Mr. Jerry DeWayne Staggs, age 60, of Mena, Arkansas passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones, Tuesday, March 31, 2020.

Jerry was born July 11, 1959 in Waldron, Arkansas to the late Verle Dee Staggs and his mother Armel Mae Byford Staggs Davis. Jerry married his wife Tamara “Tammy” Terrell March 18, 1989. Mr. Staggs worked at Nidec for 40 years until retirement. Jerry loved to hunt and the Razorbacks. He also enjoyed NASCAR and the Dallas Cowboys football and St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He liked playing softball and was a deacon at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. Jerry was also very fond of his dog Frankie. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle and friend to all that knew him and will be dearly missed by all.

He is survived by wife: Tamara “Tammy” Staggs of Mena, Arkansas

Daughters: Laney Elizabeth Staggs of Mena, Arkansas and Katelyn Dea Staggs of Mena, Arkansas

Mother: Armel Mae Byford Staggs Davis of Mena, Arkansas

Sisters: Sandy Egger and husband Ron of Mena, Arkansas and Verla Kinsey and husband Dana of Mena, Arkansas

Mother-in-law: Johnye Faye Terrell of Mena, Arkansas

Special great nieces: Kylie Ezell of Mena, Arkansas and Brylin Clark of Mena, Arkansas

Sisters-in-law: Rolinda Allen and husband Ralph of Mena, Arkansas and Paula Cox and husband Chuck of Mena, Arkansas

And a host of other relatives and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father Verle Staggs, stepfather Arnold Staggs, grandparents John and Addie Staggs, Bob and Mary Byford, and father-in-law Arnold “Pete” Terrell.

Graveside services will be Thursday, April 2, 2020 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Rocky. Brother Carl Fair will be officiating. Services have been entrusted to Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general. In leu of flowers donations can be made to Acorn Alumni Association, contact Margo Kimp.

Honorary pallbearers are: Chuck Cox, Dana Kinsey, Ralph Allen, Ron Egger, Evan Kinsey, Justin Kinsey, Johnathan Cox, Allen Ray Ezell, Clint Ezell, Danny Staggs, Terry Staggs, Bruce Staggs, Todd Aynes, and Mike Staggs.
 

Mrs. Goldie Louise Baxter, age 88, of Octavia, Oklahoma passed away Friday, March 27, 2020 in Poteau, Oklahoma.

Goldie was born May 23, 1931 in Octavia, Oklahoma to the late Alva B. Marsh and Effie Ollie White Marsh. She was married to Bill Smith until his passing. Goldie was the head cafeteria cook for both Octavia and Smithville schools for 30 years. After retiring she was re-married to Cletus Baxter. Mrs. Baxter loved to garden and plant flowers. She loved to cook for family and friends. She was a member of the Octavia Baptist Church. She was a loving wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by sons: Jimmy Smith and wife Donna of Smithville, Oklahoma, Jerry Smith and wife Naomi of Wickes, Arkansas, Larry Smith and wife Vickie of Smithville, Oklahoma, and Perry Smith and wife Dana of Smithville, Oklahoma

Nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands; Bill Smith and Cletus Baxter, four brothers and three sisters.

Graveside services will be Saturday, March 28, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at Octavia Cemetery in Octavia, Oklahoma, with Brother Ed Rogers officiating. Funeral services were entrusted to Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
 

Mary Sue Poehlein Quinney was born January 5, 1945 in Coleman, Texas to Mildred Lockhart Poehlein. She passed from this life on March 21, 2020. Sue married the love of her life Douglas Wayne Quinney on June 3, 1967.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband Wayne; and an infant daughter, Julie Marie, who lived just a few hours after birth.

 

Survivors include two loving daughters, Laurie Morrow and Lisa Q. Flores; a wonderful son-in-law Don Morrow; four delightful grandchildren Rachel and Jacob Morrow, and Zane and Kirstyn Flores; and her Aunt Flossie Lockhart, who took care of her after her mother died.

Sue joined the Harlandale Presbyterian Church in San Antonio in 1963, where she and Wayne later married. Sue and Wayne were proud members of Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church in Richardson, Texas and Trinity Presbyterian Church in The Colony, Texas. Sue was a great artist and a loving teacher at Little Elm ISD.

