Gregg Funeral Home Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Black Oak- Audrey Lorraine Benham, 80, passed away Friday, October 8, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born March 22, 1941 in Sarasota, Florida to the late Guy and Helen McDonald Brown. She was a homemaker who loved her family dearly.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Paul Benham and three brothers, Kenneth Sanders, Franklin Brown and Bennie Brown.

She was survived by her children, Brenda Rickenbacker (Jon) of Arizona, Marion Paul Benham and Guy Benham both of Black oak, Ellis Benham of Conway, Billy Joe Benham (Crystal) of Monette, Jody Benham (Pam) of Caraway, Linda Nail (John) of Monette, Helen Reed (Mark) of Black Oak, Harold Benham (Trisha) of Monette and Stacey Benham of Black Oak; siblings, Daisy Elizabeth See, Tommy Aubrey Brown and Billy Joe Brown; thirty-six grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Greg Eugene Gibbons, 68, passed away Wednesday, September 22, 2021.

He was born May 13, 1953 in Jonesboro. He loved motorcycles, Johnny Cash and all kinds of music. He loved his grandkids and kids more than anything. Greg enjoyed life, having fun and music. To know him was to love him and he took great care of his family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jesse “Gene” Gibbons and his mother, Nola Mathis Graham.

He was survived by his daughters, Amber Holder (Roger) of Batesville and Crystal Gibbons of Monette; grandchildren, Paisley Diane Holder and Levi Gregory Holder both of Batesville and Jason Achillies Wright of Monette and best friend, Christina Hollis of Arbyrd.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until noon Saturday, September 25, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

Obituary Preview: Caraway- Jennette Sandefur Barrett, 79, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021 at NEA Baptist Hospital.

She was born August 1, 1942 in Manila to the late Earl and Opal Stanley Sandefur. Mrs. Barrett worked at Caraway/ Riverside High School for twenty years. She enjoyed being outside and had traveled to thirty-nine states. She loved taking care of her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Jerry Barrett; sons and their wives, Blandon and Carlene Barrett and Landon and Vicky Barrett; sisters, Arzella Montgomery and Shirley Wright; brothers, Donnie Sandefur and Albert Sandefur; grandchildren, Landra Jeffers (Brad), Brannah Bibbs (Sam), Jordan Wicker and Caden Barrett (Elizabeth); great-grandchildren, Hoyt Jeffers, Xavier Barrett and Ellington Bibbs and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Wilburn Sandefur and Richard Sandefur.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

A celebration of her life will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Gregg Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rick Stevens officiating. Interment will follow at Caraway Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Betty Ruth Blackwell, 82, passed away September 4, 2021 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Walnut Ridge.

She was born May 7, 1939 in Rosie to the late Ernest and Lela Wheeler. Betty was a homemaker, loved playing Bingo, word search puzzles, and was very devoted by giving Christmas gifts for everyone at Christmas.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Albert in 2009; son, Gene Blackwell; daughter Deanna Smith; three brothers, Edward Wheeler, Norman Wheeler, and Gary Wheeler; son-in-law, Troy Chappel; sister-in-law Brenda Wheeler; twin baby sisters; three sisters, Kathryn Lewis, Virginia George, and Glenda Webb.

She is survived by her sons Eric Blackwell (Tamara) of Drew, MS and Dean Blackwell (Tina) of Pocahontas; two daughters, Tammy Chappel of Walnut Ridge and Linda Bibb (Dale) of Lafe; her brother, Steven Jay Wheeler (Loretta) of Walnut Ridge; son-in-law Jeff Smith of Hot Springs; daughter-in-law, Kerri Blackwell of Piggott; two sisters-in-law, Nita Wheeler and Janice Wheeler of Monette; brother-in-law, Rick Lewis of Walnut Ridge; with fourteen grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren.

Service will be Tuesday at 2:00 pm at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette with Eric Blackwell performing the eulogy and service. Friends may join the family for visitation at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Evan Blackwell, Charlie Prater, Tony Wheeler, Travis Wheeler, Jason Prater, Devon Prater and Lynn Barnes.

Obituary Preview: Calico Rock- Jean Cook, 84, passed away Sunday, August 15, 2021 at White River Health Care and Rehab in Calico Rock.

She was born March 6, 1937 in Auvergne to the late David and Grace Tucker Gipson. Originally from Black Oak, she was a nurse for many years for doctors in Monette and Lake City. She retired from Marked Tree School District as a school nurse. She was a member of the Church of Christ.

