Mildred Evelyn Wood went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 30, 2019 surrounded by family and friends. Born on 28 July 1921 in Chicago, Illinois, to Peter and Sonia Lindberg, Mildred spent her lifetime in loving service to others by reflecting the grace of Jesus Christ. 

Mildred grew up in Midwest America and graduated from Corning High School in Arkansas. She studied at Arkansas State Teachers College in Conway and met John Wood, a University of Arkansas medical school senior, in Pine Bluff, while working at the Federal Arsenal Dispensary. Their interest in medicine and each other culminated in their marriage in Little Rock on 18 December 1944. Mildred lovingly supported John Wood in his demanding role as the only surgeon in Polk County. Together in Mena, they raised five children, attended & served the First Presbyterian Church, supported the community including service on the school board, and never missed an opportunity to cheer on the Bearcats and the Razorbacks. 
Mildred was preceded in death by her mother, Sonia, her sister, Rose Wisdom, and her husband, John Wood. 

She is survived by her five children: Steven (& Sally, Rockport, MA), Linda (& Don, Carrollton, TX), Kathy (& Frank, Austin, TX), Carl (Mena, AR) and Olen (& Iris, Coeur d’Alene, ID). 

Mildred is also survived by four grandchildren: Abigail McKinney, Rebekah Self, Andrew Childers (all of Austin, TX) and Roger Wood (New York City, NY); Six great-grandchildren: Logan, Elijah, Skyler & Matthew Self (Austin, TX) and Haley & Brody Childers (Austin, TX). 

A Memorial Service celebrating Mildred’s life will be held at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home on Thursday, August 1, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. 

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 904 Church Ave, Mena, Arkansas 71953. 
 

Phyllis Louise Harrison age 69 of Mena, passed away Monday, July 29, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas.

She was born on March 23, 1950 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Glen William Miller and the late Glennie Mae May Miller. Phyllis was married to Robert John Harrison and worked in the medical profession as a Register Nurse. She enjoyed collecting antiques and loved to crochet and embroidery. Phyllis was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all.

She is survived by husband: Robert John Harrison of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: Robert Glenn Harrison and wife Von of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, John William Harrison and wife Terri of Mena, Arkansas, and Calvin Wayne Harrison of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Jeremy, Brandie, and Amanda

Brother: Larry Miller of Mena, Arkansas

Sister: Gladys Lacy of Mena, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Glen and Glennie Miller, and a sister, Jean Singleton and grandchild, Brittnie.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Jimmy Mabry officiating. Interment will follow in the Cherry Hill Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Visitation will be general. 

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Peters, Odell Peters, Danny Hendrix, Myron Alexander, Brian Hendrix and Slade Cunningham.

Honorary pallbearers are Fellow Nurses at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab and Mena Regional Hospital.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Alice Pauline Strong

Alice Pauline Strong, nee Hanson (Pauline), age 78, of Mena, Arkansas died July 26th, 2019 at Peachtree Assisted Living in Mena. She was born on Thursday, September 26th, 1940 to Arthur Gayle and Alice Ruth Hanson, nee Flescher in Barberton, Ohio.

Pauline was a Christian woman who always dreamed of raising a family of her own and being a loving wife. Her children and grandchildren filled her heart with love and joy. Pauline enjoyed drawing and was honored by the Marine Corp Reserve Unit for her artistry. She was a homemaker and made all her family happy with her roast beef, spareribs and sour kraut, and orange slushees. Pauline was a loving 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; her husband, Eugene Strong; one son, Daniel Currenton; and two sisters, Betty Gagean, and Yvonne Casto.

Pauline is survived by two sons, Steven Bruner of Austin, Texas, and LeRoy Strong of Charlotte Hall, Maryland; three daughters, Kim Hodgkins of Flatts, Texas, Regina Francis of Sterling Virginia, Lavra Potts of Mena Arkansas ; two sisters, Linda Bowen of Florida, and Joy Olsen of Ohio; twelve grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A family reunion will be held in her memory at a later date in Barberton, Ohio. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

In lieu of floral arrangements, the family asks that contributions be made in her name to the "Wounded Warrior Foundation".