After retiring to Mena, Arkansas they enjoyed the outdoors, teaching their grandchildren to cook, hunt, fish, and garden. Sue and Wayne joined First Presbyterian in Mena in January of 2005 and Sue joined First Christian Church of Bentonville in 2018. She was a proud member of First Presbyterian and First Christian Church Bentonville and deeply appreciated the support she received during her battle with cancer from both congregations.
Graveside services were held Monday, March 23, 2020 at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
 

Mrs. Bonnie E. McCauley Richardson, age 88, of Wickes, Arkansas passed away Monday, March 23, 2020 at her son’s house surrounded by her loved ones.

Bonnie was born on January 15, 1932 in Wickes, Arkansas to the late Henry Eugene McCauley and the late Pearl Etma Jackson McCauley. After graduating high school, she married the love of her life Raymond Richardson. They ran a farm and ranched together for many years. Mrs. Richardson loved the outdoors, she enjoyed fishing and planting a garden. Bonnie also enjoyed cooking for her family and just being with them. She was a loving wife, mother, sister and friend to all; she will be dearly missed by all.

She is survived by sons: Scott Raymond Richardson and wife Diane of Wickes, Arkansas and Mike Stanley Richardson and wife Sheri of Wickes, Arkansas

Five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren

Numerous nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Raymond Richardson, and three sisters.

Graveside service for Mrs. Richardson is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at Daniel Cemetery in Wickes, Arkansas with Brother James Squires officiating. Services have been entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
 

Mrs. Georgia Faye Webb, age 90, of Cove, Arkansas passed away Sunday, March 22, 2020 at Dierks Health and Rehab.

Mrs. Webb was born on October 14, 1929 in Provence, Oklahoma to the late George Washington Hitt and Carrie Lou George Hitt. Georgia was married to her husband J.W. Webb for many wonderful years before he passed. She was a devoted homemaker and loved taking care of her children. Georgia was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend to all that knew her and will be missed by all.

She is survived by sons: Larry Webb and wife Donna of New Hope, Arkansas and Gerald Webb and wife Brenda of Knoxville, Arkansas

Daughter: Darla Hunter of Athens, Arkansas

Grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren

Sisters: Illa Dean Barnes of Laurens, South Carolina and Helen Franceline Rayburn of Virginia

Numerous nieces and nephews and a host of relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband J.W. Webb, sisters; Willie Stephens and Mildred Beasley, a daughter Linda Dunn, two sons-in-law; Ricky Hunter and Mike Dunn.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Cecil Chapel Cemetery in Vandervoort, Arkansas with Brother Scott Vaughn officiating.
 

Audie Gene Wigger, age 72, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, March 14th, 2020 in Mena. He was born September 17, 1947, in Mena to the late Jodie Wigger and the late Hazel Carter Wigger. He married Susan Lee Johnson on September 29, 1967.

Audie was elected as the Polk County Assessor in 1976 and served until 1986. In conjunction with his term, he served as President of the Arkansas Assessor Association. Following his term, he worked for the State of Arkansas in the Assessment Coordination Department for more than 25 years. After retirement, he worked several years as an auditor for the Total Assessment Solutions Corporation.

In his free time, Audie enjoyed playing golf, woodworking and antiquing. He loved working in his shop where he spent years working on various projects. Junking with his wife, Sue, was his favorite past time. He was also a master on the grill and above all, he loved spending time with his family. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Audie's quick wit and calming personality were evident to all who knew him. He never met a stranger. You could always find him at his shop, with Audie you were always welcome.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jodie and Hazel, stepmother Rose, his in-laws Walter and Mary Margaret Johnson, a brother Dennis, and niece Sally.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susan of Mena, daughters Jennifer Meldrum and husband Steven of Fayetteville, and Theresa McLellan and husband Michael of Fayetteville. Grandchildren Blake Meldrum and fiancée Shawna Bateson, Drew Meldrum and Annie Meldrum of Fayetteville. Brother James Wigger and wife Suzi, children Ian and Kiezen of New York. Brother-in- law Pete Johnson, wife Linda and nieces Emily Turner, husband Eric and children Emma and Jacob all of Mena, and niece Lori Thomas and children Cassady and Marlee of Dallas. Brother-in-law Tommy Johnson and wife Karen, and nephew Robert of Mena. And niece Casey Wigger.