She is survived by her children, Mike Cook (Pat) of Jonesboro and Marla Layne (Skip) of Jordan; a daughter-in-law, Pam Cook of El Dorado; grandchildren, Paige Eddinger (Jerry) Dana Denis (Ryan), Crystal Cline (Jeff) all of Jonesboro, Chip Layne (Ashley) of Mammoth Spring; Taylon Steele (Daniel) of El Dorado, Jared Cook of Hot Springs; great-grandchildren, Drake Brown (Jessica),Taylor Layne, Whitlee Layne, Kelsea Cline, Kaitlyn Cline, Brayden Denis, Luke Denis, Eva Cook, Sutton Steele and Gabe Steele; a great-great-grandson, Coleson Brown and niece, Kristie Steele Strong of Barlett, TN.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Oliver Cook; a son, Rick Cook and a sister, Phyllis Gipson Steele.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Patricia Baldridge Adams, 69, passed away Monday, August 9, 2021 at her home.

She was born October 21, 1951 in Jonesboro and was the daughter of Devane and Martha Baldridge. Patricia graduated from Holly Grove High School in 1969 and then received her Bachelor of Education from Arkansas State University. She taught school for one year in Cherry Valley. She then met the love of her life Harry Adams Jr. and on November 28th, 1973 they were married and she moved to Monette, where they lived together for the last forty-seven years. She was full of love, life, and compassion. She enjoyed spending time with her family and working in her yard. She will be remembered as a loving wife, daughter, mother, sister, and friend.

She is survived by her husband, Harry Adams Jr. of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Greg Graddy of Monette; son and daughter-in-law, Bo and Amber Adams of Lake City; a son-in-law, John Ashley; grandchildren, Jordan (Joel) Sawyer, Sarah Vaughn, and Emma Graddy all of Monette, Ella Grace Schlenker of Wynne, Ava Grace Ashley of Monette, and Gabe Adams and Alex Thompson of Lake City; great grandchildren, Chandler, Carver (C.J.), Collin Dax, and Adalynn Lucindia Sawyer, of Monette; mother, Martha Baldridge; sister, Linda Matthews; nephews, Todd Gipson, Kris Gipson, Warren Matthews; nieces, Jackie Matthews and Micah Gipson.

She was preceded in death by her father, Devane Baldridge; brother, Mitch Baldridge and daughter, Lela Ashley.

A funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 12, 2021 at the Monette United Methodist Church with Jason Sutton officiating. Burial will follow at the Monette Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Greg Funeral Home.

Obituary Preview: Caraway- Wilma Louise George, 78, passed away Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Lakeside Nursing Home.

She was born September 11, 1942 in Pocahontas to the late Roy and Wilma Griffin Black. Mrs. Louise had worked for several years as a CNA at Monette Manor. She enjoyed playing bingo which she got one more game in before passing.

She is survived by her children, Garland (Sue) Tipton and Melissa (Shauna) Branscum; step-children, Pam Carter, Dana George, Ricky George and Ginger George; a daughter-in-law, Lena Tipton; grandchildren, Mitchell (Christy) Tipton, Renee (Joey) Bryan, Brastain (Abby) James, Bo (Diane) James, Lisa (Tripp) Parker and John (Kim) James; and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her husbands, W. C. Tipton and Richard George; a son, Roy Tipton and a grandchild, Gracein James.

A celebration of her life will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at Rowes Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Glen Hoselton officiating. Interment will follow at Monette Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until time of service at the church.

Obituary Preview: Caraway - Robert Franklin Sands, 73, passed away Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

He was born December 2, 1947 in Keiser to the late George and Effie Mae Sands. Robert could fix just about anything. After being a truck driver for twenty-seven years, he spent his time working as a mechanic with his son, Bobby, at Pappy’s Farm Repairs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, football, and sharing his love and knowledge of guns with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Glenda Sands; a son, Robert George Sands “Bobby” and his spouse, Janet Wright of Marked Tree; a daughter, Amanda Brewer and her spouse, Jason Brewer of Cave City; grandchildren, Kayla Brewer, Carly Brewer, Justin Brewer, Bethany Poole, Benjamin Sands, and Samantha Hartis; great grandchildren, Baili Poole and Jackson Sands; and his pet companion, Lucy the cat.

He was preceded in death by nine brothers and one sister.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Larry Macon Cothren, 82, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.

