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Byron Paul “P.A.” Ames
Byron Paul “P.A.” Ames passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026. He was born on November 23, 1949, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and lived a life marked by hard work, quiet strength, loyalty, and deep dedication to his family, his country, and the people around him.
Paul proudly served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1972. After his military service, he spent many years working for ABF Trucking as a Certified Master Mechanic. He was known for his skill, dependability, strong work ethic, and pride in a job well done. Following his retirement, Paul earned his associate degree and went on to teach at Pulaski Tech for more than a decade. He had a gift for teaching and mentoring, and he took great pride in helping guide young men as they learned a trade and prepared for their futures.
Those who knew Paul knew he could be stubborn, but they also knew that beneath that stubbornness was a deeply loyal and loving heart. He loved his family fiercely and showed his care through hard work, dependability, and being there when it mattered most. He and his wife, Deretha Ames, shared 53 years of marriage and a lifetime of memories together. They especially enjoyed traveling and riding motorcycles, spending countless miles together on the back of his Harley.
Paul was a devoted father to Corey Ames, Michael Ames and his wife, Nicki. He was also a proud grandfather to Jared, Shelby, Sawyer, and Samuel Ames. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter-in-law Crystal Ames, as well as by his brothers, Gary and Clay Ames, and many extended family members and friends.
A man of the Methodist faith, Paul carried steady values throughout his life. He believed in hard work, commitment, and taking care of the people he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Ames and Lorine Harris Ames, and his sister, Susan Leslie.
The family extends sincere gratitude to the staff of the VA ICU and the 6th Floor Medical and Palliative Care Unit for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Paul during the past month.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at Saline Independent Methodist Church at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Paul’s honor to the Veterans Affairs program assisting with the daily care of veterans at (501) 257-3288 or to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Byron Paul “P.A.” Ames will be remembered as a man who worked hard, loved his family deeply, served his country proudly, and made a lasting impact on the lives of those he taught, mentored, and loved.
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Tommy Howard Collier
Tommy Howard Collier, born March 25, 1954, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026. He was a dedicated and respected electrical engineer who began his career at Alcoa before becoming the owner of Collier Service Company. Tommy’s professional achievements reflect a life built on expertise, hard work, and commitment.
An active and devoted member of Spring Creek Baptist Church, Tommy found profound joy and community in his faith. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for camping and his cherished annual trips to deer camp, which brought him great happiness and camaraderie.
Tommy recently celebrated a new chapter in his life through his marriage to Devona Ann Collier. The couple deeply enjoyed spending time together, sharing moments filled with fun and companionship. His family was an enduring source of pride and joy. He is survived by his wife Devona Ann Collier; his son Alan Collier and wife Stacy Collier; his daughter Anne Morgason and husband Richard Morgason; grandchildren Levi Morgason, Leia Morgason, Alex Collier, and Charlee Collier. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Kathy Warford and husband Owen Warford, sister Otty Newcomb and husband Mickey Newcomb, brother Mike Collier and wife Tammy Collier, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Tommy was preceded in death by his first wife, Janet Delaine Collier, and his parents, Howard and Catherine Collier. His legacy is one of dedication, love for family, and a spirit enriched by faith and fellowship.
Tommy Howard Collier’s memory will forever be cherished by his loved ones, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was marked by strong character, unwavering integrity, and a deep Christian faith that guided the way he loved and cared for others. Through his devotion to his wife and his steadfast walk with Christ, Tommy’s life reflected the love and grace described in Ephesians 5:25. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faithfulness, and friendship that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
On Tuesday, May 12, a visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m. at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Benton, with the service following at 2:00 p.m.
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