Mr. Wigger will be sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. A memorial service will be announced at a later time.
 

Gary Lee Thomas

Gary Lee Thomas, age 78, of Mena, died Saturday, March 14, 2020 at his home. He was born on Thursday, April 24, 1941 to Robert Lee and Ada Maxine Beck Thomas in New Market, Missouri.

Gary loved the Lord and attended the Salem Baptist Church in Mena. Throughout the years he was very involved in helping churches he attended with administrative duties and financial guidance. He graduated from Weston High School in 1959. For several years he was a part owner of the Lakeside Speedway in Kansas, before serving as a security officer at the Fort Leavenworth Penitentiary. From there, most of his career was spent working as a bank officer for many banks in the Missouri and Kansas area. Gary relocated to Mena in 2006 with his wife, Renita, and worked for Nidec as a security officer for six years. Gary loved life and was a dedicated husband as his wife meant the world to him. He enjoyed watching anything to do with cars, NASCAR, and was a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs. In his free time, he liked to listen to old country music, church hymns, classical music as well as read historical books. Gary was proud of his career and the time he spent as part owner of the Lakeside Speedway. He was passionate about any cause that helped children and animals, and absolutely loved his two dogs, Dakota and Jake. Gary was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Renita Thomas of Mena; two daughters, Valerie Roys of Arkansas, and Wendy Andrews of Arkansas; three stepchildren, Bill Gittings of Florida, Trisha Jackson of Iowa, and A.J. Gittings of Illinois; one sister, Sue Hewitt of Western Missouri; many grandchildren; And a host of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-17-20 9:32 a.m. KAWX.ORG 

Terri Jo Lane passed from this life peacefully in her sleep on March 10, 2020 in Blackfork Arkansas.

Terri was born to Terry Lane and Tina Lane on October 30, 1990 in Mena, Arkansas. She is preceded in death by her mother, Tina Lane and both maternal and paternal grandparents.

She attended Acorn Schools and went on to have two beautiful daughters, Danielle White, age 7 and Faith White, age 5 of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

She is survived by her father, Terry Lane, brother, Chase Lane and sister Jessica Williams Contreras and husband Roman of Hope, Arkansas and sister Christal Angel of Seminole, Oklahoma, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.

She had a love for family, friends and good times. Her favorite thing to do was to gather with friends for summer BBQ cookouts with music and dancing.

She was no stranger to struggles throughout her life as she battled chronic illness throughout the last decade, but she always pushed through with a smile.

Graveside service will be Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at Piney Cemetery in Blackfork, Arkansas under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral of Mena.

 

Mary Ruth Putman, age 84, of Ft. Worth, Texas, formerly of Mena, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020 in Ft. Worth.

She was born on December 14, 1935 in Iago, Texas to the late George Edwards and the late Bertha Brown Edwards. She was married to Durell Putman and was a homemaker. Mary loved to be around people and particularly enjoyed entertaining in her home; she was a wonderful cook and baker. She made it her mission to visit folks in the local jail, providing them comfort and conversation. She was artistically creative and took much pleasure in decorating and refurbishing her homes with Durell. Mary was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

She is survived by daughter: Susan Anderson and husband John of Hurst, Texas

Grandchildren: Sam Anderson and Daniel Anderson of Ft. Worth, Texas

Sisters: Betty Coffman, Florence Clanton and Georgia Rogers

A host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Perry Putman, a brother, Bill Edwards and 2 sisters, Maxine Blackburn and Anna Olson.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Northside Church of Christ with John Anderson officiating. Interment follows in Pleasant Grove Cemetery at Big Fork under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general.

Pallbearers will be Pat Riley, Randy Stepp, Alton Dollar, Sam Anderson, Daniel Anderson, and Kevin Atchley.
 

Ronald Lee Coats of Mena passed away on Friday, March 13, 2020 in Hot Springs, Arkansas at the age of 89.

