Obituaries
Wildia Mae “Ninny” Prather
Wildia Mae “Ninny” Prather, 98, died September 27, 2023 in Mena, AR. She was a caring daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
Wildia was born August 13, 1925 in Newhope, AR to Thomas Edward “Eddie”, Sr. and Florence Addie Turner. She was the 5th of 7 children. After graduating from Newhope High School, she married her high school sweetheart, Sgt. Lloyd Coffman, who was missing-in-action during World War II that same year. She later met and married Curtis Rex Lankford and together they had two children, Curtis Mitchell and Michael Thomas. Many years after Rex passed, Wildia met and married Marion “Pop” Prather until his death in 2004.
Wildia was a homemaker who loved spending time with her family and friends including, Barbara Roberts, her lifelong friend. Breakfast was one of her specialties. She made the best scrambled eggs and gravy! After meals, she would pull out the Wahoo board. She rarely lost using her yellow marbles and lucky dice with the worn-off dots.
She was a member of Holly Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Dierks, AR. She served faithfully as a Sunday school teacher and worked at various church activities and events. When members would lose a loved one, she was always willing to make a dish for the family.She especially enjoyed providing kids’ snacks during Vacation Bible School every year.
Her interests throughout her life included cooking, gardening, canning, reading her Bible, church events, playing Moon at the Senior Citizen Center, dominos, traveling with the Senior Saints, Wahoo, watching the Razorbacks along with calling the Hogs, word finds, hanging out with friends, camping, and fishing. She devoted much of her time to caring for family members including her parents until they passed away in their 90s.
Wildia moved to Peachtree Assisted Living in Mena, AR in 2015. During her time there, she attended Bible study, went to exercise classes, and played games with the residents. Holidays were extra special because she loved to showcase her festive spirit by participating in yearly costume contests. She made many good friends while living there and was especially close to her assistant, Maria, who loved and cared for her.
In 2022, Wildia moved to The Green House Cottages of Homewood in Mena, AR. She enjoyed visiting with the residents. Her activities included exercise, playing Bingo and Connect Four, and sitting on the patio listening to the fountain and birds.
Mrs. Prather is survived by her two sons, Curtis Mitchell (Ila Rae) Lankford of Mena, AR, Michael Thomas (Carol) Lankford of Mesquite, TX; 3 grandchildren, Tiffny Dawn (Brian) Stewart of Conway, AR, Candice Rae (Brian) Robinson of Conway, AR, Christopher Michael (Stacy) Lankford of Fayetteville, AR; 1 step-grandchild, Shaun (Rocky) Baker of Scurry, TX; 8 great-grandchildren; and 5 step-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Florence Turner; 6 brothers, Lloyd, Eule, Clarence, Gerald, Glen Dee, and Eddy Joe Turner, Jr.; and 5 sister-in-laws; and 3 husbands.
Family visitation/viewing will be October 6, 2023 at 1 PM with funeral service beginning at 2 PM at Holly Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Dierks, AR. Graveside service to follow at Dierks Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to Holly Creek Missionary Baptist Church, 705 Main Avenue, Dierks, AR 71833.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Donald Lloyd Turner
Donald Lloyd Turner, 83, of New Ulm, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on August 9, 2023.
He was born July 4, 1940, to Clarence Homer Turner and Ora Dean Welch in New Hope, Arkansas. Don grew up and attended school in Dierks, Arkansas. After high school graduation, he attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he received his bachelor’s degree and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon.
After college Donald served as a Sergeant in the US Army and then for many years in the US Army Reserves.
After the Army, he married the love of his life, Martha Jim Austin on October 4, 1964, in Dierks, Arkansas. The couple lived in Houston, Texas. Mr. Turner worked for Weingarten grocery stores making his way up to manager. Next, he owned three camera stores. The Camera Center, in the River Oaks Shopping Center, the Camera Corner, in Highland Village, and the Camera Corral in Town & Country.
After his retirement, the Turners moved to New Ulm, Texas where Don enjoyed ranching and Marti continued her teaching career at Bellville High School.
