Gwinda Mae (Webb) Martindale was born on July 28, 1939, to Carl Dawson Webb and Nettie (McBride) Webb, and passed on to the arms of Jesus on January 26, 2022, in Wister, Oklahoma, at the home of her daughter Tammy, where she was attended by her loving family.

Gwinda married Meredith Lavon Martindale on June 11, 1960. He always believed she was the most beautiful woman around and together they raised four children. She is survived by her children, Jeffrey Morgan Martindale, and Karen; Marsha Lynn Hinchee, and Robert; Randy Milton Martindale; and Tammy Kay Goad, and Shawn. She is also survived by her loving sister, Annette (Webb) Couch, and a special cousin, Renee (Vincent) Miesenheimer, her deeply loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a great host of other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Carl Webb Jr., sister-in-law, Rosie Webb, and brother-in-law, Billy Couch.

Gwinda was raised mostly in Muse, Oklahoma, where her mother, Nettie was born, but traveled with her parents to Oregon during the depression days. There in Lakeview, Oregon, is where an athletic, talented, good-looking boy from Antlers, Oklahoma, met an athletic, talented, beautiful girl from Muse, Oklahoma, and began our family’ love story. They were wildly passionate and volatile in private, and very sedate and measured in public. While their children like to think they inherited some of their beauty, and one got their musical skills, none rose above just a ordinary athlete, for which all of them had deep regret.

Gwinda served as the pianist at most of the churches she attended in her lifetime. She loved to serve God in this way. Dad was sometimes the worship leader as well, but about 1977, they decided they preferred different doctrine and worship so rarely attended together after that, excepting revivals and other special occasions. Another way that she served God was she and Meredith continually helped children, the elderly, and others in need in the community. There was always an open place at the table and a bed could be found, if one was needed. They visited the elderly and ill. They always looked for ways to help others.

Gwinda took this servant heart with her into all her jobs including her teaching career, which was spent entirely at Tuskahoma School, where she retired. She was regarded as an excellent teacher and many students have relayed to her children the blessing she was to them. She loved her church family and served as Teacher there often, and was involved with the youth, and programs, most of her life. She was involved in local civic areas in the community as well.

Gwinda was deeply interested in the welfare of others and worked tirelessly for the benefit of those she tried to help. She loved her children and all of her family members dearly, and made sure they knew it. She loved her students too, and tried to help each one find their way to success. She was very proud of them and hoped that she was a good influence. She tried to instill responsibility, and loyalty, in everyone. Her standards were quite high. If she could say anything to you now, it would be what Peter said in Acts 2:38, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost”.

Gwinda was a regular attender, and often played piano, at many funereal services. When Covid hit, this changed. Gwinda was aware that at many funeral services Covid was spread along with love, hugs, and handshakes. This greatly distressed her and she did not want this to be the case at hers. Several members of the family currently have Covid, so we have opted for a private family funeral at a later date. In place of flowers or any other kind of tribute, her family would ask you to spread kindness, make that phone call, go out of your way to help someone in no position to pay you back, be there when others need, just love like Jesus did. That is what Gwinda tried to do, be Jesus’ hands, and that relationship with Jesus is what she wanted everyone to have.

Honorary Pall Bearers are Tom Putman, Joe Chrisman, Jim Elrod, Shawn Goad, Robert Hinchee, Bobby Burns, Delton Putman, Leroy Roberts, Bill and Johnny Simmons, Barry Simpson, and Kevin Campbell.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gwinda Mae Martindale please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-28-22 2:15 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Darwin Gene Lance, age 87, of Mena Arkansas was born in a shotgun shack on the banks of Powell Creek in Western Polk County Arkansas Friday, March 9, 1934 to Charles Bertran and Letha Belle Daffin Lance. He went home to be with his Saviour Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

Darwin Gene is survived by a daughter, Jeannine Higgs and husband Jacob of Diboll Texas; a son, Tony Lance and wife Michelle of Cabot Arkansas; a stepson, Joe Tedder and wife Gail of Houston Texas; five grand children, Andrew Elder and wife Sarah of Frierson Louisiana; Emily Elder of San Antonio Texas; Chloe Segalla and husband David of Bentonville Arkansas; Michael Libby and wife Sara of North Little Rock Arkansas; Matt Libby of Prattsville Arkansas and nine step-grand children; three great grand children, Zack Elder; Willa Jean Elder and Hannah Claire Segalla; one brother, Charles Wayne Lance; two sisters, Thelma Parker and Wanda Foster; his favorite Aunt Jean and a host of other family and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Donna Lee Stanford Lance; a sister, Wilma Parker; his second wife of 21 years, Erma Faye Tedder Lance; two stepsons, Bobby Ray Tedder and Jeff Tedder; a stepdaughter, Sherry Tedder and his special friend, Louise Key.

