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Brown Funeral Home, 2704 Commerce Cir, Pine Bluff, AR (2026)

03/13/2026

Mrs. Lucy Matthews 76, of Star City, Arkansas passed away Friday, March 6, 2026.

Visitation 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home Pine Bluff, AR.

Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Bethlehem #2 Missionary Baptist Church, Yorktown, Arkansas, Pastor Nathaniel Thornton officiating. Interment in Person Chapel Cemetery, Maroney, Arkansas by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

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03/13/2026

Mr. Patrick Henry Guest was born on July 20, 1967, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Aaron L. Guest, Sr., and Minervia Dyer Guest.

He was raised to lead a Christian life and received his foundation at St. Paul Maumelle United Methodist Church, Little Rock, Arkansas. He was educated in the Pulaski County School District and graduated from Joe T. Robinson High School. He earned an associate’s degree in data processing from Pulaski Vocational and Technical School. Patrick loved learning and completed a continuing education class at Penn Foster Career School, earning a diploma in Small Engine Repair. He also earned certifications in Certified Telecommunications Networking and Voice Over IP.

In 2009, he met Evangeline Parker-Guest for ice cream, and the next day sealed his commitment to building a lasting friendship with the delivery of a dozen red roses and an invitation to lunch and conversation. On May 12, 2012, Patrick and Evangeline married. The blessed couple enjoyed 14 years of marriage, traveling the state and nation as partners in service, sharing the word of God, and helping those in need connect with the peace, joy, and love of God.

Pat served his community as a self-appointed neighborhood watchman and a part-time handyman for his young-at-heart neighbors in Southwest Little Rock. Also, he was a loyal 17-year volunteer and board member for Teen Promise Incorporated (TPI). He dedicated time to support his wife and the Miss Teen Promise Female Preparatory & Scholarship program, by helping raise scholarship funds, building life-size trophies for presentation to Miss Teen Promise Queens, donating electronic ATM style piggy banks to Teen Promise Inc. Youth Personal Finance and Wealth Building workshop participants, and served as the TPI Historian, capturing hundreds of photos and thousands of hours of video to document the award-winning program and to assist youth in seeing the promise within and thrive.

Recently, he celebrated 31 years of service at Baptist Health in Little Rock, Arkansas, as a User Support Rep III in the Information Systems department. Team members credit Patrick for being a dedicated and loyal leader, dependable, professional, and kind to everyone he met.

In 2012, Patrick joined Saint Mark Baptist Church. He developed a special interest and love for the Old Testament Sunday School Class. He also enjoyed a deeper study of the word by watching the Growth Factor podcasts featuring Pastor John and Sr. Pastor Phillip L. Pointer.

On Friday, February 27, 2026, at 9:04 p.m., Patrick passed away at the age of 58, peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his family in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Affectionately called Pat by those who knew him, and “Patbabe” by his wife, Evangeline. Pat lived a life of dedicated service, sharing his time, resources, and his gift for inspirational storytelling to help those in need find peace, joy, and laughter.

At the age of 6 days old, Pat had open heart surgery. He viewed the surgery scar on his chest as a daily reminder of God’s gifts of goodness and grace, making him a walking miracle and a living testimony. God’s greatness constructed Pat’s beautiful heart and protected him all these years.

His heart is no longer beating in rhythm, but the memories and laughter that flowed from his heart to ours will continue to connect and inspire us forever.

Patrick completed his final act of service with a legacy gift of life through organ donation, helping save at least three lives, and becoming their hero.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Aaron L. Guest, Sr., and Minervia Dyer Guest, and four brothers, Monzell Guest, Maurice Guest, Mose Guest, Kent Guest, and a sister, Julia “Rose” Guest.

He leaves to carry on his legacy his wife Evangeline Parker-Guest, sister, Bertha Anderson, brother, Aaron Guest Jr.; nephews, Aaron L. Guest, III, Maurice Guest, Jr., Monzell Guest, Jessie Guest and Alphonso Guest; Nieces, Nikita McCreery, Shannon Anderson, Lakeisha Guest, Janelle Guest, Jennica Anderson, Franchesca Parker, Latriece Watkins, Tabitha Turner; a host of other relatives and friends.

