YELL County Arkansas Obits ..... and More
YELL County Obituaries
Pitts, Christina Michelle -- Pledger, Lucille Weems
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Christina Michelle Pitts, 37, of Dardanelle, died Monday, June 28, 2010, in Yell County. Arkansas. She was born June 10, 1973 in Russellville and was the daughter of Jerry and Judy McCain Pitts.
She was preceded in death by her mother; and her brother. Carl Lee Pitts.
She is survived by a son, Nick Bischel; two daughters, Joanna Diana Mac Hunt; her father and step-mother, Jerry and Lynn Pitts; two sisters, Christy and Brandi Haynes; and a brother, Jarimy "Buzz" Burns. Memorial services were held July 10, 2010, at Bells Chapel Assembly of God Church, the Rev. Peggy Foster officiated.
Lemley Funeral Service. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas; Obituary was published on Wednesday, July 7, 2010)
Edward Levi Pitts, age 73 of Dardanelle, died Thursday, March 13, 2003 at his home. Born February 12, 1930 in Clarksville, Arkansas, he was the son of the late Charlie and Sylvia Lund Pitts. He was a black smith by trade and was retired from Ladish Company Inc.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mary Nell Mortensen and Anna Bell Gilbert.
Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Helen Ashlock Pitts; sons and daughter-in-law, Houston and Anita Pitts of Jacksonville, David Pitts of Lamar, Toby Pitts of Dardanelle, and Cary Pitts of Dardanelle; a daughter and son-in-law, Sylvia and Henry McClure of Dardanelle; a brother, Harold Pitts of Clarksville and Verna Duncan of Duncan, Arizona; 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
Funeral services were Sunday, March 16, 2003 at Cornwell Chapel Dardanelle with Rev. Vernon Bass officiating. Interment was in Hagarville Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Kenny Skaggs, Keith Skaggs, Lou Palmer, Mike Sanburn, Ronnie Ashlock, and Alan Ashlock. Honorary were Howard Chaney, Sonny Breashers, Jim Holt, and Luther Lievsay. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, March 19, 2003)
Elizabeth Ann "Lizz" Pitts, age 72, a resident of Ola, died Friday, May 20, 2011, at her home following a seven and half year battle with lymphoma. She was born May 9, 1939, at Little Rock to Lucille Hale and grew up in Ola. She was a Christian and member of the First Baptist Church of Ola, where she served as the church treasurer for many years. She graduated from Ola High school in 1957 and married Louis Edwin Pitts on August 16, 1958. She was a wife, mother, Maw and Maw-Maw to her husband, children and grandchildren. She worked 15 years at Wayne Poultry before going to Capitol City Business College in Russellville. After completing coursework, she worked for Dr. Damon Martin in Ola for over 30 years. She was an accomplished quilter who made sure each of her children and grandchildren received a handmade quilt before her death.
She was preceded in death by her mother and stepfather, Lucille Hale Payne and Leonard E. Payne.
She is survived by her husband, Louis Pitts of Ola; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Frankie Sue and William J. Wilson of Ola and Rosie and Willie Swaffar of Morrilton; her children, Susan Pitts of Little Rock, Stephen D. Pitts and his wife, Mary of Jonesboro and Stacy McConnell and her husband, Stephen of Ola; a grandson, Cody Burfield and his partner, Chelsey Thaxton of Ola; and three granddaughters, Cady Daugherty of Pottsville, Lillie and Sarah Pitts, both of Jonesboro. A memorial service was Sunday, May 22, 2011, at the First Baptist Church at Ola with the Rev. William C. Hatfield officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church building fund, Post Office Box 232, Ola, Arkansas 72853. The online obituary and guest- book are available at www.shinnfuneral.com (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on May 25, 2011)
Mrs. Flora Elizabeth Pitts, aged 83, of Nederland, Texas, formerly of Ola, died October 10, 1974. She was a member of Ola Methodist Church and the Order of Eastern Star.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Herbert May of Texas; two brothers, J. P. Briggs of Briggsville and C. S. Briggs of Oregon, and a grandchild.