To say Gene was a hard worker would be an understatement. He left school at the age of 13 to support his family, his dad being stricken with rheumatic fever, the effects of which plagued his dad the rest of his life. Gene became a professional grocery man, in every sense of the word. He worked early in his career for Roger Brothers Mercantile and after returning from Korea, began working for Shorty Williams at Piggly Wiggly. During his career, he and his wife Donna were the owners of The Market Basket grocery store and he finished his career working for a man that became his dear friend, Doy Grubbs at the Northside Food center.

Gene was an accomplished musician who began playing the guitar and later developed a love for the bass guitar, which he played for over 50 years; 40 of which were spent in local bands, the most time being with the Talimena Drive Band, each year playing over 100 shows. After his retirement from Talimena Drive, he picked up his beloved bass once again, becoming the bass player for a year for the Crossroads Cowboy Church band in El Paso Arkansas. He was an avid fisherman, whose angling exploits became legendary, spending 250 plus days a year on the water, catfishing at night and working all day. He was a master gardener, a past member of the Mena Optimist Club and Mena Elks Lodge. He loved the outdoors and he dearly loved the rodeo.

Of all his accomplishments, Gene was most proud of his service in the U.S. Military. He was drafted and went to Korea where he served in the 24th Infantry Division MP's and in CIC Counter Intelligence. Two years ago he was honored by the Central Arkansas Pro Rodeo Assn for his service to his country. He was a patriot who loved his country, saluted the flag, wept at the Star Spangled Banner, and longed to see his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Graveside funeral services will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 5, 2022 at the Mt Gilead Cemetery, Highway 8 West, Rocky Community, Mena, Arkansas. Gene's beloved family and dear friends will be holding a visitation at the Bowser Funeral Home in Mena Arkansas between 9-11 am, Saturday, February 5th, 2022.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Elder, Jacob Higgs, Matt Libby, Chris Tedder and Greg Tedder. Services will be officiated by Rev. Ron Riddle under the direction of Bowser Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gene please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-28-22 12:50 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Betty Jean Sisk, age 85, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Monday, January 24, 2022, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Betty was born September 11, 1936, in Sugar Grove, Arkansas to Raymond Hershel Swint and Vera N. Wilkins Swint. She was united in marriage to G. W. Sisk. Betty enjoyed gardening and loved her animals but most of all adored her family and strived to devote most of her time taking care of and spending precious time with them. She was dearly loved and will be missed.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Hershel and Vera N. Wilkins Swint; her husband, G.W. Sisk; daughter, Pamela Sisk Wells; brothers, Larry Swint and Leland Swint; and by her sister, Jimmie Roberson. She is survived by her son, Gary Wayne Sisk and wife Judy; daughter, Katrina Sisk; grandchildren, Holly Davis Skiles and husband Josh, Angela Sisk Taylor, Zackery Orr, Brandon Orr; great-grandchildren, Raegan Skiles, Emma Skiles, and Evan Taylor; brothers, Sammy Swint and wife Linda; sister, Joan Thrasher and husband Don; sister-in-law, Betty Swint; special friend, Nora Williams; and a host of other family and friends.

Memorial services for Mrs. Sisk will be announced at a later date, cremation services are entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mrs. Betty Jean Sisk please visit our Sympathy Store.

1-26-22 5:32 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Benjamin D. Kulp of Y-City, Arkansas passed away quietly and unexpectedly at his home during the early morning hours of January 22, 2022, at the age of 83.

