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Phillips Funeral Home, 4904 W Kings Highway, Paragould, AR (2025)

10/25/2025

Dewayne Earl Walls, aged 78, of Marmaduke, Arkansas, passed away on October 25, 2025, in Paragould, Arkansas, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 13, 1947, in Leachville, Arkansas, Dewayne was a man whose passion for life was as enduring as the vintage cars he adored.
A true old car enthusiast, Dewayne's love for automobiles was not merely about the vehicles themselves, but the stories they told and the eras they represented. Dewayne could often be found at the local dragstrip, watching an activity he enjoyed.
Dewayne was an avid hunter and fisherman, finding solace in the tranquil beauty of nature. His friends meant the world to him, and he cherished the time spent in their company. Whether it was a casual hangout or an impromptu storytelling session, Dewayne was the heart of every gathering, captivating all with his wit, humor, and the kind of fabulous stories that made you feel you were reliving them alongside him.
Travel was another of Dewayne's joys. He never missed an opportunity to explore, be it a cross-country road trip or a venture to the local flea markets in search of treasures and trinkets. Each journey was an adventure, each item a memory etched in time.
Above all, Dewayne was a family man. His love for his granddaughter, Abigale, was immeasurable. They shared a special bond, often seen playing their favorite game, Knock Off, where laughter would echo through the house, a testament to the joy they found in each other's company. It was in these precious moments that Dewayne's tender and playful spirit shone brightest.
Dewayne was preceded in death by his parents, Issac Buster and Bonnie Jane Walls; wife, Betty Earlene Walls; and sister, Sharon Travis.
Survivors include his sons, Larry Walls (Heather) and Gene Lenz; daughters, Connie McDowell and Tammy Jean Lindsey; and an array of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends Monday, October 27, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at noon at Phillips Funeral Home with Bro. Kim Bridges officiating.

10/23/2025

Dale Edward Whitley passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on November 4, 1955, Dale's life was characterized by his unwavering work ethic, his passion for the hobbies he loved, and his deep devotion to his faith.

For three decades, Dale was a respected employee at Tenneco, revered by his colleagues for his dedication and admired for his ability to uplift those around him even during the most challenging periods.

Outside of his impressive career, Dale was an enthusiast of the artistry of model cars, a pastime that allowed him to express his precision and patience. His love for these intricate creations was second only to his passion for drag racing — a sport that would see him spend countless weekends at the track.

A man of deep faith, Dale dedicated many quiet moments of his life to reading the Bible and embracing the teachings of Jesus. This love and devotion shaped his actions, making him a source of comfort in the lives of those he touched. He believed in the power of selflessness and lived his life as a testament to these values, always putting others before himself.

Dale's approach to life also swung outwards to hobbies such as shooting target practice.

His reputation as a hard worker extended to his role as a provider, ensuring that those he cared for wanted for nothing.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, James and Janette Whitley.

Survivors include his mother of his children, Donna Reddick; daughters, Chasity Hanes (Doug) of Jonesboro, Andrea Goodwin (Kennieth) of Brookland; sisters, Diana Roming (Chuck), Patricia Buhler (Greg); grandchildren, Spencer, Ashley, Jesse, Bailey, Hudson; great-grandchildren, Lillian, Haylen, Rena, Cohan, Leidon, Exodus, Heaven, Nevaeh; and nieces and nephews, Stephanie, Alex, Michael, Tenisha, and Russell.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 25, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Royce Boling officiating.

