Phillips Funeral Home

04/06/2026

Clayton D. Mitchell, born on May 8, 1985, in Springdale, Arkansas, passed away on April 6, 2026. A devoted educator and cherished member of his community, Clayton leaves behind a legacy marked by kindness, humor, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.
A graduate of Arkansas State University, Clayton dedicated his life to teaching at various schools, including Newport, Paragould, Greene County Tech, and Rivercrest. Throughout his career, he touched the lives of countless students, embodying a spirit of generosity and compassion that was truly one of a kind. Those who knew him remember his warmth and genuine love for everyone, as well as his habit of always performing kind deeds without hesitation.
Beyond his role as an educator, Clayton was an active and valued member of Providence Baptist Church. His faith was evident not only in his personal life but also through his service as a Gideon, where he carried out jail ministry at the Greene County Jail, bringing hope and encouragement to many.
Competition was part of life for Clayton. He was a skillful chess player. He enjoyed facing off against opponents at the Arkansas State University’s Chess Club.
Clayton is survived by his mother and stepfather, Deborah and David Williams; his father, Christopher Mitchell; grandparents, Charlotte Sue Mitchell and Deleta Jewell Evans; his brother, Clinton Mitchell and wife Lindsey; his sister, Candice Mitchell Robb and husband Danny Max; and his beloved nephews and nieces, Halsie Clinton Robb, Brooke Anniston Mitchell, Darbie Layne Robb, and Jamison Cole Mitchell. He is also remembered by several aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents. Billy Wagner Mitchell, Jimmy D. Evans, and Peggy J. and Wayne Williams, as well as his best friend Nathan Reeves.
Clayton D. Mitchell’s extraordinary spirit and dedication to others will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. His life stands as a testament to a man who lived with profound kindness and love, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure to know him.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 8, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at Phillips Funeral Home with Kenny Pugh and David Kellums officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.
If one wishes to make a lasting memorial, Clayton would be honored with donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Gideon’s of Paragould, P.O. Box 461, Paragould, AR 72451.

04/06/2026

04/05/2026

He is risen! Today, we celebration Jesus Christ’s resurrection and his victory over sin and death. Happy Easter!

04/03/2026

Albert Vern Hilliard, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished member of his church, passed away on April 2, 2026, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Born on November 27, 1931, in Fairfield, Illinois, Albert lived a life marked by dedication, frugality, and an unwavering love for his family and faith.

Albert earned a Bachelor's degree along with three certificates from Judson University in Elgin, Illinois. His professional journey led him to serve compassionately as an addiction counselor, where he touched many lives with his empathy and commitment. Beyond his career, Albert found joy and fulfillment in his church family at West View Baptist Church in Paragould, Arkansas—a community that was very dear to his heart.

A man of humility and resourcefulness, Albert's early years were shaped by simple yet poignant experiences; as a child, he diligently collected bottles and cardboard milk tops to earn money or to treat himself to movies. This frugality was a defining trait throughout his life. He was also a skilled craftsman who took pleasure in working with his hands, demonstrating care and precision in all he undertook.

Albert’s loving spirit was evident in the family bonds he cherished. He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene Hilliard; his children, Brenda White, Cathy Barker, Betty Ptack (Paul), and Kevin Barker; and his sister, Martha Grove. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Christopher White, Debbie Greenwall, and Raymond Calhoun, as well as his great-grandchildren: Elijah White, Justin Evans-White, Autumn Cameron-White, Bella Greenwall, Christine Greenwall, Jax White, Adyen White, Kade Morgan, and Nova Calhoun. Their lives are enriched by the foundation of love and guidance he provided.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Esther (Hudson) Hilliard; his granddaughter, Melissa White; and his siblings, Delbert Venters, Jimmy Venters, Mary Venters, Sue Venters, and Amanda Venters.

To honor his life, a visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at West View Baptist Church, located at 701 West Morgan Street. Following the visitation, a memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Carey Trickey officiating. Family and friends are invited to a meal at the church after the service.

