Roller-Owens Funeral Home

10/10/2025

Carolyn Marie Mace, 88, of Richwoods entered the presence of the lord on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. She was born to Clyde and Stella Jones on July 20, 1937.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Paul Mace; her parents, Clyde and Stella Jones; her sisters. Betty Jo Rostron and Janice Westbrook and infant son, Mark Eugene Mace.

She is survived by her daughter, Paula (Bryce) Faulkner; her son, John Mark (Carla) Mace; three granddaughters, Danielle (Peyton) Vinson, Ella Mace and Avery Mace; her niece, Sherry Westbrook and nephews, Michael (Jeanne) Westbrook and Neil (Carla) Westbrook.

Carolyn graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1955. She went on to work for First National Bank until later becoming a housewife and mother. She later fulfilled the role of secretary at Amboy Baptist Church where she was employed for 37 years until retirement. In her free time, she enjoyed completing crossword puzzles, crafts with her church family, singing in the church choir and watching game shows on television. She also enjoyed visiting with her family and granddogs.

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock for their support and services throughout this time.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit WWW.RollerFuneralHomes.com/Owens.

09/30/2025

Sarah Faith Groom was born on March 12th, 2001, and departed this earth on September 24th, 2025. Sarah’s love for driving and traveling was reflected in the countless miles she
accumulated on her vehicles. Her fondness for flowers and all shades of pink and burgundy was a defining characteristic. She was an avid reader and Harry Potter fan.


Sarah was a fiercely loyal friend, devoted to those she loved and quick to forgive the people she loved. Her innate sense of compassion compelled her to assist those in need. Although petite in stature, she made up for it with grit and stubbornness. One word to encapsulate her essence was feisty!


Sarah held a special place in her heart for children who have experienced trauma and are in foster care. She lent her voice to causes advocating for such children with a particular fondness for the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program (CASA). As a speaker at CASA events and participant in video productions, Sarah hoped to utilize her life experiences and insights to highlight the necessity for more individuals to foster, adopt and advocate.


We are deeply grieved by our loss of Sarah, but we are grateful she is in the arms of the
Heavenly Father.


She leaves behind her mother, Donna Moore; brothers, Sterling Edwards (wife Madison), Michael Duncan, Johnny Duncan, and Dustin Moore; nieces, Dezirae, Izabella, and Aurora; nephew, Saxon; cousins, Brianna McDaniel (Amiyah and Alayah), Whitney Truitt (Elijah, Phoenix, and Ollie), and Corey Moss; Nana, Theresa Duncan Gunderman; and Aunt, Sarah Hatch (Jill Emery).


She leaves behind her adoptive family, her parents, Bruce and Xanthoula Groom; sisters,
Natalie and Veronica Groom; brother, Nathan Groom; niece, Mariah Groom and nephew,
Xander Groom; aunt and uncle, Katerina and Nickolaos Zafiriou; cousins, Savvas and Romanos Zafiriou; Aunt, Sylvie Evdoxiadis, uncle, Erastos Evdoxiadis; cousins, Celeste and Theo Evoxiadis; Aunts and uncles, Tony and Janet Groom, Stan and Monica Groom, and Tom and Rita Sebranek; as well as numerous other cousins.


She leaves behind her special friends, Court Appointed Special Advocate, Terry Gregory and former Family Service Worker, Crystal Bradley.


She is preceded in death by her aunt, Shonda Duncan; her Papa, John Duncan; maternal
grandmother, Joanne Haywood; maternal grandparents, Bobbis and Mary Evdoxiadis; and paternal grandmother, Shirley Groom.


In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Sarah to Pulaski County Friends of
CASA, 3001 West Roosevelt, Little Rock, AR 72204 or online at https://pulaskicountycasa.org/

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=73242&locid=32

09/29/2025

Carol Susan (Morris) Thompson, 70, of Sherwood, Arkansas, passed away surrounded by her family on September 26, 2025. She was born in Mishawaka, Indiana, to her late father Robert Vernon Morris, and survived by her mother Lois Ann Morris.