10/21/2025

John Harrison Wagner was born on November 1, 1946. He passed away on October 17, 2025, at the age of 78.
John had a knack for problem-solving. While serving in the Navy, he trained to be a master electrician, a trade which he used all his life. Later, he launched into a role as a real estate manager, where he took great pride in managing the apartments he owned.
Beyond his professional endeavors, John was an adventurer at heart. He had an affection for the outdoors, often traveling in his camper in local state parks, but also, as far as California and Colorado. He even made three trips to Africa. Yet, it was perhaps in the simple moments spent with family where John’s heart truly lay. He adored his time with children and grandchildren, imparting wisdom, sharing laughter, and creating a legacy of love.
He was a long-term member at the Center Hill Church of Christ, but also served as an elder at the Gainesville Church of Christ for a few years. He also served as a Boy Scout Asst. Scoutmaster with Troop 99.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Edna Wagner; son, John Wagner; and sister, Jean McFarlin.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Linda Wagner. They had many ups and downs, but they loved each other dearly even to his final days. He is also survived by his son, Chad Wagner (Rena); daughter-in-law, Tamara Wagner; brother, William Wagner; sisters, Shirley Southard, Darlene Stull, Susie Taylor; grandchildren, Drew Wagner, Natalie Wagner, Anna Crossno, Alyssa Wagner, Laura Hitchcock, Michaela Wagner, Chandra Wagner, Johah Wagner; and many great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 23, 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 Andrew Hitchcock and Chad Wagner officiating. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery.
Drew Wagner, Jonah Wagner, Andrew Hitchcock, Dakota Crossno, Jared Maggard, and Tony Closson will serve as pallbearers.

10/17/2025

Donnie Gene Newman, 80, of Paragould, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025. He was born September 16, 1945, to George and Sarah Newman.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Donnie had an enduring appreciation for nature. His happiest days were spent in the quiet of the woods or beside a stream.

His shop was a place of camaraderie and laughter, where friends would often gather. Whether they came with a purpose or just dropped by to talk, everyone was welcomed by Donnie.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, George Dale Newman, Kenneth Newman, Bill Newman, Jim Newman; sisters, Brenda Kay McEntyre, Donna Sue Mullins, Polly Holder; and grandsons, Jonathan Slayton and Tyler Slayton.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Brenda Newman; son, Donald Trevor Newman; daughters, Theresa Jean Newman, Cindy Carol Noel Newman; sister, Gwen Ray (Marlen); grandchildren, Zane Hurt, Whitley Newman, Trent Slayton (Amanda), Letishia Risinger, Crystal Gatlin, Hunter Noel; and seven great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 20, 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 Danny Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Zane Hurt, Trent Slayton, Trevor Newman, Josh Smith, Hunter Noel, and Danny Dowler will serve as pallbearers.

10/17/2025

Elizabeth Ann Franklin Bateman was born into this life on January 21, 1948, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Benjamin Edward and Georgia Lorene (Wilson) Franklin. She passed from this life on October 16, 2025, at the age of 77. She married Donald Bateman on April 28, 1964 and was married to him until his death on July 12, 2001. She later became engaged to Daun Perry until his death on April 5, 2015. She was a former employee of Monroe in Paragould, and worked at construction clean up with her brother and sister-in-law in Collinsville, Oklahoma. She had a few hobbies, but her greatest joy in life was her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Bateman; fiance, Daun Perry; parents, Benjamin Franklin and Georgia Franklin; 5 brothers, Leon Franklin, James Franklin, Benny Franklin, Jerry Franklin, and Donnie Franklin; and 2 sisters, Wanda Ishmael and Thelma Franklin.

She is survived by her daughter, Thelma(Jimmy) Smith of Paragould, Arkansas, son, Donald (June) Bateman of Skiatook, Oklahoma, and daughter, Deronda Bateman of Paragould, Arkansas. 3 grandsons, Derik(Laurie) Brown, Kord (Morgan) Brown and Danny Bateman all of Paragould, Arkansas; 2 step-grandsons Clayton Hacker and Brandon Hacker of Skiatook Oklahoma. 1 great grandson, Jacob Brown; 2 step great grandsons, Gunner Hacker and Gavin Foster. 3 great grand daughters, Shantel Brown, McKinlee Brown and Riley Brown; 1 step great grand daughter, Molly Foster; and many other family members.

Graveside services will be on Monday October 20, 2025, at 1:00 pm at New Friendship Cemetery. A procession will leave from Phillips Funeral Home at 12:30 pm to the graveside service at New Friendship Cemetery with Clayton Homewood officiating. It will be a closed casket service.

Pallbearers will be Donald Bateman, Kord Brown, Jimmy Smith and Jacob Brown.

10/17/2025

Paul Oscar Marus, Jr. passed away peacefully in his sleep, with family by his side, in the early hours of October 16, 2025 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould. His health had been declining in recent years due to a combination of ailments, including dementia and congestive heart failure. A few days before his death, he indicated that he was ready to go be with his beloved Sally Boone Marus, who predeceased him almost exactly 11 years prior on October 14, 2014.