Ben was born to the late Rev. Harvey and Mrs. Katherine Kulp in Limerick, Pennsylvania in 1938. After graduating high school, Ben worked for the Woolworth corporation, pioneer of the modern retail concept department stores, helping start and manage new stores. A brilliant student, he received a scholarship to Purdue university to study engineering. Spending some time in the program, he was soon disenchanted with the lack of integrity growing in modern academia. Feeling a calling on his life, he transferred to Messiah Bible College; a school that specialized in training teachers and missionaries. At this time, Ben met a young nurse, Rochelle Kujet. They were married September 7, 1962. After graduating from Bible college, he established Wayside Christian School, an outreach of Wayside Chapel in Pottstown, PA, which was in continuous operation for over 50 years in the hands of his late brother, Paul Kulp of Oley, PA. A passion for children and Christian work led him to serve in many capacities in other Christian schools where he was highly respected for his gift of administration. In the mid 1970's, Ben and his wife Rochelle felt a calling to move to Arkansas, where they purchased property in Scott County. The abilities recognized when he was offered the scholarship to Purdue were put to use as he built his own home on the newly purchased property in Y-City. Ben's talents were many. He was industrious, thorough, and his quality of work was unrivaled. Ben and Rochelle were faithful for many years, working and building a new life in Arkansas, serving in their community and church. Ben soon felt led to pursue further education in Christian ministry; completing the requirements for ordination with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. He was accepted as a new worker to plant a church in Y-City in early 1990; naming it Wayside Chapel after the church his father planted many years ago in Pottstown, PA. The current program document for ordination with the C&MA clearly outlines the passion Ben felt for Christian work, specifically that, "In every generation there must be men and women who choose to walk deeply with God, embrace His mission as their own and fully aware of the rigors of the higher path, choose to pour out their lives so that the Kingdom may advance unhindered into the future...intentional and aggressive about advancing the Kingdom of God, with a focus on the priorities of: desperate dependence on the Holy Spirit; missional living; and godly leadership development." He hosted several studies for the development of Christian families, encouraging them to raise their children in the 'fear and admonition of the Lord'. In 1993, Ben published a book he had penned over ten years prior, entitled "Kidnapped! No, not my Child!' through which he sought to warn Christian parents that the public education system in the U.S. is anti-Christian and is seeking to control the minds of each child. On the cover of the book, he acknowledged his own parents' keen awareness of the influences of the public school system, slowly eroding the spiritual life of the children and youth of his generation. He attributed their personal sacrifices, allowing him to attend a Christian school, to the dedication of his life to children and youth; serving as a Sunday School teacher, youth leader and pastor; active in the Christian school ministry since the 60's as a teacher, administrator, and consultant in various states. After 40 blessed years of serving the Lord together, Ben surrendered his wife Rochelle to the Lord as she passed away in 2002.

Ben later met Dianna Fiedler, a retired teacher, also passionate for the Lord, in 2003. They were married in 2004 and together they began a Christian school at the Wayside Chapel in Y-City; ministering to Christian families and troubled youths for several years. He continued strong until the very end, recently completing construction on their new home and improving access to it with a beautiful concrete drive.

Family and friends knew Ben as a perfect gentleman, with a large heart, who cared deeply for people; a light in his generation. After he retired from full-time church ministry, he continued serving, active with his church family at First Baptist Church in Mena, AR. His ministry and work expanded even into Belize where his contributions and service were well received and deeply appreciated, touching many lives.

Ben began and ended each day with the Lord; singing, praying, and reading the Bible. His favorite songs included, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus", "Nothing is Impossible", and "Only Believe". He faced many trials, as children of God often do; but, through every trial he testified, "Well, the Lord's still testing me. I hope I pass this time. I just want people to see Jesus in me."

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. and Mrs. Harvey Kulp also of Y-City, AR; his dear wife of 40 years, Rochelle Kulp; brothers, Harvey Kulp of Gilbertsville, PA and Paul Kulp of Pottstown, PA; and a much loved step-daughter Lisa Taylor. He is survived by his beloved wife of 18 years, Dianna Kulp, of Y-City, AR; a sister, Ruth Rice of Colorado Springs, CO; a brother Edward Kulp of Oley, PA, a brother Tim Kulp, also of Y-City, AR; several step-children and grandchildren;16 nieces and nephews; and many grand nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date in early Spring. Friends and family are invited and encouraged to share photos, memories and testimonies of the life and ministry of Ben through his tribute wall at www.bowserffh.com.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Benjamin D Kulp please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-24-22 1:46 p.m. KAWX.ORG

John Stephen Hilton, age 88, of Mena, died Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at his home in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Thursday, July 27, 1933 to Vessie Newton Hilton and Emma (Hendricks) Hilton of Board Camp, Arkansas.

