| Home | Additions Index |
Abernathy, BufordSuffers Fatal Attack While Fighting Fire- Buford Abernathy, 49, of Oden, a employee of the U. S. Forest Service, died of a heart attack while fighting a fire near Bluffton last Wednesday afternoon. Abernathy died before the ambulance arrived, and his body was taken to Geyer Funeral Home at Mena. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 14, 1960)Alexander, Herbert CarrollHerbert Carroll Alexander, 86 of Casa, died Thursday, April 22, 2010 at his home. He was born December 9, 1923 at Casa to the late Bruce and Oder Patterson Alexander.He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jean Alexander; brother, Hubert Alexander; six sisters, Opal George, Thelma Pryer, Lola Holmes, Ruby Rogers, Velma Dunn and Audie Jordan. Survivors include daughters, Katie Pratt and husband Bob of Ft. Smith, Louise Avery and husband Samuel of Casa; sons, Sam Alexander of Harrison, Carl Alexander of Arizona, Joe Alexander and wife Tabitha of Casa; brother, Hershel Alexander and wife Vera Mae of Casa; a sister, Montra Tucker of Casa; and numerous grandchildren and other relatives. Funeral services were held Monday, April 26, 2010 at Grace Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Casa with Bro. Bruce Swanson officiating. Burial was in Needmore Cemetery in Casa. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Branch, William (Bill)William (Bill) Branch, 80, of Perryville died Friday, April 16, 2010. He was born in Huntley, Montana July 24th, 1929, son of the late William and Elma Mead Branch. He served in the Army during the Korean War and worked for Perkins Sprinkler Company for 45 years.He was preceded in death by a brother Tom Branch. Survivors are one son, Alan Branch; two daughters, Carin Sloss (Jerry), Lori Owens (Aubrey); two sisters, Marjorie Ashbury and Mary Alice Brown (Bill); four grandsons, Brad Bull (Rachel), Alex Crowder (Andrea), Tim Crowder (Jessica) and Rob Hotchkiss (Beth); one granddaughter, Stephanie Rhoads; eleven great-grandchildren; the mother of his children Jane Aldridge; several nieces and nephews and his beloved dog Sassy. Burial was at Carter Cove Cemetery Tuesday by Harris Funeral Home of Perryville. Pallbearers were grandsons and nephews. The family wishes to thank the Perry County Nursing Center, Dr. Garry Stewart, the Staff at Chambers Memorial in Danville, and Dr. Jerry Hodges for their loving care to our precious father. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 21, 2010) Brooks, Willie DeeFuneral services were held April 19 in Wewoka, Okla, for Willie Dee Brooks, 79, who died April 18 in a Wewoka hospital. He was born near Danville and was a retired painter and song writer. He was a Baptist.Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Flerdy Brooks; two daughters, Mrs. Vernie Houch of Wewoka and Mrs. Hazel Smith of Long Beach. Calif. a son, Herbert Brooks of Wewoka; a sister Mrs. Ada Tippin of Wewoka; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 28, 1960) Chambers, Warren HenryWarren Henry Chambers, aged 71, of Briggsville, died Thursday at a Little Rock hospital. He was a retired farmer and a Methodist, a Mason and a veteran of World War I,Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Lula Gladden Chambers; a daughter, Mrs. Carl L. Miller of Little Rock; a brother, Judge John E. Chambers of Danville and a grandchild. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 28, 1960) Chandler, Robert Kenneth, IIRobert Kenneth Chandler II, age 49, of Dardanelle, departed this life Wednesday, April 7, 2010. He was born September 20, 1960 in San Luis Obispo, CA to Constance Chandler and the late Robert Chandler, Sr.He is survived by his mother, Constance Chandler of Dardanelle; one daughter, Cortney Chandler of Danville; one son, Robert K. Chandler III; fiancee Brenda Stafford; one brother, James L. Chandler of Dardanelle; one sister, June M. Watkins of Oakland, TN. Memorial services will be at a later date at All Saints Episcopal Church in Russellville. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Arkansas Hospice of Russellville. Arrangements are by Larry G. Acklin Funeral Home, Morrilton; (501) 354-0053; WWW.larrvgacklin funeral-homes.com. