Robert Lyndon Finney, age 76, of Little Rock, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 18, 2024. He was born on May 23, 1947, in Fort Smith, Arkansas to the late Nolan and Louise Finney. He is preceded in death by his sister, Gail Finney, and infant son, Chad Jeremy Finney. Lyndon studied music and journalism at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, where he was also a member of the Arkansas Razorback Marching Band. His journalism career began as Sports Editor for the Southwest Times Record in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He then moved to Little Rock to become the Sports Editor at the Arkansas Democrat where he was later promoted to Assistant Managing Editor. Following his tenure at the newspaper, he became the Director of Public Relations for Baptist Health. In 2004, Lyndon became the editor of The Trucker newspaper, the Truckload Authority (a trade magazine for the Truckload Carriers Association), and was named Editor Emeritus of The Trucker in 2023. He also served on the Board of the Arkansas Baptist News Magazine, where he was chairman three times. In 1973, Lyndon was hired as the Organist at Immanuel Baptist Church in downtown Little Rock before moving to the west Little Rock location. His ministries at Immanuel included serving as a member of the Orchestra where he was a percussionist, Director of the Immanuelaires Men’s Quartet, Director of Handbells, played for countless rehearsals, worship services, weddings, and funerals. Lyndon retired from Immanuel in 2019 after 46 years of ministry. During his ministry in music, Lyndon played for the funeral service of United States Senator, John L. McClellan, played for Ecumenical Services and for the choir and orchestra at the Inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1993 and 1997. Lyndon appeared on Good Morning, Canada and served on the Board of the Arkansas Hospital Association. His love of sports led him to become a college baseball umpire, and he would later coach and pitch for the Immanuel Men’s Softball Team, and coach the Immanuel Women’s Softball Team. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Donna Kay (Farrar) Finney; his three children, Christa Finney of Bryant, AR, Shawn Finney (Pam) of Rhome, TX, and Merritt Finney of Little Rock, AR; five grandchildren, Jack Finney, Owen Finney, Emma Finney and Ryan Finney all of Rhome, TX and Charlie Rausch of Little Rock, AR along with numerous cousins. A visitation will be from 5:00pm until 7:00pm on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Immanuel Baptist Church. Burial will be at 11:00am on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Pinecrest Memorial Park followed by funeral services at 1:00pm at Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 North Shackleford Road, Little Rock, AR 72211. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Little Rock Chapter of the American Heart Association.

Harold Lee Garrett, 83, of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, passed from this life on Sunday, April 14, 2024, or as he would have said “041424”. He was in residence at Baptist Reynolds Hospice House after an extended hospital stay in Jonesboro, Arkansas and Memphis, Tennessee since before the end of 2023. Hal left high school after his junior year to join the Navy, where he served for 23 years as a aircraft maintenance officer on numerous aircraft carriers. He retired from the Navy in 1981 in Hawaii with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. He had several Associate degrees from the former State Technical Institute, several Bachelor degrees from Memphis State University. He also obtained a Masters degree in Quantitative Methods and Systems Design from Memphis State University. He was a professor at Embry Riddle University and was given an honorary doctorate from this university. After retiring from the Navy, Hal went on to a computer programming position with Shelby County Government. He retired from there after 15 years of service. Sitting still in retirement was not him; he began to do mission work traveling to various countries, and states. He led many trips to Israel and worked to become a Messianic Rabbi, always wanting to spread the Word of the Lord. In addition, he was very active in the Arkansas Baptist State Convention in various capacities. He helped with accounting, home missions, and in substitute pastoring in small churches. He was a volunteer with Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief. He was a devoted and loving husband who even at his sickest, was concerned about the welfare of his wife of almost 63 years. He had a very dry wit, and was quick with a sarcastic come back. He was a calm, kind, peaceful person and could deliver discipline with words skillfully. He often sat back with his hands behind his head and observed before interjecting into situations and conversations. He was known to ask ‘What’s the bottom line?” Hal leaves behind his wife, Esther and children Cindy (Phillip), Randy, and Sandy. Poppop left five grandchildren Michael (Crystal), Katrina (Michael), Dalton, Addie, and Matthew. four great grandchildren Aiden, Nora, Caleb, and Phillip. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and a son in law, Scott.