 

Ronald was born on August 25, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Norvel Coats and Jeanette Ward Coats. He loved boating, golfing and all sports. A Physical Therapist by profession, he also was a Veteran of the United States Army. Above all he loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He was a devout Christrian and loved the Lord. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Ronald was survived by wife: Nita Coats of the home

Sons: Mark Coats and wife Carol of Scottsdale, Arizona and Michael Coats and wife Tammy of Willis, Texas

Daughter: Lisa Proud and husband Russell of Willis, Texas

Five grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Graveside funeral services will be Thursday, March 19, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park with Brother Mark Lyle officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
 

Violet Janice Wylie Baker, age 85 of Wickes passed away Friday, March 13, 2020 in Wickes, Arkansas.

Violet was born on March 5, 1935 in Wickes, Arkansas to the late Paul and Rachel Loyd. Violet and her late husband Wilburn were owners of Wylie’s Grocery Store in Wickes. Later in life she enjoyed traveling across the United States and Canada as an owner/operator and co-truck driver with her late husband Wilburn. They traveled all 50 states and she made multiple trips to Israel “the Holy Land” that she loved dearly. Violet was instrumental in helping establish the Senior Citizen Center of Wickes and helped implement, staff and transported clients.

Violet had a deep and personal walk with Christ. It began in a crusade meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada at the age of 28. She then began to attend the Church of the Nazarene. It was there that she grew in Christ and became a Sunday School teacher and worked with the youth. Later, she returned to the Baker community where she was raised and began to attend the Baker Rock Church. She also attended the Wickes Pentecostal Church where she served as Treasurer and Sunday School Secretary. Violet was a prayer warrior, loved the Lord deeply and served her family with a Godly example and Christian love. She treasured and cherished every moment she spent with her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

She is survived by husband: Alvin Baker of Wickes, Arkansas

Daughter: Gail Watkins and husband W. C. of Wickes, Arkansas

Son: Lee Wylie of Wickes, Arkansas

Stepchildren: Jimmie Baker and wife Allison of Desoto, Texas, David Baker of Troup, Texas, and Jerry Baker of Hope, Arkansas

Grandson: Ricky McKenzie and wife LeAnn of Vandervoort, Arkansas

Granddaughter: Kristi Hunter and husband Tom of Mena, Arkansas

Great grandchildren: Caleb Baber, Dalton McKenzie, Rachel Pennington, Brooklyn Pennington, Aiden McKenzie, Zach McCormick and Connor McCormick

Step grandchildren: Clayton Baker and wife Julia of Chatanooga, Tennessee, Shelby Word and husband Cristian of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Carter Baker of Elk City, Oklahoma, Joshua Baker of Bethany, Oklahoma, Katherine Baker and Aubree Baker of Desoto, Texas

Sister: Lois Jones of Grannis, Arkansas

Brother: Leon Loyd of Wickes, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Rachel Loyd, husband Wilburn Lee Wyle, step daughter-in-law and step-granddaughter Susan Baker and Alyssa, brothers Arthur Loyd, Paul Loyd and Freddie Loyd.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Wickes Church of the Nazarene with Brother David Baker and Brother James Squires officiating. Interment will follow at Baker Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
 

Steven Ferguson

Steven Ferguson, age 66, of Mena, died Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at his home. He was born on Thursday, December 31, 1953 to Fred and Mildred Morris Ferguson in Mena, Arkansas.

Steven was saved at the Big Fork Baptist Church and attended the First Assembly of God in Mena. He was a painter and worked construction throughout his life. Steven loved to deer hunt and spend time with his grandkids and family. He was a member of Narcotics Anonymous and his sobriety was very important to him. Steven was a loving father, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Roberts; one son, James Pomraning; and one sister, Ellen Swycaffer.

Steven is survived by one son, Jon Pomraning of Mena; three sisters, Betty Wagner of Greenwood, Patricia Barrett of Mena, and Linda Fryar of Mena; two grandchildren, Paisley Pomraning and Everly Pomraning, both of Mena; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation and services will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-13-20 12:14 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

Jan (Anderson) Hale, 84, of Mena, Arkansas has passed thru this life on to her eternal home in heaven on March 13, 2020.

She was born July 22, 1935 near Black Springs, Arkansas to the late Shelby and Edith Anderson. She was the owner/operator for about 40 years at Tip to Toe Beauty Shop in Mena where she retired a few years ago. She loved her puppies Rocky and Rusty, she enjoyed quilting, working in the yard, sightseeing down back roads, working jigsaw puzzles and loved to watch it rain and snow. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend.

