Phillips Funeral Home

02/21/2026

Linda Louise Travis, a devoted family matriarch, was born on March 30, 1945, in Rector, Arkansas. She passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee, surrounded by the love of her family.
Linda attended Marmaduke High School, where she cultivated not only a love for learning but also lifelong friendships that would carry her through the years.
Linda held a special place in her heart for her Pentecostal faith, and her faith was an integral part of her life. She dedicated herself to nurturing her family, placing them at the center of her world. Linda cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories that will be lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Tina Travis; daughter, Teena Batten; daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Kevin Dunlap; daughter-in-law, Melissa Travis; brother, David Clayton (Jewel); sisters, Barbara Carpenter (Marston), Peggy Sutherland (Danny), and Lesa Taylor; 14 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Noah and Rachel Clayton; her husband, Stanton Travis; her daughter, Kelly Jean Travis; her son, Chris Travis; her brothers, Jerry, Darrell, Bill, Randy, and George Clayton; and her sisters, Kathy Wheat and Mary Raspberry.
The family invites friends to celebrate Linda’s life and legacy on Monday, February 23, from 11:00 a.m. until the service time at Phillips Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 PM, at Phillips Funeral Home with David Clayton and Nathan Gramling officiating. Burial will follow at Harvey’s Chapel Cemetery.
Noah Travis, Corey Travis, Blake Travis, Doug Lyell, Ty Gramling, and Aiden Bessent will serve as pallbearers. Chad Wheat, Kaden Wilcox, Macually Gramling, Timothy Travis, and Spc. Cody Stanton Mounce will serve as honorary pallbearers.
A reception will be held after the burial at Linda’s grandson, Nathan’s house.

02/21/2026

Johnny Dane Horton, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on February 20, 2026, at the age of 79 in Paragould, Arkansas. Born on November 29, 1946, in Piggott, Arkansas, Johnny lived a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering passion for the simple joys that life offers.

A proud United States Army Veteran, Johnny exemplified the values of service and dedication throughout his life. His military service was an integral part of who he was, shaping him into the kind and generous man loved by so many.

Johnny was a retired truck driver, spending years on the open road. This profession allowed him to meet countless people, and it was no surprise that he carried with him a heart that loved connecting with others. He was known for never meeting a stranger; his warm disposition and engaging conversations were part of his charm. He enjoyed playing cards and brought a competitive spirit to the table.

His hobbies included fishing and growing a beautiful garden. Additionally, Johnny showcased his musical talent as a gifted drummer. Whatever he engaged in, he did so with enthusiasm, making memories that will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Sue Horton; his sons and daughters-in-law, John and Jodie Horton and Tony and Cindy Horton; his stepchildren, Belinda and Steve Causey and Curtis Dortch; 19 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; his brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Verna Horton, and his sisters, June Lamb, Jan Pirtle, Karen Weeks, and Kathie Huckabay.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John L. and Ruby Horton, and his brother, Kenny Horton.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor Johnny's life. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM, both at Phillips Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Woodland Heights Cemetery in Rector.

Drew Horton, Jace Horton, Nathaniel Horton, Ryan Horton, Ethan Horton, and Chase Causey will serve as pallbearers. Chance Causey, Cameron Dortch, Christopher Dortch, and Jared Barham will serve as honorary pallbearers.

02/20/2026

Evelyn Steelman Roach, born on September 24, 1928, in Paragould, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at Greene Acres Nursing Home on February 20, 2026. Evelyn will be remembered for her, kindness, and vibrant spirit.
Evelyn dedicated a portion her career to Emerson Electric, from which she later retired. Her ethic and dedication beyond her professional life; was also an enthusiastic entrepreneur who operated the Downtown Flea in Kennett many years. Her interests for gardening, where she took great joy in cultivating her harvest, particularly her renowned pickles. A proud caretaker of her five-acre yard, she relished the time spent mowing and maintaining her property, a testament to her hardworking nature.
In addition to her hobbies, Evelyn was actively involved as a member of the Newton Street Church of Christ. She cherished her family and friends, and her genuine heart touched the lives of many.
Evelyn is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Clifton and Diann Powers, along with her sisters, Alberta Heltsley and Beauton Powers, and a special granddaughter, Madison Cupp.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Ruth Powers, and her two husbands, William Steelman and Dean Roach. Evelyn's legacy also includes the love of her siblings, who have passed on, including Vestel Powers, Virginia Powers, Mae Block, Bertha Bearden, Troy Powers, Chestley Powers, and Houston Powers, and Don Powers.
A visitation in honor of Evelyn will be held at Phillips Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow at Union Grove Cemetery.