Larry was born February 8, 1939 in Paragould and made Monette his home for the last fifty-five years. He began his career with Safeway Stores, before working at Exxon, Blankenship Hardware, Monette Feed & Hardware, Farmer’s Market and as a RCA for the United States Postal Service until he retired.

He was an avid sports fan and loved the St. Louis Cardinals. He was also the biggest fan to all his girls’ endeavors and even coached their softball teams. Larry was so proud of all his grandchildren and supported and attended all the activities and events when able. Larry was of the Methodist belief.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Macon and Hazel Gregory Cothren and a brother, Bob Cothren.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Franchal Hubble Cothren; three daughters, Darla Harrell (Glenn / Bear) of Monette, Kandy Rush of Jonesboro and Tracy Gathright (Billy) of Monette; grandchildren, Emily Harrell, Cody Harrell, Gavin Gathright, Rush Gathright and Kell Gathright; two brothers, Greg Cothren (Janette) of Mandeville, LA and Bill Cothren (Laurin) of San Antonio, TX; a sister, Lurabeth Cothren of Tracy, CA; an uncle, Dillman Cothren of Paragould and a host of family and friends.

A graveside service will be 10:00 am, Friday, July 30, 2021 at Monette Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Everett Isom officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home.

Obituary Preview: Caraway- Teresa Couch Morgan, 72, passed away Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at her home.

She was born August 13, 1948 in Jonesboro to late Colonel and Fannie Mote Couch. She graduated in 1966 from Lepanto High School. Teresa worked as a high school secretary, as a cosmetologist, worked in retail, a part-time postal worker and a preschool and substitute teacher. She enjoyed the beach, yardwork, traveling, crafts, sewing, reading and cooking. She loved spending time with her grandson. Mrs. Morgan was a member of the Caraway First Baptist Church and the Ladies Prayer Group.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Freddy Morgan; her children, Stephanie Rhodes (Adam) of Caraway and Steven Morgan (Christy) of Florida; a grandson, Cameron Rhodes; nephews and their families, Terry Couch (Cyndi), Fred Couch (Leisa) and Randy Couch (Kim).

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Ella Pearl Couch and a brother, Gerald Couch.

A celebration of her life will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 31, 2021 at Caraway First Baptist Church with Rev. Rick Stevens officiating. Interment will follow at Caraway Cemetery under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the church.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Steven Morgan, Fred Couch, Terry Couch, Cameron Rhodes, Preston Rains and Noah Lucas and as honorary pallbearers, Adam Rhodes, Randy Couch, Mike Rhodes, Robert Banks, John Starnes and Bill Morgan.

Obituary Preview: Black Oak- Dale Edward Coursey, 72, passed away Tuesday, July 13, 2021 at St. Bernards Medical Center.

He was born May 17, 1949 in Lake City to the late Buster and Mable Cavness Coursey. Dale had worked in construction, painting, roofing and custom cabinets. He also farmed and did lawn care. He enjoyed fishing and riding his motorcycle. He loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He never met a stranger.

He was survived by his wife of thirty-seven years, Donna Coursey; his children, Melinda Sue Cox (Brian) of St. Louis, Dale Munster of Texas, Lawrence Arender of Steele, Missouri, Douglas Coursey (Brandi) of Paragould and Savannah Edwards (Brook) of Black Oak; two brothers, Richard Coursey (Brenda) of Lepanto and Farron Coursey (Egat) of Louisiana; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Coursey Puckett; two brothers, Frank Coursey and Howard Coursey and a sister, Pat Garcia.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

Obituary Preview: Caraway – Otis Wayne Brewer, 81, loving husband, father, pawpaw, uncle, brother and friend to many entered into his eternal life on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Black Oak on December 18, 1939 to the late Flossie and Robert Brewer. His bright blue eyes, contagious smile and laughter blessed many for years. He worked on the J.D. and Jimmy Fletcher Family Farm for many years until retiring in 2001. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially his grandson Tyler. He was known to many as Tobe or Tode, rather than Otis. Many family gatherings consisted of his awesome crappie filets, which resulted in him earning the title of "Fish Fry Master."

His love of life did not end with his death, as loved ones will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Otis was an avid fisherman, hunter, gardener and family man.

He is survived by his daughter Teresa Brewer Ball of North Huntingdon, PA; four brothers Doyle (Linda) Brewer of Jonesboro, Jackie (Tammy) Brewer, Charles (Peggy) Brewer of Osceola, Bobby Brewer of Caraway; one brother-in-law, Bennie Crews of Jonesboro, and several nieces and nephews.