He was born on November 13, 1944, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to Paul O. Marus, Sr. and Sue Spriggs Marus, who owned a succession of small family businesses. He and his younger brother Bob grew up next door to the family of their father’s twin brother, including four beloved cousins who were more like siblings to them. An honors student, he graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1963 and went on to attend Ouachita Baptist University, where he was a member of the U.S. Army ROTC and the Alpha Omega Eta fraternity. He earned a B.A. in business, graduating in 1967 with a commission as a first lieutenant and serving the Army for two years in various accounting and logistical support roles, including stints at bases in Indiana and Istanbul (where he developed a lifelong love for pistachios and baklava).

On October 19, 1969 he married his college sweetheart, the former Sally Ann Boone of Forrest City, Arkansas. They remained happily married for nearly 45 years, until her death in 2014 of an aggressive form of brain cancer. He missed her every day after that, and is now happily reunited with the love of his life.

Paul and Sally made their home in Little Rock, where he spent the first half of his career as a clothing buyer for a local department store chain. Later in his career, he used his purchasing and management talents working in procurement positions with various state agencies, retiring in 2017 from the Arkansas Department of Workforce Development, where he was beloved by his staff not only for being a good manager, but also for regularly bringing boxes of Community Bakery pastries and sausage rolls to the office to share. After retirement, he moved to Paragould, Arkansas, to be closer to his daughter and her family.

He was a longtime member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock, where he served in multiple capacities over the years including as a deacon, a Sunday School teacher, a nursery volunteer, and a member of the building committee for the construction of the church’s 1981 sanctuary.

Paul was intelligent, thoughtful, kind, and – above all – a man of deep integrity and a profound sense of decency and justice, which he passed on to his children. He loved nothing more than his family, and in particular he delighted in making children laugh through horseplay, tickle attacks, and terrible dad jokes. He also was deeply fond of butter pecan ice cream, military history, dogs, and literally any British murder mystery show that aired on PBS, which he could watch for hours on end.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, his wife, his brother, cousins Nancy Marus Sawyer and Jim Marus, and niece Kasey Marus Douglas. He is survived by his children and their spouses Rob Marus (James Adams) of Washington, DC and Catherine Marus Bell (Jerry) of Paragould; grandchildren Nicolas Bell, Louis Bell, Emma Bell, Katie Bell McNatt (Terron), Madeline Bell, Lily Bell, Jack Bell, Noah Bell, Charlotte Bell, and Sam Bell; great-grandson Wesley McNatt; beloved cousins Beth Marus Dashiell and Casey Marus; and nieces Karey Marus Broach, Allison Marus Fowler, and Carly Marus Covert.

A graveside service under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home will be held on Saturday, October 18, at 12:00 p.m. at Linwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts in Paul’s memory be made to Arkansas PBS (www.myarkansaspbs.org or Arkansas PBS Foundation, 350 S. Donaghey Ave., Conway, AR 72034), which provided him with decades of entertainment and enlightenment.

10/17/2025

James Edward Nailling, 98, of Paragould, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025. He was born March 24, 1927, to Price and Violet Nailling. James served proudly in the United States Army during World War ll. He farmed for a living on county land with his wife and children where he made the most out of small things. He enjoyed working in his shop building memories with his grandchildren, woodworking, hunting, and relaxing outdoors. James attended Beech Grove Baptist Church. He, above all, loved spending time with his family.

James was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Maxine Robinson; and great-grandchildren, Kadin and Kaydence Walters.

Survivors include his wife of 75 years, Carolyn Nailing; sons, Terry Nailing (Trish), Mark Nailling (Mary), Billy Nailling (Marla), Jerry Don Nailling (Lesley); daughters, Jimmie Nell Jernigan (Danny), Trish Filas (Rick), Jane Dowler (Doug); grandchildren, Nicole Barney (Jason), Courtney Glaus (Trey), Brittany Nailling, Audra Nailling (Jacob Whittle), Tyler Nailling, Jordan Nailling, Sarah Wilson (Kyle), Blair Clark (Trent), Amber Nailling, Tamra Nailling, Shannon Jernigan (Alisha), Brandon Jernigan (Mandi), Heather Lanier, Josh Kennemore, Derek Linehan (Rebecca), Chris Patterson (Kristen), Jennifer Shelton, and Whitney Dowler; 30 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 21, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Dave White officiating. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Shannon Jernigan, Brandon Jernigan, Chris Patterson, Tyler Nailling, Conner Walters, and Max Jernigan will serve as pallbearers.

