Obituaries

Rep. Beryl Anthony, Jr.

Published

1 year ago

January 15, 2025

Beryl Franklin Anthony Jr. was born in El Dorado, Arkansas, the son of Oma Lee and Beryl Anthony. He stood tall as a leader, was a tried and true friend, a devoted husband and father, and a champion of many social and environmental causes throughout his 24 years in public service. Those who knew him loved him, and everything he did came with a good story.

At the University of Arkansas, he earned his B.S. and B.A. in 1961, and his Juris Doctor in 1963; He was Rush Chairman for Sigma Chi Fraternity and a letterman of the Arkansas Razorback golf team from 1959-1960. Hosting a fraternity rush event in Hot Springs, he met his bride to be, Sheila Foster, and they wed in Hope, Arkansas on August 4, 1962. Sheila and Beryl danced through the ups and downs of life together for the next 62 years.

Admitted to the Arkansas bar in 1963, Anthony began his legal practice in his hometown of

El Dorado. He then served as a state assistant attorney general from 1964-65 and as deputy prosecuting attorney for Union County, until 1970. He won his first elected public office that year, as the Prosecuting Attorney for the13th Judicial District of Arkansas. During his tenure as president of the State Association of Prosecutors, he led many initiatives to reform the Arkansas criminal code and to improve the professionalism of state Prosecutors. He returned to private practice in 1976, and served as counsel to Anthony Forest Products, a fourth-generation family company.

Family life in El Dorado centered around many friends and colleagues, and his large Anthony family which gathered most weekends and holidays. He was especially close to his siblings, and their 11 combined children. Sundays, he and his brother John packed a picnic lunch and took the kids waterskiing on the Ouachita River. To celebrate America’s bi-centennial on July 4, 1976, Anthony organized and hosted a classic day of games, races and fireworks for the neighborhood children, with newly minted Susan B. Anthony silver dollars as prizes. Everyone who attended still remembers the day.

When the 4th Congressional District seat opened up in 1978, Anthony threw his hat in the ring. The make up of the district covered 25 counties in the southern half of Arkansas, and included major diverse interests. After winning the seat, Anthony relocated to Washington DC with his family to serve his constituents for the next 14 years.

Elected Vice-President of his Freshman class, Beryl quickly gained the confidence of fellow House members and leadership. He was assigned to the powerful House Ways and Means Committee where he developed a top voice in tax code negotiations for the country. He also served on the Social Security, Oversight and Trade Subcommittees and the Select Committee on Children, Youth and Families.

In 1987 he was nominated to lead the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which he chaired until 1991. In 1988, he founded the Anthony Commission on Public Finance, a bi-partisan group of governors, mayors, state treasurers, county officials and other experts to study tax-exempt finance for states and municipalities and improve the federal tax code in this area. For five years, the Anthony Commission recommended legislation to make the public funding of required infrastructure and facilities more affordable in all 50 states.

Caught up in an era of sea change, Anthony lost his bid for re-election in 1992. He turned again to private law practice as a partner in the Washington office of Winston and Strawn and served on numerous corporate and charitable boards. During this time he proudly supported his wife through her legal career and her tenure as Federal Trade Commissioner before their eventual retirement.

Splitting time between Hendersonville, NC and Palm City, FL Beryl continued to stay active in local politics, supporting and mentoring young candidates. He and Sheila were active participants in their retirement communities, and he remained an avid golfer where he won a combined total 8 club championships. He created initiatives that support fish and wildlife and taught many visiting children and grandchildren how to fish. An impassioned wildlife photographer, he always appreciated and sought to document the natural world around him.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila Anthony, and daughters, Alison Anthony Bethune (Sam) and Lauren Anthony Cargill, and five granddaughters, Nicole and Olivia Bethune, and Lilia, Hope and Juliet Cargill.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of Beryl’s favorite charities: The Boys and Girls Club of America.

Please feel free to share a remembrance or message of condolence with the family through this online guestbook.

Obituaries

Patricia Arnold, Smackover

Published

19 minutes ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

Patricia Anne (Pesnell) Arnold, known lovingly to all as Pat, passed away on June 11, 2026, at her home in Smackover, Arkansas surrounded by family. She was 81 years old. Born on October 18, 1944, in Smackover, Arkansas to Harold Pesnell and Ollie May Hardy Pesnell. Pat lived a life defined by devotion to her family, the warmth of her spirit, and the quiet, steady work of her hands.

Pat is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jerry Arnold; her sons, Kenneth (Brenda), Mike, and Jeff (Amy); her daughter, Michelle; her daughter in law, Debbie; and numerous grandchildren, including Alyson (Scotty), Ashley (Allen), Brianna, Brittany, Cody (Caitlin), Devan (Traci), Denver, Kennan, Kenneth, Matthew, and Shelby. Along with 18 great grandchildren.

Pat was a homemaker and a gifted seamstress, and she poured her heart into both. Her sewing was more than a hobby; it was an extension of who she was, a way of creating beauty and comfort for the people she loved. Especially crafting something special for a grandchild. She found purpose and joy in the rhythms of caring for her family.