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Clark, Betty Ann (Chisem)Betty Ann (Chisem) Clark of Clarksville, AR, left this earth on Friday, April 2, 2010 to be with family and friends who hac gone before her. She was born June 9, 1938 in Parkin, AR to the late Ruby Mac (Bost) and Richard Edward Chisem. She was a Baptist and a retired CNA.She is preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Edna Adean Chandler and Martha Jean Rojas; her first husband and father of her children, Leon Underwood and husband, Alfred "Dale" Clark. She leaves behind her three children, daughter Tina and Billy Summit, Sr. of Ola, AR; two sons, Mike and Terisa Underwood of Clarksville, AR and Matthew and Ashley Underwood of Lamar, AR; stepdaughter, Gina Humphreys of West Memphis, AR; two sisters, Ruby and Dick Rugel of Batesville, AR and Ludy and Johnny Parks of Clarksville, AR; two brothers, James and Bea Chisem of Vandale, AR and Richard and Sherry Chisem of Parkin, AR; six grandchildren, Ambrosia and Jonathan Hartwick of Danville, AR, Jeremy O'Neil of London, AR, Christopher Bentley and Laina Underwood both of Dardanelle, AR, Haley Underwood of Donie, TX and Leon Underwood of Lamar, AR; four step-grandchildren, Amy Rook of Conway, AR, Billy Summit, Jr. of Conway, AR, Brian and Ashley Humphreys of West Memphis, AR; four great grandchildren, Trestan Underwood, Thomas Faulk, Tyler Theriot of Danville, AR and Alixander Moore of Dardanelle, AR. Memorial service was April 10, 2010 at Roller-Cox Funeral Home Chapel in Clarksville, AR with Rev. Amos Pledger officiating. Roller-Cox is in charge of arrangements. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Clark, Betty Ann (Chisem)Betty Ann (Chisem) Clark of Clarksville, AR, left this earth on Friday, April 2, 2010.Memorial service will be 1 p. m., Saturday, April 10, 2010 at Roller-Cox Funeral Home Chapel, Clarksville, AR with Rev. Amos Pledger officiating. Online guestbook WWW.roller-funeralhomes.com See complete obit next issue. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Couch, Tommie NeilTommie Neil Couch, 57, of Belleville, died Friday, April 23, 2010 at home. She was born May 1, 1952 in Houston, TX to Bruce Neil and LaVelle Stone George. She was an insurance adjuster for State Farm, a graduate of Le Tourneau University, and attended Upper Spring Creek Freewill Baptist Church.She was preceded in death by her father. Survivors include her children and their spouses, Christy and Marshall Patton of Coweta, OK, James Clyde, Jr., Letty Couch, Justin Couch all of Milano, TX; grandchildren, Tristan, Trent and Trey Patton, AIli, Jordan and Isabell Couch; mother, LaVelle George of Belleville; sisters and brothers-in-law, Victoria J. and Milton Richardson of San Antonio, TX, Patty and Richard Golightly of New Cany, TX; and several nephews. Funeral services were Sunday at Upper Spring Creek Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was in Lower Spring Creek Cemetery under the direction of Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Crites, Joseph T.Crites, WYC Graduate Dies in Accident - Joseph T. Crites (JT.), age 21, of Havana, was killed on Saturday afternoon, April 24m in Russellville in a motorcycle accident. Crites was a 2006 graduate of Western Yell County High School. His mother, Sherry Albright, lives in Waveland and his father, Randy Crites, lives in Plainview.According to the accident report by Russellville Police Officer Phillip Baker, Crites was northbound on a 2008 Honda CBR Motorcycle on State Hwy. 7/North Arkansas Aye., approaching its intersection with Shiloh Road. According to eye-witnesses, Crites began to lose control on his back wheel when he attempted to land the front tire back on the roadway. The motorcycle left the right side of the road, went into a ditch and became airborne, at which time Crites was thrown off the motorcycle, according to Officer Baker. He then struck the passenger side door of a parked Dodge pickup on North Arkansas Avenue resulting in severe injuries to his head. The motorcycle continued over 500 feet, striking a utility pole, a gas light, and a gas meter. Pope County EMS transported Crites to St. Mary's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Crites was wearing a helmet. Funeral services will be today, Wednesday, April 28, at 10 a. m. at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Simmons officiating. Burial will be at Hunts Chapel Cemetery. See full obituary this issue (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Crites, Joseph Thomas "J. T."Joseph Thomas "J. T." Crites, age 21 of Havana, AR died Saturday, April 24th, 2010 in Russellville, AR. He was born June 19, 1988 in Dardanelle, AR to Randy Alan Crites and Sherry Ann Jestice Albright.He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Dewitt Jestice and Joe Crites. Survivors include his father, Randy Crites of Plainview, AR; mother and step-father Sherry & Aaron Albright of Waveland, AR; brother & fiancee Justin Crites and Melissa Leach of Hope; sisters, Kristy Crites of Crow Mountain and Shelby Albright of Waveland; nephews Michael and Gabriel Crites of Hope; grandmothers, Barnez Crites of Dardanelle, AR and Linda Jestice of Waveland; fiancee Lauren Fern Greer of Russellville, also several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Funeral service will be 10 a. m. Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Simmons officiating. Burial will be at Hunts Chapel Cemetery. Pallbearers include Kelby Barham, Zane Diamond, Clifton Leach, Jeff White, Brad Davis, Mark Schultz and Alex Adams. Honorary pallbearers John Cassidy, Tyler Wilson, Clint Perrigan, Justin Crites, Randy Crites, Aaron Albright and Cody West. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville, AR. Online guest book at Cornwell Funeral Home.com (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Dickens, Larry Alan "Boog", Jr.Larry Alan "Boog" Dickens, Jr., age 29 of Little Rock, AR, went to be with the Lord at home Wednesday, April 7, 2010. He was a loving husband, son, brother, nephew and uncle. He was a journeyman plumber. He was a member of Bellevue Baptist Church of Memphis. TN.He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, E. L. "Buddy" Dickens and Nellie Onedia "Sis" Dickens of Little Rock and his maternal grandfather, Jack Kenward of Pine Bluff. He is survived by his wife, Laura; his parents, Larry and Laura Dickens; his sister, Amanda Ervin; his niece, Natalie Ervin, all of Little Rock; his maternal grandmother, Joan Kenward of Pine Bluff; numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family and friends. Visitation was held Sunday at Cornwell Funeral Home in Danville. Services and interment was Monday at Moore's Chapel Cemetery, Waveland, AR with John McCourt officiating. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Edmondson, Helen TaylorHelen Taylor Edmondson, age 67 of Rover, started her life in Heaven on April 21, 2010. She was a nurse.She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Verna Taylor; son, Ronald Lane; daughter, Peggy Milam; brother, Troy Taylor; sister, Ruby Blackmon; grandsons, John and Beau Milam. Survivors include her fiancee Joseph French of Nimrod; children, Loy Holmes, Jr. of Colorado Springs, Leonard Holmes of La Grange, TX, Donna Smith of Ft. Towson, OK, Lisa McDowell of Texarkana, Leslie Holmes of Odessa, TX; siblings, Betty Roberson of Rover, Ruth Jacobs and Patsy Moore of Broken Bow and Bill Taylor of Waldron, Fred Taylor of Dierks; 13 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Services were Saturday, April 24, 2010 at Alpin Church of Christ. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Fields, Martin WayneMartin Wayne Fields, age 44 of Russellville, died Tuesday, March 30, 2010 at his home. He was born July 19, 1965 at Little Rock to Ray and Fern Bethell Fields.He is preceded in death by his mother, Fern Bethell. Survivors include his children, Brandy Everette and husband Jason of Dardanelle, Jeffery Fields and Heather Fields both of Dover; one brother, Roy Bethell of Quitman; three grandchildren, Lane Everette, Dusty Everette and Waylon Everette all of Dardanelle. Cremation arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Ford, Mary AnnMrs. Mary Ann Ford, age 89, died in a Hot Springs hospital, April 5. She has lived in and near Plainview most of her life and was a member of the Plainview Baptist Church.She is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Tennessee Adams of Upland, Calif, and Mrs. Rosalie Reed of Coal Hill. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 14, 1960) Foster, George RussellGeorge Russell Foster, age 84, formerly of Yell County, died at the home of his daughter. Mrs. L. D. Owens of Lincoln, April 10. He was a retired farmer and a member of the Church of God.Survivors other than Mrs. Owens are four sons, V. L. Foster of Santa Paula, Calif, Everett Foster of Danville, Bill and Fred Foster of Ft. Smith; one brother, M. B. Foster, Sr. of Havana Route; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 14, 1960) Gillespie, Edith Marie (Ringer)Edith Marie (Ringer) Gillespie of Danville went to be with the Lord Monday, April 12, 2010. She was born October 15, 1918 in Yell County to Orland and Lou (Reece) Ringer. She was the last surviving rounding member of the First Landmark Missionary Baptist Church.She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Rab" Gillespie, newborn daughter Anna Lou Gillespie, and son Henry Lee