Dr. Thomas Otis Spicer, Jr, age 87, of Fayetteville, AR, passed away Thursday, March 28, 2024. He was born February 22, 1937, in Paris, AR, a son of the late Thomas Otis Spicer, Sr. and Golda Elizabeth Norfleet Spicer. T.O. was a retired Southern Baptist Minister, serving churches in Arkansas, Texas, and Missouri. He served for 25 years as the director of missions for the Spring River Baptist Association in Joplin, MO. For the past 20 years, after retiring and moving back to Fayetteville, he served as the pastor of Sang Avenue Baptist Church, as the Baptist pastor of Elkins Community Church, associate pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Huntsville, and associate pastor of Old Missouri Road Baptist Church in Springdale. Survivors are his wife of sixty-six years, Martha Alexander Spicer; a son, Thomas Otis Spicer, III, “Tom” (Kyle); and his grandchildren, Elizabeth Ann Spicer, and Jacob White (Chio). Visitation will be Tuesday, April 2, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Fayetteville. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Gardens by Nelson Berna Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to Washington/Madison Baptist Association or Old Missouri Road Baptist Church.

Edward F. McDonald, III passed away peacefully on February 16, 2024, at the age of 84 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born on June 24, 1939, he was the son of Edward and Wanda McDonald. Ed received his B.A. degree from Ouachita Baptist University and his Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary at Louisville, Kentucky. For 34 years, Ed dedicated his life to serving as a chaplain for Baptist Medical Center, where he provided comfort and support to countless patients, their families, and employees. He was widely respected for his leadership as the head of Pastoral Care at the medical center. Ed welcomed all and was accepting of all denominations. Ed’s caring nature extended beyond his professional life. Ed was married to Patricia Smith McDonald for 47 years. He was an incredibly devoted husband and loved her well until she succumbed to cancer. Ed remarried in 2010 to Suzanne Smith McDonald. He devoted countless hours alongside his wife, Suzanne, as a Facilitator of Grief Share, lending a helping hand and caring heart to those wading through the waters of grief and mourning. He found joy in so many hobbies and interests including gardening, photography, traveling, and being a member of the Monarch Watch Program. Ed, known as “Daddy Mc” to all those close to him, selflessly loved, adopted, and served everyone that was fortunate enough to come into his life. He was an excellent listener, counselor, and friend. Daddy Mc had an uncanny ability to meet you wherever you were in your life and minister to your needs. He was a master of the “dad joke” but may have been known to have a few of them on repeat. Everyone knew when he was at the grandkids’ sporting events when they heard the loud, and we do mean LOUD, and unmistakable Daddy Mc “Whoot! Whoot!” He also famously taught one of them an amazingly loud “cluck” at a very young age. He could catch anyone’s attention and laugh with his Donald Duck voice. His children and grandchildren were greatly blessed to grow up with this wonderful example of God’s grace and humility. He loved his family and friends unconditionally and served the Lord well! Ed is survived by his wife, Suzanne Smith McDonald; son, Stephen McDonald (Sandy); daughter, Judy Wingfield (Jeff), stepson-in-law Van Tilbury (Elizabeth); grandchildren, William McDonald, Clayton McDonald, RJ Coleman, Jake Wingfield, Emily Tilbury, Liz Tilbury, Eleanor Tilbury, and Henry Tilbury; sister, Marty Davis, sister-in-law Ruth Smith Johnson (Francis), brothers-in-law Tom Smith (Margarette), Bill Smith (Judy); and other extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Patricia Smith McDonald. The family would like to thank the caregivers at the Shell Alzheimer’s Unit and Baptist Hospice Care for their love and support. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christie’s Corner at Arkansas Hospice: https://www.arkansashospice.org/foundation/donate, or Monarch Watch: monarchwatch.org, or a charity of your choosing.

Jerry Morris George, born November 7, 1936, in Leslie, Arkansas was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, son, and brother. He served as a pastor to Gilead, First Baptist of Social Hill and Manning for over 40 plus years. He was a dedicated timber buyer at Anthony Timberland in Bearden for over 20 years. Papaw’s faith in Christ and devotion to sharing the gospel made an impact with everyone he came in contact with. We know he is in heaven eating Cheetos, Orange Slices and drinking a Diet Pepsi while Memaw is giggling at him for washing paper plates. He is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Mary George; his parents; and his great-granddaughter, Kylee. He is survived by his two daughters and son-in-law, Debbie Holland and Maryetta and David Beals, all of Donaldson; his son and daughter-in-law, Bobby and Tracy George of Donaldson; his sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Dallas Horton of Marshall; his four grandsons and their spouses, Jerry and Amy Holland of Durant, Oklahoma, Nathan and Julie Holland of Claremore, Oklahoma, Dustin and Hollie Beals of Benton, Brandon George of Mississippi; his granddaughter and her husband Ashley and Jesse Hopkins of Holly Springs; his 8 great-granddaughters; his 5 great-grandsons; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and a host of wonderful friends. Memorial services were held Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Ruggles-Wilcox chapel with visitation held prior to services at 10:00 AM. The family would like to thank Baptist Health Hospice in Arkadelphia and special caretaker, Courtney. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jerry George to American Cancer Society Arkansas.