Otis was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Martha Olive Brewer; three brothers, Eldon Brewer, Herbert Brewer, Leo Brewer; one sister, Dumetra Pearson, and a grandson and his buddy, Tyler Ball.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 24, 2021 from 6-8 pm at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

A celebration of his life will be at 10 am Friday, June 25, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home Chapel in Monette with Rev. Rick Stevens officiating. Interment will follow at Caraway Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Drew Kelso, Cody Weathers, Chad Sneed, Timmy Brewer, Garry Taylor and Mike Rhodes.

Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Fletcher, Rudy Anderson, J.L. Shortnacy, Ronnie Shortnacy and the Central Kwik Shop Coffee Crew.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Lakeside Nursing Center and the staff at Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Gladys Louise Poe Adams Anderson, 89, went to be with Jesus on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at St. Bernard’s Hospital in Jonesboro.

She was born on December 21, 1931 in Caraway to the late Marcus Poe and Lillie McIver Poe. She was the youngest of six children.

Gladys’ life revolved around her family. She married Robert Adams in 1947 and was blessed with four children. They operated a family cotton and soybean farm. She was a housewife until 1961 when she started working for American Greetings. She retired in 1994 after 33 years of service to the company. She and Robert were married for 40 years until his passing in 1987.

Gladys married Roy Anderson in 1998 and was blessed with a bonus son and daughter. The two of them had many adventures together until his passing in 2009.

Gladys was a faithful, Godly woman with a servant’s heart. She served as the example to her family of how we should love one another. She was a member of Rowes Chapel Baptist Church.

She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Brenda Kay Adams; a son, Jackie Lynn Adams; brothers, Ben Poe, Robert Poe, and Jimmy Poe; sisters, Juanita Whitaker and Elsie Asbury.

She is survived by her children, daughter, Robbie (Bill) Davenport of Caraway and son, Brian (Kim) Adams of Powell, TN; step-son, Skip (Chris) Anderson of Palm Coast, FL; step-daughter, Susie (Chuck) Farley of Jonesboro. She was delighted to have grandchildren, Michael (Misty) Adams, Heath (Melissa) Wallace, Tiffany (Erik) Deatherage, Joshua (Maddie) Adams, Ethan Adams, Charlie (Shannon) Farley, Melissa (Mike) Coles, Christina (Tom) Armstrong, Terri (Ray) Wilber, and Suzanne Anderson. She was also blessed with the following great-grandchildren, Jordan Adams, Jacob Adams, Madison (Brad) Swink, Aubrey Wallace, Channing Wallace, Mark Deatherage, Baily Coles, Hunter Coles, Tristan Armstrong, Willa Armstrong, Sawyer Armstrong and several nieces and nephews.

Obituary Preview: Caraway – Edna Mae Booth Qualls, 80, entered into her eternal life with Jesus on June 21, 2021. The love of Jesus shined through her in her earthly life as Edna touched many lives with her compassion and caring nature. She died peacefully with her family by her side. She was born to Troy Herbert Booth and Eithel Brickell Booth on February 9, 1941 at their home on Hackberry. They preceded her in death. She was a devoted wife and farming partner of 54 years to Jerry D Qualls who preceded her in death on March 31, 2016

Edna was very dedicated to and loved beyond measure her family and friends. She is survived by her four children: sons, Hunter (Donna) Miller and Curtis Miller, daughters, Jerri Lyn (Shannon) Sanders and Sandra Lee (Stephan) Pearce. Other survivors include two special sisters, Mary Faulkner and Etta Lee (Don) DuMond of Ravenden; three sisters-in-law, Lawanda (Ronnie) Slayton of Memphis, Onita (Eddie) Thomas of Jonesboro, and Janie Sue Qualls of Lake City and one aunt, Eurshel Booth of Mountain Home. She was delighted to have seven grandchildren, Clayton Miller, Jameson (Brittni) Pearce, McCrae Miller, Harley Miller, Bryton Sanders, and Emmie Sanders. More joy came with her three great-grandchildren: Layken Miller, Emmett Miller, and Beckett Pearce.

She has lived and farmed in the Caraway community all of her life. She was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Caraway. She once drove a bus route for the Monette School district and was an EMT for the Buffalo Island Ambulance Service. She became a LPN and worked at St Bernard’s hospital after nursing school. Unfortunately, her mother became ill and she quit work to care for her. She later went back to work as the school nurse at Riverside school district.