Don was a member of the Whitehall Club, the Briar Club, and a member and deacon at River Oaks Baptist Church in Houston, Tx.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ora Turner, and his son Scott Austin Turner.
Donald is survived by his loving wife, Martha Austin Turner, and his son Blake Lane Turner, both of New Ulm, Tx.
Graveside memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Dierks Cemetery under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen, Arkansas.
A reception will follow at Holly Creek Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to:
The Scott Austin Turner Scholarship Fund
2300 Willowick Houston, Tx 77027
or the charity of your choice
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Troy Lee Young
Mr. Troy Lee Young, age 59, a resident of Nashville, Arkansas died Sunday, September 24, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born November 1, 1963 in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. Troy was a construction worker by trade and a Baptist by faith. He enjoyed canoeing, riding four wheelers, spending time with his family and the great outdoors.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Leo and Hazel Fant Young; three sisters, Darlene Edwards, Sue Hamner and Doris Fisk; two brothers, John Young and James Young.
Mr. Young is survived by his wife Debbra Young; one son, Corey Young and his significant other, Jordan Amschler; two daughters, Kristen Young, Emily Young and her significant other, Chayse Ericksen; two grandchildren, Nataly Young and Emmett Ericksen; a sister-in-law, Anne Young and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
A Memorial service for Mr. Young will be held Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Young home, 1796 Hwy 26 West in Nashville, AR. There will be a potluck after the service for family and friends.
Cremation arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Mrs. Alice Bradshaw
Mrs. Alice Louise Brooks Bradshaw, age 73, resident of Lockesburg, Arkansas, passed from this life on Friday, September 22, 2023, in Texarkana, Texas.
Alice was born one of two children to Vernice Smith and Oneta Mulvaney Brooks on October 14, 1949, in Port Lavaca, Texas. She was a graduate of Port Lavaca High School and went on to receive an associate degree. Alice married the love of her life, Harold Edward Bradshaw, on October 25, 1968, in Lockesburg, and to this union, two sons were born. Alice and Harold have spent their lives farming, raising cattle, chickens, and kids. They owned and operated Westside Trailer Park, and for the last sixteen years, owned and operated B&B Junction in Lockesburg. She enjoyed spending time on the farm with Harold, gardening, and spending time with her sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Lester Brooks.
Alice leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband of over fifty-four years, Harold Bradshaw of Lockesburg; two sons, Scott Bradshaw (Cyndi Berti), and Mark Bradshaw (Eron Hill), all of Lockesburg; she was “Mamaw” to her four grandchildren, Nichole Desiree Griffin (Jr.) of Lockesburg, Rachel Brooke Bradshaw (Coleton Hall) of De Queen, Heather Lynn Bradshaw (Micah Owen) of De Queen, and Raven Bradshaw of Nashville; her great-grandchildren, Oakley Brooke Hall, Blakely Mae Hall, Cooper Jay Owen, and Gunner Edward Griffin; as well as other relatives, and a host of friends.
Funeral Services for Mrs. Alice Bradshaw will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, September 27, 2023, in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Coulter Memorial Gardens in Lockesburg. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, at the funeral home. Arrangements are entrusted to Chandler Funeral Home of De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.
“Bootney” John L. Cole
John L. Cole passed away at his home on September 24, 2023. He was born June 12, 1941. Mr. Cole spent his life working in the car business. He worked with his father at their family-owned Cole Pontiac for many years. Bootney and his son worked together at their own car business, North Point selling cars. He was a graduate of De Queen High School and attended Henderson State University. Mr. Cole was a resident of Sevier County his entire life. He loved hunting, fishing, grilling and spending time with his family. Mr. Cole also served in the UnitedMr. Phillip Michael Koelzer
Mr. Phillip Michael Koelzer, age 64, a resident of De Queen, Arkansas died Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Sevier County Medical Center in De Queen.
