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Fred E. Briner
Fred E. Briner, a lifelong resident of Saline County and one of Arkansas’s longest-serving attorneys, passed away on June 28, 2026, at the age of 94.
Born and raised in Saline County, Fred witnessed nearly a century of growth and change in Arkansas and in many ways helped shape the community he loved. He was admitted to the Arkansas Bar in 1955 after graduating from the University of Arkansas where he earned both his Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor Degrees. During a distinguished legal career spanning more than seventy years, Fred earned the respect of colleagues, clients, judges and friends through his unwavering integrity, professionalism and commitment to serving the citizens of Benton, Saline County, and Central Arkansas.
Beyond the practice of law, Fred loved aviation and land development. He embraced the excitement and challenges new endeavors brought.
Perhaps Fred’s greatest gift was his willingness to share his wisdom and experience with others. He generously mentored younger generations, offering guidance, encouragement and practical knowledge gained through a lifetime of service and achievement.
Fred was truly a blessing to many and his legacy of service, leadership, friendship and generosity will endure for years to come.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Briner & Grace Cabe Briner, brother, Lewis Briner & his best friend for 62 years, Linda Brod.
He is survived by his sister, Coralie Stringham, several beloved nieces, nephews & cousins. His extended family, B.I. (Terry) Robertson, Staci (Dustin) Glover, Haley (Bralyn) Maynard; Paul Huber and David Huber; Susan Hinze, as well as MANY friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Fred’s life was marked by service, wisdom, and an enduring commitment to others. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Visitation will be 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 3 at the First United Methodist Church in Benton with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Bart Ferguson will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Saline County Historic & Heritage Society PO Box 1712 Benton, AR 72018-1712.
Mike Burgess
Mike Burgess, age 78, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, June 27, 2026. He was born in Conway, Arkansas, on January 12, 1948, to the late Cecil and Bobbye Burgess.
A man of exceptional character and dedication, Mike’s strong work ethic started at an early age when he helped his grandfather deliver eggs door-to-door as a teenager. He was a 1965 graduate of Guy-Perkins High School and later attended CBC in the late 1960s. It was during his college years that he met the love of his life, Karen. Together, they spent nearly 46 years building a lifetime of deep devotion, beautifully raising their blended families.
Mike’s natural drive and genuine care for people led him to successful professional careers with Teletype, Levi Strauss, ABF, MetLife, Mass Mutual, and Cetera Advisors. He took immense pride in his work as a financial advisor, viewing his clients not just as business relationships, but as extended family members whom he was deeply privileged to guide and help.
Mike was a dedicated man of faith, serving as a long-time member of Temple Baptist Church from 1980 to 2007, and later Geyer Springs First Baptist Church from 2007 to the present. He loved throwing parties for his Sunday School classes and work colleagues. Known for his absolute dependability, Mike made it a point to be 15 minutes early to every single place he went—whether it was a church service, a business meeting, or a casual dinner with family and friends. An avid Arkansas Razorbacks fan, Mike also found great joy in playing golf, hosting swimming parties, and traveling to Orange Beach with Karen. Above all, nothing brought a bigger smile to his face or greater pride to his heart than his grandchildren.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughter, Kim Caipen. His legacy lives on through his surviving family: his wife, Karen Burgess; his brother, Randy (Gigi) Burgess; his daughters, Katherine (Wess) Daniels and Jackie Lindsay; his four grandchildren, Rusty Caipen, Hayden (Bella) Smith, Evan Metzger, and Grace Daniels; and his two great-grandsons, Korbin and Tate Caipen.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life to be held immediately following the visitation at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Mike’s honor to Geyer Springs First Baptist Church, 12400 I 30, Little Rock, AR 72210.
James Everett Tweedle
James Everett Tweedle, age 83, known as Jimmie by friends and family, transitioned to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 29, 2026, at home in Bryant, Arkansas. James was born July 21, 1943, in Brinkley, Arkansas, to June and Jean Tweedle and was adopted by Robert and Leta Mae Deaton in 1945. In his youth, James loved all sports, including football, basketball, track, fishing, and hunting. James married his wife and best friend, Janet Ellis, on August 20, 1965.
James was born again through Jesus Christ on December 28, 1999, when he was 56 years old. He was semi-retired, working part-time for his Savior, Jesus. James loved his God, family, friends, and enemies. After being born again, James loved his church family dearly and had a new desire to talk to people about his Savior. Everywhere he went, especially Walmart, he witnessed to hundreds of people about Jesus while always wearing his well-known shirt that said, “Satan sucks, Jesus saves.”
James is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Janet Tweedle; his son, Jeff (Veronica) Tweedle; his daughter, Jana (Zach) Reeves; his grandchildren, Kolbi (Westley) Wuesthoff, Cameron Morris, Caden Tweedle, and Maddox Morris; his great-granddaughter, Blakely Wuesthoff; and many beloved extended family members, including his cherished church family and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his birth parents, H.T. and Emma Jean Warren; June and Dee Tweedle; and his beloved adoptive parents, Robert and Leta Mae Deaton, whose love, guidance, and unwavering devotion shaped the man he became.
Yesterday he was with his earthly family, but today he is with the Lord and his heavenly family. “If that doesn’t comfort you, you had better get right with God. Jesus is waiting on you 24/7—don’t get left behind.” Though he will be missed deeply, there is comfort in knowing exactly where he is: with his Lord and Savior in Heaven.