She is survived by daughter: Marsye Wray and husband Mark of Mena, Arkansas

Sons: Kenneth Hale of Ft. Worth, Texas, Gerald Hale and wife DeLynn of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Joe Hale and wife Debbie of Centerton, Arkansas

Grandson: Kenny Hale and wife Cynthia of Ft. Worth, Texas

Great-Grandchildren: Kimberly and Jakob Hale of Ft. Worth, Texas

Brother: James Anderson and wife Juanita of Greenville, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a son, Dennis Hale of Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Graveside services will be Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Cox-Head Cemetery near Black Springs, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Mrs. Hale will lie in state for general visitation Friday, March 13 until 8:00 p.m. and Saturday March 14 until 12:30 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.
 

Sherman Lee Hanks, also known as Dad, Daddy, and PaPa, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at the age of 75.

 

Sherman was born on June 28, 1944 in Coalgate, Oklahoma to the late Loyd Hanks and the late Gladys Coffee Hanks, both of whom preceded him in death. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Sergeant First Class E-7 and retired in 2004. Through his many years of service, he traveled the world, made great friends and gained many skills. Sherman started off as a young boy in the Boy Scouts, and became a member of the Holiness Church. He finished school in 1962, and then worked in an automotive repair shop with his father. In February 1966 he was drafted into the Army.

Many of his hometown friends were sent to Vietnam and didn’t make it home, but he lucked out and was sent to Mannhiem, Germany as a cook (94B). He was discharged from active duty in March 1968. After 15 years as a machinist foreman at US Motors he rejoined the Army National Guard as an Ammo Bearer then after two years he became a mess hall SGT and fulfilled his love for food service. He retired in 2004 from the Army National Guard.

In his civilian life he was in the restaurant business as a profession. For 22 years he served up delicious food at Suree’s Restaurant. Some days, Sherman liked to experiment in the kitchen, which could either be a delightful surprise to the customers that day or a displeasure if it was to their favorite dish he had altered.

He was loved by many people, as he was always cheerful and had a smile on his face while choosing to not take life to seriously.

Sherman was survived by daughters: Samantha Hanks Kiger (Lundy) of Poteau, Oklahoma, Martha Hanks Mattingly (Darrell) of Van Buren, Arkansas,
Sumitra Reid (Ryan) of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Jonnie Honse Sutter (Ford) of New Orleans, Louisiana

Grandchildren: Jakob, Ethan, Andrew, Austin, Miranda, Hailey, and Mya

Several great-grandchildren

Brother: Jerry Hanks

Sisters: Patricia (Teresa) Hanks-Moore and Linda Hanks-Hammerlein.

Sherman was a member of the American Legion post 18, VFW, Disabled Veteran’s Association, and the Elks Lodge #781.

He was a perfectly imperfect person, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. While we wish so badly that we could keep him here with us on Earth forever, we’re comforted to know he was reunited with numerous people he loved in Heaven.

All who loved and knew him are invited to join us for a Celebration of Life with military honors at The Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Coalgate, Oklahoma, Friday, March 20, 2020 at 1P.M. Inurnment in the Woodman Cemetery in Coalgate, Oklahoma.

 

Dorothy Louise Wetherington

Dorothy Louise Wetherington, age 87, of Hatfield, Arkansas died Sunday, March 8, 2020 at her home. She was born on Sunday, October 30, 1932 to Edward Harry and Nadine Dupraw Everett in Durango, Colorado.

Dorothy was a Godly woman who was of the Church of Christ faith. She provided a loving home for all her children and was very proud of her fifty years of marriage to her late husband, Robert. Dorothy like to garden, read, crochet and was a talented piano and organ player. Her children meant everything to her, and she loved each of them dearly. Dorothy was a loving mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Wetherington; and one sister, Harriet.

Dorothy is survived by four sons, Edward Wetherington of Jacksonville, Florida, James Wetherington of Mansfield, Arkansas, William Wetherington of Mena, and Thomas Wetherington of Portales, New Mexico; four daughters, Catherine Wilhoit of Portales, New Mexico, Margaret Drake of Penson, Alabama, Mary Hopper of Mena, and Tina Shufberger of Bismark, Arkansas; three sisters, Alice, Beverly, and Midge; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; several nephews and nieces and a host of other family and friends.