 

7-29-19 10:04 a.m. KAWX.ORG

Braedan Reese Creekmore

Braedan Reese Creekmore of Mena, Arkansas died Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at the Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock. He was born on Monday, July 22, 2019 to Bradley Lynn Creekmore and DeAnna Mae Allen in Mena, Arkansas. 

He is preceded in death by one uncle, Kyle Allen.

Braedan is survived by his parents, Bradley Creekmore and DeAnna Allen of Mena; paternal grandparents, Fred and Reba Creekmore of Mena; maternal grandfather, Billy Allen of Hatfield; maternal great grandmother, Jeanette Allen of Mena; paternal great grandparents, Roger and Beth Watts of Mena, and Fred Creekmore of California; two uncles, Cody Creekmore of Mena, and Adam Creekmore of Mena; and special cousin, Cynthia Crider of Potter.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, July 25, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Steve Ellison officiating. Interment will follow at the Gann Cemetery in Potter. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

7-24-19 1:30 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Thomas “Cotton” Edward Hendershot age 67 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Monday, July 22, 2019 in Mena.

He was born on August 24, 1951 in Akron, Ohio to Clarence W. Hendershot and Helen Stewart Hendershot. Thomas worked in construction and was self-employed. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with family and friends. He also liked to collect coins of all kinds. Thomas was a loving and dedicated father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by sons: Thomas and Amy Hendershot of Mena, Arkansas, Indio and Esther Hendershot of Mena, Arkansas, and Country Hendershot of Mena, Arkansas

Daughter: Elena Hendershot of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Dajzha, Hayden, Autacelli, Bradshaw, Nika, Braxton and Illiana

Brother: Jim Hendershot

Sisters: Jackie Summer, and Carrie Matelida

Other children: Tommy and Marnie.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Helen Hendershot, brother Clarence Hendershot, Jr. and sister Donna May.

Mr. Hendershot was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

A private memorial will be planned by the family at a later date.

 

Melvin Heath, age 86, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, July 19, 2019 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

He was born February 13, 1933 in Big Fork, Arkansas to the late Nick Heath and the late Maudie Marie Roach Heath. He was united in marriage to Nancy Seel. Mr. Heath was an equipment operator for the Highway Department. He was a member of the Mt. View Methodist Church. He loved spending time outdoors, gardening, fishing and just enjoying nature. Melvin was a gentle, calm man that was slow to anger until you messed with any of his grandchildren. He was a loving and caring family man that will be dearly missed.

Survivors are wife: Nancy Heath of Mena, Arkansas

Son: Steven Mel Health and wife Gayla of Roanoke, Texas

Daughter: Teresa Heath Parks and husband Mike of Mena, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Cassandra Parks of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Tyler Heath of Mansfield, Texas, and Bryar Heath Parks of Mena, Arkansas

 

Great-Grandson: Tyler Payton Heath of Waco, Texas

Brother: Donald Heath of Big Fork, Arkansas

Nephews: Ken Branstetter of Houston, Texas and Matthew Heath of El Dorado, Arkansas

Nieces: Susan Young of Fort Smith, Arkansas and Amanda Anderson of El Dorado, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents Nick and Maudie Heath and his sister Winnie Louise Branstetter.

Mr. Heath was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.

 

Mrs. Mary Louise Sherrouse, age 67, of Cove, Arkansas, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2019 at her home.

She was born on October 19, 1951 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Leonard Wesley Belknap and the late May Cook Belknap. She was married to the late Troy E. Sherrouse and was a custodian at Van-Cove Elementary School. Louise had a heart for the Lord and was active in the church and was there every time the doors were open. She had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening and especially loved her purple flowers. She was a loving step-mother, step-grandmother, step-great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and a friend to all she knew. 