Brenda Gail Wheeler Quimby, age 72, of Warren, AR passed away on Friday, February 9, 2024, at her home. She was born on February 21, 1951, in Hermitage, AR to the late Richard F. Wheeler, Jr. and Frances Trotter Wheeler. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church. Other than her parents she is preceded in death by her sister, Sarah Hughes. Survivors include her husband, Hugh Allen Quimby of Warren, AR whom she married on June 17, 1970; son, Scott Allen Quimby and wife Amy of Stuttgart, AR and grandson, Jed Quimby of Stuttgart, AR. Funeral service was 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Frazer’s Funeral Home. Burial was in Holly Springs Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church or Holly Springs Cemetery.

David L. Dillard, age 65 of Holly Springs passed away Wednesday, February 07, 2024 at his home. He was born to the late Louie Hollis and Lola Lorene Dillard in the backwoods of Nevada County, Arkansas on November 23, 1958, the youngest of three. He loved to run and play in the woods and creeks, hunting and fishing, and causing havoc along the way. He would tell you quick he was the baby of the family and his mother’s favorite, his brother Donnie and sister, Carol he loved so well. Many a stories he would tell of the adventures he shared with them. He met the love of his life at a gospel singing in a small country church in the woods. He convinced Teresa to get married in May of 1980, for 43 years he pestered, loved, and adored his wife Teresa. They had two kids, Dewayne and Charla. David was a loving, supportive father; that sacrificed daily to be present. He was a provider, protector, mentor, and above all those he pointed his family toward the Lord. While he loved his wife and kids with all he had, he found even more love when his grandkids arrived. Olivia, Graham, Paisley, Hazel, and Max, he was a proud Poppa and loved them very much. When this earthly life ended he was reunited in heaven with many family members and a whole host of friends. However, he would tell you he was most excited to see the Lord. Wednesday morning in the early hours David raised his hallelujah and a Praise to the Holy name of Jesus. For over 50 years he proclaimed the goodness of God and the gift of eternal salvation from pulpits, gas stations, hospital bed sides, grocery store aisles, and anywhere he meet someone he did not know. David was a son, brother, husband, dad, and poppa, who without a doubt has heard, “well done my good and faithful servant”. He was known as “Preacher Man” to many but a special one to Jon Pigott, Kenzie Hayes, Sidney Pigott, and a special young man Gannon Paul. Larry Gaston, Walt and Angel Pigott and Kim Harper – you were and are dearly loved by Teresa, Charla, and Dewayne. The family would like to express their deepest thanks to their church family for all their support and love. A special thanks to Dr. Braden and OCMC Hospice. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Holly Springs Baptist Church or OCMC Hospice. Memorial services will be 10:00 am Saturday at Holly Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Jeremy Horton and Rev. Wayne Daniel officiating. Arrangements by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.

Marvin Peters, DMin., 82, recently of Sherwood, and formerly of Jacksonville, passed away February 2, 2024. He was born December 29, 1941 in Jacksonville, Arkansas to the late Alonzo and Ruth (Kyzer) Peters. In addition to his parents, Marvin was welcomed into Heaven by his siblings, Edwin Peters, Eugene Peters, Lucille McGee, Evelyn Peters, Carolyn Kelley, and Brenda Compton; his three nephews, Greg Kelley, Tony Compton, and Kenneth Peters; and one niece, Janet Reniere. Marvin proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for six years. He was sweet, even-tempered with a heart of gold. He was a man of faith and was led by God to spread the Lord’s message by pastoring several churches throughout his career, including: First Baptist Church, Ben Lomond, AR; First Baptist Church, Winthrop, AR; First Baptist Church, Biscoe, AR; First Baptist Church, Granite City, IL; and Area Missionary and Church Planter for the Illinois Baptist State Convention. Marvin also served as the Church Planter and Language Mission Director at the Blue River/Kansas City Baptist Association, in Kansas City, MO, the Director of Missions for the North Pulaski Baptist Association, and as Associational Missions Director at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. After retiring from the ABSC, Marvin trained other pastors in the Intentional Interim program and served as an intentional interim for both churches and associations in the Ouachita Baptist Association. Marvin’s love for Jesus extended as well to leading mission trips to Brazil, Mexico, and Guatemala. In his spare time, Marvin enjoyed playing guitar, camping, fishing, golfing, sailing, flying, and reading. He loved working with his hands and made his own golf clubs, sail boat, and rebuilt his own motorcycle. He was a loving and attentive husband, father, and grandfather to his entire family. Those left to cherish the memories of Marvin include his wife of fifty-nine years, Pamela Peters; his children, Kevin (Lori) Peters and Stacy (David) Cook; siblings, Kathleen (Levoy) Little and Karen Hightower; eight grandchildren, Brandon, Alisa, Ashley, Ryan, Jonathan, Matthew, Joshua, and Peyton; and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, 9:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Marvin will be laid to rest following the service with military honors at Chapel Hill Memorial Park.