John loved God and and his country. He strongly believed in upholding our country’s freedoms and rights. He served in the National Guard from 1950 -1953. He went to Korea where he had the task of loading guns for the 937 Field Artillery.
John was a conversationalist and made small talk with anyone he met. Many people describe John as truly one of the kindest and nicest men they had ever met. He was humble and proud of the life he built with his loving wife, Trevia, and their children. John loved his grandchildren and enjoyed being around them any chance he was given. He also greatly adored his nieces and nephews. He was a devoted Christian and was a member of the Panther Creek Christian Church. John retired from US Motors and was the former caretaker for Pinecrest Cemetery in Mena for many years. He loved to hunt and fish and was a member of the NRA. John was a naturalist. He loved observing the woods and often asked, “What kind of trees you got around here?” John was also an avid Rock Hound. He simply couldn't pass by a pretty rock without picking it up for a closer look. He served his community many years providing well-witching for anyone who asked. He loved helping others. For those who knew John well, knew he could fix anything with just super glue, copper wire, and duct-tape! He was a child of the Great Depression. John was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and friend and will be missed by all who knew him along with his wit and funny one liners.

John is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Marvin Hilton and Richard Hilton; one sister, Helen Parsons; and one grandson, Chase Hilton.

John is survived by his loving wife Trevia; one son and daughter in law, Johnny Hilton and wife Fran of Mena; one daughter and son in law, Becky May and husband Terry of Center Ridge, Arkansas; one brother and sister in law, Brian Hilton and wife Francis of Mena; one sister, Dollie Reed of Edmond, Oklahoma; four grandchildren, Conn Hilton of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Jesse May of Conway, Arkansas, Jacob May of Conway, Arkansas and Katie Jewell May of Center Ridge, Arkansas; one great grandchild, Harper Hilton of Batesville, Arkansas; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 24, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Pastor Artie Carnes officiating. Interment will follow in the Liberty Cemetery.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 23, 2022 from 2- 4 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Junior Bruce, Clancey Fairless, Jimmy Standridge, Jesse May, Jacob May, and Conn Hilton.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Brent Gorden, Tom Copelin, and the men of Panther Creek Church.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Liberty Cemetery, Board Camp, Arkansas

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Stephen Hilton please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-21-22 10:25 a.m. KAWX.ORG

Richard A. Billingsley, former Chief Nursing Officer at Mena Regional Health System, died January 16, 2022 at his home in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. He was 67.

Rick was born April 16, 1954 in Mena to Richard A. Billingsley, Sr. and Essie Mae Standridge. His parents owned and operated Beasley Funeral Home. A talented musician, Rick served as an organist and pianist at several local churches during his teenage years.

After graduating from Mena High School, Rick went on to have a long career in health care. He initially completed his RN training at UA Fort Smith, and worked as a nurse at hospitals in Fort Smith, Little Rock and Dallas. He subsequently shifted to administrative and management positions, primarily in the public health and hospital administration fields. Much of his later work focused on training medical staff, especially nurses, in addition to his recent work at Mena Regional Health (2011-2016 and 2019-2021). Rick held senior positions at hospitals in Lancaster, PA; Palm Springs, CA; and Falls Church, VA. He held a faculty position at The George Washington University Medical Center in Washington, D.C. between 2000 and 2010. He also worked at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD between 1998-2000.

Rick was a strong believer in life-long learning. He received a Master's degree in Information Science from Catholic University, a Master's degree in Nursing from Drexel University, and a Master's degree in Health Care Administration from Seton Hall University. He later earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at the University of San Francisco, where his doctoral project was "Improving the Patient Experience by Implementing Patient-Centered Care in Community Hospitals." Mena Regional Health served as the test site for this project. During his recent years in Mena, Rick also made frequent presentations to nursing students at UA Rich Mountain (formerly Rich Mountain Community College), and served on the board of the college's Foundation.