She is survived by step-son: Nick Sherrouse and wife Rebecca of Springfield, Virginia

Brother: Terry Belknap and wife Renee of Cove, Arkansas

Sister: Doris Sanders of Kentucky

Nephews: Gary Thornton and wife Robin of Kentucky and Jimmy Don Thornton of Plainview, Arkansas

Special Friend: Barbara DePriest aka “Mother Hubbard” of Cove, Arkansas

Numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and May Belknap, her husband Troy Sherrouse, and a step-son, Troy Gene Sherrouse.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 22, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cove Revival Center with Brother Tim Smedley and Brother Reggie Fryar officiating. Interment follows in Six Mile Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. There will be no visitation. 
 

Jay Travis Rodgers, age 68, passed into Heaven on July 17, 2019. He was a resident of Bella Vista, Arkansas, but lived and worked most of his life in Mena Arkansas. He passed away in Mena while visiting friends.

Jay Rodgers was born in Brackettville, Texas on August 17, 1950 to James Travis Rodgers and Lela Grace Brown Rodgers. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Kaufman Rodgers, two beautiful daughters, Lecia Hoover and Lydia Rodgers, and three adored grandchildren, Jazmin, Michael, and Violet Rodgers. His fourth grandchild will be born to Lecia and Ryan Hoover in November. He is also survived by his siblings, Rhonda Rodgers Fogle, Tim Rodgers, Lorna Rodgers Long, and Melissa Rodgers Rossborough.

He was preceded in death by his younger sister Amelia Rodgers and his parents.

Jay is remembered as a generous and kind humanitarian, loving family man, and antique car enthusiast. He was a gifted musician and poet, and many were blessed by his talents. He was a member of the Ouachita Little Theater where he performed in numerous productions and plays, some alongside his daughter Lecia. He was a well-spoken and educated man who received a Master's Degree from Henderson University in Arkadelphia. He devoted 38 years to serving the people of Polk County through the Department of Human Services. Jay could be found ringing the bell for Salvation Army every Christmas season, and this remains one of his most cherished ways to give back to a community that he loved and called home. Among many things, he was a life long Baptist.

Jay Rodgers’ life and legacy are built around compassion for his family and service to the needy. He will be greatly missed by many. Jay would be proud to have donations made in his memory to the Ouachita Little Theater or the Salvation Army.

Funeral service will be Saturday, July 20, 2019, 2:00 p.m. at Ouachita Little Theater in Mena, Arkansas with Pastor Davis Thompson officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Joann Elizabeth Powell Smith age 80 of Wickes, Arkansas passed away Sunday, July 14, 2019 in Mena.

Joann was born on February 20, 1939 in Wickes, Arkansas to the late Samuel Powell and the late Eula May Powell. She was married to the late Leon Smith for 59 years until his passing. Joann worked as a Government inspector for many years. She enjoyed hunting and fishing on the Cossatot River a place where she felt at peace. Joann loved to play cards with family and friends. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. Joann will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by sons: Michael Smith of Wickes, Arkansas and Eric Smith and wife Savanna of Wickes, Arkansas

Daughters: Beverly Turnbough of Wickes, Arkansas and Debbie Roberts and husband Keith of Cove, Arkansas

Thirteen grandchildren and numerous great and great-great-grandchildren

Numerous nieces and nephews

Sister: Evonne Blackmon and husband Ottis of Cabot, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Samuel and Eula Powell, husband Leon Smith, six brothers and two sisters.

Funeral service will be Friday, July 19, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Oak Grove Church in Wickes, Arkansas. Interment will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena with Brother Chris Burke officiating. 

Pallbearers will be Eric Smith, Chris Smith, Chris Roberts, Brandon Smith, Jeremy Roberts and Brayden Smith. Honorary pallbearer is Seth Smith. 
 

Patsy Ellen Dunlap Sharp age 76 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Sunday, July 14, 2019 in Mena, Arkansas .

