Phillips Funeral Home

01/14/2026

The New Year is here, which means it’s time to make resolutions – and try to keep them! While some goals might take time to achieve, preplanning is one resolution you can check off your list now. Call (870) 236-4904 to start preplanning today!

01/12/2026

01/09/2026

Music can help us express our feelings in a way words alone often can?t, which is why personalizing the music at a funeral or celebration of life is so important. If your loved one grew up in the 1940s ? or just loved 1940s music ? here are 10 songs you can incorporate into their service.?

Want to incorporate music from the 1940s in your loved one's celebration of life? Check out our list for 10 beautiful options.

01/06/2026

James Harold Barber, passed away at his home surrounded by family on January 5, 2026. Born on August 31, 1947, in the neighboring town of Jonesboro, Harold was known for his hardworking nature, contagious humor.
As a blue collared worker, Harold dedicated his life to local fiberglass industry. Beginning his career in the 1970’s, he worked at FMC in Jonesboro until their closure during the 1980’s. He joined Associated Plastics for nearly 20 years. Harold finished his career at Mid-America Manufacturing until his retirement.
His love for the outdoors was evident to anyone who knew him, for his heart truly came alive in nature. He found solace and excitement in hunting and fishing. Harold had a passion for gardening and could be found sitting outside with family under the shade tree, grilling and always listening to oldies music. Beyond his outdoor pursuits, Harold enjoyed the moments spent with family. He was very proud of his kids and his grandkids were the joy of his heart.
He is preceded in death by his son James David Herndon; parents, Eugene and Nelda Barber; wife, Phyllis Barber; sisters, Joann Koster, Cathy Hendrix, and Lora Daniels; brothers, Herman Barber, and Dalton Barber Jr; Grandparents, Andrew and Freda Barber, and Pete and Blanche Bethel.
Harold is survived by his son, Kevin Barber (Jill); daughters, Sherry Smith (George Jr.), and Katrina Dougan; brother, Jimmy Barber (Brenda); sisters, Debbie Cobb, and Patricia Forehand (Alfred); grandchildren, Nick Cothern, George Smith III, Miranda Smith, Cash Barber, Dallas Barber, Evye Dougan, and Bristol Dougan.
The family will receive friends Thursday, January 8, from 5:00 p.m to 7:00 p.m at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Friday, January 9, at 10:00 a.m with Matt Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Mt Zion Cemetery.
Nick Cothern, Jamie Gonzalez, George Smith III, Corey Wilson, Jackie Jarrett, and Gary Houston will serve as pallbearers. Gary Foster, Cody Yates, John Yates, Alfred Forehand, and Landon Gordon will serve as honorary pallbearers.
If one wishes to make a lasting memorial, please consider a donation to Mt. Zion Cemetery, P.O. Box 98, Walcott, AR 72474.

01/05/2026

Cody Lee Jones, 20, of Paragould, AR, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. Cody was born July 7, 2005, to Ivan “Lee” Jones and Laura Jones of Paragould, AR.

Cody attended Greene County Tech Schools. He was very passionate about Mickey Mouse, Toy Story, singing nursery rhymes, and being with his family. Cody’s memory will forever be cherished by his family.

He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Debra Bates of Kennett, MO, and Lynn Jones of Rector, AR.

Cody is survived and was very loved by his parents, Ivan “Lee” and Laura Jones; maternal grandfather, Richard Bates; paternal grandparents, Ivan Jones of Rector, AR, Bobby and Jonell Holland of Arbyrd, MO; twin sister, Madison Jones of Paragould, AR; aunts and uncles, Pam Gibson, Marlaina Wilson, Heather Panzier (Josh), Vanessa Jones, C. J. Jones, Ricky Bates, Tina Hardcastle (Johnny), Michael Holland, and Cindy Vassar (William).

There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

01/03/2026

Mary Ann Potter, a cherished soul whose warmth and kindness touched all who knew her, passed away on January 2, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of 67. Born on August 15, 1958, in Paragould, Arkansas, Mary Ann was a beacon of love and joy throughout her life.

