Obituaries

Dorothy Shirey, El Dorado

Published

1 year ago

January 8, 2025

Dorothy Lea Thomason Shirey  of El Dorado, Arkansas passed peacefully on January 6, 2025 in Springfield, Missouri under hospice care at Cedarhurst Memory Care.

She was born to Arthur and Bernie Thomason on August 22, 1931 in Hampton, Arkansas. Dorothy was the last surviving sibling of the 10 children. Her siblings, Boyce, Travis, Jack, Cliff, JC, Harold, Ionie, Izola, and Ethel, preceded her in death and are surely awaiting her arrival in Heaven, ready to catch up on all the family news.  She was also predeceased by AJ Shirey, her husband of 64 years, in 2013 and one daughter, Jan Shirey (Brewer) Woods, who passed in 2023. We know that Dorothy is at peace now that she is reunited with so much of her beloved family.

Dorothy, raised on a farm, was proud of her family and where she came from. She was a spirited and humorous storyteller, and she would often regale her children and grandchildren with tales of picking cotton and sibling squabbles from her childhood. Her stories were often interrupted by her own laughter at the memory–regardless of how often she had recounted it. If you knew Dorothy for more than a few minutes, you were likely treated to such a tale.

Throughout her life, Dorothy found great joy in fishing and gardening. She could catch a catfish with the best of them and when you visited you were sure to enjoy a meal of fried catfish. In later years she enjoyed square dancing and traveling with AJ, her constant companion through life.

Dorothy was a long-time and devoted member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in El Dorado, where she relished her role as a Sunday School teacher and active congregant. She never missed a Sunday! She loved God, and she loved to remind others that He loved them, as well.

As a good southern lady, Dorothy put a lot of pride in her appearance and was never seen without her make-up and her hair done. As a go-getter, she put her passion for make-up to use by starting a successful Avon business–her charisma and beauty a winning combination for such a job.

But her love in life was young children, her own and others’, and so, after having four children, she went to college and graduated with a BS in Education and a minor in Library Science from Southern State College in 1969.  She later received her Master’s degree from the University of Arkansas in 1977–all while still raising kids at home. Dorothy was nothing if not determined.

She was a natural teacher and leader. Dorothy worked in the El Dorado School system for 25 years, where she was the Principal at Murmil Heights Elementary School the last 15 years and Principal of the Year for the district in 1989. She did not limit her teaching to the classroom but took every opportunity she could to teach – even sending her grandchildren math problems by mail. In her golden years, it was not uncommon for people to approach Dorothy–decades after she taught them as children–to greet and thank Mrs. Shirey.

She is survived by two sons, Thomason Jay Shirey (Robin) of Axle, TX and Phillip Gregory Shirey (Lisa Tessier) of Nixa, MO; one son-in-law, Bryan Woods of Salado, TX; and one daughter, Tonya Lynne Lambert (Robert) of Pagosa Springs, CO.

Dot, as her grandchildren called her, was immensely proud of her 15 grandchildren: Brooke MacKay (Brent) of Mission Viejo, CA; Megan Ord (Peter) of San Clements, CA; Gabe Shirey (Mindi) of Las Vegas,

NV; Dylan Shirey (Erin) of Harvest, AL; Emma Shirey of NY, NY; Jackson Shirey of Platte City, MO; Isabel Shirey of St. Louis, MO; Ryan Brewer (Lindsey) of San Antonio, TX; Kyle Brewer (Randi) of Austin, TX; Paul Brewer of Houston, TX; Amy Lambert Robertson (Josh) of Alamosa, CO; Emily Lambert Moon (Evan) of Colorado Springs, CO; William Lambert (Wendy) of Rochester, MN; Joseph Lambert of Colorado Springs, CO and Eleanor Lambert of Colorado Springs, CO.

She leaves behind two sisters-in-law: Alene (Shirey) Melton of Shreveport, LA and Nello Thomason of Hot Springs, AR and two brothers-in-law: Charles Shirey (Susan) of Greenbrier, AR and Bob Sherman of El Dorado, AR.

Finally, she is survived by her 21 beloved great grandchildren and the many nieces and nephews whom she cherished, helped raise, and taught with characteristic devotion!

She was a force of nature. She will be missed.

Visitation will be held from 5pm-7pm on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 at Young’s Funeral Home in El Dorado, Arkansas.

Services will be held on Friday, January 10 at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church in El Dorado with burial at Means Cemetery in Hampton following.

Donations can be made in Dorothy’s name to organizations addressing Alzheimer’s or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.

Obituaries

Patricia Arnold, Smackover

Published

24 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

26 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.