10/13/2025

Ralph Erwin Lawrence, 81, of Paragould, passed away Saturday, October 11, 2025. Ralph, or Papa to his babies, was a man of honor, integrity and loyalty. He was as humble as they come, and dedicated his life to his loving wife, children, grandchildren and many foster children. When he wasn’t working, he was probably out to lunch somewhere with his brother, Donald, or his coworker and friend, Gary. Full of belly laughs and dad jokes, his sense of humor was top tier. As he would say, "They don't need them like they used to." On October 11th, 2025, the world lost an incredible and irreplaceable man, but heaven gained one amazing angel and Papa was reunited with the love of his life. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will carry on forever.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Nillie Lawrence; wife, Elizabeth Lawrence; brother, Raymon Lawrence; sister, Betty Ellis; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Lawrence and Ruth Lawrence.
Survivors include his daughters, Ashley James (Buddy) and Amber Masters (Joshua); sons, Adam McClung (Brytani) and John Rubbo; brothers, Donald Lawrence (Wanda), Melvin Lawrence, and Laymon Lawrence; grandchildren, Cade, Darius, Khaleesi, Alaina, Amari, Casyn, Romi, Jaiden, Samuel, Emmitt, Taigan, Re*****on, Halle, and Harris.
The family will receive friends Thursday, October 16, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at noon at Phillips Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Brown’s Chapel Cemetery with military honors.
Donald Lawrence, Amber Masters, Buddy James, Ashley James, Joshua Masters, and Gary Ellis will serve as pallbearers. Adam McClung and Darius Lamb will serve as honorary pallbearers.

10/12/2025

Earl Wayne Gibson, 68, of Paragould, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 19th, 1957, in Flint, Michigan, Earl was a devoted husband, father and friend. He had many passions, such as wood working, fishing, hunting, and anything to do with the outdoors. He proudly served in the U.S. National Guard, where he built and tested military equipment. Earl was a jack of all trades, he was an accomplished welder and mechanic. But he truly loved truck driving, he found an opportunity to work for Unique Trucking, where met the love of his life, Kim. They were happily married for 32 years. In 2013, Earl and Kim adopted their 3 boys, nothing meant more to him then spending quality time with his family.

Earl was preceded in death by his wife, Kim Gibson, his mother Thelma Busch, and his father Donald Gibson Sr.

He is survived by his children, Logan (Roxy) Wheeler, Blake Wheeler (Lilly Houle), his baby Bryson Wheeler, and April Wheeler. His siblings, Alice Barron, Donna (Wayne) Morris, Donald Gibson Jr., Brad Norvell, Bryan Norvell Sr., Danny O’Guinn, Bruno O’Guinn, and Larry (Teresa) Myer, along with his many nieces and nephews.

We’re gathering at Unity Baptist Church at 10 am on Saturday, October 18th to celebrate the life of a faithful, hard working man who loved his family and above all loved God. He believed in appreciating the simple things in life. We would like to thank Papaw for all the memories that we will all cherish for a lifetime.