Satan sucks, Jesus saves. Ain’t God good!
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at Indian Springs Baptist Church, 23581 I-30, Bryant, Arkansas, with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Shady Grove Cemetery in Clarendon, Arkansas.
Serving as pallbearers are Chuck Allen, Jeff Gray, Alex Gilbert, Chris Vaughan, Tim Vaughan, Tony Tanner, and Jeremy Hobby.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to their church family, especially his men’s group, “Iron Men,” for faithfully walking alongside James throughout his journey, for their friendship, and for simply always being there.
In addition to flowers, memorial donations in James’ memory may be made to Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant, or First Assembly of God in Clarendon, so that the Gospel message he loved to share may continue reaching others.
Jerry Wayne Bonds
Jerry Wayne Bonds, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend peacefully departed this world on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family. Born on August 8, 1952, in Clinton, Arkansas, Jerry was a beacon of light and kindness in the lives of all who knew him.
Jerry was the beloved son of the late James Vernon Bonds and Amy Passmore Bonds, who instilled in him the values of compassion and integrity that he carried throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents and now joins them in eternal peace.
Jerry’s journey was marked by a lifelong commitment to his family and community.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 31 years, Renee Bonds, who was his steadfast partner and the love of his life. He leaves a legacy of love that will endure through his children: Michael Bonds and his wife Tammy, Timothy Bonds Sr., and Ashley Bonds, all residing in Sherwood, Arkansas. Jerry’s grandchildren: Timothy Jr., Amy, Lily, Kloee, and Grace were his pride and joy, each holding a special place in his heart, along with two great-grandchildren, Sage and Luca. Jerry shared a close bond with his siblings throughout his life. He is survived by two brothers: Ronnie and his wife Susan, and Roger, all of Clinton, Arkansas. His sisters, Kay Brown and her husband Dan of Clinton, Linda Gramling and her husband Stan of Cabot, and Nancy Weaver and her husband Paul of Ogden, Utah, will forever cherish the memories they created together. His extended family of numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends will forever remember his warmth and generosity.
A proud graduate of Clinton High School in 1970, Jerry pursued further education at Petit Jean Vo-Tech, where he studied computer science. His career began in heating and air conditioning, but his talents and dedication led him to a distinguished 36-year tenure at Dillard’s department stores. Jerry retired as the director of shared services in data processing.
Jerry was a member of Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Beyond his professional life, Jerry found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a passion for playing golf, tending to his cows at PeeDee Creek, and hunting with his favorite buddies. Above all, Jerry treasured the moments spent with his family, who were the cornerstone of his happiness. Known for his infectious kindness and warm spirit, Jerry never met a stranger. His genuine nature and open heart endeared him to everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering kindness will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.
Memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, July 7, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street in Benton, Arkansas.
As we gather to celebrate Jerry Wayne Bonds’ remarkable life, we remember a man whose presence made the world a better place. His laughter, love, and legacy will forever remain in our hearts, reminding us of the profound impact one life can have.
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Karen Ann (Keeley) Knoedl
Karen Ann (Keeley) Knoedl, 74, passed away on June 26, 2026. Born on December 16, 1951, to Ira Neal Keeley and Emma Jean Keeley, Karen lived a life full of love, grit, and fierce devotion to the people lucky enough to call her their own.
A 1970 graduate of Hall High School, Karen met the love of her life, Jim, in 1976, and the two were married in 1977. She earned her nursing license in 1978 and served as an LPN for 35 years, finding her true calling in hospice care over the final 12 years of her career. Named Hospice Nurse of the Year in 1996, she was an angel to countless families through the hardest days of their lives before retiring in 2013.
In her younger years, Karen loved camping at Lake DeGray, fishing with Jim, shopping with her mother, and the all day Saturday lunches with the whole family gathered at her parents’ home. After losing Jim, she spent her time on long phone calls with her best friend, Michelle, shopping & getting her nails done with her daughter, Tiffany, weekend adventures with her sister Tootie and niece Stacey and above all she loved being with her grandson, Hunter, who was never too busy for a Diet Coke run and an episode or two of Judge Judy.
In her own words Karen wrote that Hunter brought her such joy & love that she did not know if her heart was big enough to hold it all.
Karen was a devoted daughter, a fiercely loving mother, and a sister so spicy that only Wayne and Tootie could handle her. She was fierce, feisty, and exactly the person you wanted in your corner, because she was not afraid to fight. She loved deeply and was loved deeply, especially by Jim, her husband of 47 years, with whom we have no doubt she is dancing with in Heaven right now.
Karen is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Knoedl; her parents, Ira Neal and Emma Jean Keeley; and her nephew, Caleb Scott Smith.
She is survived by her daughter, Tiffany McCormick, and son-in-law, Derek McCormick; her sister and brother-in-law, Carolyn (Tootie) and Carl Bores; her brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Louise Keeley; her niece, Stacey Murray, and husband, Chris Murray; her nephew, Michael Bores, and wife, Sherry Bores; her lifelong best friend, Michelle Jenkins; her faithful dog, Henry James Knoedl McCormick; and the great joy of her life, her grandson, Hunter Jackson Dye.
She was loved beyond measure, and she will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant, Arkansas. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with burial to follow at 2:00 p.m.
If you would like to send flowers, her favorite color was purple.
If you would like to have a full obituary published with pictures, click here to get started: www.mysaline.com/submit-obits