He was born September 15, 1959 in De Queen, Arkansas. Mike was a 1977 Gillham High School Graduate and 1983 graduate of SAU in Camden, Arkansas. In 1992 he was Arkansas Street Rodder of the year and a present member of the No Name Gang Street Rodders in De Queen. He was a Jack of all trades. He enjoyed cars and all things simple.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ann Koelzer in 2010.
Mr. Koelzer is survived by his father, Phill Koelzer of De Queen; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Susan and Leslie Tallant, Phyllis and Randy Bradley and Carolyn Maurer all of De Queen; a number of nieces and nephews and honorary niece, Lainey.
Graveside services for Mr. Koelzer will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 25, 2023 in Redmen Cemetery with Elmer Hamel and Father Ramses Mendieta officiating, under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.
A private family Rosary will be said.
General viewing will be Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
The family will be at the home of Phill Koelzer, 1022 Hwy 71 North in De Queen.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sevier County Medical Foundation, P.O. Box 746, De Queen, AR 71832.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Mrs. Connie Marie Pannell
Mrs. Connie Marie Pannell, age 75, a resident of Horatio, Arkansas died Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at Christus St. Michael in Texarkana, Texas.
She was born September 26, 1947 in Horatio, Arkansas. She worked for Pilgrim’s Pride for more than 40 years, she enjoyed spending time at the Horatio Senior Citizen Center and attended Horatio Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther Gene and Juanita Frances Tollett Pannell.
Connie is survived by two brothers, Samuel L. “Sandy” Pannell of De Queen and Richard Eugene Pannell of Oklahoma and her friends at Horatio Senior Citizen Center.
Cremation arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen. No services are scheduled at this time.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Mrs. Gwendolyn Faye Bagley
Mrs. Gwendolyn Faye Bagley, age 83, a resident of Ashdown, Arkansas, died Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Christus St. Michael in Texarkana.
She was born September 19, 1939 in Texarkana, Arkansas. She was a Baptist. She loved her kids, family and her cat Kylee. She enjoyed her pets, birds, shopping at TJ Maxx and antiques, going to the casino playing on slot machines.
Gwendolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Guynn and Rebekah Blue Cherry; four brothers, Warren Cherry, Roy Cherry, Pete Cherry and Jerry Cherry, Jr. and one sister, Earlene Cherry.
She is survived by her husband, Howard Bagley; four sons and daughter-in-law, Michael Gage of Dallas, TX, Jerry Williams of Dallas, Matt Williams of Texarkana, AR, Gary and Shay Bagley of Hooks, TX; one daughter, Cindy Gage of Dallas, TX; one sister, Melowene Fitzgearld of Fort Worth, TX; four grandchildren, Madison, Karsyn, Drake and Tripp and a number of nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel in De Queen with Homer Frachiseur and Victor Martin officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Overturf Cemetery at 108 6th street, Gillham, AR 71841.
Cremation arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Mr. Billy Bryan
Mr. Billy Dean Bryan, age 77, resident of De Queen, Arkansas, passed from this life on Monday, September 18, 2023, in Ashdown, Arkansas.
Billy was born the only child to Bill and Elizabeth Gentry Bryan on April 21, 1946, in De Queen. He was a 1964 graduate of De Queen High School, and shortly after, enlisted with the United States Air Force. Billy served three years, three months, and eleven days of active duty before receiving his honorable discharge on February 20, 1969. He remained in the reserves until his final discharge in 1971. Billy later went to work for the Red River Army Depot. He faithfully served twenty-seven years until his retirement. Along with his work at Red River, Billy made custom dog collars for a number of friends and community members for more than thirty years. He enjoyed raising his fox hounds and taking them to hunts. There was little he liked more than listening to them run.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his son, Michael Bryan.
Billy leaves to cherish his memory, his spouse and life partner of thirty years, Barbara Meadows of De Queen; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.
Graveside Services, with Military Honors, for Mr. Billy Bryan will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at Chapel Hill Cemetery in De Queen with Bro. Don Stanaland officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Monday, at the funeral home. Arrangements are entrusted to Chandler Funeral Home of De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.