02/20/2026

Grieving the loss of a loved one doesn't just affect you emotionally; it can also affect your physical health. One issue many people face is appetite loss. If you're struggling with appetite loss while grieving your loved one, click here for 8 helpful tips that can help you cope.

Many people lose their appetite while grieving the death of a loved one. Here are a few tips to help you cope with appetite loss.

02/19/2026

Beverly Sharon Hammon, 68, of Paragould, born on March 24, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family. A remarkable woman of God, Beverly was known for her giving spirit; she often took care of everyone around her before herself.

For 40 wonderful years, Beverly was the devoted wife of Dennis Hammon, who cherished her every day. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter and love. Her role as a mother was unwavering; she was a nurturing presence in the lives of her sons, Randall Carroll (Jarita) and Richard Carroll, as well as her beloved daughters, Darrian Hammon, Allana Cooper, and Skylar Carroll. She was also an outstanding grandmother, who treasured her time with her grandkids: Madisyn, Reagan, Ryleigh, Jude, and Titus Carroll, Xavier Nelson, Brailey Hammon, Piper and Madilyn Robinson (children of Darrian), Leon, Faith, and Delilah Cooper (children of Allana), Jett Lonon, Jonah Lonon, Jace Lonon, and Halle Huffmaster (children of Skylar), Destiny Carroll and her children Giovanni Munoz, Isabella and Kylie Summers, Ariel Pacheco and her children Grayson and Kian.

Beverly is remembered for her organizational skills and the way she meticulously managed her home. She found solace in being surrounded by her cherished animals, particularly her dog Nova, and had a strong for horses. The simple joys of life, especially the tranquility of home, brought her immense happiness.

She is survived by her husband, large number of children and grandchildren, mother, Louise Banks, and her brother, Kevin (Missy) Banks. Beverly's passing is also felt by the memories of her late father, Ted Banks, her sister, Patricia Banks, her brother, Keith (Cathy) Banks, and her nephew, Derrick Rowe, who welcomed her with open arms.

The family will receive friends Sunday, February 22, from 2:00 p.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 3:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Art Smith and Evan Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

02/19/2026

Melba Fae Long, of Paragould, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on March 20, 1929, in Cardwell, Missouri, she filled her long and vibrant life with love, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to her family and friends.

Melba had a passion for jewelry making, particularly crafting exquisite hat pins. Her creativity extended to sewing quilts and restoring antiques, which she often showcased and sold at her own garage sales. Those fortunate enough to know her cherished the country breakfasts she lovingly prepared, where each meal was more than just food but rather a gathering of warmth and affection for family and friends.

In her leisure, Melba found joy in watching old westerns, especially her favorite show, Gunsmoke. She was known for her generous spirit, often giving thoughtful gifts to loved ones and sharing delightful meals at Guy's Buffet, particularly fried catfish that brought everyone together.

Melba is survived by her loving sons, Terry Long and his wife Tammy Long, and Randy Long and his wife Chris Long. She took great pride in her grandchildren, Andrea Long, Clinton Long, Justin Winters, Ben Macormic, and Dustin Macormic. Her legacy continues with her great-grandchildren, Madison, Dallas, Adeline, Michael, Jeremiah, Jacob, Jessica, Joshua, Jenny, and Michael. Melba was also surrounded by her sisters, Judy Perrin and Mary Johnson, along with her niece and nephews, Connie Bobo, Rhonda McCormack, Tim McCormack, Kerry Urbanek, and Alicia Markum.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnnie Long, her father Floyd Shatley, her mother Estele Rogers, and her stepfather Cab Rogers. Melba also mourned the loss of her grandson, David Long, and her siblings: Donald Shatley, Willard Shatley, Darrell Shatley, Wynell Shatley, Sandra Kay, and Nagerine Welch, as well as her brother-in-law, Ross Welch.

Visitation will be held on February 20, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM at Phillips Funeral Home.

02/18/2026

Patricia Ann Knight entered her heavenly home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. She was born on September 12, 1955, in San Antonio, Texas, and made her home in Walnut Ridge. Pat was a devoted member of Highway 67 North Church of Christ, where her faith guided her life and her love for others.

Pat lived in two worlds—one rooted in family, love, and service, and another gliding across ice and figure 8s. She was a lifelong admirer of figure skating and a devoted fan of Brian Boitano. Pat traveled near and far to watch the sport and delighted in sharing that joy with anyone who showed interest.