Patrick’s Favorite Scripture:

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” ~Proverbs 3: 5-6

Visitation: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Friday, March 13, 2026
Saint Mark Baptist Church
5722 W. 12th Street
Little Rock, AR 72204

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Friday, March 13, 2026
Saint Mark Baptist Church
5722 W. 12th Street
Little Rock, AR 72204
Pastor Aaron L. Johnson, Congregational Care Pastor/Officiating
Rev. Kenneth R. Martin, Eulogist, Pastor of Greater Archview Baptist Church, 1720 W. 23rd Street, Little Rock, AR 72206

Repast: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
St. Paul Maumelle United Methodist Church
9721 Pinnacle Valley Road
Little Rock, Arkansas 72223
Carissa Rodgers, Pastor

Obituary Submitted by The Family.

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03/13/2026

Harriett Fay Thomas Branch, age 73, was born on November 9, 1952, in Cornerstone, Arkansas, to the late Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas. Her parents were sharecroppers who believed strongly that education was the pathway to a better life, and they instilled in their children the importance of pursuing knowledge and excellence. Fay embraced these values early and excelled academically throughout her school years.

At an early age, Fay gave her life to Christ while attending Macedonia Baptist Church in Cornerstone, Arkansas, under the leadership of Reverend J.J. Jackson. She grew up with a vibrant personality and was known for being spirited and confident, never afraid to challenge the status quo.

Faye attended Altheimer High School, where she was an enthusiastic cheerleader. It was during this time that she met the man who would later become her husband.

In 1970, she enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff to pursue a degree in education. While completing her studies, she married the love of her life, Cornelious Branch, in 1973. She graduated in 1974 and began her career in education that same year as an English teacher in Wilmar, Arkansas. Faye had a genuine love for children and education, particularly enjoying the opportunity to guide and mentor older students.

In 1977, she and her husband welcomed their first son, Cornelious D. Branch, lovingly known as “Shay.” Their family was further blessed in 1982 with the birth of their second son, Christopher T. Branch.

In 1987, Fay joined the Monticello School District, where she served as the Adult Education Director. In this leadership role, she demonstrated her passion for helping others reach their full potential. She was deeply committed to encouraging individuals to become the best version of themselves and often selflessly invested her time and energy into helping others succeed.

Among the many roles she held in life, her most cherished title was “Mimi,” with “Momma” being a very close second. She loved her sons deeply and treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, always valuing time spent together as a family.

Outside of her professional career, Fay

enjoyed shopping and hosting rummage sales. She proudly considered herself a fashionista and was known for her impeccable sense of style. She also enjoyed spending time chatting and sharing laughter with her sisters, sisters-in-law, and friends, nurturing the close relationships that meant so much to her.

Faye was a devoted member of Holmes Chapel in Monticello, Arkansas, where she faithfully attended services and remained actively involved in church activities. She willingly served through volunteering, hosting events, and fulfilling various responsibilities within the church community.

Faye was preceded in death by her parents, Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas; one brother, Pastor Willie Oscar Thomas; and one sister, Bishop Florida Mae Thomas Morehead.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Cornelious Branch; two sons, Cornelious D. Branch (Katie)and Christopher T. Branch (Stacy), both of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Jayden Branch and Aidan Branch of Jacksonville, Arkansas; Dylan Silverman of Conway, Arkansas; and Carli Branch, Kaitlyn Branch, Paige Price, and Blair Price, all of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; two sisters, Lois Jean Williams of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and Rosell Bryant (Ronnie) of White Plains, Maryland; along with a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory.

Visitation 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home Pine Bluff, AR.

Funeral Service will be held 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Old St. James Missionary Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Rev. Dr. Alford Branch officiating. Interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery Pine Bluff, Arkansas by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by The Family.

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03/11/2026

Mrs. Wanda Jean Mayweather was born on June 26, 1957, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to Margie Edmond and the late Jimmy C. Battles, Sr. She peacefully received her wings on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Jefferson Regional Medical Center.

