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Ima Jean James, age 84, of Glen Rose, passed away Monday, January 26, 2026 at Heartland Rehab & Care Center after a long and difficult battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born August 20, 1941 in Huttig, Arkansas to Mildred and Audrey Laster who preceded her in death. Ima is also preceded in death by a beloved grandson, Ryan Martin James and two brothers, Jack Laster and Robert Fenner.
She worked many years at Arkansas State Hospital doing neurological testing. Ima was an avid reader, loved to crochet, rode her bicycle til the age of 80, and was a friend to all. She was a member of Reyburn Creek Missionary Baptist Church.
Ima is leaves behind her husband of 66 years, Phillip James; her cherished son, Robert James (Paige); granddaughter, Ashton Ritchie (Kyle); four beautiful great-grandchildren, Rylee, Kade, Reed, and Ruby Jo; a sister who loved her dearly, Elizabeth Mullins (Joe); and several nieces & nephews. She will live forever in our hearts.
Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 29 at Ashby Funeral Home with services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Todd Bray will be officiating.
Virginia Mae Kennedy, born on August 21, 1934, in Annona, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026. A devoted nurse, Virginia dedicated 24 years of her life to serving the community at Rogers Hall, Arkansas State Hospital for the Criminally Insane, where she exemplified independence and hard work. Her compassionate nature and genuine heart for helping those who were afflicted endeared her to many and left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Virginia was not only a professional but also a talented seamstress who treasured her family. She lovingly crafted matching Christmas dresses for her granddaughters, a testament to her creativity and the love she had for her family. Her spirit shone brightly in her role as a mother, embracing the unexpected joys of life, such as the time her daughter brought home hamsters, snakes, and even a chick that ultimately turned out to be a rooster!
In her leisure, Virginia found joy in gardening and bird watching, relishing in the beauty of nature. She had a particular fondness for dogs and built a cherished connection with them throughout her life. Virginia enjoyed purchasing jewelry from the Home Shopping Network and wore her pieces with pride, adding a sparkle to her warm and vibrant personality.
Virginia is survived by her beloved children, Jerald Wayne “Jerry” Kennedy and Linda Phillips-Maldonado. She was a devoted grandmother to Rachel Barnes and her husband Chase, Lauren Laney and her husband Marc, and Brian Phillips and his wife Brandi. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Jace Johnson, Gage Barnes, Paxton Barnes, Layton Barnes, Aubrie Barnes, and Brooklynn Phillips. Additionally, Virginia leaves behind a host of family and friends who will cherish the memories they made with her and will miss her dearly.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, Felix Edward Burrow and Lucille (Allen) Burrow, who undoubtedly influenced the kind-hearted woman she became.
A visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. The funeral service will follow on Saturday, February 7, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM, also at the Smith Family Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers include Brian Phillips, Chase Barnes, Jace Johnson, Gage Barnes, Paxton Barnes, and Layton Barnes.
Memorials may be made to the Saline County Humane Society, in honor of Virginia Kennedy, who adored dogs of all kinds. You can drop a bag of food or treats off or mail a donation to 7600 Bauxite Avenue, Bauxite, Arkansas 72011.
As we remember Virginia Mae Kennedy, we hold dear the love, laughter, and compassion she shared with all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and generosity.
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