Johnny Gilbert Biggs, 86, of Bryant, Ark. went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 25th, 2024 in Little Rock, Ark. Johnny was born on April 2nd, 1937 in Meridian, Mississippi. He attended High School in Hickory, Mississippi, then attended Miss. College and received his Master’s degree from LSU. Johnny’s life work was as the Director of Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries where he served for 27 years. After “retirement” Johnny continued to serve in many ministries throughout his life of service. Johnny faithfully served in many positions at Geyer Springs FBC. He loved his family and is survived by his loving Wife; Joyce Biggs, Daughters; Jenny Luningham (David), Janis Masters (Scott), Grandchildren; Justin Luningham (Katie Jo), Danielle Luningham Milner (Jett), Taylor Masters (Katy), Dylan Masters (Alyssa), and Austin Masters. Great Grandchildren; James and Lily Mae Luningham, Bella Joyce Milner, Jax and Beau Masters, Sanford and Wallace Masters. Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, 11:00 A.M., February 1, 2024 at Geyer Springs FBC. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. prior at Geyer Springs FBC. Memorial donations can be made to https://arkansasfamilies.org or https://gsfbc.org Online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.combryant

Bennie Morgan Ward, 76 of El Dorado, Arkansas passed away in the afternoon on January 21, 2024. Bennie was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Ward and Eula Pearl Owens Ward, and sister, Melba Ward Major. Bennie retired from Georgia Pacific – Crossett after 28 years, was a bi-vocational pastor for Felsenthal Baptist Church, Salem Baptist Church, and Union Baptist Church. Bennie was an active member of Immanuel Baptist Church in El Dorado. He was an active outdoorsman, hunting, fishing, and camping. Reaching people for Christ was his daily goal in any way he could. He was not afraid to talk about Jesus. Bennie leaves behind a wife of 58 years, Rita Burns Ward, three sons, Phillip Ward and wife Melissa, Keith Ward and wife Krista, and Chris Ward and wife Janie, two sisters, Mary Tucker, Francis Reeves and husband Frankie, one brother, Rob Ward and wife Mariann, seven grandchildren, Zac Ward, Whitney New and husband Jeff, Chase Milhollen and wife Holland, India Ward, Shane Ward, Joshua Ward, and Jesse Ward, three great grandchildren, Maxwell Davis, Heidi Milhollen and Lacy Milhollen. Visitation will be on Thursday January 25, 2024, 1:00 p.m. until 2:00p.m. at Immanual Baptist Church A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Immanuel Baptist Church, El Dorado, Arkansas. Cremation services provided by Bailey Funeral Home of El Dorado, AR In lieu of flowers please give donations to Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Fund at Immanuel Baptist Church, ibceldorado.com

Kenneth Philip Wagner, 77, of Conway, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, after contracting COVID and being hospitalized in October 2023. Born May 15, 1946, in Edmonton, Alberta, Ken was the beloved only child of the late Adolph G. Wagner and Clara Mae (Singer) Wagner. Ken’s compassionate heart, sharp mind, and silly spirit will forever be treasured by his loving wife, Jeanette Wagner; his son, Matthew P. Wagner (Tresa) of Springfield, Missouri, and his daughter, Jennifer M. Craig (Randy) of Conway. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Miles D. Wagner of Springfield, Missouri, and Samuel W. and Avra S. Craig of Conway, who will carry his love and teachings throughout their lives. An exceptional student who routinely earned “high marks” — as his mother would say — Ken received his Ph.D. in microbiology with an emphasis on parasitology from the University of California, Irvine. He was fascinated by microscopic life on our planet. Ken enjoyed a long, rewarding career as a professor and administrator at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. He was the Vice Chancellor of Academic Services when he retired in June 2011 just shy of his 33-year anniversary. Ken respected and cared for his coworkers, and the sentiment was mutual. To this day, many who reported to “Wags” say he was the best boss they ever had. A Christian who walked the walk, Ken and Jeanette were members of Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock for more than 40 years. His life of ministry included years of teaching Sunday School and bible study; serving as Deacon Board chairman; and leading a small group for 15 years. More recently, Ken and Jeanette attended Second Baptist Church in Conway. A Type 1 diabetic diagnosed in his teens, Ken expertly managed the disease but eventually experienced renal failure. In 2001, he was humbled when a fellow church member donated her kidney, and he underwent a successful transplant. Doctors thought the donated kidney could extend his life up to a decade. He lived for nearly 23 more years. Ken was a hardcore hockey fan who also enjoyed golfing and bowling. Known to his grandkids as “Popeye,” he would do just about anything with them, from sculpting Play-Doh to playing mini golf to picking pumpkins. A lifelong dog lover, he relished the company of four-legged friends who would join him for naps in his recliner. The doctors and nursing staff at UAMS were nothing short of angels who made Ken comfortable while balancing his delicate health in their decisions. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to nephrologist Dr. Sushma Bhusal as well as nurses Rovena Spurlock and Steve Sherrill. Their competence and compassion will never be forgotten. A visitation to celebrate Ken’s life will be held Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Calvary Baptist Church, 5700 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, Arkansas 72207. A memorial service led by Senior Pastor Scott Jackson will follow visitation at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to Arora at www.arora.org/donatelife, the Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Rd, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210, or your local humane society.