Funeral was Monday at 2 p.m. at Ola Methodist Church. Burial was at Briggs Cemetery at Briggsville. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Published in Dardanelle Post-Dispatch, 10/17/1974)
James Calvin Pitts, age 71, of Dardanelle died Saturday, June 29 at his home in Dardanelle. He was born October 10, 1941 at Mt. George, Arkansas to the late Alfred Lee and Nettie Lee Gooch Pitts. He was a member of the Ola First Baptist Church, a member of the 212 Signal Division Army National Guard in Danville for 39 years and retired after working 33 years at Con Agra Frozen Foods in Russellville. He enjoyed reading, watching the animals play in the yard and going to yard sales. Most of all James loved his family especially the time he spent with his wife.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Ellen Ilene Freeman Pitts, children, Teresa Sue Kisling and Mary Campbell both of Ola; James Allen Pitts of Russellville; Michael Alan Pitts, Kyra Pitts, Alex Pitts and Travis Pitts all of Dardanelle, brother, Charles L. Pitts of Fredrick, Oklahoma; sisters, Carolyn S. Ferguson of Dumas, Texas; Mary Jackson of Belleville; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 10 AM, Wednesday, July 3, 2013 at the First Baptist Church in Ola with Brother Charles Lewis officiating. Burial will be in Petillo Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Charles Palmer, Dennis Gist, Andy Johnson, David Cosby, J.D. Wood, Eddy Boggs and Johnny Hamilton. Honorary pallbearers will be Members of 212 Signal Division Army National Guard in Danville. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on July 3, 2013)
James Calvin Pitts, age 71, of Dardanelle died Saturday, June 29 at his home in Dardanelle. He was born October 10, 1941 at Mt. George, Arkansas to the late Alfred Lee and Nettie Lee Gooch Pitts. He was a member of the Ola First Baptist Church, a member of the 212 Signal Division Army National Guard in Danville for 39 years and retired after working 33 years at Con Agra Frozen Foods in Russellville. He enjoyed reading, watching the animals play in the yard and going to yard sales. Most of all James loved his family especially the time he spent with his wife.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Ellen Ilene Freeman Pitts, children, Teresa Sue Kisling and Mary Campbell both of Ola; James Allen Pitts of Russellville; Michael Alan Pitts, Kyra Pitts, Alex Pitts and Travis Pitts all of Dardanelle, brother, Charles L. Pitts of Fredrick, Oklahoma; sisters, Carolyn S. Ferguson of Dumas, Texas; Mary Jackson of Belleville; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 10 AM, Wednesday, July 3, 2013 at the First Baptist Church in Ola with Brother Charles Lewis officiating. Burial will be in Petillo Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Charles Palmer, Dennis Gist, Andy Johnson, David Cosby, J.D. Wood, Eddy Boggs and Johnny Hamilton. Honorary pallbearers will be Members of 212 Signal Division Army National Guard in Danville. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on July 3, 2013)
Ola Man Is Killed By Truck - Jim Pitts, age 56, of Ola was killed Tuesday afternoon when the rear wheel of a logging truck ran over him as he jumped from the end of the vehicle. The accident occurred about a quarter of a mile north of Ola. Pitts was employed by I. T. Keller, logging contactor, and was returning home when the accident occurred.
State Trooper, Dick Keathley, Sheriff Earl E. Ladd and Deputy Eugene, Weatherall, who investigated the accident said Pitts clothes apparently caught on the truck bed from which he jumped, throwing him under the wheel. The truck driven by Johnny Edmonds, had nearly come to a stop. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas - Originally published on Thursday, October 12, 1950)
Mae Neal Britton Pitts age 78 of London died Wednesday, April 5, 2006 at Saint Mary's Regional Hospital. She was born September 8, 1927 at Heath, AR to the late Albert and Bursie Lee Smith Bell.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Burlie Britton; two sisters, Coreen Lee and Ruby McCloud.
Survivors include five sons, Ray Britton, Larry Britton, Lee Britton, Don Britton, all of London, Jim Britton of Atkins; three daughters, Doris Willis of Coal Hill, Kay Hobson of Kingston, TN, Carol Burk of London; twenty-six grandchildren; forty six great grandchildren; two brothers, J. R. Ross of Beebe, Boyd Ross of London, and a host of nephews, nieces, family and friends.