You could find her in her recliner being guarded by her beloved chihuahuas, who were her constant and faithful companions. Anyone who sat at her table knew she made the best sweet tea, a glass of it was as much a part of visiting granny as much as her hugs. Saying “bye-bye” was never quite enough for her. She would follow you out to the porch just to say it a few more times and watch you drive away.

Pat’s faith was a steady presence in her life, and her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace in the arms of her Lord. As Proverbs 31:31 reminds us, “Honor her for all that her hands have done.”

A funeral service celebrating Pat’s life will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Victory Church in El Dorado, Arkansas. Family and friends are welcome to gather and remember a woman whose love was as constant and comforting as the place she called home.

Obituaries

Cora Lacefield, Spring TX

Published

21 minutes ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

Cora Stelle Billingsley Claughton Lacefield, devoted educator, respected community leader, and beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, in Spring, Texas, at the age of 92.

Born on October 21, 1933, in Reader, Arkansas, Stelle dedicated her life to serving others through education. A graduate of the University of South Arkansas with a Bachelor of Arts degree, she began her teaching career in 1957 in the Houston and Spring Independent School Districts. Over the course of a distinguished forty-two-year career, she taught English, served as a guidance counselor, principal, curriculum director, and ultimately retired as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel Services, Support Services, and Community Relations for Spring Independent School District.

In 1970, Stelle was named principal of Bammel Middle School, where she pioneered innovative middle school instruction in one of the first open-space middle schools in the Houston area. She later served as principal of Spring High School before assuming district leadership positions that would impact generations of students, educators, and families. Her dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to public education left an enduring mark on the community she loved.

In recognition of her extraordinary service, Spring Independent School District honored her by naming Stelle Claughton Middle School in her honor. The school stands as a lasting tribute to her decades of leadership, mentorship, and devotion to educational excellence.

Stelle was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Billingsley and Gladys Mosley Billingsley; her brothers, Marion Billingsley and Bob Billingsley; and her beloved husband, Ike Raymond Lacefield.

She is survived by her daughter, Louann Ryan Seleznov and husband, Richard Seleznov; her son, William Russell Claughton and fiancée, Denise Blasz; her grandchildren, Matthew Ryan Wanninger, Sarah Elizabeth Ann Donahue and husband, James Donahue, and Derrick Allen Stogsdill and wife, Samantha Stogsdill; her cherished great-grandchildren, Jaxon Donahue, Carly Stogsdill, Ryan Stogsdill, and Brooks Stogsdill; and her beloved sister, Norma Elizabeth Norris and husband, James Norris, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Stelle will be remembered for her wisdom, grace, strength of character, and steadfast belief in the power of education to change lives. Her influence reached far beyond the schools she served, touching the lives of countless students, teachers, colleagues, and community members. She leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and love that will continue to inspire future generations.

Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A graveside service celebrating Stelle’s life will be held at Arlington Memorial Park in El Dorado, Arkansas, on June 19, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Condolences can be express at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

Obituaries

Aprile Richardson, Smackover

Published

5 days ago

June 10, 2026

Grant Merrill

Aprile Willett Richardson went to be with her savior peacefully on June 6, surrounded by her family. Aprile was born on April 17, 1974 to Paula Clark and the late David Willett.

She graduated from Smackover High School in 1992. Aprile then attended Ouachita Baptist University and graduated with her education degree in 1996. She married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Ricky, on June 8, 1996. Together they raised two beautiful children, Reagan and Rhett. They brought tremendous joy to her life. While they kept her busy, she wouldn’t have changed it for the world. Aprile wore many titles, and while “mom” was her favorite, she didn’t take any of them for granted.

Aprile was a wife, mom, sister, aunt, friend, educator, encourager, and many more. She devoted 29 years to education between 3 schools, West Side, Smackover High School and El Dorado High School. Aprile received numerous awards and recognition throughout her years, such as Teacher of the Year and Educator of the Year, among many others. While she was grateful for the acknowledgements, her real reason for education was the students. She truly adored her students, and she strived for her classroom to be a bright spot in a dark world. Many of her students may tell about circle time, encouragement sheets or maybe even “Tell Me Something Good”, but they will all tell you how infectious her smile was and how loved she made them feel. Aprile was a beacon of light and exemplified Christ in every aspect. Even facing a terminal diagnosis, her faith never wavered. She wanted God to receive all of the glory through this journey, and there is no doubt that He did. There is no question that when Aprile left her earthly body and saw Jesus’ face, that she was met with the words we all strive to hear one day- “Well Done my good and faithful servant.”

Aprile is preceded in death by her daddy, David Willett, maternal grandparents, P.O. and Tex Long, paternal grandparents, Max and Violet Willett, and her father in law, Harold Richardson.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ricky Richardson, her daughter, Reagan McLelland (Tanner), her son, Rhett Richardson, her mother, Paula Clark, one sister, Amy Jones (Jamison), one brother, Scott Willett (Jessie), her mother in law, Jeanette Richardson, and precious uncles, aunts, cousins, and nephews.