Mary Ann found delight in the simple pleasures of life. She was an exceptional baker, whose cakes and cobblers were the highlight of every family gathering. Her garden yielded an abundance of vegetables that she lovingly canned and shared with friends and family. Mary Ann's love for gardening was only matched by her enthusiasm for garage sales, where she could often be found on early Saturday mornings. Mary Ann's flair for beauty extended to her personal care, as she enjoyed getting her nails and makeup done, always presenting herself with grace and elegance.

She was a devoted grandmother, never missing an opportunity to support her grandchildren. Whether it was a school awards ceremony or a sporting event, Mary Ann's presence was a constant source of encouragement. Her unconditional love and pride for her grandchildren knew no bounds, and her memory will continue to inspire them throughout their lives.

Her faith played a central role in her life. As a faithful member of the Center Hill Church of Christ, Mary Ann's commitment to her church community was unwavering. She was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was helping to prepare for showers, meals, or any church event.

Above all, Mary Ann loved her family with all her heart. She was the glue that held them together, the gentle hand that soothed away troubles, and the bright smile that lit up every room. Mary Ann's legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will forever be cherished.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, John Darrell and Glenda Irene Pillow; late husband, Lannie Huffman; brother, Darrell Pillow; daughter, Kristie Johnson; granddaughters, Alex Snyder, Aubrey Allred, and Bexley Allred; son-in-law, Mickey Merrell; and sister-in-law, Connie Pillow.

Survivors include her husband, John Potter; sons, Tim Wilcox (Alicia) and Clint Potter (Kodie); daughters, Robin Merrell, Cindy Poole (James), and Holly Allred (Jimmy); brothers, Charlie Pillow (Sue) and Frankie Pillow; grandchildren, Shay, Shi, Dalton, Tyler, Justin, C.J., Alysha, Ainsley, Brik, Andi, Allyson, Skye, Angel, and Destiny; and 34 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 7, at Phillips Funeral Home with David Deffenbaugh officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery.

Tyler Brown, Dalton Hester, Scott Pillow, Jonathan Pillow, Chris Pillow, and Justin Merrell will serve as pallbearers. Lonnie Vester, Tim Hufford, Alan Bruce, and Brik Bricker will serve as honorary pallbearers.

01/03/2026

Maria De Jesus Chavez Gomez, born June 4, 1964, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing and loving her understood how much she overcame from a young age into adulthood. In 1992, she met her husband and lifelong companion, Jose, and in 1997 they were married. In 2022, they had the joy of celebrating 25 years of marriage with their loved ones in attendance.

She was a strong and faithful woman, a devoted mother, and the heart of her family. Her love for her three children and family knew no limits, and she gave of herself endlessly to those she cared for.

Despite facing many health challenges throughout her life, she met each one with remarkable strength and perseverance. She was truly one of the strongest women her family has ever known. A woman of deep faith and unwavering devotion, she lived her life rooted in love, kindness, and service to others. Her Christian faith carried her through life’s greatest challenges and was a source of comfort and hope to all who knew her. Any time she could, she would use her story and her life as a testimony, inspiring others through her resilience and faith. She trusted fully in God’s promises and is now at peace.

When her health allowed, she found joy in the simple things—spending time with her family, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and making jewelry. She enjoyed shopping, especially when it meant finding something special for someone else. She had an eclectic spirit, a playful sense of humor, and a childlike innocence that made people feel instantly at ease. She was a jokester, a light in every room, and always found a way to smile. Her generosity, warmth, and unique spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

She was so very loved.

She was preceded in death by her father, Juan Chavez Peña; and her mother Francisca Gomez Trujillo.

She is survived by her husband, Jose Antonio Garcia Lopez; her children, Diana Garcia, Jesus Antonio Garcia, and Luis Francisco Garcia; her cherished grandchildren, Emily Tobar, Angel Pereira, Abdiel Pereira; and her great grandchild André Tobar

She is also survived by her two brothers and sisters, Hector Chavez Gomez, Juan Chavez Gomez, Emma Chavez Gomez, and Gloria Granillo Chavez; her loving nieces and nephews, Rigoberto Granillo, Manuel Granillo, Alexander Granillo, Mayra Chavez, and Juan Chavez; along with many other beloved extended family members.