Graveside services were held Saturday, April 8, 2006 at East Point Cemetery in London. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Dardanelle. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 12, 2006)
Nettie Lee Pitts, age 94, of Ola passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at Chambers Memorial Hospital. She was born October 7, 1917 in Centerville, AR, to the late George C. & Mary Lee Holley Gooch. She was a mother and homemaker and was retired nurses aid from the Yell County Nursing Home. She was a member of the Ola First Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband of many years, Alfred Lee Pitts; brothers, Alton, Earnest, William (Bill), Lester & Chester Gooch; sisters, Thelma Hunt, Lela Heard and Pearl Davis; and one great grandchild.
Survivors include sons, James Calvin & Ilene Pitts of Centerville; Charles Lee & Debbie Pitts of Frederick, OK; daughters, Carolyn & Jerry Ferguson of Dumas, TX; Mary Lou Jackson of Belleville; brother, Tommy Gooch of Mt George; 13 granclchildren; 22 great- grandchildren and 17 great- great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral service was March 30, 2010 at Ola First Baptist Church with Rev. Tim Hatfield officiating. Burial was at Petillo Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers include grandson & great-grandsons. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home Danville Online guestbook and condolence at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on Apr 4, 2012)
William Alexander Pitts, aged 79, a retired merchant of Ola, died March 8, 1960 at the Yell County Hospital. He was a Methodist and a Mason.
Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Flora Briggs Pitts of Ola; a daughter, Mrs. Herbert Mays of Nederland Tex. two brothers, R. B. and Earl Pitts of Heavener Okla. a sister, Mrs. C. B. Ladd of Bennington, Okla. and a grandchild. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, March 17, 1960)
Haroldena West Plante died on November 1, 2004. She was born July 18, 1921 at Sugar City, Colorado.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Hazel Bozarth and a sister, Hope Audrey Booth.
Survivors include three sons, Jack West, Jim West and his wife Karen of Wichita, KS, Dale West and his wife, Sandy of Las Vegas, NV; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren; a great-great grandchild; two brothers, Henry Bozarth and his wife Donna of Wichita KS, Harlan Bozarth and his wife Kathy of Danville, KY; a sister, Arline Gray and her husband Everett, Sr. of Havana, AR. Memorials may be made to the Harry Hynes Memorial, Hospice 313 S. Market, Wichita, KS. Funeral
Service was held in Kansas. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, November 10, 2004)
Harold Odell Pledger, Sr. 80 of Danville, AR died Tuesday, January 16, 2007, at Chambers Memorial Hospital. Born August 14, 1926, in Belleville, AR he was the son of the late Paul Austin and Laymon Millard Pledger. He was a retired produce salesman and a member of Danville First Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Pledger and a granddaughter, Savannah Pledger.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Pat Nelson Pledger; two sons and daughters-in-law, Harold Jr. and Becky Pledger of Danville and Craig and Debbie Pledger of Bella Vista; a daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Rick Millsap of Danville; six grandchildren, Alicia and Daniel Uptagrafft of East End, Matthew and Susan Millsap of Forth Worth, TX, Sarah and Stuart Creamer of Bella Vista, Darren Pledger of Conway and Marissa Pledger and Bladen Pledger, both of Bella Vista; great-grandchildren, Taylor Uptagrafft, Blake Uptagrafft, Natalie Millsap, Nathan Uptagrafft, and another arriving in September.
Funeral was Friday, January 19 at Danville First Baptist Church with Brother Bobby Walker, Brother Jamie Staley, and Brother Matthew Millsap officiating. Burial was at Earl Ladd Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Doug Miller, Pledger Ball, Daniel Uptagrafft, Stuart Creamer, Darren Pledger and Matthew Millsap. Honorary pallbearers were Gordan Rhoades, Bud Hancock, Wayne Smith and Jack Wilson. Memorials may be made to Danville First Baptist Church, PO Box 877, Danville, AR, 72833. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, January 24, 2007)
Funeral for Miss Adelia Pledger, 87, who died Saturday in a Danville hospital, was Sunday in the Belleville Methodist Church by Rev. Farmer.
Burial was in Belleville Cemetery. She was a resident of Belleville and a native of Delaware.