Mrs. Barbara Kurachi
Mrs. Barbara Jean Chandler Kurachi, age 68, resident of Austin, Texas, passed peacefully from this life on Saturday, August 6, 2022, in Austin.
Barbara was born in Sentinel, Oklahoma on February 7, 1954, and was raised between Sentinel, Arkansas, and west Texas. After graduating high school, she moved to Austin, Texas, where she met her husband, George. She and George were married for over forty-seven years. Together they raised and homeschooled four ridiculously amazing daughters.
Barbara was determined to make home-cooked meals as often as possible for her family. She also loved to bake things like bread and cinnamon rolls from scratch. Every Christmas George and the girls helped her make dozens and dozens of cookies and pies for friends. Everyone loved the treats and never wanted to be taken off the list for baked goods. An accomplished sewer like her mom, Barbara also volunteered at church making banners and costumes. She loved her family more than anything, her children and grandchildren and her extended family in Arkansas. In her heart she was always a country girl from a small town in Arkansas. She and George raised four strong, loving, independent girls, of whom she was extremely proud. She was “Nana K” to her two granddaughters and three grandsons. Her favorite thing was spending time with them, watching them play sports, having everyone together for meals, and just being together.
Over the years Barbara did bookkeeping for a few small businesses. In 1997, she took a part-time job working for Dr. Janet DuBois. Barbara eventually transitioned to full-time and became the office and billing manager. Barbara enjoyed the twenty-two years she worked for Dr. DuBois and cherished the friendship they made over their time working together. She retired in 2019 with dreams of traveling the country with George pulling their camper and visiting National Parks. However, she spent most of that time taking care of her parents as they were in their final days. Losing her only sister in 2011 was difficult for her to fathom. She and Bev were very close and raised their families together. After Bev, Barbara ended up burying her mom, Wanda Lawley Decker, stepdad Bob Decker, stepmom Jackie Chandler, and lastly her beloved daddy, Arlice Chandler. She passed away herself only four months after burying her dad. She will be forever missed by those who knew and loved her.
Barbara leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband, George Kurachi of Austin; four daughters and two sons-in-law, Kara and Bennett Deese of High Point, North Carolina, Keisha and Michael Tillman of Leander, Texas, Kimberly Kurachi of Leander, Texas, and Kelli Kurachi of Pflugerville, Texas; her doting grandchildren, Chandler, Josiah, and Garrison of High Point, and Isabella and Hunter of Leander; five nieces and one nephew.
Memorial Services for Mrs. Barbara Kurachi will be held at 11:30 A.M., on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Old Center Cemetery in Horatio, Arkansas. Inurnment will follow, under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home in De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.
Gary Jones
Gary Jones, age 86, a resident of Spring, TX died Sunday, September 17, 2023 at his home.
Mr. Jones was born on April 14, 1937 in Rison, Arkansas. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1959 after receiving his Masters Degree in vocational agriculture. He then began his teaching career at De Queen High School and influenced the lives of many students in the area after teaching for 38 years. There, he taught agriculture courses in mechanics, welding, small engines, poultry science, and electrical. He had many students participate in the Future Farmers of America activities and competitions of which he enjoyed.
It was in De Queen, that he met his wife, Rosemary Bowden and married in 1960. They taught in the De Queen school system together for 28 years until she retired. Ten years later after joining her in retirement, they enjoyed traveling with friends in their RV and spending time with their three grandsons. Gary attended the First United Methodist Church of De Queen of which he was an active member for over 50 years. He was also a member of the De Queen Lions Club and OES in De Queen. He counted as blessings, all of these relationships that he formed while being active in these organizations and church.
Gary was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Rosemary Jones, his mother and father, Milton and Kathleen Jones and his brother, Carl Jones.