She was a member of First Free Will Baptist Church in North Little Rock and truly was the glue that bound the family together. She spent over thirty years working as a CPA for the State of Arkansas, finishing her career as the CFO for the Arkansas State Attorney General 's office. She loved playing bingo and traveling with her best friend Virginia. Her true passion was spending time with her family, especially making all the holidays special.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Tony Marlin Thompson. She is survived by her son, Kyle Thompson, and wife, Rebecca, her daughter, Kaci Thompson, her daughter, Kari Jones, and husband, Chris, her son, Daniel Thompson, step-daughter, Kelly Cook; grandchildren, Brittanie Stricklin, Ethan Thompson, Nathan Stricklin, Jr., James Holland, Jacob Holland, Jaxx Jones, Krisa Jones, and Malachi Jones; great-grandchildren, Alex Hardin, Braxton Hardin, Eli Thompson, Daniel Thompson, Jr., and Alaya Holland; her sisters, Patsy Ingram and Linda Burroughs; and a host of other family and friends.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 1, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and funeral services on Thursday, October 2, at 10:00 a.m., both at Roller-Owens Funeral Home. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m., at Maple Springs Cemetery in Oil Trough, Arkansas.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=73220&locid=32

09/03/2025

Brinton Nyle Rickett, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, was born on October 3, 1943, in Enola, Arkansas, and passed away peacefully at his home on August 26, 2025, at the age of 81.

Brinton had a lifelong passion for horses and spent many years training, racing, and showing them, a pursuit that brought him great joy and fulfillment. He was employed by Coulson Oil, where he was a dedicated and hardworking member of the team.

He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Shelia Wherry and her husband Curtis of Saginaw, Texas, as well as his sister, Anita June Charette. Brinton was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances Ana Gossett Rickett; his son, Joel McKinley Rickett; his granddaughter, KaTara Christine Wherry; and his grandson, Joshua Aaron Rickett. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Davis and Stella Mae McDowell Rickett, along with nine siblings.

A graveside service for family will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Cato Cemetery.

Brinton will be remembered for his love of family, his deep connection to the land and animals he cherished, and a life lived with quiet strength and resilience.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit WWW.RollerFuneralHomes.com/Owens.

08/31/2025

Donna Mae Cokes McVey, age 97, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 29, 2025. She was born on October 12, 1927, in Picher, Oklahoma, to the late Bryan and Hazel Caswell Cokes. Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, J.E. McVey; her son, David McVey; and her brother, Frederick ''Ricky'' Johnson.
Donna was deeply cherished in the communities she served. Her long and distinguished career with Missouri Pacific and Union Pacific Railroad connected her with a close-knit group affectionately known as the ''railroad girls,'' whose friendship and camaraderie she treasured. She was also a proud member of Beta Sigma Phi, where she found joy and purpose among a circle of positive, service-minded women.
A woman of unwavering faith, Donna was a devoted member of the Community of Christ Church for nearly 90 years. Her North Little Rock congregation was more than a place of worship, it was her spiritual home and extended family. The family is especially appreciative of her community of caregivers, including but not limited to LeeAnn Fowler, Paula Sardin, Peggy Hinson, Jim Stiles, and many other loving friends who provided comfort and companionship in her later years.
She is survived by her sons, Paul McVey of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and Terry McVey (Susan) of Kennett and Poplar Bluff, Missouri; five grandchildren: Neil McVey (Laura), Clark McVey (Fennec), Jeffrey McVey (Deborah), Katie Scherer (Steven), and Sally Moedritzer (Matt); and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy.
Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Community of Christ Church, 41st and Division, North Little Rock, AR 72118.
To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72991&locid=32

08/28/2025

Nancy Jill Burkes, also known to family and friends as Jill, passed away on August 24, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 69, in the presence of her loved ones.

She was born on January 15, 1956, in Floydada, Texas, where she was also raised. Jill had a deep love for caring for her dogs, cats, and plants, and was known for her talent in the kitchen as an excellent cook. She enjoyed bird watching, cherished time with her family and friends, and was rarely without a Coca-Cola nearby.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, Randie Horn, Johnny Hicks, and Jackie Sayles, and her beloved son, Michael Shane Burkes, who passed in 2016.

She is survived by her grandchildren Katie Ameen, Emma Sessler, Maddie Ameen as well as her niece, Stephanie McWilliams, and nephew Robert McWilliams.

Jill’s kindness, warmth, and love for her family and animals will be fondly remembered. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by those who knew her.

A small private service will be held later in the year for close family and friends.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72973&locid=32

08/24/2025

Wilburn Ramon Lester, 77, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, passed away on August 19, 2025. Born on August 17, 1948, in Almyra, Arkansas, at his Aunt Pauline and Uncle Ernie's house. He lived a life marked by service, dedication, and an enduring love for his family and community.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Wilburn served with distinction during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery, a recognition he accepted with characteristic humility and humor, often referring to his time overseas as a tour through ''Sunny Southeast Asia.''

After returning home from military service, Wilburn built a career as a skilled mechanic. His hands were rarely still, whether repairing engines or coaching young athletes on dusty ballfields across Little Rock. Known affectionately as ''Coach Les,'' he became a beloved figure at Geyer Springs Ballpark and Mabelvale Ballpark. Over the years, countless boys learned not only the fundamentals of baseball, basketball, and football under his guidance but also lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and respect.