Pat spent her professional life caring for others during their most difficult moments. She served as an ICU and ER nurse at several hospitals in the area, transitioned to a cardiac nurse, and even went on the road as a travel nurse in Texas and California. After retirement, she still led with a servant’s heart, —loving, helping, and supporting her siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends. Pat’s life reflected Christ’s love through acts of kindness, unwavering devotion, and a deep love for her family.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Irma “Bobbie” (Thompson) Knight.

She leaves behind her siblings: Donna (Doug) Dement of Cardwell, Missouri; Roger (Kina) Knight of Paragould; Sharon (Randy) Fletcher of Paragould; Richard (Christine) Knight of Benton, Illinois; Sarah (Alan) Whaley of Clover Bend; and Deedee (Daniel) Bridges of Clover Bend; along with a beloved group of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Per Pat’s wishes, she will be laid to rest beside her parents at a later date. A Memorial Service celebrating Pat’s life and faith will be held on Saturday, February 21st, at the Clover Bend School District Auditorium. The visitation will begin at 3pm followed by the service at 5pm.

02/16/2026

David E. Smith, 53, of Paragould, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026. He was born December 17, 1972, in Paragould. David graduated from Ridgecrest High School. He worked at Burger King for many years. David was a joy to be around and he will be missed by many family and friends.

David is preceded in death by his mother, Kayla (Scudder) Miller.

Survivors include his father, George David Smith; sister, Leann (Smith) Pohl of Harvest, Alabama; nephews, Jakob Pohl (wife Kara) and Isaac Pohl all of Harvest, Alabama; great nephew, Benjamin Pohl; friends, Robert and Traci Ellington and their children, Tralee and Samuel; and a dear furry companion, Mythra.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, at Phillips Funeral Home.

02/16/2026

Tony Allen Foster, born on August 1, 1961, departed this life on Sunday, February 15, 2026. He was a devoted son, a loyal friend, and a kind-hearted individual who left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Tony lived a simple yet fulfilling life, characterized by his strong work ethic and dedication to his passions. He was not only a very hard worker but also a man of creativity, expressing himself through drawing and writing poetry. His artistic talents brought joy to those around him and showcased his unique perspective on the world.

A true lover of animals, Tony’s compassion extended beyond human relationships. His extreme love for animals was evident in the way he nurtured and cared for them, often finding solace and happiness in their companionship. He also relished the tranquility of fishing, finding peace in nature as he cast his line into the waters, surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.

Tony was preceded in death by his mother, Vera Bishop; grandparents, Beulah and Dolf Foster, Leland Burgess, and Wilma Curtwright.

Survivors include his father, Bobby Foster (Alicia); son, Laramie Foster; daughters, Elizabeth Dumas, Cheyenne Sanders (Jimmie); sisters, Tina Harper (Brian), Traci Walls (Rick), Tracy Jones (Steven), and Sylvia Mince; brother, Anthony Foster; grandchildren, Chancey Tibbs, Cisco Sanders, Rory Sanders, and Zareanna Tibbs; and cherished family, Jennifer Foster, Brandon Zettlemoyer, Jessica Zettlemoyer-Neumueller (Jason), Anthony Zettlemoyer, Jason Reed, Jessica Reed.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Home.

Burial at Cardwell Cemetery will be announced at later date.

02/16/2026

Preston Neal passed away on February 6, 2026. He was born September 30, 2005.

Preston loved fishing for catfish even though he never touched them because he couldn’t handle how slimy they were. He enjoyed playing video games and driving around in his SUV. Preston loved all kinds of music. He enjoyed listening to alternative Christian and country the most.

Preston was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dale and Alene Neal; maternal grandparents, Wesley and Zelda Adams; and sister, Ambriel Neal.

Survivors include his father, Jessi Neal; mother, Jennivy Neal (Christopher Mitchell); brother, Ashton (Ashley) Neal; aunt, Zelda (Joe) Adams; cousins, Sylvia (Patrick Day), Jacob, Hunter, Wesley Adams; aunt, Sherry (Shannon) Hawkins; and cousins, Paige (Josh) King and Shannon (Jessica) Hawkins.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21, from 1:00 p.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The memorial service will begin at 2:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Dwayne Ohler officiating.

02/16/2026

Today, as we honor all of our U.S. presidents, what are some little-known trivia facts you know about different presidents? For instance, did you know James Madison was the shortest president at five foot four and weighed barely over 100 pounds? Your turn to share!

02/14/2026

Valentine's Day is about celebrating those we love, so let's take time to appreciate and celebrate those we love and remember those we've lost. Enjoy chocolate and tell someone you love them!