He is survived by one daughter, Terrie Jane Chevaillier and husband Charles Chevaillier of The Woodlands, TX; three grandsons, Forrest Chevaillier and wife Elizabeth Chevaillier Dallas, TX and great grandsons Jack and Case Chevaillier Dallas, TX, Brooks Chevaillier and wife Logan Chevaillier Austin, TX and Hunter Chevaillier College Station, TX.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the First United Methodist Church in De Queen with Steve Copley officiating. Burial will follow at Redmen Cemetery, under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First United Methodist Church in De Queen, P.O. Box 488, De Queen, Arkansas 71832.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Noel Lesley Bard
Mr. Noel Lesley Bard, age 66, a resident of Grannis, Arkansas died Saturday, September 16, 2023 in Texarkana, Texas.
He was born June 19, 1957 in Ardmore, Oklahoma to Robert William “Bud” and Flora Elizabeth “Betty” Nance Bard. He was president and C.E.O. of First State Bank in De Queen and was a member and past president of De Queen Lions Club. He was an avid Razorback fan and loved golfing and fishing. He was a devoted father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Noel is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan Lesley and Courtney Bard of Genoa, Arkansas; a daughter and son-in-law, Sarah Lynsie and Joey Krudwig of Texarkana, Arkansas; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert Kent and Sharon Bard of Hot Springs, Arkansas and Joel Wesley and Christine Bard of Conway, Arkansas; one sister, Elizabeth Ann Bard of Little Rock, Arkansas; his grandchildren, Morgan Bard Smithey and Beau Smithey, Addison Bard, Jackson Bard, Madelyn Newton, Barrett Newton, and Tucker Krudwig; his nephews, Benjamin W. Bard of Brandon, Florida, Joel M. Bard of Conway, and Seth C. Bard of Little Rock; and his great nieces and nephew, Julianna S. Bard, Ava V. Bard, Vivian E. Bard, Annelise C. Bard, Lola P. Bard, Theodore M. Bard and Rosalie C. Bard.
Funeral services for Mr. Bard will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2023 in the Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel in De Queen with Scott Packnett officiating. Burial will follow in Saline Cemetery in Umpire, Arkansas, under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.
The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, September 19th at the funeral home.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
James Thomas Young
Mr. James Thomas Young, age 78, a resident of Newhope, Arkansas, died Friday, September 15, 2023 at his home holding the hand of his “Anney.”
He was born November 30, 1944 in Nashville, Arkansas. Mr. Young was a Christian man and was the most kind and caring person you would ever meet. He loved wood working, especially making fiddles, furniture and loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed nature and all of God’s creations. He worked for Weyerhaeuser for thirty-three years as a loader operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Leo Young; sisters, Doris Fisk, Sue Hammer and Darlene Edwards and one brother, John Charles Young.
James is survived by his forever wife who he was married to for 60 years, Helen Ann Young; two daughters and sons-in-law, Hazel Annette Haley and husband, Larry Haley of Little Rock, Arkansas, Donna Lynn Clegg and husband, Colby Clegg of Smiths Station, AL; one son and daughter-in-law, James Travis and wife, Christy Young of Newhope, AR; ten grandchildren, Brianna Haley, Rebecca Haley, Jessica Haley, Natasha Haley all of Little Rock, AR, Darren Dunlap of Las Vegas, NV and Haliena Sheraton of Los Angelas, CA and Savanna Clegg of Smith Station, AL, Andrew and Max Clegg of Grand Rapids, MI, Cassie and Kyle Burrow of Benton, AR and Tyler Young of Longview, TX two great grandchildren, Skylar Clegg of Grand Rapids, MI and Josiah Clegg of Smiths Station, AL; one brother and sister-in-law, Troy Lee and Debbie Young of Center Point, AR and a number of nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends prior to the service from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. A Memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 19, 2023 in the Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel in Dierks with Travis Young officiating.
Cremation arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com
Mrs. Teofila Aguilar Teran
Mrs. Teofila Aguilar Teran, age 79, resident of Mexico, passed away Monday, September 12, 2023, in Hot Springs, Arkansas
She was born November 28, 1943, in Mexico to Natividad Augilar and Sixta Teran. She was later married to Agustin Antunez
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her children, Angel, Margarita, Celestino, and Juventina; one son-in-law, Paulino; and her sibling, Gerardo.