She is also survived by her dog, Archie, who brought so much love and joy to her life.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at Young’s.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 11, 2026 at the First Baptist Church in Smackover with Bro. Carly Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

In lieu of flowers, Aprile would prefer donations be made to CARTI El Dorado or FBC Smackover.

Condolences can be expressed online at www.youngsfuneralhome.com for the Richardson family.

Obituaries

Billy Wayne Laney, Junction City

Published

5 days ago

June 10, 2026

Grant Merrill

Billy Wayne Laney, 90, of Junction City passed away June 5, 2026. He was born May 28, 1936 to James Alvin and Mary Lou McDuffie Laney.

Billy Wayne aka as Bill or B.W., married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Bryant on November 13, 1954. He was a lifelong Junction City’s Dragon Fan; long after traveling all over to see his Grands play or cheer, he continued to keep up with them. Mr. Laney was a U.S. Army veteran, a retiree from Pipefitters Local 706 Automatic Sprinkler and long-time employee of El Dorado Chemical, and a Lifetime member of the NRA. Billy was a lover of the outdoors enjoying hunting, fishing, farming and tending to the Laney’s Homeplace. He loved and supported his family. He was a lifelong member of Scotland Presbyterian Church, where he served many years as an Elder.

Preceding him in death are his parents, beloved wife Carolyn, sisters – Catherine Laney Couch and Yvonne (Bonnie) Laney Wheelus; brothers – James JR, Alex, and Ben Laney.

Survivors include his daughters, Vicki Hamaker (Don) and Sandra Bryan (Eddie) all of Junction City; Grandchildren – Justin Hamaker (Melissa) of Decatur, TX, Jana Frisby (Jed) of Junction City, Laney Bryan (Kristyn) of El Dorado and Miranda Bryan of Magnolia; along with great-grandchildren – Kyrstin, London, and Mia Hamaker, Abigail and Emma Frisby, Addie, Ryder and Karson Bryan; his brother, Marcus (Mary) Laney of Orlando, FL; and a dear cousin, Julia Laney Machen of Magnolia; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family expresses special thanks to Billy’s many wonderful caregivers and Heritage Nursing Center of Hayneville.

Visitation for friends and family will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00, Friday, June 12, 2026 at Three Creek Baptist Church, 8914 Haynesville Hwy, Junction City, AR with Dano Rainer and Bruce Rux officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Pierced Hands Food Ministry, 8914 Haynesville Hwy, Junction City, AR 71749, Scotland Cemetery Fund, P. O. Box 905, Junction City, AR 71749 or to the Charity of Donors’ Choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com

Obituaries

Juanita Cloud, El Dorado

Published

5 days ago

June 10, 2026

Grant Merrill

Thelma “Juanita” Cloud, a gentle, warm-hearted woman whose laughter and steady faith brightened every room she entered, reunited with her loved ones in heaven on June 3, 2026.

Born February 3, 1932, to Rudell and Jesse Templeton, Juanita lived a life shaped by hard work, devotion to family, and an unfailing kindness that touched neighbors, coworkers, and friends alike.

Juanita was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, E. D. “Sonny” Cloud; her brother Buddy Templeton; and her sons David Pearson and Jimmy Pearson.

She is lovingly remembered and survived by her daughter Jacquita Diehl (Philip); daughter-in-love Susan Pearson; grandsons Allen Pearson, Eric Pearson (Shannon), Bo Davies (Robin), Alex Diehl, and Soren Michael Diehl; granddaughters Tiffany Junker (Dustin), Jessica Dumas (Jeramie), and her devoted granddaughter and caregiver Casey Bailey (Brandon).

She also leaves nephews Randy Templeton (Vicki) and Mike Templeton (Dana); great-granddaughter Katherine Simpson (Bobby) along with two other great-granddaughters; great-grandson; and caregiver Rocky Bailey along with nine other great-grandsons; great nieces and nephews, cousins, and a host of friends. A very special friend, Karen James, who stood by her through the years.

She was a polished professional, Juanita served as a secretary at Wheeling Pipeline and Davison Transport for a combined fifty years, where her poise, clear speech, and tireless work ethic earned the admiration of colleagues.

She loved to travel, savoring both new places and the simple pleasure of a journey shared. Above all, her faith sustained her through life’s storms and celebrations; her family was her greatest joy and the center of her heart. Juanita’s memory will be cherished for her gentle manner, generous spirit, and the quiet strength she offered to everyone who knew her.

She leaves behind a bright legacy of love, laughter, and encouragement that will ripple through her family and community for generations. Those who knew Juanita are invited to honor her memory by sharing stories, offering kindness to one another, and holding family close.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 12, 2026 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Union Baptist Church with funeral services to follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Doug Loafman officiating. Interment will follow in Old Union Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.