Mattie Lou Paul Walker, 92, of Benton, passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2024. She was born July 30, 1931 in Harrison, Arkansas, daughter of Leonard Denton and Cynthia Lily Monday Paul. She was in the last graduating class of Bellefonte High School before school consolidation. She met the love of her life, James A. Walker, a Ouachita Baptist College student, when he went as pastor of Bellefonte Baptist Church. She was treasurer of the church. They were married July 27, 1952 in the new building of Bellefonte Baptist Church. They enrolled in Southwestern Baptist Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas and graduated in January, 1956. During their ministry in the pastorates of churches where they served in OK, TX and AR, she was involved in the mission organizations as well as teaching in Sunday School. When moving to Little Rock, she was employed by Arkansas Baptist Foundation and then Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home, from which she retired. During retirement, she enjoyed their many travels which included all fifty states plus one summer spent representing Arkansas Baptist State Convention in relation with the English speaking churches of Europe. They have been blessed with two sons and their wives: Karl and Joan Walker; their children, Kyle, Kaiti and Abby Walker Crow and Caleb; Jim and Leigh Walker; their daughters, Sarah and Hannah; one sister-in-law, June Paul; and nieces & nephews, Dennis, Marie, Phillip, and Cindy. Her brother, Ray D. Paul predeceased her. Memorials may be made to Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home. Family will hold service at 1:00 PM Sunday, January 21 at Bellefonte Baptist Church in Harrison, Arkansas.

Joynelle Gammon Baker, age 92, formerly of Little Rock, AR, entered eternity with her Savior Jesus Christ on January 7, 2024, and is now singing in her husband’s heavenly choir! Joynelle was born in Groesbeck, TX on April 26, 1931, grew up and graduated High School in Longview, TX. Joynelle graduated with a BA in Music Ed from East Texas Baptist College in Marshall, TX. She met her husband, E. Amon Baker at college, they married in 1950, started a family, and she began her gift of church music work alongside her husband. Joynelle began vocal training at 13 years of age and became the top vocalist at college. She was hired as a professional vocalist, and she sang in her husband’s church choirs singing solos in the great Oratorios, such as “Elijah” and Handel’s “Messiah.” Her voice was described by her friends and peers as “an angel singing.” Joynelle developed and directed the Graded Children’s Choir Program for Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock, AR, and at First Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, AR. She was the writer of Children’s Choir Literature for the Southern Baptist Convention and taught classes for the SBC on developing Graded Choir Programs at Glorietta, in Arizona, Ridgecrest in North Carolina, and Nashville, TN. She was well known for her Children’s Christmas programs, especially “Christmas Around the World.” She wrote a Children’s book entitled “Let’s Listen and Pretend,” teaching critical listening skills through music. Mrs. Baker created a curriculum for teaching the history of the great Classical Composers, music theory, and hymn studies. She taught elementary music in the public school systems of Pine Bluff and Little Rock before retiring. Joynelle joined her husband in his European Choir Tours, singing in the great cathedrals of Europe, and touring the Greek Islands, Israel, Austria, Switzerland, England, France, Italy, Germany, Istanbul, and more. Her favorite pastime was traveling in their motorhome, singing, reading, and having tea parties with her grandchildren. She is survived by three daughters, Brenda Shoptaw, Carrie Baker Sallee & husband Jerry Sallee, Melody Kay Garrett and husband Dennis Garrett; 5 grandchildren, Jamie Lynn Fagan, Matthew Garrett, Jacob Garrett, Bryan Garrett, James Sallee, and step grandchild Sara Sallee; 3 great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Vardaman, J.T. Fagan, Adrianna Fagan, and 2 step great-grandchildren Sean Bryson and Daesha Bryson; and one great-great-grandchild Van Vardaman. A Funeral Service for Joynelle will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Rye Hill Baptist Church in Fort Smith, AR. There will also be a Visitation held at Edwards Funeral Home from 5:00–7:00 p.m., Friday, January 19, 2024. The family of Joynelle Baker would like to thank Good Shepherd Hospice of Owasso, OK for their excellent care of our mother during her last days, especially Mary Lou Carter, RN; Taija Starr, LPN; Katelyne Gerard Home Health Aide; and Chaplain Steve Griffith! The family would also like to thank Dennis & Melody Garrett, Joynelle’s youngest daughter, for opening their home for three years of loving & inspirational care they provided for our mother! We are so grateful! Memorial gifts can be donated to a huge institution in our parent’s lives, East Texas Baptist University, where our parents met and remained Alumni up until their deaths. Donations can be made “In memory of Joynelle Baker” and they will be deposited to the Amon & Joynelle Baker Scholarship Fund. These donations can be sent to:

Cayson Ridge Maino, 21, of Wynne, Arkansas, was killed in an automobile accident on Thursday, January 4, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee. Cayson was born on October 24, 2002, to Todd Maino and Jennifer Thigpun Maino. Cayson was a graduate of Cross County High School and was a Junior at the University of Memphis, where he was pursuing a degree in education. Cayson’s love and loyalty to his family and friends was immeasurable. He was the leader of his siblings and an incredible big brother. According to his friends, Cayson was the best storyteller. Using the gift of his imagination, he wrote creative stories, poetry, and so much more. Cayson and his friends were fantasy gamers, and Cayson being the ultimate dungeon master, utilized all of his talents to create entire worlds including the characters and storylines. Cayson was a member of Wynne Baptist Church, where he served in various roles including vacation bible school, children’s ministries, and student praise team. He trusted Jesus at a young age after reading and learning about following Jesus in his room one night. Soon after, he was baptized at First Baptist Church of Marianna, Arkansas. Survivors are his parents, Jennifer Maino, Todd Maino and wife Heather all of Wynne, his siblings, Griffin, Karis, Mylan and Addison Maino, Sarah Morgan Willett and husband Mason, and London Parsons, grandparents, Cecil and Charlotte Coone, Bob and Gay Kittrell, aunts and uncles, Alex and Kristi Calderon, James and Michelle Thigpun, Brad and Gretchen Austin, Ross Maino, and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Joseph Maino, Jr., grandparents, James and Peggy Thigpun, and great grandparents, Tom and Afton Minga. Visitation for friends will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 12:30 PM until 2 PM at Wynne Baptist Church. Services celebrating Cayson’s life will follow visitation at 2 PM. Burial will be in Cogbill Cemetery.

Retired missionary and physician Dr. Harlan L. Willis, age 94, passed away at his home in Little Rock, AR on December 30, 2023. Born in Friendswood, TX on December 5, 1929, Dr. Willis graduated from the Baylor University School of medicine in 1953. Following his service in the United States Navy, Dr. Willis served as a Southern Baptist missionary to Bangkla, Thailand from 1961-1973, where he helped build the Baptist Hospital and Leprosy Clinic and served as a surgeon and general physician. Upon his return to the U.S., he practiced medicine and general surgery in Brownfield, TX (1974-2004), then served as the medical director for the Community Health Clinic in Lubbock, TX (2004-2012). A devoted servant of Christ and lifelong learner, Dr. Willis left a legacy of faithful service built on three simple foundations: Know Jesus, Love Jesus, Serve Jesus. He loved to remind his children and extended family that ”hard work builds character”. And he exhibited that throughout his life practicing medicine until age 83 and returning frequently to Thailand to assist doctors there. Though he left full-time service in Thailand in 1973, his love for the Thai people remained a life-long constant. Asked about his greatest aspirations, he frequently said, ”I wish I could go back to Thailand just one more time.”. He is survived by two daughters, Kaye Frances Willis Miller (Mark) of Little Rock, AR and Robin Leigh Willis Wood (Andy) of Millry, AL; one son, Paul Marshal Willis (Sarah) of Amarillo, TX; ten grandchildren, Jenny Owens (Jason), Julie O’Neal (Christian), Rachael Eichenberger (Zach), John Mark Miller (Meg), Carrie Wiley (Kyle), Cassie Thomas (Curtis), Joel Wood (Ashley), Alyx Camp (Casey), Gunnar Willis and Dakota Willis and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Jo Willis and a daughter, Carol Ann Willis Strahan. To honor his life and legacy, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in memory of Harlan Willis through the International Mission Board to the Bangkla Baptist Hospital in Thailand by going to imb.org and clicking the ”give now” link and specifying your gift to: Bangkla Baptist Hospital in Thailand. Gifts can also be mailed to the International Mission Board for the ministry of Bangkla Baptist Hospital, 3806 Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA 23230.