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

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

"Serving Our Community One Family at a Time"

 

3-9-20 12:45 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Shirley Ann Thornton

Shirley Ann Thornton, age 83, of Mena, died Friday, March 6, 2020 at Peachtree Mena Assisted Living. She was born on Tuesday, February 2, 1937 to Antone and Louise Ella Osgood Nunes in Hartford, Connecticut.

Shirley loved God with all her heart. She spent eight years as a United Methodist Church Pastor in New England serving God. Her spirituality and love for God fueled her life and was of great importance to her. She attended the Rhode Island School of Design and later worked as an Architect for twelve years. She loved nature, sewing, making cloth dolls, and gardening. Shirley was the first woman Clerk of the Works in architecture. After moving to Mena Shirley became involved in many community activities. Some of her favorites were Ouachita Little Theatre, Community Choir, Polk County Democrats, and Remembering Hearts Forever. She was a very loving woman and enjoyed every moment with her family. Shirley was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and two sons, Kevin Pelletrier, and Michael Pelletrier.

Shirley is survived by one son, Kenneth Pelletrier of Exeter, Rhode Island; two daughters, Sandra Campanale of Narragansett, Rhode Island, and Teresa Spencer of Caribou, Maine; twenty grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-9-20 12:38 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

J.W. Roberts

J.W. Roberts, age 71, of Rocky, died Friday, March 6, 2020 at his home. He was born on Monday, August 30, 1948 to John and Ester Fay Brewer Roberts in DeQueen, Arkansas.

J.W. was a Christian man of the Baptist faith. He worked for Peterbilt Motors in Denton, Texas for 20 years. J.W. liked Country music, woodworking, and driving four wheelers. Nothing gave him more joy than spending time with Dorothy while camping and traveling. He loved his grandchildren greatly and was very proud of his family. J.W. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

J.W. is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Dorothy Roberts of Rocky; two sons, Johnny Ray Roberts of Conway, and Trace Dick of Gainesville, Texas; two daughters, Linda Ford of Washington, and Melinda Mayes of Lake Kiowa, Texas; six grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-6-20 6:16 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Cynthia Lou Buchanan, age 69, of Mena passed away at her home Thursday, March 5, 2020 surrounded by her loving family.

Cynthia was born on February 17, 1951 to the late Ray Phillips and Peggy (Hensley) Phillips in Mena, Arkansas. Mrs. Buchanan loved her family. Her grandkids were the best thing that ever happened to her and she loved watching them play sports. She also enjoyed kayaking, being outside, and working in her yard. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by on: Billy Sockey and wife Tammy

Daughters: Amy Martin and husband Bobby, Jamie Jordan and husband Sammie, and Angela Hubbard and husband Daniel

Grandchildren: Brittney Sockey, Brent Sockey, Kacey Sockey, Cody Martin, DJ Jordan, Sammie Jordan, Mariska Jordan, Zaydin Sockey, Kameron Hubbard

Great-Grandchildren: Reed Sockey, AJ Sockey

Brother: Steve Phillips and wife Kathy

Sisters: Mitzi Peters and Ray Allen

Four nieces, two nephews, and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and nephew Joshua Phillips.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. No services are scheduled at this time.
 

J.R. Murphy

J.R. "Jake" Murphy, age 75, of Mena, died Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at his home. He was born on Monday, May 22, 1944 to John Wesley and Cora Rowena Fallis Murphy in Potter, Arkansas.

Jake worked as a wrangler in Colorado for many years but was definitely a jack of all trades. He liked woodworking and western music. Jake loved his family very much, and always enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandchildren. Jake 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, Donald Ray Murphy; one brother, Walter "Sonnie" Murphy; four sisters, Mary Bain, Ruby Spencer, Betty Jo Hammond, and Orbra Hamner, and one granddaughter, Michelle Murphy.