She is survived by a sister. Mrs. J. M. Littlejohn of Okmulgee. Okla. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on Jun 21, 1962)
Artemes Pledger, age 82 of Plainview, AR, died Wednesday, January 3, 2001 at the Arkansas Heart Hospital in Little Rock, AR. He was born in the Waltreak Community, in Yell County, AR on March 14, 1919 to the late Thomas Allen and Maude Walker Pledger. He was a retired farmer, sawmill laborer, helped build Nimrod Dam and had worked for Roselawn Cemetery in Little Rock for 18 years and had worked at the Mabelvale Ball Park. He was also preceded in death by an infant son, Hoyt Wayne Pledger; a brother, Boyd Pledger and a sister Sybil Ward.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Ruby Nell Wigley Pledger; a son, Gerald Pledger of Ola, AR; a daughter, Ann Abernathy of Ola, AR; two brothers, Hurbert Pledger, Cabot, AR and J. V. Pledger, No. Little Rock, AR; four sisters, Lois Fox, Casa, AR, Mae Chaney, Little Rock, AR, Reba Young and Ola Young, Pine Bluff, AR; five grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and cousins.
Funeral service was January 6, 2001 at Cornwell Funeral Home Chapel in Danville, AR. Burial was in Sandlin Cemetery in Ola, AR. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville, AR (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, January 10, 2001)
Artemes Pledger, age 82, of Plainview, AR died Wednesday, January 3, 2001 at the Arkansas Heart Hospital in Little Rock, AR. He was born in the Waltreak Community, in Yell County, Arkansas on March 14, 1919 to the late Thomas Allen and Maude Walker Pledger. He was a retired farmer, sawmill laborer, helped build Nimrod Dam and had worked for Roselawn Cemetery in Little Rock, AR for 18 years and he had worked at the Mabelvale Ball Park.
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Hoyt Wayne Pledger, a brother, Boyd Pledger and a sister, Sybil Ward.
Survivors include, his wife, of 63 years, Ruby Nell Wigley Pledger; a son, Gerald Pledger of Ola; a daughter, Ann Abernathy of Ola, AR; brothers, Hurbert Pledger, Cabot, AR., J. V. Pledger of No. Little Rock, AR; sisters, Lois Fox, Casa, AR, Mae Chaney of Little Rock, AR, Reba Young and Ola Young of Pine Bluff, AR; five grandchildren, Rhonda Anderson, Matthew Pledger of Russellville, AR, Melissa Thompson, Rachel Pledger and Nikki Pledger of Ola, AR; six great-grandchildren, Mason Anderson, Julia Mills, Alex Mills, Elijah Pledger, Leandrea Pledger and Tazie Shorey all of Russellville, AR and many nephews, nieces and cousins,
Funeral service was January 6, 2000 at Cornwell Funeral Home Chapel in Danville, AR. Burial was in Sandlin Cemetery in Ola, AR. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, January 17, 2001)
Mrs. Bertha B. Pledger, age 87, of Danville, died Wednesday, December 25 in the Yell County Hospital at Danville. She was a native of Chickalah, and was a life long resident of Yell County. She was the daughter of the late James M. and Emily Neal Barnett and the widow of the late James Virgil Pledger. Mrs. Pledger was a member of the United Methodist Church.
Survivors include four sons, Raymond, Verl, Robert and Clarence Pledger, all of Danville; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Friday, December 27 at the Danville United Methodist Church with Rev. Joe Kennedy officiating. Interment was at the Chickalah Cemetery. Arrangement and services were in care of Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,The Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on Jan 2, 1975)
Clarence M. Pledger, age 66, of Danville, died Sunday evening, February 16, 1986, at his home. Mr. Pledger was a native of Belleville, former owner and operator of the Danville Tractor Company. A veteran of W. W. II and the Korean War, son of the late James and Bertha Barnett Pledger. Mr. Pledger was a member of the Danville United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Jean Skeen Pledger, one daughter, Kay P. Wray of Russellville. Three brothers Raymond Pledger, Verl "Abe" Pledger and Bob Pledger all of Danville. Two grandchildren; Hunter Maxwell Wray and Scott Pledger Wray both of Russellville.
Funeral Services were at Danville United Methodist Church, February 18, with the Rev. Mike Morey, officiating. Interment in the Earl Ladd Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jim Pledger, John Pledger, Bill Pledger, Bob Pledger, John Gault and B. J. Dunn. Arrangements and services in care of Cornwell Funeral Service. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Submitted by: Patron, Newspaper: , 2/16/1986)
Earl Pledger, age 88, of Danville, a longtime postmaster at Blue Mtn AR and formerly a postal employee at Belleville, died March 7, 2006. Pledger, a well known veteran of World War II, and a past treasurer of Russell Cemetery in Belleville, personally placed a flag on every veterans grave before each decoration at the cemetery. He was an Air Force veteran where he was a B17 right wing gunner. He received a Purple Heart, Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters, and European African Middle Eastern Theater Medal with one Bronze Star. He was a member of the 457th and the 748th Bomb Squadron Group Association, Eighth Air Force Historical Society, American Legion and a DAV life member.