Gillespie. Also, siblings Lilly Thompson, Lorene Rogers, Ann Walker, and George Ringer. She is survived by two sons Robert "Bob" Gillespie and wife Betty of Everton, and James "Jim" and Barbara Gillespie of Danville; and daughter-in-law Lynda Gillespie. Also, surviving are grandchildren and spouses Tony and Kim Gillespie, Mark Gillespie, Cindy and Jeff Westcott, Cheryl and James Davidson, Stacy and Julie Gillespie, Jeff and Amanda Gillespie, Dixie and Scott Smith, Kelly and Darrel Bell, and Jill Gillespie. Sisters-in-law Geneva Pledger, Nancy Gillespie, Bobbie Sue Hunnicutt, and Betty Gillespie. Fourteen great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews mourn her passing. Services are under the direction of Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home, and funeral services by Rev. Kenny Vosburg at 2 pm Thursday at the First Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Danville. Interment will follow at Earl Ladd Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Landmark Missionary Baptist Church. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Gray, Jewell ElizabethJewell Elizabeth Gray, age 98 of McAlester, OK died Friday, April 2, 2010. Jewell was born September 17, 1911 to Paris Gipson and Aletha Elizabeth (Franke) Ashmore. She married Claud Gray October 1, 1939 in Dardanelle, AR. She graduated from Arkansas Polytechnic College in Russellville with an education degree. She retired from Havana, AR Elementary School where she taught fifth grade English. She was a member of the Havana United Methodist Church, Arkansas Retired Teachers Association and the VF. W Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, crocheting and traveling.She was preceded in death by her parents, Gipson and Elizabeth Ashmore; husband, Claud Gray; sister, Marilla Cole; three brothers, Finis, Floyd, and William Paul Ashmore. Survivors include sister-in-law Mary E. Ashmore of McAlester, OK; nieces, Betty Lou Moore and husband James Henry of Fayetteville, Pamela Wilson and husband Monroe and Paula Bussey and husband Jeral of McAlester, OK, and Betty Blaylock and husband of Hazen, AR; nephew, Bill J. Ashmore and wife Patricia of Heber Springs; many other nieces, nephews, family and friends. Funeral services were held Monday, April 5, 2010 at Havana Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers were Alvin "Hoot" Holman, Denny Wilbanks, Stanley McBee, Donald Dunn, Charles Yandell, Johnny Foster, Sr., Bill Steward and Tommy Fink. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Haney, Mary KatherineMary Katherine Haney, age 60 of Dardanelle, died Sunday, April 11, 2010 at her home. She was born September 27, 1949 at Russellville to the late Jewell and Sadie Vinson Aston. She was a member of the Russellville Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #3928.She is preceded in death by her first husband, George B. Haney; brothers, Larry and Leon Aston. Survivors include her husband, Michael Sanders of Dardanelle; two sons, Wayne Haney and wife Tammy, Randy Haney and wife Carla all of Dardanelle.; one daughter, Lisa Hardman and husband Terry of Russellville; grandchildren, Matthew, Mark, Tyler, and Shelby Haney all of Dardanelle, Shenna Harper, Talley and Trey Hardman all of Russellville; great-grandchildren, Caiden Harper of Russellville and Brayden Haney of Dardanelle. Funeral services will be Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 2 p. m., at Cornwell Chapel, Dardanelle, with Bro. William Flynn officiating. Burial will be in Haney Cemetery, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Holmes, Violet Juanelle ElsberryViolet Juanelle Elsberry Holmes, age 74 of Casa, died Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Chambers Memorial Hospital. She was born January 15, 1936 in Sugar Grove, AR to the late Samuel Rileigh and Francis Lela Chappell Elsberry. She was a homemaker and retired beautician and a member of Casa First Baptist.She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Jay Dee Holmes; sons, Ricky Jay and Tony Dale Holmes; brothers, J. C. and Chub Elsberry; brothers-in-law, Arlie Hanna, Sr., Joe Skidmore; sister-in-law, Helen Elsberry. Survivors include Devan Hendrick Holmes of Newport, AR; sisters, Wilma Hanna of Dardanelle, Vada Skidmore of Sherwood, Ada & Brodie Watson of Maumelle; brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Wanda Elsberry of Maumelle; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Geneva Holmes of Casa; several nieces and nephews. Graveside service was Friday, April 23 at Needmore Cemetery with Bro. John McCourt officiating. Pallbearers were nephews. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville, AR. Online guestbook at Cornwell Funeral Homes.com. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Keathley, Mary NellMary Nell Keathley age 87 of Danville, AR died Saturday, April 3, 2010 at her home in Danville. She was born September 5, 1922 at Wing to the late Buford and Japp Caviness Compton. She retired from the U. S. Forest Service as office manager and was past director of the Yell County Hospital. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Danville, UM Womens Club and received a 50 year pin from Wesleyan Service Guild, Danville Ladies Bridge Club and was on the Yell County Homecoming Parade Committee. She was a devoted fan of the Danville Little Johns and the Arkansas Razorbacks.She is preceded in death by her husbands, Dick Keathley and Odell Lewis. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Bood and Sarah Keathley of Danville; a sister, Fanny George of Danville; two granddaughters and their spouses, Mary and Scott Snider of Little Rock, Elizabeth and Bobby Rehm of Russellville; grandson, Matthew Benson of Fayetteville; great grandchildren, Keathley Snider, Mary McKenzie Snider, Pearson Snider and Eliza Rehm; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 6, 2010, 2:00 P. M. at the United Methodist Church in Danville with Rev. Tom Sullinger officiating. Burial will be in Earl Ladd Cemetery. Pallbearers were Ted Lyons, Johnny Chambers, James Mitchell, Danny Woodard, Bob Pledger and Boz Gault. Honorary Pallbearer was Jack Wilson. Memorial Donations may be made to the United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 729, Danville, AR 72833. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Keathley, Mary NellMary Nell Keathley, Longtime Yell County Fair Registrar, Dies - You could always find her on parade day of the Yell County Fair-no matter what the weather. Mary Nell Keathley, 87, of Danville, died on April 3. She served as one of the registrars on Homecoming Parade Day where she was able to visit with many of the returning homecomers. She also served as office manager at the U. S. Forest Service for many years and was a past board director of the Yell County Hospital.Mrs. Keathley was the daughter of the late longtime Yell County Sheriff, Buford Compton. She was not the only member of her family who helped on Homecoming Day, as her sister, Fanny George, also of Danville, well into her 90 's, has rode in the parade as Parade Marshal for many years. Funeral services were held on Tuesday in Danville. See complete obituary this issue. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Marcum, Nonie LeoNonie Leo Marcum, age 98, formerly of Ola, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord Saturday, April 17, 2010. She was born January 22, 1912 in Sunset, Texas to David and Amandia (Reynolds) Christenberry.She was preceded in death by her husband Duma Marcum; and brothers John Christenberry and Bill Christenberry. She is survived by her sister Cleo Lamson of Edmond, Oklahoma as well as dozens of nieces and nephews. A graveside memorial service will be at 2 PM Sunday, May 2nd at Birta Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local charity in Leo's memory. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Morris, A. D.A. D. Morris, 72, a lifelong resident of Yell County and Danville, AR went to be with the Lord Wednesday, April 21, 2010. He was born in Paris, AR on November 14, 1937.He is preceded in death by his father, John Morris, mother, Frances Bullock Morris, and five brothers; Norman Morris, James E. Morris, John Delbert Morris, Ray Morris and Arnold Morris. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carolyn Hancock Morris of Danville; daughter, Danita Morris Ormand and husband Danny and grandson Joshua of Benton; daughter, Vicki Morris Johnston and husband Greg and grandsons Avery and Trevor of Maumelle; one brother, Lee Morris of Danville; two sisters, Lenore Morris Hall of Russellville and Effigene Morris Stapleton of Danville. He was an honor graduate of Danville High School in 1955. He is a constituent member of the Danville United Methodist Church. His life was filled with a passion of hard work and service to his community. He worked in various jobs early in his career before entering the U. S. Army in 1961, serving with the 4th Infantry Division where he was stationed at Ft. Hood, TX, Ft. Ord, CA and finally in Germany during the Cuban Missile Crisis where he worked in the Arms Room. After his return home, he