Patsy was born May 24, 1943 in Olney, Texas to the late Marvin Lee Birdwell and the late Audrey Ellen Brooks Birdwell. She was married to Robert Edward Sharp and was a devoted homemaker. She loved traveling, watching birds and spending winters in Mission, Texas. Patsy enjoyed cooking and spending time with family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister-in-law and friend to all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband: Robert Sharp of Mena, Arkansas

Daughter: Lisa Dunlap Chamberlain and husband Robert of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: William Lee Dunlap and wife Mandy of Mena, Arkansas and Martin Wade Dunlap and wife Mechelle of Conway, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Jennifer Blackstock and husband Scott of Dover, Arkansas, Paige Hopkins and husband Ryan of Bluffdale, Texas, George Dunlap and wife Laura of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Hope Stadler and husband Andrew of Malvern, Arkansas, Kaitlyn Dunlap and Emma Dunlap of Conway, Arkansas
Carson and Cooper Dunlap of Conway, Arkansas, Sister-in-law: Dora Mae Crosthwait of Olney, Texas, and Cevetra Birdwell of Ft. Worth, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Marvin and Audrey Birdwell, her first husband Billy Samuel Dunlap, and a brother Jerry Lee Birdwell. 

Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Andy Arnold and Brother Vic Anglin officiating. Interment will follow in the Board Camp Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friends visitation will be Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at Beasley Wood from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be George Dunlap, Scott Blackstock, Ryan Hopkins, Andrew Stadler, Howard Barr and Timothy Sadler.

Honorary pallbearer will be Ben Sadler.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

William “Bill” D. Richmond age 75 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, July 13, 2019 in Ft. Smith.

Bill was born on October 11, 1943 in San Pedro Rural, California to the late Robert Richmond and the late Lela Mae Brewer Richmond. He was married to the late Carol Cunningham Richmond for 44 years until her passing. Bill was a contractor working in the construction business. He enjoyed working in his yard. Never meeting a stranger, could always strike up a conversation with anyone. He loved to hunt and fish with family and friends. Bill loved God and his family deeply and enjoyed going to church. He was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by daughter: Renee Martin of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: William Richmond and John Richmond

Grandchildren: Arian Robertson and husband Nick of Mena, Arkansas, Brittany Wheless and husband Devin of Mena, Hunter Martin of Mena, Arkansas, Justin Cole of Mena, Arkansas, John Richmond of Fayetteville, Arkansas

Great-grandchildren: Jeffrey Robertson of Mena, Arkansas, Jaxen Robertson of Mena, Arkansas, Karsen Wheless of Mena, Arkansas, Blake Cole of Mena, Arkansas, Isabelle Cole of Mena, Arkansas

Sister: Cathy Myers of Hatfield, Arkansas

Many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Lela Mae Richmond, his wife Carol Richmond , and one brother, R. G. Richmond.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, July 16, 2019, 2:00 p.m. at First Christian Church with Reverend Gary Garrett officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Visitation will be Monday, July 15, 2019 at Beasley Wood at 6:00-8:00 p.m. 
 

Jasper Shaver, age 5, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, July 6, 2019 in Mena.

He was born on July 23, 2013 in Mena, Arkansas to Thomas Jay Shaver and Christina Keisling Shaver. He was a little outdoorsman who loved animals and farm life. He had fun going for drives and will be missed greatly by his loving family. 

He is survived by his parents: Thomas and Christina Shaver

His brother: Colt Ford Shaver

His sister: Ariana Shaver

Grandparents: Michael and Linda Keisling.

Jasper was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. No services are scheduled at this time.

Kenneth Ray Jacobs age 82 of DeQueen, Arkansas formerly of Cove, Arkansas passed away Monday, July 8, 2019 in DeQueen.