Teofila is survived by her children Moises, Antolin, Rufino, Salvador, Jovita, Jose, Josefa, Rosalba, and Gloria; and sons and daughters-in-law, Catalina, Juan, Celia, Yulma, Alejandro, Diana, Oscar, Gabriel, and Javier. She was grandmother to 38 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 26 great-grandchildren.
Funeral Mass will begin at 6:00 P.M., Friday, September 15, 2023, at San Juan Diego Catholic Church in Wickes, Arkansas, with Father Ramses Mendieta officiating. Holy Rosary will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., Thursday, in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will held in Mexico, at a later time. Arrangements are under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home, De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.
Mrs. Wendy Walker
Mrs. Wendy Yvonne Sims Puckett Walker, age 61, resident of Lockesburg, Arkansas, passed peacefully from this life on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at her home.
Wendy was born to Roy Roger and Frankie Jean Brinkley Sims on May 31, 1962, in Lebanon, Oregon. She was a 1982 graduate of Dierks High School, and later, on November 19, 1991, married the love of her life, Ernie Paul Walker. For a number of years, Wendy and Paul delivered the Texarkana Gazette to residents of Sevier County and surrounding communities. She was also a Homemaker. Wendy enjoyed camping, being outdoors, and attending biking functions, but best spent her time with her grandchildren, whom she adored.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of over twenty-eight years, Paul Walker; a granddaughter, Kyarra H. Puckett; and a brother, Roy Sims.
Wendy leaves to cherish her memory, two sons and a daughter-in-law, Christopher and Teresa Puckett of Lockesburg, and Joshua Walker of Lockesburg; three grandchildren, Selena Scott, Sarah Puckett, and Christopher Puckett, Jr.; one great-grandson, Carter Wayne Lynwood Scott; one brother and sister-in-law, Jamie and Tabatha Brinkley of Albany, Oregon; two sisters, Patty Miskey of Heppner, Oregon, and Donna McDaniel of Lebanon, Oregon; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
Memorial Services for Mrs. Wendy Walker will be announced at a later time. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Chandler Funeral Home of De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.
Mr. Rodger Neeley
Mr. Rodger Paul Neeley, age 65, resident of De Queen, Arkansas, passed from this life on Friday, September 8, 2023, in De Queen.
Rodger was born one of three sons to Ben Harrison, Sr. and Billie Jean Burnett Neeley on June 24, 1958, in De Queen. He was a 1976 graduate of De Queen High School. Rodger married the love of his life, Teresa Rena Williams, on June 7, 1979, in De Queen, and to this union, three children were born. In his youth, Rodger began working in his family’s welding business, Neeley’s Welding in De Queen, which would become his life-long career. He was accomplished in his skills as a Welder and Machinist. Anywhere you look around the De Queen area and surrounding communities you are sure to see some of his work. Rodger was a life-long member of the De Queen Church of Christ where he served as Sunday school teacher and song leader. When his children were young, Rodger faithfully served at the Mountain Fork Christian Camp. Rodger enjoyed his work, and cherished the time spent with Teresa and their children. His time was best spent with his loving grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Ben Neeley, Jr., and Larry Neeley.
Rodger leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of over forty-four years, Teresa Neeley of De Queen; one daughter and son-in-law, Jocelyn and Cory Phillips of De Queen; two sons and daughter-in-law, Jonathan Neeley of De Queen, and Benjamin and Rachel Neeley of Tyler, Texas. He was “Grandad” to this thirteen doting grandchildren, Noah, Luke, and Ethan Reed, Alexis, Hannah, Ashlyn, and Cora Phillips, Leeland, Olive, and Liza Neeley, and Claira, Macy, and Nolan Neeley. Rodger is also survived by his mother and father-in-law, Glenda and Lyde Williams; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of church family and friends.
Memorial Services for Mr. Rodger Neeley will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the De Queen Church of Christ with Benjamin Neeley officiating. The family will receive friends following the service on Wednesday, at the church. Service arrangements are entrusted to Chandler Funeral Home of De Queen. You may leave a condolence online at www.chandlerfuneral.com.