Her family never ceased to marvel at her tenacity, work ethic, willingness to do anything for anyone, and her sense of humor. She was a very fun mother who got involved in everything her children participated in. She became a softball coach and umpire when Jerri Lyn and Sandra Lee were playing softball. She served on the PTA and was a room mother to all four of her kids. She served as Girl Scout leader to the Brownie troop. She learned about showing livestock and supported Hunter and Curtis in FFA. She chaperoned many school activities and trips for her kids and grandkids.

She was an exceptional cook and baker. She raised a big garden and enjoyed canning, freezing and sharing it’s bounty with others. She delighted in the fact that everyone loved her baked good and delicious meals. She was always willing to bake a cake for any local fundraiser and was thrilled when that item brought a lot of money at auctions to support the cause.

Edna was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

In the last two weeks as she reminisced with family and friends she stated that “We worked hard and we played hard”. She indeed lived by that motto and always enjoyed making people laugh and feel comfortable. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. She was a loyal friend and always someone you could talk to. She loved people of all ages.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

A celebration of her life will be at 2 pm, Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home Chapel with Gary Earnhart and Loretta Qualls officiating. Interment will follow and Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Terry Harris, Tim Brickell, Dwight Whittenberg, Dane McCord, Kris Kelton, and Kenny Qualls.

Honorary pallbearers are the Caraway Central High School Class of 1958, Larry Sanders, Ronnie Harris, Jack Stone, Jerry Overman, Larry Davis, Johnny McCord, Dwight Booth, Fred Dowless, Dr. Robert Flannigan, Jr., Bill Hawkins, Dr. Corey Crain, Cody Weathers, Caleb Weathers, and James Dunkerson.

Obituary Preview: Jonesboro- Lynn Eugene Taylor, 66, formerly of Monette passed away Friday, June 18, 2021 at St. Bernards Medical Center.

He was born August 1, 1954 in Jonesboro. He grew up in Monette and played basketball and baseball. Lynn graduated from Monette High School in 1972. He farmed and later moved to Jonesboro. He enjoyed sports and politics.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lorene and Gene Taylor and a sister, Rita Taylor Ross.

He was survived by his daughter, Melanie Edens (Matt); grandchildren, Eli Edens and Novak Edens; a sister, Patricia Taylor Vaughn; a special niece and caretaker, Leah Soffray (Tommy); niece, Gena Barker; nephews, Michael Smith, Gary Vaughn, Glenn Vaughn and Greg Vaughn.

A graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 25, 2021 at Macey Cemetery near Monette.

Obituary Preview: Black Oak- Paul Edward Carroll, 82, passed away Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at St. Bernards Medical Center.

He was born April 5, 1939 in Trinidad, Texas to the late William and Nettie Andrews Carroll. He played basketball and graduated from Caraway High School. Paul served his country proudly in the United States Army. He was a long haul truck driver and worked as a heat and air man. He was an amazing gardener and loved Louis L'Amour books and puzzles. He was a member of Rowes Chapel Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Jackie Carroll; his children, Paul Edward Carroll Jr. of Newport Richey, FL and April Kelley of Black Oak; grandchildren, Shannon Goldstein, Brittany Carroll, Jacklyn Hickman, Breyanna Hatcher, Joel Arriola and William Arriola; sisters-in-law, Edna Carroll of Lubbock, Texas and Elmer Vaughn “Towzi” Mize of Mesquite, Texas; nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by six brothers and a sister.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Mary Eidson, 84, passed away Monday, May 31, 2021 at Lakeside Nursing Center.

She was born October 24, 1936 in Allison to the late W. A. and Gertha Corter. She went to Cosmetology School and received her license. She worked as a telephone operator in her youth, was an elevator operator in Oklahoma and also worked at Browns Shoe Factory in Leachville. Then she stayed home to take care of her family. She like working in her garden and loved flowers. She was a wonderful cook and made the best fried chicken and cabbage rolls. Mrs. Mary was a faithful member of the Monette Assembly of God.

She was also preceded in death by her husbands, LeeVonne Harvey and Darrell “Rusty” Eidson; a son, Terry Harvey; sisters, Hazel Tilley and Iva Harrison.