Kenneth was born on December 01, 1936 in Plunkettville, Oklahoma to the late Odas Jacobs and the late Gladys Stuart Jacobs. He was married to Daisy Cureton Jacobs. Kenneth worked in the Lumber business as an equipment operator. Kenneth liked fishing and hunting with family and friends. He enjoyed watching old westerns movies. Kenneth was member of the Geneva Baptist Church. He was a loving husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by wife: Daisy Jacobs of DeQueen, Arkansas

Son: Scott Jacobs and wife Shannon of Watson, Oklahoma

Daughter: Lisa Sherwood and husband Harrell of DeQueen, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Kelly Jacobs of Hope, Arkansas, Derek Sherwood of Conway, Arkansas, Logan Jacobs of Watson, Oklahoma

 

Great-grandchildren: Berkeley Sherwood, Sam Sherwood and Charlie Sherwood all of Conway, Oklahoma

Sister: Betty Stegall and husband Johnny of Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Brother-in-law: Wesley Cureton and wife Sherrill of Mena, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Odas and Gladys Jacobs, and a sister Helen Fenk.

Graveside service will be Friday, July 12, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas with Brother Ron Ladd officiating.

 

Services are under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friend’s visitation will be Thursday, July 11, 2019 at Beasley-Wood from 4:30-6:30 p.m. 
 

Lawrence Earl Berg age 94 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Sunday July 7, 2019 at his home in Mena.

Lawrence was born on August 31, 1924 in O’Fallon, Illinois to the late Ira M. Berg and Edith Davis Berg. Lawrence was married to Lois Butler Berg. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his service he qualified in Parachute jumping from a plane while in flight in 1945. Lawrence started work with his brother Harold at Berg Ready Mix. Upon Harold’s passing, he along with his brother Ira began a backhoe and dump truck business called Berg Brother’s Construction which they operated for many years until retirement. He enjoyed his work and loved to travel and enjoyed being with family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by wife: Lois Berg of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: Garry Berg of Mena, Arkansas and Earl Berg of Mena, Arkansas

Daughters: Kay Douglas and husband Dwight of Mena, Arkansas, Virginia Ann Harris and husband Stan of Fate, Texas, and Linda Warren and husband Honnus of Mena, Arkansas

Several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren

Host of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ira and Edith Berg, three brothers and three sisters.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Union Mission Pentecostal Church of God in Mena with Brother Lewis Martin and Brother Kenny Posey officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Family and friend’s visitation will be Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com. 
 

Jerry Dwight Lyle, age 70, of Mena, Arkansas passed away July 6, 2019 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born August 13, 1948 in Wickes, Arkansas to the late George Lyle and the late Mae Rose Lyle. Jerry was united in marriage to Debbie Lyle whom he referred to as “the love of his life.” He graduated from Wickes High School in 1966 and served 10 years in the Army National Guard. He worked 26 years for Holsom Bread Company in Arkansas, 10 years at Dolly Madison in Tulsa, Oklahoma and 10 years at Eagle One Express also in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Jerry enjoyed bowling in which he was on several leagues throughout the years. He also loved playing golf and fishing. Most of all Jerry loved spending time with family and loving and serving the Lord. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors are wife: Debbie Lyle of Mena, Arkansas

Children: Shauna Gilbraith and husband Scott of Des Arc, Arkansas, Brad Lyle and wife Linda of Mena, Arkansas, Sabrina Lamaster and husband Ray of Coweta, Oklahoma, Melissa Bennett and husband Tracy of Wainwright, Oklahoma, Billy Cantrell and wife Mishelle of Wainwright, Oklahoma, and Shawn Dees and wife Stephanie of Coweta, Oklahoma

Brothers: Gene Lyle and wife Barbara of Mena, Arkansas, Ronnie Lyle of Mena, Arkansas, Rick Lyle and wife Sandy of Mena, Arkansas, and Mark Lyle and wife Lori of Mena, Arkansas

Sisters: Beverly Philpot and husband Steve of Mena, Arkansas and Julie Daniels and husband David of Mena, Arkansas

38 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren

Many many nieces and nephews who have a great mutual love for each other.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents George and Mae Lyle, his sister and brother-in-law Glenda and Charles Blake, his brother Danny Lyle, his granddaughter Sara Bradshaw, and his niece Kari Cruz.