At an early age, Wanda confessed her love for the Lord Jesus Christ. She was Baptist at Mount Carmel in Pine Bluff, AR. She graduated from Watson Chapel High School in 1976 and, after graduation, devoted her life to caring for and raising her children and spending time with her family.

Wanda was united in marriage to Allen Mayweather for 17 years until his passing in 2016. She was preceded in death by her husband, Allen Mayweather Sr.; her Father, Jimmy C. Battles Sr.; her son, Shanay Withers Sr.; her grandmother, Bertha Elkins; and her great-granddaughter, Kyra Tyrell.

Wanda was known for her strong work ethic and caring spirit. She worked as a cook in the kitchens of several nursing homes in Pine Bluff, including Davis Nursing Home and Pathfinder Nursing Home. She later began working at White Hall Nursing Home, now known as The Blossoms at White Hall, where she faithfully served for 20 years.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories her brother, Jimmy C. Battles of St. Louis, Illinois; three daughters, Carmelita Long, Lakiesha McAfee (JoJo), and Jaquiesha Buie; two sons, James Bearden and Donta Mayweather, all of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and dear friends who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

Although Wanda is no longer with us in body, her love, strength, and memories will remain in our hearts forever. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Visitation 5:00pm. to 6:00pm. Friday, March 13, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home, Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Funeral Service will be held 10:00am. Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Rev. Willie Laws officiating. Interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Pine Bluff, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR. Her body will lie in-state from 9:15am until service time.

Obituary submitted by The Family.

www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com

03/11/2026

Stanton Horatio Stallings, affectionately known as “Stan the Man,” was born on October 26, 1989, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to the late Keenan Horatio Stallings, Sr. and Theresa Denise Stallings.

At an early age, Stan professed his love for Christ and was baptized at Mount Harmony Baptist Church. His faith and upbringing helped shape the man many knew to be thoughtful, determined, and deeply devoted to those he loved.

Stan graduated from Santa Fe High School in Edmond, Oklahoma, in 2007. He had a genuine passion for spending time with family, cooking meals that brought everyone together, working on vehicles, and dreaming big about the future. Stan was known for his grand ideas and contagious optimism, often sharing his belief that “We Gone Be Big.” Though his dreams were larger than life, his heart was firmly rooted in what mattered most—his family. Above all, he cherished his children, who were the true joy and purpose of his life.

Stan was preceded in death by his father, Keenan Horatio Stallings, Sr.; his grandparents, Roosevelt and Flora Raglon, Sr.; and Jimmie Lee Whitfield.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving mother, Theresa Stallings; his children, Sophia, Carter, Keelan, and Denver; two bonus children, Kingston and Zamarion; his brothers, Keenan Stallings, Jr. and Tariq (Teresa); his sister, Crystal; his beloved fiancé, Ciara Johnson; and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives were touched by his presence.

Visitation 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home Pine Bluff, AR.

Funeral Service will be held 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Mt. Harmony Missionary Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Pastor Robert Handley officiating clergy. Interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Pine Bluff, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

The obituary submitted by The Family.

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03/07/2026

Mrs. Lena Faye Woods 68, of White Hall, Arkansas passed Monday, March 2, 2026.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 9, 2026 at St. Peter’s Rock Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Pastor George Waters, Jr. officiating. Interment 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2026 in Arkansas State Veteran Cemetery, N. Little Rock, Arkansas by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

03/03/2026

Mr. Columbus Burt 82, of Pine Bluff, AR passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026, at his residence. Mr. Burt was born on October 21, 1943, in Tarry, AR to the late Viola Neal and Tim Burt.

He attended Lincoln High School and later pursued higher education at A.M.& N. College, now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Mr. Burt dedicated 37 years of service to Union Pacific (Cotton Belt) Railroad as an engineer until his retirement. He was a devoted member of Pine Hill Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a Deacon. Known for his generous spirit, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Through his service, mentorship, and unwavering kindness, he touched many lives within his church and community.