Jake is survived by his loving wife, Angela Murphy of Mena; two sons and daughter in law, Ronnie and Bessie Murphy of Gillette, Wyoming, and Tim Murphy of Elk City, Oklahoma; two daughters and son in law, Beverly and Burton "Buzzy" Huber of Mena, and Evelyn and Marilyn Murphy of Mena; one stepson, Johnny Kienitz of Mena; two stepdaughters, Shonna O'Leary of Mena, and Sharlina Kienitz of Mena; one brother and sister in law, George and Debbie Murphy of Potter; two sisters and brother in law, Charlotte Mayfield of Pine Ridge, and Fern and Loyd Knight of Cherry Hill; nineteen grandchildren; twenty-nine great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Troy Denton officiating. Interment will follow at Rocky Cemetery in Rocky, Arkansas. A visitation will be held Friday, March 6, 2020 from 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Murphy, Randy Murphy, Garrett Murphy, Colby Murphy, Loyd Knight, Wayne Putman, and Dillion Sweeten.

Honorary Pallbearers are George Murphy and Tim Murphy.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-5-20 3:30 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

 

Marcus "Tony" DeLord

Marcus "Tony" DeLord, age 57, of Shady, died Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at the Mena Regional Health System in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Tuesday, April 17, 1962 to David Clay and Loretta Rose VanMeter DeLord in Creole, Louisiana.

Tony was a Christian man who served God and country proudly. His philosophy for life was always to keep it simple. Tony worked for Rose Aircraft for nineteen years as the Chief Inspector and Director of Maintenance. He was very proud of his career and took great pride in the work he did. Tony liked to shoot guns and deer hunt and was a longtime member of the NRA. He enjoyed Country and Christian music and rebuilding his old '82 Chevy. His family was always his top priority and he loved them all dearly. Tony was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his father.

Tony is survived by his loving wife, Tonya DeLord of Shady; one son, Mark DeLord of Shady; his mother, Loretta DeLord of Texarkana, Texas; one sister, Mitzi Moraniec of Texarkana, Texas; his father and mother in laws, Malvin Sr. and Rachael Mize of Hatfield; one brother in law, Malvin Mize Jr. and wife, Kassandra of Cabot; one sister in law, Anna Mize of Rogers; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

 

3-4-20 5:03 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

Billy John Davis went to his heavenly home on Monday, March 2, 2020 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

He was born on May 1, 1928 to Harvey Hemp Davis and Tiney Pear Pannell Davis.

He attended Cove First Baptist Church. In his younger years, he worked on the pipeline. When returning to Cove, he was employed by Polk County on the road crew. After retirement, he kept the parking lot swept at Scotty’s Convenience Store where he will be greatly missed there by his friends and coffee drinkers.

Our town looked forward to gardening season, for B.J. was notorious for his “home grown tomatoes” which he generously shared with the community.

He willingly gave nicknames to most of his friends and acquaintances, some not so flattering, but given fondly.

Being an alumni of Van-Cove High, he was an avid Van-Cove Hornet fan. He supported the teams with monetary gifts and his faithful attendance to their games and graduations. Truly a genuine friend to the young and old.

He is survived by his nephew, Percy and and wife Pom Cartwright, a niece Joeann Walker and husband Dale and cousin, Terry and wife Joan Scott.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Charles Henry Davis, Carrie Leona Davis, Pleas Nat Davis, James Carroll Davis, Pearl Davis, Emma Ethel Davis, Clarence Odell Davis, Harvey Junior Davis, and an infant brother.

Funeral services will he held Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cove First Baptist Church, with Brother Ron Ladd officiating. Interment follows in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery at Cove under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general.

Pallbearers include Tim Scott, Leon Gibbons, Brian James, Jimmy Watkins, Charles Baker and Ken Jacot.
 

Mr. Jerry Alan Dunagan, age 72, of Cove passed away at home Sunday, March 1, 2020 surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry was born on February 23, 1948 to the late Preston Dunagan and Betty Patillo Dunagan in Mena, Arkansas. Mr. Dunagan proudly served his country in the United Sates Air Force. Jerry worked in construction for many years. Mr. Dunagan was and avid fisherman and hunter. He loved to build things and do some mechanic work. Jerry also enjoyed making things go fast.

He is survived by sons: Clinton Dunagan and wife Jennifer of Weatherford, Texas and Stephen Moss and wife Joni of Abilene, Texas

Daughter: Tawanna Shores and husband Lesley of Cove, Arkansas

Fifteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren

Brother: Frank Dunagan

Sisters: Lynn Freeze, Lisa Dunagan, and Wanda Kay Dunagan

Host of family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his loving wife Jane Dunagan, brother Jeff Dunagan, and an uncle Dean Dunagan.

 

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