04/03/2026

Easter is a beautiful time and a celebration of hope and new life. If you're grieving the death of a loved one, taking time to reflect at your loved one's grave is a good way to incorporate them into your Easter celebration. Read this article to learn 4 reasons why you should visit your loved one's grave this Easter!

Visiting a loved one's grave at Easter can help you when you're grieving. Here are 4 ways you can benefit from a visit to the cemetery!

04/03/2026

Good Friday reminds us that even on the darkest days, God has a plan to help us, and we can trust that it is good. Blessings to you and yours!

04/01/2026

Dennis Edward Davis, 75, of Paragould, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. He was born December 7, 1950, to Edward and Josephine Davis. Dennis served in the United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He loved to get together at reunions with his fellow Veterans. He also enjoyed working on boat motors with his son, Daniel and spending time in the woods in his younger age with his friends and sons. He loved to sit around and sing songs and play cards with his daughter and grandkids. He worked until retiring at Emerson Electric after 42 years and he enjoyed spending his time traveling.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Davis and Josephine Ryan; wife, Debbie Davis; son, Chaney Davis; grandson, Tucker Davis, granddaughter, Morgan Hadley; sister, Cathy Thomas; and brother, Wayne Davis and sister-in-law, Kathy Davis.

Survivors include his son, Daniel Davis (Shanna) of Brookland; daughter, Lisa Davis Hadley of Paragould; daughter-in-law, Christie Davis of Paragould; brothers, Ralph Ryan, Paul Davis, Chuck Davis, Ricky Davis; sister, Donna Hernandez; grandchildren, Tyler Davis (Ashleigh), Tanner Davis, Dustin Hadley, Aaron Hadley (Kristyn), Nash Davis, Reilly Jones (Jolby), Abigail Davis, Makayla Fletcher; and great-grandchildren, Journey Hadley, Dax Davis, Navy Davis, and Creed Davis.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 4, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Jody Faulkner officiating. Burial will follow at New Liberty Cemetery.

Tyler Davis, Tanner Davis, Nash Davis, Aaron Hadley, Dustin Hadley, and Devin Davis will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Reilly Jones, Abigail Davis, and Makayla Fletcher.

03/27/2026

Kevin "Richy" Richard Beggs, 65, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on March 26, 2026. He was born October 20, 1960, in Kennett, MO, to the late James R. "Dick" and Wanda Jean Beggs.

Richy graduated from Marmaduke High School in 1979. He farmed with his father for many years in the Mounds community, and later in life, he worked at Penske trucking until his retirement. In his spare time, Richy enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding his motorcycle.

Richy was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his four daughters, Nikki (Parker) Blake of Jacksonville, AR, Jennifer Beggs of Waco, TX, Natalie (David) Engelken of Paragould, and Emily Beggs of West Des Moines, IA; brother, Tony Beggs of Paragould; sister, Cheryl (Ron) Freeman of Paragould; grandchildren, Gavin Smith, Kingston Smith, Princeton Blake, Parker Blake III, Lukas Zuniga, Weslynn Engelken, Lydia Engelken, and Austyn Claire Engelken, and several nieces and nephew.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, at Cardwell Cemetery, with Bro. Kim Bridges officiating.

03/27/2026

We had the honor of celebrating all of the March birthday's at the Senior B.E.E.S. Center today! We hope everyone had a fantastic birthday! 🎂

03/27/2026

Applying for Social Security benefits after the death of a loved one can feel both overwhelming and confusing. This easy guide shares helpful information on eligibility, what documents you need to gather, and where you can find answers to your questions!

After the death of a loved one, especially a spouse, you may be eligible to receive certain Social Security benefits. Click to learn more!

03/24/2026

We understand that during a time of loss, you want to work with someone who cares and goes above and beyond for your family. At Phillips Funeral Home, we are committed to answering all your questions, keeping things simple, and providing the highest quality care and service around. Contact us today to start getting the answers you need!