He was preceded in death by his beloved spouse, Dorris Chapman Burt, his sisters, Jewellen Neal and Jessie Lee Neal and grandson, Jarrell Harden. His legacy of faith, service, and compassion will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

His memories will be forever cherished by his children: Gerone McDonald (Keresha), Star City, AR, LaMel Burt (Tina), Little Rock, AR, Dr. Rodney Burt (Janice), Nashville, TN, and Kevin Burt, Pine Bluff, AR; his 14 grandchildren: Chelsea, Alexander, Christopher, Madison, Peyton, TeErrica, Sabrena, Kenyon, Gerone, Jr., Jaida, Leotis, Kenyatta, Octavian, and Kevin Jr.; 30 great grandchildren; his brothers-in-law: Andrew Chapman, Sr., and Charles Harris; his cousins: Willie Everett, Jacqueline Townsend, and Roger Edwards; his special friend, Ms. Lois Reed; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones, and friends.

Visitation is 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Friday, March 6, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home, Pine Bluff, AR.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 am Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Pine Hill Baptist Church Pine Bluff, AR by Pastor Glenn Barnes, Sr. His body will lie in-state from 9:15 am until service time. Interment in Forrest Lawn Memorial Garden Pine Bluff, AR. Services entrusted to Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by The Family.

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02/27/2026

Ms. Carolyn Ann Fonville 64 of Jacksonville, Arkansas passed Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home, Pine Bluff, AR.

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02/27/2026

A service in honor of Christopher G. Lee will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2:00pm at New Direction Missionary Baptist Church, located at 3000 S. Louisiana Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71601. The repast will be held at 2101 E. 6th Ave, Pine Bluff, AR.

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02/27/2026

Samuel Lee Ankton
January 14, 1951 – February 17, 2026**

On a cold winter morning in Dalark, Arkansas, Bessie Ann Carr welcomed her second son, Samuel Lee Ankton, into the world. Born to Bessie and Roosevelt “Tip” Ankton, Sam was raised in the close‑knit community of Dalark, where family, faith, and fellowship shaped the foundation of his life. He accepted Christ at Mt. Olive AME Church, beginning a lifelong walk with the Lord.

Sam was the cherished grandson of Nick and Glennie Jones Carr, and his grandfather lovingly called him “Fitzhugh.” In the bustling Carr household—filled with siblings, cousins, and extended family—Sam grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the unbreakable bonds of kinship. Though the home was humble, it was rich in warmth, unity, and the values that would guide him throughout his life. He never considered himself poor; every need was met, and every heart around him was family.

He attended Sparkman Training School, graduating in 1968, and later earned his bachelor’s degree from AM&N College in Pine Bluff. With ambition and courage, Sam ventured beyond Arkansas, moving to Ypsilanti, Michigan, where he lived with his cousin, Rena Burroughs. He began a long and dedicated career with General Motors as an assembler, working faithfully until his retirement.

Sam had a quiet spirit and a generous heart. He enjoyed playing the lottery and was often blessed with winnings—blessings he freely shared with those he loved. His joy came not from the prize itself, but from giving.

In September 2015, Sam received a double lung transplant at the University of Michigan Medical Center. His recovery astonished his medical team—off the ventilator within 24 hours and home in less than two weeks. Though doctors wished to publish his remarkable story, Sam’s humble nature preferred to keep the attention away from himself. He simply thanked God and continued living with gratitude.

Family was the heartbeat of Sam’s life. He rarely missed a gathering and made yearly trips to Arkansas whenever his health allowed. Even as his health declined in the past year, he fought with quiet strength and unwavering determination. Though doctors had exhausted their options, Sam never surrendered his will to live.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Henry Ford St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, Sam peacefully gained his heavenly wings, surrounded by family and love. His transition was gentle, and his spirit was embraced by the same warmth that had carried him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Henry Ankton and Jerry Ankton; and cousins raised as siblings—Johnny Neal, Verdie Carr Jr., and Leonard Harris.