She is survived by her children, Virginia Blucker (David) of Jacksonville and Steve Harvey of Monette; sisters, Betty Arnell of Coronado, CA and Shirley Cloud of Monette; brothers, Don Corter of Monette and Jim Corter (Nancy) of Jonesboro; grandchildren, Jason DeWitt (Stephanie), Sara Waters (Jeff), Lisa Wilson (Tom), Jimmie Harvey, Kimberly Harvey, Brianna Harvey and Steve Harvey; great-grandchildren, Kyle Wilson, Sierra Waters, Patrick Waters and Hadley DeWitt; lots of nieces, nephews and friends.

A celebration of her life will be 10:00 am Thursday, June 3, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Shawn McElhannon officiating. Interment will follow at Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Caraway- Alvin Blake, 81, passed away Saturday, May 15, 2021 at his home.

He was born August 18, 1939 in Milligan Ridge to the late Robert and Della Bogard Blake. Mr. Blake served his country proudly in the United States Army and the National Guard. He worked at Slitz, Coors and Stroh’s Brewery Company of Memphis.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Heindel (Brian); three grandchildren, Kelci, Haley and Brannon.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Edward Alvin Blake.

Obituary Preview: West Memphis- Thomas “Tommy” Patterson, 83, went to be with the Lord on May 12, 2021 at West Memphis Health and Rehabilitation.

He was born March 24, 1938 in Earle to the late Dana and Virginia Patterson and was raised in Earle moving to West Memphis around 1970. Tommy served in the Arkansas National Guard for four years and worked for the St. Francis Levee District for fifty years.

He enjoyed reading, especially history and National Geographic magazines. He loved to feed birds and had several bird feeders in his yard, especially the hummingbirds.

He is survived by his daughter and her husband, Sharon and Paul Foulk of Merritt Island, FL.

He was also preceded in death by his wife, Helen Patterson.

A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 22, 2021 at Monette Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Harley Kersey officiating.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette until time of service.

Obituary Preview: Manila- Timmy Lee Deeds, 67, passed Friday, April 30, 2021.

He was born July 1, 1953 in Sunflower, Kansas to the late Junior and Wanda Brady Deeds. He worked as a welder at CW Post Company. Tim enjoyed fishing, animals and race cars and loved to help people.

He was survived by three sisters, Gail Long of Manila, Patsy Wilson (Jeff) of Leachville and Penny Tate (Bobby) of Manila: two brothers, Larry Deeds (Ann) of Lepanto and Ricky Deeds of Manila and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from noon until 1:00 p.m. Monday, May 3, 2021 at Little River Baptist Church.

A celebration of his life will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday at the Little River Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Knowlton officiating. Interment will follow at Manila Cemetery under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home of Monette.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Pearl Howell, 89, passed away Sunday, April 18, 2021 at Monette Manor.

She was born September 15, 1931 in Black Oak to the late I. P. and Cora Higginbotham Henry. She worked as a teacher’s aid for many years. She was a member of the Black Oak Church of Christ.

She is survived by a son, Jeff Howell and two grandchildren, Bailey Howell and Megan Howell all of Jackson, Tennessee and many nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Albert James Howell and nine siblings.

A memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 24, 2021 at Black Oak Church of Christ with Tim Bassing officiating.

Obituary Preview: Caraway- Ozelma Irene Wood, 89, passed away Saturday, April 10, 2021 at St Bernards Medical Center.

She was born February 28, 1932 in Black Oak to the late Wilburn and Malinda Cook Ervin. She retired from Arkansas Glass Container Company. She enjoyed yard sales and cooking and loved visiting with her grandchildren. Mrs. Wood was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Caraway.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Wood; three sisters, Wilma Joy Alphin, Anna Ruth Holden and Jane Lawan Ervin and three brothers, Junior Ervin, Billy Ervin and Kenneth Ervin.

She is survived by a sister, Donna Hall; two daughters, Brenda Stotts and Belinda Wood; grandchildren, Jeremy Smith (Tara), Travis Anderson (Lesley), Krey Jeffers (Kaylani) and Amy Ladd (Justin); great-grandchildren, Gavin Anderson, Riley Smith, Maddie Smith, Parker Anderson, Jacob Ladd, Andy Ladd, Evalyn Keith, Kasen Jeffers, Brynlee Ladd and Charleigh Jeffers and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be 10:00 am Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Caraway Cemetery with Gary Earnhart officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home.

Honorary pallbearers are Gavin Anderson, Parker Anderson, Jacob Ladd, Andy Ladd, Kasen Jeffers, Todd Hall and Larry Ervin.