He is survived by his wife, of 57 years, Peggy Lester, daughter, Christine (Jeff) Crews, grandsons, Nick (Leslie) Crews and Nathan (Lauren) Crews, great-granddaughters, Hadlee Crews, Rubye Crews, and Lennon Crews, and great-grandson, Roy David Crews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilburn and Frances Lester, sisters, Judy Lester and Vicky Lester, and brothers, Norman Lester, Joe Lester, and Henry Lester.

Les will be remembered not only for his mechanical skill or military valor but for the countless lives he touched through mentorship and quiet strength. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

A Service will be held on Friday, August 29, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, AR, followed with a short ceremony at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, AR.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit

A Memorial Page for Wilburn Ramon Lester has been posted on the Roller-Owens Funeral Home web site - With All Our Respect.

08/19/2025

Frances Robinson, age 88, of Sherwood, Arkansas, passed away on August 16, 2025. She was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Laura Harrell Wright and John W. Griffin on December 27, 1936.

Frances attended North Little Rock High School, graduating with the Class of 1955 and continued to stay closely connected with her classmates by helping plan reunions and gatherings. Frances was a homemaker and worked for the Arkansas State Barber Board for 40 years. After retiring, she enjoyed spending time with her loving husband, Johnny Robinson of 69 years, who was waiting on her to take her hand and lead her to that big dance floor in heaven where they both are celebrating being healed and pain free by dancing into eternity.

Frances was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a Scimitar Shrine Clownette and loved putting Johnny's clown make-up on so he could entertain people, kids, compete in contests, and parades. She loved to go on vacations, cruises, dance, spend time with family and friends, and make trips with Johnny on the trucks he drove. She will be deeply missed and loved by family and friends.

Frances was a member of Levy Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as a member of the American Business Women's Association, Silver Charter Chapter. Frances was preceded in death by her mother, Laura Harrell Wright, and husband Johnny Robinson.

Frances is survived by a son, John Robinson (Debra) of Sherwood; daughter, Lori Grunwald of McKinney, Texas; granddaughters, Kayla Morris (Will) and Kim Rowland (Dakota), both of Ward, Arkansas, and Jessica Gurley (Patrick), of Austin, Texas; great-granddaughters, McKenzie Morris, Abigail Morris, and Gracelynn Morris of Ward; nieces, Debbie Harms (Robert) of Little Rock, and Donna Prowse of Hot Springs, Arkansas; and is also remembered by many dear family members and friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Fox Ridge Assisted Living N.L.R., Gentiva Hospice, and Woodland Hills Nursing and Rehab in Jacksonville.

The funeral service will be held at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock, on Wednesday, August 20, at 10:30 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. Following the service, a procession will be led to Rest Hills Memorial Park for a committal service.

Pallbearers will be Mark DeJesus, Dean Riggin, Dennis Stevens, Steve Sichterman, Chris Underwood, and Andrew Moen.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Scimitar Shriners Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 255, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72115

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit: https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72892&locid=32

08/06/2025

David Alan Hodge, 52, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on July 31, 2025. Born on October 31, 1972, in Lowell, Massachusetts, David lived a life rooted in service, family, and love.

David proudly served in the military and later worked for Arkansas Blue Cross, where he was a dedicated and respected member of the team. Outside of work, he found joy in camping, being outdoors, and spending cherished time with his family. He had a special bond with his beloved puppies, who brought him comfort and happiness throughout his life.

David is survived by his husband, David Williams, and his children: Senu, Sewa, Oseidon, and Odin.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Hodge, and beloved family members: Dakota, Issa, Mojave, Nikita, Aliyah, and Tenga.

A memorial service will be held at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock on Saturday, August 9, at 1:00 p.m. All who knew and loved David are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.

David's kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family and pets will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please use the link below:
https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72778&locid=32

08/06/2025

Rieta Jeanette Murchison, 81, of Sherwood, passed away on August 2, 2025, and is now in the hands of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born on May 4, 1944, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Stanley Aubrey Lynus Dacus and Jennie Helen Dacus.

Rieta worked in real estate for 33 years and was a long-time member of Baring Cross Baptist Church. She found great joy in ballroom dancing and never missed an episode of Dancing with the Stars.

Affectionately known as “GiGi” by her grandchildren, Rieta was devoted to her family and was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. Her gift for hospitality touched many lives.