10/10/2025

John Byron Wilkins passed away on October 10, 2025, in Paragould, Arkansas. Born on November 11, 1962, in Kennett, Missouri, Byron's early years were marked by a spirited enthusiasm for life.
Byron enjoyed his time at Senath-Hornersville High School. It was there, in the hallways of his alma mater, that he met his high school sweetheart, Barbie, who would later become his devoted wife. Their enduring love story was one for the ages, filled with shared dreams and mutual support.
After graduating from Senath-Hornersville High School in 1981, Byron's industrious nature led him to a fulfilling career as a Master Electrician. His professional journey began in 1995, and his entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when he established Wilkins Electric in 2009. Byron's work ethic and expertise not only illuminated the homes and businesses he serviced but also the hearts of those who worked alongside him.
Byron's life was a testament to his enduring love for his family, and nothing brought him more joy than the time spent with his cherished grandbabies. His role as a family man extended beyond his immediate kin, touching the lives of many with his generosity and unwavering support.
An avid lover of the great outdoors, Byron found pleasure in the simplicity of nature. Whether tending to his farm, meticulously maintaining his land, or lending a hand to his sons as they built and worked on their properties, Byron was happiest operating any piece of equipment with the sun on his back and the earth beneath his feet.
The lake house held a special place in Byron's heart. It was there that he made countless memories with his family, teaching his grandchildren to fish and sharing stories. The water was the backdrop for many of Byron's most treasured moments, from fishing trips to boat rides.
Byron was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie Lee Roy and Barbara Jo Wilkins; and sisters-in-law, Tammy Hart and Penny Simmons.
Byron is survived by his wife of 43 years, Barbie Wilkins; his sons and daughters-in-law, Cory and Lynlee Wilkins and Aaron and Kassian Wilkins; brothers and sisters-in-law, Terry and Judy and Jimmie and Barbara Ann Wilkins; sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Raymond Lasley; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Rita and James Tinnin; brother-in-law, Ricky Simmons; and grandchildren, Greydon, John Sebastian, and Kendall Wilkins.
The family will receive friends Monday, October 13, from noon until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Raymond Lasley officiating.
Burial will follow at Senath Cemetery.

10/09/2025

Sonya Carole Hester, known for her passion for genealogy, her adoration of her cats, and her green thumb in gardening, passed away on October 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Sonya was born on February 26, 1944.

Sonya dedicated many years to exploring her family roots. Her love for genealogy was not just about the past; it was a bridge she built to connect generations.

Sonya's home was a sanctuary where the purrs of her beloved cats could always be heard. A true cat lover, she provided a loving and caring environment for her feline companions, who were her constant and loyal friends.

An avid gardener, Sonya's hands were often found in the dirt, cultivating a beautiful display of flowers. Her garden was a testament to her patience and her nurturing spirit.

Exploring the world with her late husband, Daniel, Sonya enjoyed the adventure of travel to courthouses and old cemeteries. Together, they created many of memories, from the cultures they experienced and the landscapes they wandered.

Beyond her hobbies and interests, Sonya was also an avid reader, often found with a book in hand.

Sonya was preceded in death by her parents, James A. and Vera Eubanks; husband, Cpt. Daniel Hester; and brother, Micheal Eubanks.

Survivors include her son, Colin Hester (Brenda); grandchildren, Beatrice Hester (Jeff) of Hamilton, OH, Magdalen Hester, Jameson Hester, Eleanor Hester, Theodore Hester, Vinton Hester all of Liberty Township, OH; and great-grandchild, Silas Hester-Ott, Anneliese Hester-Ott.

A graveside service under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home will be held on Friday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m. at Finch Cemetery with Ron Pickney officiating.

10/09/2025

Sonya Carole Hester, known for her passion for genealogy, her adoration of her cats, and her green thumb in gardening, passed away on October 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Sonya was born on February 26, 1944.

Sonya dedicated many years to exploring her family roots. Her love for genealogy was not just about the past; it was a bridge she built to connect generations.

Sonya's home was a sanctuary where the purrs of her beloved cats could always be heard. A true cat lover, she provided a loving and caring environment for her feline companions, who were her constant and loyal friends.

An avid gardener, Sonya's hands were often found in the dirt, cultivating a beautiful display of flowers. Her garden was a testament to her patience and her nurturing spirit.

Exploring the world with her late husband, Daniel, Sonya enjoyed the adventure of travel to courthouses and old cemeteries. Together, they created many of memories, from the cultures they experienced and the landscapes they wandered.

Beyond her hobbies and interests, Sonya was also an avid reader, often found with a book in hand.

Sonya was preceded in death by her parents, James A. and Vera Eubanks; husband, Cpt. Daniel Hester; and brother, Micheal Eubanks.

Survivors include her son, Colin Hester (Brenda); grandchildren, Beatrice Hester (Jeff) of Hamilton, OH, Magdalen Hester, Jameson Hester, Eleanor Hester, Theodore Hester, Vinton Hester all of Liberty Township, OH; and great-grandchild, Silas Hester-Ott, Anneliese Hester-Ott.

A graveside service under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home will be held on Friday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m. at Finch Cemetery with Ron Pickney officiating.

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