In addition to his passion for quality health care, Rick was an accomplished cook and baker.

Rick is survived by his husband, Paul Greenberg (of Ft. Lauderdale), and his sister, Martha "Moppy" Billingsley (of Mena).

An endowed scholarship fund to support nursing students is being established in Rick's memory at UA Rich Mountain.

A memorial gathering is planned during March.

1-17-22 12:55 p.m. KAWX.ORG

1-17-22 12:37 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Beverly Ann Anderson, age 68, of Watson, Oklahoma died Friday, December 24, 2021 at the Mena Regional Health System. She was born on Saturday, February 28, 1953 to Ira Clifford Jones and Leeda May Brown in Mena, Arkansas.

Beverly was a devoted member of the Jehovah's Witness Kingdom Hall of Mena. She spent many years caring for others while working in home health. Beverly loved to spend time with her family at get togethers and especially Easter. She liked to fish, garden, and try out new recipes that she came across. Her Easter fruit salad was a family favorite. Beverly liked to listen to country music and leaves behind her two beloved cats, Poppie and Wasper. She would go to town and visit with her family any chance she got, and truly loved every moment. Beverly was a loving sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Frank Pearl; and two sisters, Linda Pearl and Bonnie Martin.

Beverly is survived by her brother and sister in law, Samuel and Mitzi Pearl of Watson, Oklahoma; one sister, Rebecca Dalton of Little Rock, Arkansas; numerous nieces and nephews 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.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Beverly Anderson please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-15-22 13:32 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Elizabeth Sue "Liz" Taylor, age 78, of Hatfield, Arkansas died Thursday, January 13, 2022 at her home in Hatfield, Arkansas. She was born on Monday, August 30,1943 to David McVicker and Mildred (Munsinger) McVicker in McKinney, Texas.

Sue was a loving Christian lady. She loved her family and enjoyed being with her grandchildren. Sue liked to crochet as well as do beadwork. She was proud of her ability to play a mean game of pool. She enjoyed bowling and listening to old country western music. Sue was passionate about anything she was doing at the moment and would give it her all. She made her living early on in life as an Avon sales lady. Sue was proud to be the top Avon saleslady in Arkansas in the 80's resulting in earning a trip to see the unveiling of the new Statue of Liberty. She was a member of the VFW and a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary. Sue was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband of 35 years, Bill Taylor.

Sue is survived by her son, James Taylor and wife Carrah; daughter Nina West and husband Cecil; seven grandchildren, Crystal, Justin, Morgan, Destiny, Sierra, James Jr. and Elizabeth; eight great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth Sue "Liz" Taylor please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-14-22 5:41 p.m. KAWX.ORG

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mr. John "Jack" Wayne Hickenbottom please visit our Sympathy Store.

1-13-22 12:35 p.m. KAWX.ORG 

M.L. Keeney, age 89, of Cove, died Monday, January 10, 2022 at the Mena Regional Health System in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Wednesday, February 3, 1932 to Pearl and Ethel Keeney in Cove, Arkansas.

M.L. served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict where he was assigned to guard the prisoners of war. M.L was a member of the Midway Pentecostal Church in Cove where he served faithfully for many years. He worked 30 years at U.S. Motors on second shift before his retirement. M.L loved to work on his farm and run his tractor. He loved to cut firewood and delivered the wood to family and friends. M.L. was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

M.L. is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ollie Faye Barrett Keeney; one son, Danny Keeney; three brothers, Raymond Keeney, Earl Keeney and Cleo Keeney and one sister, Ila Mae Sanders.

M.L. is survived by his one daughter and son in law, Ann and Mark Hoyle of Hatton, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Daniel and Johnnie Bell Keeney of Vandervoort, Arkansas, Jessica and Steven Bailey of Hot Springs, Arkansas; Joshua and Gisele Hoyle of Eagle Mountain, Utah and Amanda Long and Pat Branagan of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; great grandchildren, Austin, Rhiley, Michaela, Saulo, Melissa, Hadleigh and Olivia; several aunts and uncles and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at the Witherspoon Cemetery in Vandervoort with Brother Tim Smedley officiating. Visitation will be Friday, January 14, 2022 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Joshua Hoyle, Daniel Keeney, Steven Bailey, Austin Bailey, Mitchell Gatlin and Tony Gatlin.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Gary Gatlin, Rodney Jones and Michael Jones.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of M.L. Keeney please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-12-22 9:56 a.m. KAWX.ORG 

Patti Lucille Hampton, age 77, of Smithville, Oklahoma passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022 at National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born on Thursday, December 14, 1944 to Walker and Dee (Cook) Lane in Clarendon, Texas.