She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Kenneth Murchison; two sons, Clint Murchison of North Little Rock and Cliff (Becca) Murchison of Sherwood; stepson, Stephen Blake (Tia) Murchison of Little Rock; brother, James Charles Dacus of Benton; four grandchildren, Blake (Madison) Murchison II, Alex Murchison, Abby (Bethany) Linn Bradshaw, and Micah J. (Emma) Linn; and by three great-grandchildren.

Rieta’s legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of life for Rieta will be held on Monday, August 11, at 4:30 p.m. at Baring Cross Baptist Church in Sherwood, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Baring Cross Baptist Church in her memory.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit WWW.Rollerfuneralhomes.com/Owens.

08/04/2025

Roger Alan Nitschke, age 76, entered heaven on August 2, 2025, at John McClellan Veteran Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born on December 1, 1948, in Fremont, Ohio. He grew up with his four siblings and his parents, Harold and Mildred Nitschke. Roger spent his high school years in Gibsonburg, Ohio. In 1966, he graduated from Gibsonburg High School. The next year, in 1967, Roger started his military career with the United States Air Force. He served as a Jet Engine Mechanic for 8.5 years active duty, and retired with 20 years of service in the Air Force Reserve, 96 Maps Unit, located at Little Rock Air Force Base. During his military years, Roger also completed his Associate Degree as a Jet Engine Mechanic from Pikes Peak Community College. Roger loved to travel and enjoyed visiting numerous cities and countries during his military years. He loved serving people and never met a stranger. He loved ministry and serving Jesus in his Church. Roger also served at the Little Rock Compassion Center for over 15 years with his wife, Karen teaching bible study.

In 2009, Roger retired from Target Distribution Center with 25 years of service. After he retired, Roger enjoyed his hobbies: cooking, working outdoors, gardening, and loving his family.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years Karen, and his two daughters, Kristen Garrett of Maumelle and Rachel Kimes of Sherwood. His grandchildren include Madison Garrett, Noah Garrett, Stella, and Scarlett Kimes. He is also survived by two brothers, Lon Nitschke/Gloria of Fremont, Ohio, Steven Nitschke/Marty of El Paso, Texas and a Sister, Judy Nitschke of Fremont, Ohio. He is also loved by many nieces and nephews.

Roger was proceeded in death by his parents, Harold Nitschke and Mildred Burns, a sister, Barbara Nitschke, a niece, Cindy, and a nephew, Mark Nitschke.

Roger was a wonderful husband, Dad, PawPaw, brother, son, and friend. He entered Heaven just as he lived, praising God with peace in his heart and a big smile on his face.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, August 8, at 12:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. A procession will be led for burial at Pinecrest Memorial Park immediately following the service.

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72789&locid=32

08/01/2025

Jan Alice Hoskins passed from this world into the presence of our Lord and Savior on July 27, 2025. She was born on October 27, 1953, to Cyril J and LaBerta M. (Walton) Gray in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Jan's father was in the Air Corps while she was growing up, giving her the opportunity to travel and live in many places. This gave her a sense of adventure for years to come. Her family settled in Conway, Arkansas, long enough for her to attend and graduate from Conway High School and UCA. She then went on to graduate from Baptist Health with a nursing degree as an RN. Jan spent many years in the service of nursing in the Little Rock area. In the last years before retirement, she taught a nursing license class at Baptist Health College. Jan married CB Hoskins in 1974. They lived in North Little Rock and enjoyed weekends at Mountain Harbor in their boat, horse races, golf, watching all sports, especially the Razorbacks, and traveling when possible.

They were very active with St. Luke's Episcopal Church. When CB passed away in 2008, Jan continued attending and serving there until her mobility became limited. Even then she was faithful to participate as much as she could with their online service until her death. Jan was a ''take charge'' person, intelligent, funny, ready to lend a hand, and always had a story to share. Not having children of her own, she enjoyed entertaining and spoiling her nephews while they were growing up. Until the last few years of her life, she loved nothing more than socializing with family and friends. She was always ready to go to a dinner party, a show, shopping, fishing, or a girl's weekend with her best friends from school.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents; husband CB; brother Tim Gray. She is survived by her nephews, Shane Gray & wife Nicky, Adam Gray & wife Rachel; 6 great-nieces and nephews; a great great-niece and nephew, and sister-in-law Janet Gray. Along with many faithful friends who loved her dearly. We will all miss her big smile and laugh.

The family would like to offer a special Thank-you to her neighbors for their kindness and care over the years. Jan planned to be cremated, and her ashes placed next to CB's at St. Luke's. A private family service will be held for her inurnment at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to St. Luke's Episcopal Church Memorial Fund, 4106 JKF Blvd, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116

To leave a message in the online guestbook, please visit https://www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/memorialpage.asp?id=72742&locid=32