 

Mr. Lyle was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

A memorial service will be Saturday, July 13, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Mena Church of God with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. 

 

Dawson James Frost

Dawson James Frost, born Saturday, July 6, 2019 went to be with Jesus on his birthday. He was born to Ben Frost and Amber Lee in Mena, Arkansas. 

He is preceded in death by his grandfather, James Lee; paternal grandparents, Walter and Augustine Frost and Jesse Sullivan.

Dawson is survived by his parents, Ben Frost of Mena and Amber Lee of Hatfield; paternal grandparents, Walter Frost of Mena and Kimberly Peek of Hatfield; maternal grandparents, Steven and Christina Casey of Hatfield; paternal great grandparents, Ola Sullivan of Hatfield; maternal great grandparents, Carol Gallina of Bryant and Deloris Matheson of Cove; paternal aunts, Samantha Frost of Iowa and Augustine Frost of Hatfield; maternal aunts and uncles, Ashley and Eric Casey of Cove, Justin and Crystal Lee of Hatfield, Christopher and Kayla Lee of Mena, Ryan Lee of Mena and Meagan Casey of Wickes and a host of other relatives and friends. 

A memorial service will be Monday, July 8, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. at Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Jack Smith officiating. 

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

7-7-19 1:20 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

Nelda Ruth Dearing

Nelda Ruth Dearing, 82, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, formerly of Cove, Arkansas died peacefully at home on July 6, 2019 with Don her loving husband of 63 years by her side. She was born Wednesday, October 21, 1936 to Carl and Lucille Bowman in Amber, Oklahoma and raised in Holliday, Texas. 

Nelda spent many years running the family farm in Cove while husband Don worked for Tyson Foods. She was not a stranger to hard work and managed to raise two kids in addition to her farm responsibilities. She was a talented cook and seamstress. Later in life, Nelda and Don retired to Hot Springs and enjoyed living on the lake where she loved working in her beautiful yard while Don fished. At this stage in life came her greatest joy, her three grandchildren which she loved dearly and most recently, her precious great grandchild. Nelda loved the Lord and spent her life serving Him by setting a fine example of a strong Southern Baptist wife. She always sought to instill these values in her children and grandchildren as well as anyone she knew.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Joyce Hazel Bland, her sweet baby niece Leslie Jo Bland, and her brother in law, Ted Gilbert.

Nelda is survived by her husband, Don Dearing of Hot Springs, Arkansas, her two children, son Steve (Felita) Dearing of Cove, Arkansas, daughter Laura (Will) Robbins of Pearl River, Louisiana, grandson Hunter (Hannah) Bedell of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, grandson Chance Dearing of Richmond, Virginia, granddaughter Harly Dearing of Arkadelphia, and great grandson Beau Hawkins of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, sister, Helen Gilbert of Denton, Texas, brother, J.W. "Bud" (Carolyn) Bowman of Graham, Texas, and three nephews and a niece and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Visitation is Monday, July 8, 2019 from 1-3 P.M. with a service immediately following at 3:00 P.M. in the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Russell Threet of First Baptist Church of Mena officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove.

Pallbearers will be Steve Dearing, Will Robbins, Hunter Bedell, Chance Dearing, and Tanner Hawkins. The family wishes to thank those for their support during this difficult time.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

7-6-19 7:59 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Twila Ann Peters Schanink, age 94, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Tuesday, July 02, 2019.