Patti was a loving and devoted Christian of the Baptist faith. She dedicated her time and heart to helping her church. Patti was involved with Awana and would help cook at day camp during the summers. She was passionate about her church and community. Patti was opinionated and sassy. When her children and grandchildren would come over to eat she would tell them every meal is a two course meal and you can take it or leave it. Patti was not one to sit idle. She was a hard worker and she could be found in her flower gardens or fishing. Patti was a member of the Bass and Belles. She enjoyed listening to audio books when traveling as well as reading. Patti loved her family and her dogs. She raised wired hair fox terriers as well as other breeds. Patti raised four children and later went back to school to obtain a Bachelors Degree of Science in surveying. She was proud to be the first licensed female surveyor in the state of Arkansas. Patti was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her youngest son, Vernon Hampton; and two grandsons, Johnny Lee Dodd and Wayne Dodd.

Patti is survived by her son, Mark Hampton; two daughters and son in laws, Vickie Smith and husband Larry and Leslie Dodd and husband Matt; six grandchildren, Brenda Smith, Clint Smith, Wade Hampton, Aaron Hampton, Angela Jones, and Jennie Ashworth; nine great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the Octavia Baptist Church in Octavia, Oklahoma with Brother Ed Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patti Lucille Hampton please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-11-22 9:30 a.m. KAWX.ORG 

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, neighbor and Doctor.

A highly respected man who cared deeply for everyone around him. He lived life with passion, positivity and leadership. Doc had a unique ability to make meaningful connections with those around him and make others feel just how much he valued their relationship. This was most evident in the love he had for his patients. Dr. David Paul Brown Jr., (Doc) 68, of Mena, Arkansas was born in Victoria, Texas on May 16, 1953. He was a leader in Geriatric Medicine who inspired many to follow in his footsteps, died January 8, 2022 at his home, (with courage and strength) after a battle with Renal Cell Carcinoma.

He will be greeted in heaven by his father David Brown Sr. and mother Elsa Brown.

He is cherished by his adoring wife of 26 years, Melissa. His daughter Sherie and husband Tim Case, sons, Brandley Laughlin and wife Syndy and Christopher Laughlin and late wife Melanie. His brothers Randy Brown and wife Monica, Charlie Brown and wife Tamra, his sister Bonita Flowers and husband Bob, grandchildren, Clint, Crystal, Candace, Ryder, Paisley, Maverick, Sean and Elizabeth. Great grandchildren, Chloe, Corbin, Westin and S.J., nieces Brandy, Joy, Jill, Cheri and Larry and nephews Jimmy, Judson, Lawson, Cason, Kolson Joe.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the First Assembly of God in Mena with Brother Ron Tilley officiating.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at the First Assembly of God in Mena. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Doc please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-10-22 4:20 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Janet Mardell Abraham, age 68, of Rose Hill, Kansas died Saturday, January 1, 2022 at Kansas Medical Center in Andover, Kansas with her family by her side. She was born on Saturday, December 5, 1953 to John and Gladys (Roberts) Henson in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.

Janet was a devout Christian who lived by the Bible and only wanted to do God's will. She attended the Poplar Avenue Church of Christ in Wichita, Kansas and was very active in the Church. Janet let the word of God guide her life and made a difference in many peoples lives. She and her husband of 49 years, James, served as missionaries in Argentina from 1980 to 1993 where she learned how to draw, teach horseback riding, and sing worship music in Spanish. Janet loved to sing in Spanish and English and one of her favorites in church was "Jesus Goes With Me". She was very talented at many different crafts, and could often be found crocheting, quilting, and making other things for her grandchildren. Janet loved being with her grandchildren any chance she could, and teaching them how to ride horses gave her so much joy. Janet was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her father, John Allen Henson.