Funeral services were held March 10 at Cornwell Funeral Home Chapel in Danville. See complete obituary this issue. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, March 15, 2006)
Earl Nathan Pledger, age 88, of Danville, AR, died Tuesday, March 7, 2006. He was born in Belleville, AR on July 9, 1917 to John Simeon and Willie Austin Sanders Pledger. He was a retired Blue Mtn. Postmaster. He was a member of the Belleville United Methodist Church, a WWII Arm Airforce Veteran, was a J317 right wing gunner. He received a Purple Heart, Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters, and European African Middle Eastern Theater Medal with one Bronze Star. He was a member of the 457" and the 748, h Bomb Squadron Group Association, Eighth Air Force Historical Society, American Legion, DAV life member, NPPUS, National Organization of Post Masters, past treasurer of Russell Cemetery; he took it upon himself to place a flag on every veterans grave before each decoration.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul, Cleo and Carl Pledger and three sisters, Parilla Claud, Audrey Apple and an infant sister, Eschol Pledger.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Elaine Henry Pledger; a sister, Adriel Misenheimer, Hemet, CA and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service was March 10 at the Cornwell Funeral Home Chapel in Danville with his nephew, Rev. Eddie Warren officiating. Burial with Military Honors by Boyce Woods VFW Post 3141 of Dardanelle was held at Russell Cemetery in Belleville. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, March 15, 2006)
Faye Elizabeth Pledger, age 86, of Danville, AR died Wednesday, March 31, 1999 at her home in Danville. She was born July 27, 1912 in Danville, AR to the late C. C. and Maude Estella Gatlin Sharpe. She was a homemaker and mother and a member of the Danville United Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Pledger; two brothers, Courtney Sharpe and Clay borne Sharpe.
Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Geneva Pledger of Danville, John and Cheryl Pledger of Clarksville, AR and Bill and Lynne Pledger of Conway, AR; two sisters, Allie Maude Grace of Danville and Mary Misenhiemer of Little Rock, AR; six grandchildren, Martha Kay Cahill of Morrilton, Courtnie Pledger, Tiffany Smithhart and Christy Pledger all of Conway, John G. Pledger of Russellville, Holly Pledger of Clarksville; three great grandchildren, Drew and Tyler Cahill both of Morrilton and Laken Pledger of Conway.
Services were April 2, 1999 at the Danville United Methodist Church with Rev. Wade Shownes officiating. Interment was in the Earl Ladd Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville, AR. Memorials may be made to the Danville United Methodist Church, Danville, AR. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 7, 1999)
James C. (Jim) Pledger died at his home in Danville Friday, March 31, 2006. He retired as General Manager of the Arkansas State Fair in April 2005. Jim graduated from Danville High School and Arkansas Tech University. He served on the Danville School Board and the ATU Board of Trustees, acting as president of both boards. He also served on the ATU Business School Advisory Council. He was a member of the Danville United Methodist Church, holding positions of Sunday school superintendent and chairman of the Administrative Board. He was elected Yell County Treasurer, and during his tenure acted as President of the County Treasurers Association and President of the Association of Arkansas Counties. After resigning as Yell County Treasurer, Jim joined the administration of Governor Bill Clinton, serving as Legislative Liaison, Chief of Staff, Commissioner of Revenue, and Director of the Department of Finance and Administration. He also served in the administration of Governor Jim Guy Tucker as Director of the Department of Finance and Administration and Chief of Staff. He was manager of the Yell County Fair for many years. He was a member of the Arkansas Fair Managers Association, having served as secretary and president. He received the Charles Smith Memorial Award and was inducted into the Arkansas Fair Managers Hall of Fame. He served as General Manager of the Arkansas State Fair and Livestock Show Association, along with overseeing all activities at Barton Coliseum. He was an active member of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions, serving a term on the Board of Directors and president of Zone 6. He is a member of the Yell County Chapter of the Arkansas Cattlemen's Association, Danville Lions Club, a board member of the Arkansas 4-H Foundation, the Good Shepherd Ecumenical Retirement Center and the Chambers Bank Board of Directors. Jim has been honored by many organizations. He was inducted into the ATU Hall of Distinction, UALR Good as Gold Award, Farm and Ranch Club Col. T. H. Barton Award, State of Arkansas Governors Quality Award, and an honorary State Farm Degree. Most recently he was inducted into the Arkansas Agricultural Hall of Fame.