She was born on December 15, 1924 in Council Grove, Kansas to the late Orlo Ray Skinner and Goldia Hills Skinner. Twila retired from American Express as a Data Processor. She was an avid bowler winning the USBC Senior State Bowling Singles championship at 85 years young with a 847 handicap game series, 600 scratch, and was a member of the WBA at the Mena Pine Bowl. She also was on the Board of Directors for several years. Twila was very talented, doing arts and craft shows with her daughter, Judy and enjoyed creating very beautiful hand embroidery, dish towels, children’s aprons, color bags and hand quilting. Some of her work is available at the Mercantile in Mena. As a member of the Ouachita Arts and Crafts Guild, she held offices as secretary and vice-president. For their family reunion held in 2015 at Mt. Nebo, Arkansas, she hand embroidered dish towels for each family member as a reunion heirloom. Twila spent many hours at her sewing machine. She enjoyed the Senior Center up until her health failed. She sang in the church choir and excelled as a cook. Twila could be feisty, but with a gentle and kind spirit. She always had a smile on her face. Her favorite quote was, “She had three of the best girls in the world.” Her girls say,“And we had the best mama in the world.” The whole family knows they were blessed beyond measure. Twila loved and was loved by all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by everyone. Twila was a faithful servant of God and her prayer in her last days was, “Jesus take me home.” 

She is survived by: daughters: Constance A. Osterlitz and husband Barry of Phoenix, Arizona, Judy R. Fryar and husband Wayne of Mena, Arkansas, Sonja M. Barnard and husband Jon of Portland, Oregon

The Schanink family: Janice Winnes and husband David of Freeburg, Minnesota, Jerry Schanink and wife Jeanne of Canyon Falls, Minnesota, Daniel Schanink and wife Cindy of Dardanelle, Arkansas

Grandchildren: Joseph and wife Penny Havely of Surprise, Arizona, David Havely and wife Kie of Okinawa, Japan, Donnie Cary and Beverly of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Tracy Sandon and husband Jesse of Phoenix, Arizona, Kathy Haneline and husband Michael of Greenwood, Arkansas,
Kari Fryar of Mena, Arkansas, Darren Shaw of Wichita, Kansas,Kenny Barnard and wife Mandy of Wichita, Kansas, Jennifer Barnard of Portland, Oregon, Stacey Barnard of Portland, Oregon

Fifteen great-grandchildren and one on-the-way

Five great-great-grandchildren and one on-the-way.

A multitude of friends, church friends, and family at the Salem Baptist Church and First Baptist Church. 

She was preceded in death by her father, Orlo, who died saving others in a Wichita, Kansas Boeing Aircraft Company tragic fire in 1942. Mother, Goldia Jessie Hills Skinner; step-father, Clyde Dunham; sister, Dorothy Radcliffe; and brother, Clarence Skinner.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Salem Baptist Church in Nunley with Brother Steve Ellison and Brother Russell Threet officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. 

Family and friends visitation will be Monday, July 8, 2019 at Beasley Wood from 6:00-8:00 p.m. 
 

Charlie Baker

Charlie Baker, age 60, of Mena, Arkansas died Monday, July 1, 2019 at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He was born on Monday, October 27, 1958 to Frank Raymond and Mary Louise McNicoll in Lake Charles, Louisiana. 

Charlie loved his family, his cows and mowing his yard every ten days. Charlie worked 23 years at U.S. Motors and then started a new career as a Polk County Deputy Sheriff for the last 18 years. He enjoyed deer hunting, going fishing and playing with his grand babies. Charlie enjoyed the outdoors and loved his family. Charlie 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 his son, Jason Baker. 

Charlie is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sherry Baker of Mena; two daughters and sons in law, Betsy and Brandon Busch of Mena and Carrie and Anthony Hall of Gravette, Arkansas; three grandchildren, Bailey Heald of Mena, Bevin Busch of Mena and Arnold Hall of Gravette; his step mother, Ruth Baker of Bismark, Arkansas; three sisters, Donna Boone of Glenmore, Louisiana, Theresa Mooney of Cabot, Arkansas and Sheryl, Baker of Bismark, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 6, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. at the First Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Russell Threet and Brother Roy Conatser officiating. Interment will follow at the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Visitation will be Friday, July 5, 2019 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Charlie Baker Polk County Sheriff Memorial Fund C/O Union Bank, P.O. Box 898, Mena, Arkansas 71953.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

7-3-19 4:35 p.m. KAWX.ORG