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Janice Kay Loyd
Janice Kay Loyd (69) (Cumbie, Whittle) of Benton, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an unforgettable warmth that touched everyone she met.
Born to Inez and Harold Cumbie on March 8, 1957, in Benton, Arkansas, Janice grew up in a military family. Her childhood had many adventures alongside her brothers, Don and Dennis, and her close-knit circle of friends from Benton High School. It was during these early years that she developed the big personality and welcoming spirit that would define her life. Janice was also well-loved by her colleagues throughout her career, eventually retiring after sixteen years at Almatis.
Janice found a faithful copilot in life when she married Robert. He wasn’t just her husband, but her best friend. Together they shared a love for the outdoors, often fishing and casting lines and finding peace on the water. Whether relaxing at the lake with friends and family or spending time at deer camp, Janice was always happiest surrounded by the people she loved. Above all else, Janice adored her family. She was the “Glue” that held many things together, happiest when hosting family suppers or sitting on her porch late into the evening, surrounded by conversation and laughter. As a mother and the absolute best “Nana,” she poured her heart into her children and eight grandchildren. She never missed a chance to play with them, and she was always the best cheerleader in the crowd, proudly rooting for her grandkids at their ball games.
Often referred to as the “Most Fun person in the Room”, Janice had a distinctive, infectious laugh and a wonderful sense of humor that put others at ease. She embodied the very best qualities of a well-lived life: unconditional love, a great sense of humor, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family. Janice’s bright spirit and huge heart will be dearly missed, but the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Emma Inez Cumbie and Harold Ervin Cumbie, and William Frank Whittle (previous husband).
She is survived by her husband, Robert Loyd; brother, Don Cumbie and wife Karen; brother, Dennis Cumbie and wife Kim; son Stephen Buckley Whittle; son Patrick Blake Whittle and wife Laura Ruhl-Whittle; step-children, Amanda Eryn Andres and husband John Andres and Robert Glen Loyd, Jr. and wife Brittany Loyd; grandchildren, Lily Whittle, Foxley Whittle, Aiden Whittle, Abigail Andres, Drake Andres, Harper Loyd, Brantley Renfro, and Ashlyn Loyd; aunt Ramona Elrod; niece Lara Cumbie Davis and husband James Davis, great nieces, Lily Davis and Peyton Davis.
Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 16, at Ashby Funeral Home, with a celebration of her life beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Brian “Randy” Lemons
Brian “Randy” Lemons, age 68, of Alexander, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026. He was born January 25, 1958 in Newport, Arkansas. Randy was a photographer, a U.S. Marine Corp Veteran and a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Lemons and Audrey Balch Lemons; brothers, Jimmie Lemons and John Burgin; and a nephew, Tim Burgin.
Randy is survived by his wife, Michelle Cole Lemons; daughters, Amy Newnum and husband Gil, and Brittny Smiley; brother, Charles Burgin and wife Carol; sister, Linda Wymer and husband Troy; grandchildren, Hannah, Emilee, Quade and Lilly; and special friends, Kimberly Ryan and Shawn Herrington.
Pallbearers will be Quade Smiley, Mike Burgin, Mike Cole, Mike Lee, Shawn Herrington, and Glen Elliott. Honorary pallbearers will be Russell Burgin, Greg Burgin, Dave Wymer, and Richie Burgin.
Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 18 at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Rev. David Wright and Rev. Paul Vincent will be officiating. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
Patsy Jo Barrett Wills
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Patsy Jo Barrett Wills, born August 31, 1950, to the late Robert Luther Barrett and Katherine Joe Easter. She passed from this world peacefully on July 12, 2026, after losing a short battle with Leukemia.
She was a beloved Wife, Mother, Oma, and Friend, cherished by all who knew her. She never met a stranger whose day she didn’t try to make a little brighter. Her favorite thing to do was to dress up for each holiday; whether it was a festive shirt or a full blown costume with a wig. If there was silliness and laughter, she was always a part of it. She loved going to the Senior Center and hanging out with her friends there.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Paul Lee Wills Sr., her children, Jennifer Picklesimer (Mark), Paul Wills Jr., Brandon Wills, Brittany Putman (Richard), five grandsons; Matthew, Jacob, and Joshua Picklesimer, and Levi and Logan Putman. Robert Barrett (brother), Donnie Easter (half-brother), Betty Bates (half-sister),Cathy Boling (Cousin) and many longtime friends.
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16th, from 6-8pm at Ashby’s Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place Friday, July 17th, at 10am at Ashby’s as well. Burial to follow at New Rosemont Cemetery in Benton.
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Thomas Gregory Wells
Thomas Gregory Wells, aged 66 of Little Rock, AR, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July m1th, 2026.
Born February 7, 1960, in Aschaffenburg. Germany, Tom was the beloved son of Raymond and Margaret Wells.
He grew up in Aurora, Colorado and graduated from Hinkley High School in 1978. He then served 4 years in the United States Marine Corp., followed by 4 years in the United States Navy on the USS Coral Sea, Receiving Honorable Discharge from both. Tom dedicated 28 years to a fulfilling career as a Records Technician at St. Vincent’s Infirmary, where he was known for his dedication. Outside of work, Tom enjoyed Bible Studies, taking drives, gardening and spending time with his Best Friend Elaine. He will be remembered for his warmth and kind heart.
