Obituaries

Doyle McCullar, Junction City

Published

12 months ago

June 18, 2025

Doyle Timothy McCullar of Junction City, AR, passed into eternal life on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Timberlane Health and Rehabilitation in El Dorado, AR, at the age of 95.

“Mr. Doyle” was born on March 9, 1930, in the Shuler community to Tim and Iva Price McCullar. He had one sibling, George McCullar, who was 13 years older and was a friend and mentor to Doyle all his life. They grew up on a farm helping their parents and attending school in Mt. Holly, AR.

Like his brother, Doyle enlisted in the military immediately after high school graduation. Although George was in the US Coast Guard, Doyle chose the Army. Sergeant Doyle T. (Mac) McCullar proudly served his country from 1948-1954 in the US Army 6th Tank Battalion, 24th Infantry Division.

Doyle enlisted for training at Ft. Jackson, SC. He also trained at Ft. Chaffe, AR. From 1950-1951 Doyle served in the Korean War, then re-enlisted. During 1952-1954, Doyle was stationed in Europe. With intentions of continuing a military career, Doyle changed his plans and moved back home to assist his aging parents.

For the next three to four years, Doyle worked at various jobs, including a paper company, Brown & Root, and Apex Welding Supply. During that time, he met and married the first love of his life, Katie Eunice Tullos of Ruston, LA.

The happy couple made their home in El Dorado, where they purchased a house in the new Murmil Heights subdivision. From 1958-1982, Doyle was a truck driver for Red Ball Motor Freight and Eunice held an office position. Doyle’s last employer was Jones Truck Lines, until his retirement in 1989. Over his 32-year career in the trucking industry, he received numerous awards and recognition for his accident-fee driving record.

Doyle loved fishing and hunting, but most of all, the couple enjoyed using their free time to travel.

Many miles were traveled to watch their nephew, Wayne Causey, play professional baseball for the Baltimore Orioles, KC Athletics, Chicago White Sox, California Angels, and Atlanta Braves during his career. Branson was another favorite destination.

Doyle and Eunice were devoted members of East Main Baptist Church, where she was the organist. Sadly, Eunice became ill and passed away.

In June of 2004, Doyle married the second love of his life. He reconnected with a friend from long ago, Irma Glynn Jolley Bounds, who had also lost her spouse. Doyle and Irma were very happy together. They combined their households and Doyle moved out of the city to her house in the country. Irma joined his church and they continued worshiping at East Main Baptist.

Irma also loved traveling. They were always taking trips—to Branson, Army reunions in Buffalo, NY, Albuquerque, NM, road trips to Kansas, Canada, and visits to family in Florida, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.

When Doyle married Irma, he instantly became a father, grandfather, or great grandfather to 36 individuals who affectionately know him as “Mr. Doyle.”

When Irma’s health declined, Doyle was a diligent care giver throughout it all until she passed. He continued living in the country, but made frequent trips to Johnny B’s, Antiqua, and Walmart. His health began to decline following a knee injury. He has had many ups and downs over the past year. Now he is healed.

Mr. Doyle leaves behind the following survivors who will all miss him:

Step-children: Belinda Bounds Hall (Ronnie), James Bounds (Shelli Neal)

Step-grandchildren: Tiffany Hall Wilson (Brandon), Kristen Hall, Joe Hall (Lauren), Mary Susan Hall Pitre (Richard), Jacob Hall, Kaci Bounds Burton (Ross), Drew Bounds (Chelsea), Warren East (Marlee)

Step-great grandchildren: Slade Wilson, Blane Wilson, Jud Wilson, Drake Wilson, Tex Wilson, Tuf, Wilson, Colt Wilson, Huck Wilson, Georgia Hall, Julianna Hall, Cannon Hall, Milena Pitre, Mack Pitre, Rip Pitre, Chance Burton, Chet Burton, Beau Bounds, Wilder Bounds

Special nephew and niece: Wayne and Patsy Causey, and their children and grandchildren

Thank you to the doctors, nurses, aids, van drivers, and staff at Timberlane, the hospital doctors and nurses, and ambulance personnel who have helped take care of Mr. Doyle McCullar during his time there.

Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 20, 2025 in Young’s Chapel (508 Champagnolle Road; El Dorado, AR) with funeral services beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Brother Ken Nelson officiating. Interment will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens (N. Wyatt Drive; El Dorado, AR) under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

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.