He is survived by his wife, Geneva Pledger; two daughters, Martha Cahill of Morrilton and Courtnie Pledger of Conway; two grandsons Drew and Tyler Cahill of Morrilton and two brothers, John Pledger of Clarksville and Bill Pledger of Conway.
Services was held on Sunday, April 2, 2006 at 3:00 p. m. at Danville United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Danville United Methodist Church, P O Box 729 Danville, AR 72833 or AR State Fair Foundation, 2600 Howard Street, Little Rock, AR 72206. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, April 5, 2006)
James Virgil Pledger, age 65, retired merchant here and a former leader in Yell County activities, died in his home last Friday after an illness of several years. He was born in Belleville, the son of the late James A. and Katie Pledger.
Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Bertha Pledger, four sons, Raymond, Abe, Bob and Clearence Pledger, Danville; two brothers, Flave T. Amarillo and Opal Pledger, Little Rock; a sister Mrs. C. A. Deason, Little Rock and six grandchildren. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas; Originally published on Thursday, August 9, 1951)
Jess W. Pledger, 78, of Havana died early Wednesday morning, March 10, at the Yell County Hospital in Danville. He was a native of the Sugar Grove Community, Logan County, the son of the late William Asa and Susie Ann Wilkins Pledger and was a longtime member of the Havana Assembly of God Church. He was a retired mechanic.
Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Tishie Vessel Pledger of the home; four daughters, Mrs. Macie Moudy of Havana, Mrs. Margorie Moore of Claremore, OK, Mrs. Florence Davis of Fort Smith, and Mrs. Joyce Baskin of Vinita, OK; one brother, Opal Pledger Of Santa Maria, CA; also 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Friday, March 12, in the Havana Assembly of God Church with Rev. E.O. Tackett Rev. James Ragsdale and Rev. B.W. Simpson officiating. Interment was in the Havana Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Service. Pallbearers were: Orville Tougaw, Emory Vess, Charles Davis, Edward Tackett, Ted Ward, and Lawrence Turner. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on Mar 17, 1982)
Mr. John "Raymond" Pledger, age 91, of Danville, AR died Sunday, March 15, 1998 at Chambers Memorial Hospital in Danville. He was born February 14, 1907 in Belleville, AR to the late James Virgil and Bertha Barnett Pledger.
He graduated from Belleville High School and attended Henderson Brown College in Arkadelphia. He was a charter member and past president of the Danville Lions Club, member of the Danville First United Methodist Church and served as chairman of the administrative board. He was Mayor of Danville from 1971 to 73 and was chairman of the Yell County Democratic Central Committee. He retired as County Supervisor of the Farmers Home Administration in Pope and Yell Counties after 33 years and then served for 10 years as vice-president at the Danville State Bank.
His career with the Federal Government started in 1934 as County Supervisor with the Rural Rehabilitation Service which was later changed to the FHA. He worked four years in Pope County and then 29 in Yell County as Supervisor. He was well respected by all his colleagues in the counties as well as the state office. One former colleague wrote a fellow employee last year that Mr. Pledger was the fatherly advisor to the supervisors of his generation. They all felt comfortable coming to him for advise. The following were the first ever such loans made in Arkansas and were processed by Mr. Pledger. They were the first farm ownership loan, rural housing loan on a farm tract, grazing association loan, RCD loan, in fact this loan was to create the Bay-Ridge Boat and Gulf Club in Dardanelle and of the 13 cuh loans made this is the only one still in existence. He did a tremendous amount of work on the water and sewer systems for Danville and Ola. After designing what is known as the agricultural building, he persuaded the county to construct this to house all four agencies who worked together to help the farmer, the FHA, ASCS, SCS and extension service and have been under the same roof since 1950. This co-location concept did not become a reality for the counties until 1975. Mr. Pledger was a supervisor who truly cared for and worked to help the people. He knew the name of every person on a farm in Yell County. He made good loans to good people.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Noel, Clarence, Abe and Bob Pledger.