continued his work in the community he loved so much. He was the owner of Main Food Center and was presently working for the City of Danville as City Manager. He was also involved in many community groups -- Danville Jaycees, Danville PTA, 4-H Club Leader, Danville School Board, Danville Band Boosters, Gideon's International, Danville Chamber of Commerce, River Valley Red Cross, Vision 2006 Committee and Yell County Rural Housing Authority. He had two passions -- family and community. His work with the city of Danville can be seen all over town. He worked tirelessly on the Airport, City Center, Parks, Water and Sewer System and many unseen projects to their completion. He had a gift of grant writing. He was able to receive many thousands of dollars committed to the city for various types of projects. His family was his greatest passion. After he married Carolyn in July 1959, they both committed themselves to having a wonderful family life. After his two daughters were born, they became the twinkle of his eye. Many vacation trips were planned over the years to be sure his family was happy and were able to enjoy things he always dreamed of. He was most pleased and happy when everyone else was having a good time. His love to travel to Branson and Gatlinburg were always in the planning. After being married for 50 years, he wanted to travel to Gatlinburg for his anniversary. Not wanting a big party for himself, but a great reunion of his entire family. He arranged for a four-story cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains where his family could be together and enjoy the surrounding sites. He was happiest when he was surrounded by his family and that week of travel was a highlight to him. He never met a stranger. Everyone was his friend. When his daughters married, he felt he did not lose two daughters, but gained the two sons he never had. Both sons-in-law agree he treated them as if they were his sons. The funeral was held at the Danville United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 24th with Rev. Tom Sullinger officiating. Burial was in Earl Ladd Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the A. D. Morris Danville Recreational and Beautification Fund, Chambers Bank, P. O. Box 609, Danville, AR 72833 or Danville United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 729, Danville, AR 72833. Pallbearers included Jim Loyd, Steve Pfeifer, Jerry Pendergraft, Kenny Jackson, Harold Pierce, Gary Brookshear, David Hopkins, and Johnny Chambers. Honorary pallbearers included City of Danville employees; Recorder/Treasurer Barbara Redfern; City Attorney John Riedel; Council Members Kim Foster, Steve Coger, Butch Tackett, Carroll Ramey, Martha Rollans, and L. W. Bell; City Employees David Armstrong, John Roy, Wendell Limbocker, Lee Tyra, Joey Day, William Mitchell, Lina Ramey, James Patterson, Rickey Padgett, Robert Dowling, Burl Boyd, Tommy Broadstock, William Alvey, Brian Kendall, Jerry Bob Pool, and Patricia Cannon. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Homes, Danville, AR. Online guestbook at Cornwell Funeral Homes.com. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Oakley, Atha FairMrs. Atha Fair Oakley, age 71, was killed in a car accident at Muskogee, Okla. on April 14. She was a former resident of Danville. In 1907 she was married to Samuel J. Fair, also of Yell County and they taught school for many years in Yell County.She was preceded in death by Mr. Fair in 1948 and in later years married Lex V. Oakley of Muskogee, who survives her. Other survivors are one son, Denton Fair of Muskogee; one grandson, Philipp Fair of Indiana; five sisters, Mrs. Sibyle Pruitt of Norman, Okla. Mrs. C. W. Thacker and Mrs. Everett Foster of Danville, Mrs. Joanna Brock and Mrs. W. A. Cagle of California; three brothers, T. B. Denton of Hobart, Okla. Carlos and Delta Denton of California; a step-mother; Mrs. Cora Denton of Hobart; one stepson and three step - daughters. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 21, 1960) Owens, Ferd TheodoreFerd Theodore Owens, age 67, of Belleville, a retired section foreman for the Rock Island Railroad, died Monday at a Danville hospital. He was born at Havana and was a Baptist and a Mason,Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Lula Blaylock Owens a son, Harry Owens of Garland, Tex. a daughter, Mrs. T. W. Johnson of North Little Rock; two sisters, Mrs, Robert Vess of Ventura, Cal. and Mrs. Hattie Moore of St. Louis, and four grandchildren. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 28, 1960) Parker, JanJan Parker, 57, of Casa, AR, died Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at UAMS Hospital in Little Rock. She was born on February 10, 1953 in Morrilton and was a 1971 graduate of Casa High School. Jan worked in data collection with Information Resources. She loved the Razorbacks and was a member of the Church of Christ.She was preceded in death by her father, Hollis Dale Tippit and a brother, Kerry Luttrell. She is survived by her son, Dale Austin Payne & wife Mandy and their daughter Zava Marie Payne, Casa; her mother, June Tippit, Casa; a brother, Joel Tippit and wife Ginger; 2 sisters, Kay Pogue & husband Fred, Casa and Marla Field. A graveside service was held April 22, 2010 at the Casa Cemetery under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service, Joel Tippit officiated. Memorials may be made to the Casa Church of Christ, 119 South Cherry Street, Casa, AR 72025. Internet obituary and on-line guest book are available at www, humphreyfuneral.com, (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Pendergraft, Mildred FrancesMildred Frances Pendergraft, age 90 of Danville, died Monday, April 12, 2010 at Dardanelle Nursing Home. She was born October 15, 1919 in Booneville, AR to the late Thomas and Limmer Rowlett Finney. She was the last charter member of the Danville Freewill Baptist Church.She is preceded in death by her husband, William David "Junior" Pendergraft; son, Don Lee Pendergraft; siblings, Marie, Theron, Jim, Pete, and Carl Finney and Christine Wright. Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Jerry and Mary Pendergraft of Danville, Bill and Ada Pendergraft of Russellville; daughters and sons-in-law, Thelma and Pledger Ball of Belleville, Carol and Jessie Millard of Waldron, Mary and Earl Hartman of Tulsa, OK; grandchildren, Monty Ball, Michael Ball, Sidney Ball, David Millard, Dane Millard, Donna Barnes, Deane Jones, Danette Montgomery, Chris Millard, Steven Pendergraft, Danny Pendergraft, Brian Kerr, Lance Pendergraft, Kevin Pendergraft, Jerri McCormick, Tammy Moody, Jim Moody Terri Moody and Amber Bartlett; 34 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson, and a host of family and friends. Pallbearers were her grandsons. Funeral services were Thursday, April 15, 2010 at Danville Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was in Russell Cemetery with Rev. Ronny Morris and Rev. Lance Pendergraft officiating. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 21, 2010) Phillips, Floyd FranklinFloyd Franklin Phillips, age 54, died April 13 at the State Sanatorium in Booneville, where he had spent the last two years. He was a member of the Church of God.He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ola Phillips; four sons, Lester Phillips of Florida, Eugene, Clem and Joe of Hot Springs; a stepdaughter, Addie McCormick of Aly; one sister, Ethel Alexander, of Hot Springs; one brother, Noble Phillips of Hot Springs; 11 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 21, 1960) Pruitt, Ezelle WoodardEzelle Woodard Pruitt 90, of Danville started her life in Heaven April 25, 2010. Ezelle was born June 19, 1919 in Waltreak, AR, to the late Ardie & OniceLea Woodard. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Raymond Pruitt; an infant son Raymond Eudell Pruitt grandson Donny Pruitt; sisters, Reba Woodard & Estelle Noblett; brother Bud Woodard & foster son Willis Darnell.She is survived by her daughter, Betty Pruitt Hale of Waldron; son & daughter-in-law Lloyd & Nell Pruitt of Russellville; daughter-in-law, Shirley Darnell of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Cebelle James & Shirley Fowler of Danville and many special nieces & nephews including Raymond & Leta George whom she considered to be more like her own children. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at Danville Free Will Baptist Church with Pastor David Hines officiating, Burial will be at Egypt Cemetery. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home Danville, AR. On line guest book at Cornwell Funeral Homes.com. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) Rice, Emma FrancesMrs. Emma Frances Rice, aged 82, of Danville died Sunday at the Yell County Hospital. She was born at Dardanelle and was the widow of Charles T. Rice. She was a Methodist and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Wallace Bullock of Russellville. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 21, 1960) Rose, Serene OrleneSerene Orlene Rose age 90 of Ola died Tuesday, April 6, 2010 at Chambers Memorial Hospital. She was born March 21, 1920 at Driggs, AR to the late Elcie D. and Ida Paxton Burnett She was a retired employee of the Yell County Nursing Home and had been a member of the Ola Assembly of God Church since August of 1942.She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ott Rose; son, Troy Rose and a daughter, Tressie Holland. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law. Coy and Leona Rose; a son-in-law, Tommy Holland; a daughter-in-law, Faye Rose; twelve grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, family and friends. Funeral services were April 9, 2010, at Ola Assembly of God Church with Jerry Schlinker and Norman Chenowith officiating. Burial was in Sandlin Cemetery in Ola. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 14, 2010) Sills, Winnie B.Winnie B. Sills, 79, of Danville, Arkansas passed from this life Wednesday, March 31, 2010 in a Danville, Arkansas nursing home. She was born September 25, 1930 in Oklahoma to the late Rufus and Ester (Maddox) Banister. She was a retired bookkeeper, a member of the 1st Assembly of God in Plainview, Texas and Order of the Eastern Star in Plainview, Texas. Winnie is survived by one son, Ricky B. Sills and wife, Tori of Yukon, Oklahoma; two grandchildren, Kayla and Casey Sills both of Yukon, Oklahoma; one sister, Shirley Limbocker of Danville, Arkansas; one niece, Glenda Limbocker Vaughn of Danville, Arkansas; two nephews, Wendell Limbocker of Danville, Arkansas, Wink Banister of Lubbock, Texas.She is preceded in death by her brother, Floyd Banister. Winnie's funeral service was held on Saturday, April 3, 2010 at the Egypt Free Will Baptist Church in Blue Ball, Arkansas with Rev. Earnest Lambert and Rev. Jackie Allen, officiating. Interment followed in the Moore Memorial Garden in Arlington, Texas on Monday, April 5, 2010. Arrangements are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas. Winnie's pallbearers were Ronnie Lemons, Steve Lunsford, Leslie Vaughn, Chris Vaughn, Tony Vaughn, and Jeffrey Vaughn. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 2010) Slay, Edward SimonEdward Simon Slay, age 89, of Havana died at the Yell County Hospital on April 6. He was a native of Alabama and had lived in Yell County about 65 years. He was a retired farmer and a member of the Church of God.Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Beulah Slay; four daughters, Miss Fannie Slay of Havana, Mrs. Clemmie Brantley of Norman, Okla. Mrs. Vada Thompson of Athens, Tex. and Mrs. Marie Hood of Mtn. View, Calif. two sons, Edward Slay of Athens, Tex. And Norman Slay of Mtn. View, Calif; one sister, Mrs. Julie Walker of Havana; 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. (YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, April 14, 1960) Turner, Juanita L.Juanita L. Turner, 93 of Barling, AR formerly of the Wing Community, passed away Thursday, April 15, 2010 in Barling. She was a Methodist and a homemaker.She was preceded in death by her husband Fay Turner. She is survived by her son Don Turner and his wife Sarah of Barling; two grandchildren L. G. Buddy Turner and his wife Rhonda of Van Buren, and Sharon Core and her husband Kendal of Sperry, OK; four great grandchildren; Casey Turner, Dustin Turner, Kansas Core and Kaley Core; two great-great grandchildren Corbin Turner and Alex Turner. Pallbearers were L. G. Buddy Turner, Kendal Core, Casey Turner, Dustin Turner, and Kansas Core. Services were April 17, 2010 at the Wing Community Church with burial at Turner Memorial Cemetery in Wing, AR. Arrangements under the direction of Fentress Mortuary of Fort Smith. To sign the on line guest book please visit WWW.fentressmortuary.com (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 21, 2010) Waldrop, Ruth RoswellRuth Roswell Waldrop, age 97, died Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Russellville Nursing and Rehab Center. She was born August 19, 1914 at Ashley County, AR to the late John Frank and Cora Melverda Reed Roswell. She was a member of the Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock.She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Stephen Waldrop, Jr.; two sisters, Gladys Talley, Bessie Jo Meers; and a brother, Marvin Roswell. Survivors include her nephews and nieces, Dr. and Mrs. Frank Lawrence of Russellville, Dr. and Mrs. Robert Ray Wilson of Heber Springs, and Dr. Paul Meers. Graveside services were April 24, 2010 at Brearley Cemetery in Dardanelle. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 28, 2010) |
| Home | Additions Index |
Date last updated 10/30/2007