Betty Lou Marbury Roaten was born in Haywood County, Tennessee on March 17, 1939, one of six siblings, to Henry Clay Marbury and Birdie Marbury. She graduated from Haywood High School in 1957 and went on to Union University, where she graduated in 1963. In 1949, at the age of 10, they discovered that Betty had a bone tumor in her right hand. Word spread about her story, prayers and letters flooded in from around the US and the globe. Word even made its way down to Houlka, Mississippi, where a young high school senior, Paul Roaten, read about her in the Commercial Appeal. Unfortunately, Betty did end up losing her right hand in December 1949. However, after a follow up article was published in 1955, Paul decided to write to Betty, and this was the beginning of their relationship. A courtship ensued over the next few years, culminating in their marriage on June 4, 1960, at Brownsville Baptist Church in Brownsville, Tennessee. They were happily married for 63 years, and together for a total of 68 years. After several decades of serving in ministry with her husband, including 20 years as missionaries in Uruguay, South America with the Southern Baptist Convention, Foreign Mission Board. They then relocated to Hope, Arkansas where Paul ran the Hope Migrant Mission, while Betty taught public school. Betty retired from teaching in 2003. They moved to Henderson, TN in 2005, where they served Bethel Baptist Church as Pastor and wife. They both retired in 2015, when they moved to Anna, TX where Betty served in many capacities at Calvary Baptist Church. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles and crosswords. Betty passed away December 30, 2023, peacefully, with family by her side. She is survived by her husband Paul, three children: Lois Ann and husband Billy, David and wife Alicia, and Eddie and wife Sunni, along with 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Services was held at Bethel Baptist Church in Henderson, Tennessee at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 6, 2024 with burial to follow in Bethel Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Calvary Baptist Church, (Building Fund) P. O. Box 485, Anna, TX 75409 or to Bethel Baptist Church (Building Fund). 125 Hwy 125, Henderson, TN. 38340

Bobby “Bob” Dale Bean, age 83, returned to his heavenly home on December 21, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 2, 1940, to the late William G. Bean and Lillie Oliger Bean. Bob’s life was dedicated to serving others. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched as a principal, coach, and manager of Camp Paron. He loved God, his family, his church, and when the Razorbacks were winning. He is remembered by many as a mentor, missionary, and friend. Bob is preceded in death by his sister Erma Lee Johnson and brother-in-law Larry Hogan. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Janet Fink Bean; his brother Jack Bean (Betty) and sister Billie Jean Hogan; his children Pam Kilgroe (Sam) of Malvern and Philip Bean (Stacey) of Perryville; his wonderful grandchildren Sydney Jones (Jess), Cagney Kilgroe, and Emily Russell (Carson); several nieces and nephews; and two sweet great-grandchildren, Ada and Jett Jones. The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 27, at the Harris Chapel with Bro. Wes Brown and Bro. Sandy Taylor officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service, at the funeral home. Burial will be at Plummerville Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob’s memory to The Gideons International or First Baptist Church, Plumerville. Bob was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, but most importantly, Bob was a faithful servant to his Lord Jesus Christ. In his final moments on this earth, Bob’s greatest wish was that others come to know the love of Jesus. In the words of his favorite hymn, “The King is coming, Praise God, He’s coming for me.”

Kirk Daniel Gassman, age 64, of Malvern, walked onto the streets of gold on December 4, 2023. He was born April 23, 1959, the youngest child of World War I veteran Glenn A. and Vivian E. Stearla Gassman in Pontiac, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Dale Gassman. Kirk is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen; two sons, Adam (Beka) Gassman and Gil Gassman; four grandchildren, Ellie, Rose, Ian, and Ruby Gassman; a sister, Cheryl Gassman Dawson; a brother, Glenn Gassman, Jr.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Kirk’s father died just a few months after Kirk’s birth, prompting the family’s move to Hot Springs. Kirk grew up in the Lakeside area and graduated from Magnet Cove High School in 1979. It was in grade school there that he met his future wife, Karen Dunkin. They were married in 1980. Kirk embarked upon earning a living for the family, becoming a licensed boiler operator and working for major utility companies such as Arkansas Power & Light (now Entergy) at Jones Mill and the Tennessee Valley Authority in Memphis. He held several different jobs through the years, most recently doing appliance repair. At age 36, Kirk surrendered to the ministry, and was currently serving as pastor of Hebron Baptist Church in DeWitt. He previously pastored a number of Baptist churches in this area, including being the founding pastor of New Freedom Baptist Church in Malvern. During his ministry, he led many people to the Lord. Bro. Kirk was a great storyteller and jokester, often weaving humorous stories into his sermons. He relished entertaining others with those stories, even if the joke was sometimes on him! Bro. Kirk never met a stranger and enjoyed interacting with people. He so enjoyed communicating with others that he became a CB operator (call sign KI5AZG) and active member of the Hot Spring County Amateur Radio Emergency Net. The family requests that memorials be made to Wounded Warrior Project (4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or woundedwarriorproject.org ) or the Little Rock Compassion Center (3618 West Roosevelt, Little Rock, AR, 72204 or lrcompassionctr@sbcglobal.net). Visitation will be on Saturday, December 16th at 10am, at Regency Funeral Home Chapel with the Memorial Service beginning at 11am, with Pastor Wayne Murphree officiating. Arrangements made by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guestbook at regencyfuneralhome.com.