He is survived by his wife, Faye Sharpe Pledger; three sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Geneva Pledger of Danville, John and Cheryl Pledger of Clarksville and Bill and Lynne Pledger of Conway; six grandchildren, Martha Kay Cahill of Morrilton, Courtney Pledger of Danville, Tiffany Smithhart and Christy Pledger both of Conway, John G. Pledger and Holly Pledger both of Clarksville; three great-grandchildren, Drew and Tyler Cahill both of Morrilton and Laken Pledger of Conway.
Funeral service was March 17 1998 at the Danville First United Methodist Church with Rev. Wade Shownes officiating. Interment was in Earl Ladd Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville. Pallbearers were Bill Bob Wood, Steve Pfeifer, Leroy Vestal, A. C. Mowery, Johnny Chambers and Jack Wilson. Memorials may be made to the Danville United Methodist Church. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, March 18, 1998)
Julian Verl "Abe" Pledger, age 76 of Danville, died Saturday, May 26, 1990 at Mitchell's Nursing Home in Danville. He was a native of Belleville, son of the late Virgil and Bertha Barnett Pledger, a retired manager of the Danville Oklahoma Tire and Supply Co., a member of the Danville United Methodist Church, Charter member of the Danville Lions Club, a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign War, a disabled veteran of World War II, an avid supporter of the Yell County Senior Citizens Center in Danville, a former Southpaw Pitcher with the Rock Island League and a lifelong baseball fan. He was a journeyman baseball player and lifelong baseball fan. "He could not say Babe Ruth; be would say Abe Ruth, and that is where his nickname came from," his daughter, Abiegail Gault of Danville said. He had been a left-handed pitcher in the Rock Island League. "They went where the Rock Island Railroad went. He played as a teen-ager until he was in his thirties," she added. He liked to garden, play dominoes at the senior adult center, and he always enjoyed his grandsons when they were younger, she said.
Survivors include his wife, Lucille Weems Pledger; one daughter, Abeigail Gault of Danville; two brothers, Raymond and Bob Pledger of Danville; three grandsons, Mike, Boz and Nick Gault of Danville and a great-granddaughter.
Services were Monday at Danville United Methodist Church with the Rev. Mike Morey officiating. Interment was in Earl Ladd Cemetery by Cornwell Funeral Service. Pallbearers were Glenn Garner, John Green, A.D; Morris, Charlie Richison, Joe Monroe, and Billy Donnell. Honorary pallbearers were A.B. Grace, Robert Wilson, Ray Tygart, Drewy Payne, W.A. Kyle, Grady Apple, Dr. Walter Harris. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Yell County Record Newspaper, Danville, Arkansas, Obituary was published on May 30, 1990)
Belleville - Mrs. Katie Love Smith Pledger, 85, resident of Belleville for 64 years and a pioneer Arkansas school teacher, died Saturday in her home in Belleville. She moved to Arkansas with her parents in 1872, settling in Yell county, later moving to Belleville. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and of the Methodist Church. Mrs. Pledger and her parents came to Arkansas from Tennessee on a river boat and settled at Dardanelle, where for a time they operated a hotel. The family later homesteaded land on which the town of Havana Is located. Mrs.
Pledger is survived by four children, James V. Pledger, Danville; Flave A. Pledger, Amarillo, Tex.; Opal Roosevelt Pledger, Belleville, and Mrs. Nina Kale Deason, Little Rock, and by eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Mrs. Pledger also took into her home and reared two of her sister's children, Mrs. Ethel Jones, San Antonio, Tex., and Mrs. Addie Sadler, Arkansas City, Kan.
Funeral services were to be held in the family residence in Belleville today, with burial In Havana Cemetery. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org,Arkansas Democrat Newspaper, Little Rock, Arkansas, Obituary was published on Dec 22, 1947)
Mrs. Katie Love Smith Pledger, age 85, a resident of Belleville 64 years and a pioneer Arkansas school teacher, died at her home in Belleville Saturday. Mrs. Pledger was born in Weakly County, Tennessee and moved with her parents to Yell County in 1872, settling near Dardanelle. They later moved to Marvinville and then to Belleville. She was the daughter of James Nathan and Sallie Love Smith.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Abraham Pledger, who was a retired merchant, druggist and former post-master.