Obituary Preview: Black Oak- Della Fay Mote Qualls, 84, passed away Monday, March 29, 2021 at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.

She was born December 2, 1936 in Black Oak to the late Leonard and Thelma Slaughter Mote. She was a wife and homemaker but began her career in the postal service in 1972 and retired after twenty-four years of service. She also managed the up keep of the Black Oak Cemetery and was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening and canning and loved to cook and bake. She loved her family especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Danny Qualls (Beth) and Tammy Wheeler all of Black Oak and Jeff Qualls (Stacey) of Monette; brothers, Jim Mote (Alice) of Rogers, Jerry Mote (Pat) of Benton, Roger Mote (Naomi) of North Augusta, SC; sisters, Dianne Pittman (Bob) of Cherokee Village and Sandra Forbes (Dan) of Visalia, CA; grandchildren, Clint Wheeler (Miranda), Ethan Wheeler (Katie), Terry Qualls, Gage Qualls, Colby Qualls, Cassidy Qualls, Cadyn Qualls, John Matthew Qualls, Jacob Qualls, Kolten Puckett and Madallyn Puckett; great-grandchildren, Lennon Wheeler and Lila Wheeler.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Qualls; a grandson, Matthew Qualls; siblings, Frank Mote, Clara Taylor and Wayne Mote.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

A celebration of her life will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 2, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Reed officiating. Interment will follow at Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Clint Wheeler, Ethan Wheeler, Terry Qualls, Colby Qualls, Jacob Qualls and Lennon Wheeler and as honorary pallbearers, John Matthew Qualls, Gage Qualls, Kirk Qualls and Bill Qualls.

Obituary Preview: Monette- Angelee “Angie” Sexton, 83, passed away Saturday, March 27, 2021 at Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House.

She was born October 27, 1937 in Caraway. Angie worked at Frolic Footwear for forty years. She enjoyed shopping at Dillard and Belks and doing word puzzles. She enjoyed going to her church, Monette Assembly of God.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin Sexton; her sons, Mike Sexton, Stan Sexton and Steve Sexton; her mother, Cordie Sexton and step-father, Alf Sexton.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Keith Sexton, Brett Sexton and Sydney Adams; a daughter-in-law, Debbie Sexton; great-grandchildren, Corbin Sexton, Raelynn Sexton and Camy Barnett; special family, Justin and Leah Gathright and their daughters, Madalyn, Presley and Chandler Gathright.

Obituary Preview: Pineville- Oliver Dempsey Cook, 86, passed away Saturday, March 6, 2021 at White River Health Care and Rehab in Calico Rock.

He was born January 2, 1935 in Jonesboro and was a member of the Church of Christ. Originally from Black Oak, He served as Mayor of Black Oak for many years and a founding member of the Craighead County Waste Authority.

He served his country overseas in the United States Navy during the Korean War and was a member of the Monette American Legion.

He worked as a mechanic for John Deere and was also a farmer. Later in his life he was a police officer for many years and retired as a school bus driver for Bay School District.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Cook; his children, Mike Cook (Pat) of Jonesboro and Marla Layne (Skip) of Jordan; a daughter-in-law, Pam Cook of El Dorado; grandchildren, Paige Eddinger (Jerry) Dana Denis (Ryan), Crystal Cline (Jeff) all of Jonesboro, Chip Layne (Ashley) of Mammoth Spring; Taylon Steele (Daniel) of El Dorado, Jared Cook of Hot Springs; great-grandchildren, Drake Brown (Jessica),Taylor Layne, Whitlee Layne, Kelsea Cline, Kaitlyn Cline, Brayden Denis, Luke Denis, Eva Cook, Sutton Steele and Gabe Steele and a great-great-grandson, Coleson Brown.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Rick Cook; his parents, Rosetta Henry Dailey and Oliver Richard Cook; brothers and sisters, Joe Cook, Quanita Cook, H.W. Henry, Shirley Henry, Charlene Henry, Judy Henry and Nicky Dailey.

A celebration of his life will be 11:00 am Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette with Gary Hill and Eddie Dunigan officiating. Interment will follow at Monette Memorial Cemetery with military honors.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 until time of service Wednesday at the funeral home.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are grandsons and great-grandsons, Chip Layne, Taylor Layne, Jared Cook, Brayden Denis, Luke Denis and Drake Brown.