Robert Elton Inmon, age 72, of Bryant, Arkansas passed away on Monday, November 27, 2023. Born July 20, 1951 to the late Robert Elton Sr. and Nina Jean Inmon. Bob attended Midtown Church in Benton, AR for many years. He pastored churches in Arkansas, including Graves Memorial in Little Rock and several churches in Liberty Association. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Sue Inmon; his children, Ashley Neely and her husband Daren and Josh Inmon and his wife Rachel; his five grandchildren, Hudson, Max, Luke, Reese, and Sophia; and his sister, Sherri Westmoreland and her husband Frank. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Alan Inmon. A funeral service for Robert was held Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Midtown Church, 4037 Boone Road, Benton, AR 72015.

Kathy Chapman Collins was born on December 26, 1953, in Bastrop, Texas. She maintained she was the first born of identical twins, even though the birth certificate listed her as second. Her father was an educator, and the family moved several times before arriving in Pleasanton, Texas where Kathy graduated from high school in 1971. She and her sister were popular students, both named prom queens and Cowboy Homecoming queens. She then went to Baylor University where she majored in education. On July 19, 1975, she married Andrew “Ace” Collins at 7th and James Baptist Church in Waco, Texas. They met on campus the first day of their freshman year, and they were friends several years before they dated. They were engaged a month after their first date in the summer of 1974 and were married for over 48 years. Kathy’s teaching career took her to elementary schools in Penelope, Hillsboro, and Bynum, Texas, where she would also become the school’s principal. During her time in Texas, Kathy became an active member of the community, playing softball, racquetball, running a half-marathon, serving as Bynum’s cheerleader coach, and singing in the church choir. Kathy received her Master of Education from Tarleton State University and later a Doctor of Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She finished first in her class, being named Outstanding Graduate Student. In 2009, after working for the Center of Learning and Development, Kathy joined the faculty at Ouachita Baptist University. She would ultimately become the Chair of the Department of Education. Kathy quickly developed a reputation both in and out of the classroom for her energy, charisma, and investment in her students. She attended every academic event in football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, tennis, softball, wrestling, and any plays, musicals, or recitals where her education majors played or performed. She also was a huge fan of the school’s Tiger Tunes and participated in the mud tug of war in Tiger Tracks. Kathy took her education majors to England, Scotland, Ireland, and across the United States. Her goal was to expose her students to education programs around the globe. Kathy and Ace hosted a college home group at their home each Sunday night called the Varsity Diner. Over fourteen years, thousands entered their home from both Ouachita and Henderson State University. These weekly gatherings averaged 60 students and often exceeded 70. The students called her “Mom,” and she invested in them as if they were her own children. Kathy was fighting cancer at the time of her death on November 5, 2023. No one fought cancer harder while maintaining her full schedule at Ouachita. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Jim and Royce Chapman. She is survived by her husband, Ace, her twin sister Karry Chapman, sister Karla Smith, and brother James Herbert Chapman, as well as sons Clint Collins of Little Rock, Arkansas, Rance Collins of Los Angeles, California, granddaughter Aidan Brown of Blacksburg, Virginia, and her chosen daughter Jazmyn Conner of Cabot, Arkansas. She also leaves behind many cousins, nephews, nieces, and hundreds of education students who are now teaching in classrooms all around the world, and her family of more than a thousand who were a part of the Varsity Diner. Upon her death, one of her former students described Kathy this way, “Dr. Collins had a way of making you feel like if the world was shattering, it wasn’t falling apart, it was just falling into place.” She was loved by all who met her and her light continues to shine in everyone she touched. Kathy was a woman who changed the world one life at a time. The family asks that you remember and honor Kathy by giving a gift in her memory to Ouachita Baptist University’s School of Education. Please contact the Development Office at 870-245-5169 or give online at obu.edu/give . Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Walker Conference Center at Ouachita Baptist University. A memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Jones Performing Arts Center at Ouachita Baptist University. Arrangements are entrusted to Ruggles Wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923. www.ruggleswilcox.com