The family would like to thank Lifetouch Hospice, Q, Brittany, Tessa & Jacky for their special care.

Memorials can be made to Union Baptist Church, 144 Crain City Road, El Dorado, AR 71730.

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

Obituaries

Doris Hayes, El Dorado

Published

2 weeks ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

Doris Ann Hayes, 80, of El Dorado, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at her residence. She was born on July 4, 1945 to J.W. and Verdie Darden Phillips in Union County, AR.

Before her retirement, she worked as a supervisor at Prescolite. Doris loved to play spades, going to the casino, and was an excellent card player. She also enjoyed gardening, and a cold Coca-Cola. She dedicated her life post-retirement to her grandchildren.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband John Tom “Tommy” Hayes; her son, Keith Hayes, her daughter, Renea Hayes; and her great grandchildren, Gunner Hayes Graves and Mayley Jay Graves.

Survivors include her daughter, Kimberly Ann Benson; grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Graves (Matt Graves), Chloe Benson White (Matthew Finney), Johnny Benson III (Morgan), Dylan Hayes (Haley); great grandchildren, Bentley Leach, Easton Graves, Leah Finney, Lilah Finney, Harper Benson, and Hadley Benson; her two very special sister-in-laws: Terry Hayes, and Sandy Ballard; and her very special friend, Larue.

A small graveside service for family will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 5, 2026 at Olive Branch Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors and with Ashley Graves officiating.

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

Obituaries

Mary Dell Coleman, Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

Mary Dell Coleman, 81, of Strong, Arkansas passed from this life on Monday, June 1, 2026.

Mary was born to Sarah and Talmadge Paxton on November 17, 1944 in El Dorado. She was the youngest of two children. She spent her childhood in Huttig and in Shreveport, LA. On February 28, 1968, she married John David Coleman, the love of her life and partner for more than 55 years. Together they lived in Laurel, MS, Haynesville, LA and El Dorado before settling in Strong, Arkansas in the mid-1970s, where they made their home and raised their family. John preceded her in death in 2022.

Mary was a woman of remarkable determination, grit, and independence. Her husband affectionately nicknamed her “Goat Head” because he said her head was as hard as a billy goat’s. She was never afraid of hard work and did whatever was needed for her family. Over the years, she drove a cement truck, handled bookkeeping for the family business, and approached every challenge with confidence and resolve.

A devoted public servant, Mary dedicated countless hours to improving her community. She served as a Justice of the Peace on the Union County Quorum Court for 1995-2005 and was actively involved in numerous civic organizations and boards. Her service included leadership as President of the New London Water Board and membership on the 13th Judicial District Criminal Detention Facility Review Board and the Union County Water Conservation Board, as well as Treasurer of the New London Cemetery. In 2012 she was appointed by Governor Mike Beebe to serve on the Ouachita River Commission, with her term expiring in 2020.

Mary was a member of the First Baptist Church of Strong and a generous supporter of many causes close to her heart, including Union County Animal Protection Society, Life Touch Hospice, Ouachita Baptist University and Wings to Recovery.

While Mary loved serving her community, her greatest joys were found closer to home. She cherished her flowers, loved caring for her birds, and enjoyed spending time along the Ouachita River. She delighted in decoration for Halloween to the extreme, complete with large inflatable skeletons and monsters, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate a birthday, believing every year of life was worth honoring regardless of age.

Mary as preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her older brother, Allen Paxton. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Tracey White (Randy) and Kelli Gathright (Ted); her grandchildren, Camille Gathright, Hayden Latimer (Carter) , Dustin Gathright (Megan), and Reid Gathright (Alexis Bougher); her great-grandchildren, Jackson, Audrey, Makinlee, and Holden; her sister-in-law, Dolores Paxton; and her beloved four-legged companion Xena.

Mary will be remembered for her strength of character, generous heart, quick wit, dry humor, steadfast faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the community she served, and the family she lived so deeply.

A Celebration of Life for Mary will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 5, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Strong. Visitation with family will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be made to New London Cemetery Fund, % Merri Holt, 3361 New London Road, Strong, AR 71765 or to UCAPS, P. O. Box 264, El Dorado, AR 71730.

Online condolences may be expressed for the Coleman family at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.