Obituaries from Saline County Arkansas 10152026

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Don Edward Martin

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Don Edward Martin, affectionately known to many as Donny, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was 71 years old.

Don was born on December 27, 1954, at Hot Springs County Hospital in Malvern, Arkansas to Benjamin James “BJ” Martin and Maxine Callahan Martin. He spent his early childhood in Traskwood, Arkansas, before his family moved to Benton. He graduated from Benton High School in 1972 and then went on to attend the University of Arkansas, earning a degree in engineering. Don enjoyed a long and successful career as a civil engineer, working in both the public and private sectors before retiring at the age of 70.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin James “BJ” Martin and Maxine Callahan Martin.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Laurie Martin; his children, Ben Martin, Maggie Gocio, and Tom Martin; his grandchildren, Gabrielle Martin, Genevieve Martin, Samuel Martin, and Martin Gocio; and his brothers, Benny Martin and Stephen Martin.

Beyond his many professional accomplishments, Don found his greatest joy in the life he shared with those he loved. He cherished traveling and dancing with his wife, spending time on the golf course, playing Canasta with his children, and gathering his grandchildren onto his lap to tell them stories.

Don loved unconditionally. A man of extraordinary character, his life was defined by kindness, empathy, respect, and an unwavering devotion to his family. He was loyal, generous, and steadfast in his love, leading by example through the way he lived and treated others. To know Don was to know a truly good man. Though his passing leaves an absence that can never be filled, his love and wisdom has taken root in the hearts of his family, destined to grow and bloom for generations to come.

The family invites all who knew and loved Don to join them in celebrating his life at a visitation on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.

 

Roy Thomas “Tommy” Mitchell

Roy Thomas “Tommy” Mitchell, age 82, of Bryant, passed peacefully away October 8, 2026. He was born October 3, 1944 in Humboldt, Tennessee.

Tommy was very proud to be a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He spent 2 years in active duty and 3 years in the Navy Reserves. During his time in active duty, he was stationed aboard the U.S.S. Wasp.

Tommy spent the majority of his career in the retail grocery business. His early years were spent working as a merchandise specialist for Kroger. After leaving Kroger, he became the owner/operator of Mitchell’s Hillcrest Grocery in Benton until his retirement in 2001.

Tommy was a people person, he never met a stranger. He believed in keeping busy, he didn’t like just sitting around. His hobbies included fishing, gardening, playing the lottery and telling stories. His family was his biggest blessing. He was so proud of each of his children and grandchildren.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, James O. Mitchell Sr. and Sarah Elizabeth Dobbins Mitchell; wife, Linda Mitchell; brother, James O. Mitchell Jr.; sister, Mary Elizabeth McDermott; grandson, Zachary Clifton Peach; nephew, Paul McDermott; and best fur baby, Rex.

Tommy is survived by his daughter, Margo Peach (Jackie) and son, Michael Mitchell (Mandi). He was an amazing Papaw to eight grandchildren and an awesome Papaw to seven great-grandchildren and another great-grandchild to be born in November. Tommy is also survived by a niece, nephews, a host of other family & friends, and his fur baby Sadie.

Though our hearts are broken with his passing, we have peace knowing Tommy’s new found faith with our Lord and Savior.

A memorial graveside service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 30 at Memorial Park Cemetery @ 6707 Dollarway Rd in Pine Bluff, Ar 72012.

Even for the short time, the family would like to thank Hospice Home Care of Bryant for the love, kindness, and compassion they showed our Dad.

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Betty John Davis

Betty John Davis, age 90 of Benton, AR, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026.  She was at Saline Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family. Betty was born April 18, 1936, in Yell County, Arkansas to Earnest and Selma Choate. She graduated from Dardanelle High School.

Betty loved butterflies, the color pink, collecting pottery and southwestern art. She enjoyed word puzzles, crafting and reading, but was happiest when she was with family and close friends, Donna and Wilda.

Betty was a dedicated homemaker to her four children. Betty also worked for several years at UAMS as a receptionist. She and her first husband, Larry, moved several times for work before settling in Benton, AR. where she raised her four children. She was a leader in the Girl Scouts and actively participated in the daily lives of her kids. All of them graduated from Benton High School. Later in life she and her second husband, Jerry, moved to Tucson, Arizona where she lived for many years enjoying the sun, the climate, and the culture. She returned to Benton in 1998.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Selma Choate, her first husband, Larry Lorenson, second husband, Jerry Davis and by her son, Lance Lorenson.

Survivors include, Siblings-Rebecca McGuire, Donny Choate, Rodney Choate; Children-Cheryl Watson and husband Kirk, Mike Lorenson and wife Kellie, Taunia Rogers and husband Tom, Crystal Smith and husband Alan, Michille Simon and husband Gary; Grandchildren-Jennifer, Celeste, Julian, Kristin, James, Shon, Joanie, Josh, Brandy, Ben, Cayla, Grant, Krissy, Ethan, Brian, Lynn, Ryan, Samantha, Matt, Madalyn, Laurel, Ryan, Marygrace, Jason; Great Grands-Jada, Chrystiana, Keilie, Lane, Silas, Calan, Hazel, Baker, Brodi, Julia, Lindley Faye, Isla, Ferris and a great great grandchild, Josiah(LJ). She leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A private graveside service will be held at Cameron Cemetery for immediate family and friends.

Memorials may be made to Methodist Cemetery (Chickalah) at Chambers Bank in Dardanelle, AR 72834.

 

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