Mrs. Pledger is survived by four children, Virgil Pledger of Danville; Opal Pledger, Belleville; Fave Abraham Pledger, Amarillo, TX.; and Mrs. Nina Deason, Little Rock; by eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were conducted at Belleville Monday morning by Rev. B. A. McKnight, Rev. Billie Dennis and Rev. Raymond Dorman. Burial was in Havana cemetery. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, YELL COUNTY RECORD, 50 Yrs Ago, Danville, Arkansas - Originally published on Thursday, December 25, 1947)
L. Juanita Breazzeal Pledger, of Delaware died Tuesday at Stella Manor Nursing Center in Russellville. She was born February 3, 1920 in Charleston, AR, to the late Thomas Jefferson and Arnie Shelton Breazzeal, she was the widow of the late Arthur A. Pledger. A retired employee of Valmac now Tyson) Industries, she was a homemaker and attended Delaware Assembly of God Church.
She was preceded in death by brothers Walter, Bill, Paul, & Jesse Breazzeal and sisters Jeneva Brown & Reda Cullen.
Survivors include 2 sons and two daughters-in-law, Jackie A. and Patsy Pledger of Dover, Arkansas, Alfred and Mary Joyce Pledger of Russellville; 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Faye Ruth and Truman Underwood, Delaware, Dorothy and Leon Underwood, Delaware; one step-daughter and son-in-law, Catherine Jean and Ernest Needham of Apache Junction, AZ. 9 grandchildren, Larry Underwood, Stephen Underwood, Jeffrey Pledger, Lisa Wesley, Kevin Underwood, Jennifer Loveland, Travis Underwood, Alan Pledger, and Marty Thomas; 4 step-grandchildren, Carol Wax, Steven Needham, Judy D. Garcia, and Tony Needham; sisters, Evelyn Thomas, Oleata Simmons, and Frances McDonald, all of Ft. Smith, Ruth Smithy, California and a brother-in-law; Melvin Cullen, Hartford, and sisters-in-law, Wanda Breazzeal, Ft. Smith, and Lorine Breazzeal, Ok.; 14 great-grandchildren, 23 step-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Funeral services were Friday October 26, at 10:00 a. m. at Cornwell Chapel Dardanelle with Brother Wiley Jones officiating. Burial was at Graves Cemetery in Delaware by Cornwell Funeral Service, Dardanelle. Pallbearers will be grandsons. Family visitation was Thursday October 25, 2001, 7:00 to 8:00 p. m. at Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, October 31, 2001)
Mrs. Lucille Weems Pledger, whose age was her secret, died February 22, 1998 at Mitchell's Nursing Home in Danville, AR. She was a native of Dardanelle, AR, daughter of the late Russell and Lucinda Ash Weems. She was the widow of Julian Verl "Abe" Pledger. She was retired from the State Welfare Department as a Social Worker. In addition to her professional life she was a homemaker and an enthusiastic civic promoter. She avidly supported the Yell County Fair and served as chairperson of the homecoming committee for many years. She was publically honored in 1996 by the Fair Association, for the energy and hours she had given to the fair for 50 years. The Belleville Reunion, connected with the fair, was one of the projects that she loved and tirelessly promoted from its origin. She was a staunch Democrat and was a delegate to the State Democrats convention. She was devoted to her church, Danville United Methodist. She was a member of the United Methodist Women's organizations and served as a member of the courtesy committee. She was a charter member of both the Danville Music Club and Business and Professional Women's club. A former member of the Yell County Historical Association, the Danville Home Demonstration club, American Legion Auxiliary and the Order of Eastern Star. She will also be remembered as an astute collector of antiques, and as a dressy, pretty lady.
She was preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Abeigail and John Gault of Danville; three grandsons, Mike, John Pledger "Boz" and Nick Gault all of Danville; three great grandchildren, Mistie and Shelbi Gault of Lincoln and Ryan Gault of Danville; and a special friend Miss Andy Tabar of Danville.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday (today) at 11:00 a. m. at the Danville United Methodist Church with Rev. Wade Shownes officiating. Burial will be in the Earl Ladd Cemetery in Danville. Pallbearers will be Jim, Bob, John and Bill Pledger, Lindle and Arthur Lee Banks. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home of Danville. (WWW.YellCountyObits.org, Yell County Record, Danville, Arkansas: Obituary was published on Wednesday, February 25, 1998)
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Date Last Updated: 2018/02/12