Sam leaves to cherish his memory:

Sisters: Diann (Michael) Epps of Little Rock, AR; Wanda Faye Browning of Arkadelphia, AR
Brothers: Randy (Marshall) Quarles Sr.; Louis Ankton of Dalark, AR; Vernon (Finas) Ankton of Benicia, CA
Sisters‑in‑law: Minnie Ankton of Dalark, AR; Mary Ankton of Little Rock, AR
Special cousins: Rena Burroughs and Glennie Neal of Ypsilanti, MI
Oldest cousin: Lou Nauden of Little Rock, AR
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who adored him deeply.
Sam’s life was a testament to humility, perseverance, and love. He lived quietly but left an unforgettable imprint on every heart he touched. His journey was one of grace, courage, and unwavering devotion to family. His memory will forever be a blessing.

Visitation 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church 56 Dallas 349, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Pastor TheResa Ngantchie is officiating Pastor Louis Craig is doing the Eulogy

Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church, 56 Dallas 349, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Interment in Piney Grove Church Cemetery, Dalark, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by the Family.

www.brownfuneralhomeandmortuary.com

02/27/2026

Mrs. Dorothy Mae Jackson Branch, age 99, was born March 15, 1926, in Dumas, Arkansas. She was the youngest of thirteen siblings born to Pearley Jackson and Georgia Harris Jackson. She was raised in a loving home where family, religion, and education were all important.

Dorothy joined Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Dumas, Arkansas at an early age. While attending school at Mt. Zion, her teacher, Mamie Mitchell, had a vision of her becoming a school teacher. In 1940, Mamie convinced Dorothy’s parents to invest in her future by enrolling her in an institution of higher learning. At the age of 14, Dorothy was enrolled in Morris Booker College in Dermott, Arkansas, where her parents paid her tuition fee of just $10 a month. She was always happy to tell children and anyone who would listen about her fifty-cents weekend and holiday train rides from Dumas to Dermott. While attending Morris Booker, Dorothy became the star of her basketball team. All her teammates called her “Dot.” Mamie’s vision of Dorothy becoming a teacher was overshadowed by Dorothy’s early marriage and motherhood. Dorothy’s early marriage ended, but not before producing two beautiful sons.

Later, as destiny would have it, Dorothy met John West Branch. They were married on June 30, 1946, in Watson, Arkansas where she became a member of St. John AME Church in Watson, Arkansas. To this union, they were blessed with 17 more beautiful children.

Dorothy was very gifted. She was known as one of the best cooks, hairdressers, and seamstresses around. There were times when school teachers would get off the school bus at her house to get their hair done. Dorothy loved working for people and making them happy. She was the best at not just spoiling her grandchildren. but nieces and nephews as well.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her mother, father, and all of her siblings. She was also preceded by her husband, John West Branch, three daughters — Mamie Lee Branch Moragne, Dorothy Ann Branch Rolfe, and Marine Branch, two sons — Chester Lee Perry and Linzey Lee Branch, three great grandsons-Maleek Thomas, Travis J. Branch, and Sincere T. Todd.

She leaves to cherish her memories, ten sons: Malcolm Perry of Roseville, California, John Willie Branch (Paula), Cornelious Branch (Harriette), and Cornovious Gene Branch (Annette) all of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, James Ivra Branch (Charmie) of Menifee, Arkansas, Donald Ray Branch (Alma) and Eisadore Charles Branch of Clarendon, Arkansas, Stanley Owen Branch (Carrie) of Royse City, Texas, Dr. Eddie Lee Branch (Deolinda) of White Hall, Arkansas, and Patrick Branch (Kim) of Hamilton, Ohio, four daughters: Loretta Branch Alexander of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Sana Fay Bryant (Melvin) of Stuttgart, Arkansas, Carolyn Branch of Sherwood, Arkansas, and Madie Marnette Branch Robinson (George) of Addison, Texas. She also leaves thirty -three grandchildren, fifty -four great children, and twenty -one great-great grandchildren

Visitation 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home-Dumas, in Dumas AR.

Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at P.B. First Assembly Church of God Pine Bluff, Presiding Elder James Hooper. Interment 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 2, 2026, in Porter Cemetery Watson, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by the Family.

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