Air Force, he worked at the Veterans Administration Austin Automation Center in Austin, Texas for eighteen years. Combining his military time and civil service time he retired in 1996 with thirty-eight years of service. In January of 2001, he and Linda moved to Mena, Arkansas.

Bob enjoyed fishing, hunting and being out in the woods. He really enjoyed turkey hunting in the Ouachita National Forest. If a friend, neighbor or his church family needed anything, he was ready to help in any way that he could. He loved his small church family at the Christ Episcopal Church, and they loved him. Underneath, he had a kind, generous, loving heart and loved his family so very much. He will be missed more than words can say.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his stepdad Dennis; one son, Robert Joseph Sobczak; and two sisters, Barbara and Gwendolyn.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda of Acorn; his daughter Kelly Cline and son in law Kyle Cline of Austin, Texas; grandson Bennett Cline of Austin, Texas; granddaughter Quinn Cline of Austin, Texas; daughters Nancy and Bonita; four grandchildren and five great grandchildren of Texas; sister in laws Carol Ridge and Emily Kuehne of Texas; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

4-2-19 2:11 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

 

Lonnie Forest Easterling Sr.

Lonnie Forest Easterling Sr., age 69, of Cherry Hill, Arkansas died Sunday, March 31, 2019 at his home. He was born on Saturday, April 23, 1949 to Forest and Vera Browning Easterling in Hazzard, Kentucky.

Lonnie had strong Christian values and was an active member of the Cherry Hill Baptist Church. He moved to Cherry Hill in 2003 and was very happy there. Lonnie loved old cars and attending various car shows and was a member of the Ouachita Car Club. He worked at Numatics for many years and was a very skilled employee. Lonnie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and a great friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and one son, John Easterling.

Lonnie is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Cecilia Easterling of Cherry Hill; one son and daughter in law, Lonnie Jr. and Holli Easterling of Shirley, Arkansas; one daughter, Holly Hall of Clarkson, Michigan; one brother, Richard Easterling of Dundee, Michigan; one sister, Debra Sniedner of Davisburg, Michigan; one brother and sister in law, Joe and Vicki Wilson of Wixom, Michigan; one grandson, Devon Hall of Michigan; and one nephew, Robert McKinstry of Union Lake, Michigan; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Cherry Hill Baptist Church with Brother Grant Geiger officiating. Interment will follow at the Cherry Hill Cemetery. A visitation will take place before the service at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Tom Bawman, Frank Nelson, Stan House, Matt Debnar, Mark Thompson, and J.R. Kelch.

Honorary Pallbearers are Robert McKinstry and David Giles.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

4-1-19 4:09 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

 

Dale Spencer, age 82, of Mena, Arkansas passed away peacefully at his home on March 29, 2019. Dale was surrounded by his wife of 59 years Velda. Dale, also known as D.C., Daddy, Grandpa or Great Grandpa depending on how well you knew him was an avid outdoorsman that valued hard work and efficiency in everything he did. If you ever had the pleasure to meet him you would not soon forget it. He had a hardened exterior with an extensive vocabulary but also offered a kind soul and warm smile to anyone in need. 

Dale Clinton Spencer began his career at the age of 23 after completing the AHD Program in 1961. He attended Iola Junior College in Iola, Kansas and graduated from Kansas State College in Manhattan, Kansas with a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering. He received his early education and High School diploma in Welda, Kansas where he was born and raised. He came to the Highway Department in 1960 after extensive work for the Missouri Pacific Railroad and the Missouri Highway Commission. 

In his Career as an engineer, he left a legendary amount of success. While the list of accomplishments in his professional career are long and varied, some of his most proud accomplishments include; being the Resident Engineer for the almost 4 year project “Talimena Scenic Drive” – Previously known as The Ouachita Skyline Drive, and bringing Aubrey Tapley Park into existence. He was also responsible for an unlimited number of freeways, highways and byways; bridges, railroad lines and waterway draining systems. 

Dale is preceded in death by his parents Elvin and Alma Spencer, brother Cliff Spencer, sister Ann Harrison, and daughter Jacqueline Spencer. 

Dale is survived in death by his wife, Velda Spencer; son Mike Spencer and wife Roberta; daughter Tyra Alley and husband Richard; 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; his brothers Jim and Wayne Spencer; many nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. 

An acknowledgement from Andy Brown: "D.C. Spencer was a great friend of mine. I met D.C. when Mena was attempting to build a sports park on Highway 71 North. D.C. was able to take a piece of property, apply his engineering touch and put it on paper. He did this for pennies on the dollar; working by the hour, saving our city tens of thousands of dollars. He oversaw the development of what is now Aubrey Tapley Park. Some people had a dream and D.C. was one of those people that was instrumental in seeing that these dreams were accomplished. This town owes him a lot. His legacy will live on forever. I will personally miss him."

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting memorials be made in Dale's honor to a charitable endeavor you feel best represents your connection with Dale and his passions. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jerry David White please visit our Sympathy Store.

 

4-1-19 11:19 a.m. KAWX.ORG