Tom was preceded in death by his Parents Margaret and Raymond (Dora) Wells; Brothers, Willis Moring and Wayne Moring and Sister, Wanda Connell.
He is survived by his sister, Sandy Murphy (Billy); Brother-in-law, Thomas Connell; as well as a loving circle of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Graveside Service will be officiated by Brother Robert Standley at Corinth Cemetery in Sheridan, AR on Thursday, July 16th, 2026, at 11 a.m.
Justin Wyatt Diez
Justin Wyatt Diez, age 47, of Paron, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2026. He was born on September 13, 1978, in San Diego, California.
Justin was the owner and operator of a residential construction business, where his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident in everything he did. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, taking great pride in the life he built for those he loved. While he was a hardworking man, his greatest accomplishment was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
A simple man with a big heart, Justin always put his family first. He loved deeply and lived life to the fullest, finding joy in the little things. Music was one of his greatest passions, and he could always appreciate a good laugh through comedy. He enjoyed spending time on the golf course, relaxing with an occasional beer and cigarette, and embracing his cowboy spirit. Justin loved attending rodeos, especially watching the bull riding and cheering on the young cowboys during mutton busting. He treasured time spent with his family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 14 years, Shauna Diez; his children, Brianna Andrews and husband, Aaron, Austin Diez and wife, Abigail, and Adeline Diez; his beloved grandchildren, Brooks Andrews, Waylon Diez, and one precious grandchild on the way; his father, James “Jim” Diez; his siblings, Jim Diez and wife, Olivia, Jolene Nolta and husband, Paul, Jessica Seal and husband, Greg, and Joey Emanuelli and husband, Brian; his lifelong best friend, Rocky Ward; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Christine “Chrys” (Garand) Diez, and his grandparents.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Justin’s life during a visitation on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 North Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the funeral home.
Justin may have left this earth, but he will never leave the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy of hard work, unwavering devotion to his family, generous spirit, and love for life will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Brittany Lee Zuber
Brittany Lee Zuber 37, of Benton, Arkansas passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on July 12, 2026. Born on June 4, 1989, Brittany lived with a strength that inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her.
At just 26 years old, she was diagnosed with cancer and began a journey that would span more than eleven years. Through countless surgeries, treatments, setbacks, and victories, she faced every challenge with unwavering determination. Brittany refused to let cancer define her life or steal the precious time she had with those she loved. She never quit. She fought with everything she had, not for herself alone, but for her daughter and husband, who were her entire world.
Brittany graduated from Bryant High School before earning her bachelor’s degree at UALR. She worked as a chemist at Rineco and later alongside her husband in his business, yet her greatest accomplishment was never found in a career- it was being Britan’s mom. She cherished every moment spent raising her daughter. Being a wife and mother was the greatest joy of her life.
Brittany wasn’t loud about her strength, but everyone who knew her recognized it. She was hardheaded, fiercely independent, and incredibly strong-willed. Those very qualities made her one of the toughest people many had ever known. Beneath that strength was a heart full of kindness, loyalty, and compassion. She loved deeply and gave generously to the people blessed to call her family and friend.
Brittany found peace in God’s creation. She never met an animal she didn’t love (or want to bring home). An avid hunter, she cherished every opportunity to be in the woods and had a gift for growing just about anything. She also enjoyed arts and crafts, crocheting, and digging for crystals on her own land. Whether she was wearing boots in the outdoors or dressing up for a special occasion, Brittany embraced every part of life with her whole heart. Some of her happiest moments were spent watching Britan show cattle, memories she treasured with immense pride.
Above all, Brittany’s faith never wavered. As a devoted Christian and faithful member of Congo Methodist Church, she leaned on the Lord through every season of life. Even on her hardest days, her steadfast faith gave her strength, hope, and peace that inspired everyone around her.
Left to cherish her beautiful life are her devoted husband of 16 years, Tanner Zuber; her precious daughter, Britan Adele Zuber; her father, Ronnie Lee (Donna) Starrett; mother, Paula Renee Hardin; sister, Skylar Shyanne (Logan) Estell; grandmother, Ladean (John) Rethford; mother and father-in-law, Travis and Shelly Zuber; brother-in-law, Tyler (Hannah) Zuber; niece, Hadley Zuber; bonus great-grandparents, Faye Perryman and Troy and Janette Zuber; her best friend, Rachel Dennis; and countless extended family members and friends whose lives are richer because they knew her.
She was welcomed into Heaven by her grandparents, Leon and Betty Starrett and Audrey Larea Robinson, as well as her sister, Amber Renee Starrett.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Isaam Makhoul, M.D. for his extraordinary care, compassion, and unwavering commitment throughout Brittany’s journey. They also sincerely thank Baptist Hospice, Josh Brahler, and Dee Dee Perry for the kindness, comfort, and faithful support they provided. The family is especially grateful to Donnie Deaton for the beautiful bottomland scene he painted on Brittany’s casket, transforming her dream into a reality.
A visitation celebrating Brittany’s life will be held Friday, July 17, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 North Market Street, Benton, Arkansas, with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Old Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the college fund established for Britan Adele Zuber, helping provide for the future of the daughter Brittany loved beyond measure. Donation information and a secure link will be shared as soon as they become available. Please check back for updates.
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