Janet is survived by her husband, James Abraham of Rose Hill, Kansas; her mother, Gladys Henson of Hatfield; two sons and daughter in law, James Clinton Abraham of Wichita, Kansas, and John Daniel and Nora Abraham of Montgomery, Texas; two daughters and son in law, Audrey Mardell and Timothy Rooney of Augusta, Kansas, and Juliet Margaret Fall of Rose Hill, Kansas; two brothers and sister in law, Allen Arthur and Karen Henson of Wiggins, Mississippi, and Karl Henson of Pratt, Kansas; three sisters and brothers in law, Della Marie Perry of Mulvane, Kansas, Eva and Robert High of Wichita, Kansas, and Debbie and Perry Overstake of Wichita, Kansas; twenty-four grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas with Burl Abraham Preacher/Elder of Augusta Church of Christ, Augusta, Kansas officiating. Interment will follow at the Six Mile Cemetery in Hatfield under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janet Mardell Abraham please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-3-21 12:15 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Helen Diane Russell, age 66, of Mena, Arkansas died Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at Arkansas Heart Hospital in Little Rock. She was born on Saturday, July 23, 1955 to Bobby Lee Robertson and Myrtle Helen (Clark) Robertson in Jackson, Mississippi.

Helen was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mena where she enjoyed participating in the Women's Bible Study and spreading the word of God. She made her living as a seamstress and specialized in wedding gowns and pageant dresses. Helen loved to see her customers happy when she presented them with her work. She was proud of her blue ribbons she obtained from the County Fairs for exhibiting her fine sewing skills. Helen enjoyed knitting and crocheting in her spare time. She loved to see her children do right. and she enjoyed Gospel music and listening to The Gaither's. Helen was a loving mother, aunt, sister, and a friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Reggie Robertson.

Helen is survived by one son, Bryan Russell of Mena; one daughter, Penny Correri of Marryville, Tennessee; one brother, Pete Robertson of Longview, Texas; one sister, Marsha Williams of Mena, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews 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.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helen Diane Russell please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-3-21 12:08 p.m. KAWX.ORG

Robbie Nadine Pettit Rath Griglio, age 96, of Mena, Arkansas, died Sabbath, January 1, 2022. She was born on December 13, 1925 to James Grover and Alvenia Aynes Pettit in Pushmataha County, Oklahoma. She was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist church.

She married Harry Rath in 1943, and together they had four sons: James, Phillip, Emil, and Jewel. She served as a nursing assistance in several nursing homes in the Mena and DeQueen, Arkansas. After Harry's untimely death, she moved to Keene, Texas and married Michael Lawrence Griglio. She also worked as a nursing assistant there until her retirement.

Nadine was preceded in death by her parents and all her siblings: a brother and four sisters; two grandsons, Jewel Junior and Phillip Grover Rath Il; and a great-grandson, Nathan Putman.

She is survived by her four sons: James Harry (& Sandra) Rath, Phillip Grover (& Jamie) Rath, Emil Roland (& Klinda) Rath, and Jewel Darris Rath, all of Mena; five grandsons: Marcus Jesse (& Julie) Rath, Emil Rath II, Kenneth Paul Rath, Terry Slade (& Monica) Rath, Joshua Darris (& Aurora) Rath; four granddaughters: Donya Lynette Rath, Robbilee Jordyn Rath, Philena LouAnn Rath, Debra Christine (& John) Bernadini; five great-grandsons: Kiano Harrison Rath, Devin Lee Rath, Phillip Grover (Trey) Rath IlL, Ashlar Tristan Rath, and Joshua Darris Rath, Junior; nine great-granddaughters: Binay Caroline Rath, Abigail LeAnn Rath, Emmaline Rose-Marie Rath, Mikayla Taylor Rath, Kailyn Paige Rath, Natalie Davison, Randi Hall, Stephania Camarena, and Rachel Lee Ann Rath; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Voice of Prophecy at https://www.voiceofprophecy.com/ or 3ABN at https://3abn.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robbie Nadine Griglio please visit our Tribute Store.

 

1-1-22 12:04 p.m. KAWX.ORG