Services will be held on January 3rd, 2026 at Phillips Funeral Home located on 4904 W Kingshighway, Paragould, AR 72450



Maria De Jesus Chavez Gomez, nacida el 4 de junio de 1964, falleció pacíficamente el 2 de enero de 2026 rodeada de sus seres queridos.

Quienes tuvieron el placer de conocerla y quererla comprendieron cuánto superó desde su niñez hasta la edad adulta. En 1992, conoció a su esposo y compañero de vida, José, y en 1997 contrajeron matrimonio. En 2022, tuvieron la alegría de celebrar 25 años de casados junto a sus seres queridos.

Era una mujer fuerte y fiel, una madre abnegada y el alma de su familia. Su amor por sus tres hijos y su familia no tenía límites, y se entregaba sin reservas a quienes quería.

A pesar de enfrentar numerosos problemas de salud a lo largo de su vida, los afrontó con una fuerza y perseverancia extraordinaria. Fue, sin duda, una de las mujeres más fuertes que su familia haya conocido. Mujer de profunda fe y devoción inquebrantable, vivió su vida arraigada en el amor, la bondad y el servicio a los demás. Su fe cristiana la sostuvo en los mayores desafíos de la vida y fue fuente de consuelo y esperanza para todos los que la conocieron. Siempre que tenía la oportunidad, compartía su historia y su vida como testimonio, inspirando a otros con su resiliencia y su fe. Confiaba plenamente en las promesas de Dios y ahora descansa en paz.

Cuando su salud se lo permitía, encontraba alegría en las cosas sencillas: pasar tiempo con su familia, coser, tejer, hacer ganchillo y crear joyas. Disfrutaba de ir de compras, sobre todo si significaba encontrar algo especial para otra persona. Tenía un espíritu ecléctico, un sentido del humor juguetón y una inocencia infantil que hacía que la gente se sintiera a gusto al instante. Era bromista, irradiaba alegría en cualquier lugar y siempre encontraba un motivo para sonreír. Su generosidad, calidez y espíritu único serán profundamente extrañados y recordados para siempre.

Era muy querida.

Le precedieron en la muerte su padre, Juan Chavez Peña; y su madre, Francisca Gomez Trujillo.

Deja a su amada familia, incluyendo a su marido, José Antonio García López; sus hijos, Diana García, Jesús Antonio García y Luis Francisco García; sus queridos nietos, Emily Tobar, Angel Pereira y Abdiel Pereira; y su bisnieto, André Tobar.

También le sobreviven sus dos hermanos y dos hermanas, Hector Chavez Gomez, Juan Chavez Gomez, Emma Chavez Gomez y Gloria Granillo Chavez; sus queridos sobrinos y sobrinas, Rigoberto Granillo, Manuel Granillo, Alejandro Granillo, Mayra Chavez y Juan Chavez; además de muchos otros queridos familiares.

Los servicios fúnebres se llevarán a cabo el 3 de enero de 2026 en la funeraria Phillips: 4904 W Kingshighway, Paragould AR 72450.

01/02/2026

Gary Wayne Holt, a man of remarkable skill and enduring charm, passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on August 5, 1950, in the close-knit community of Marmaduke, Arkansas.

Gary was known far and wide for his incredible talent as an auto body man. His hands could skillfully coax bent metal into art, and his work was not just a job but a calling. He found joy in restoring vehicles to their former glory, and his reputation for excellence was a testament to his meticulous nature and dedication to his craft. He was a man who loved working in his shop, a sanctuary where he spent countless hours tinkering, creating, and fixing.

An avid outdoorsman, Gary enjoyed fishing. He cherished the quiet moments by the water, waiting for a catch, reflecting on the beauty of nature. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his fondness for Pepsi, a simple pleasure that he savored during his leisure time.

Gary was often described as a jack of all trades. There wasn't a task he couldn't tackle or a problem he couldn't solve. Friends and family knew they could always rely on Gary for help, advice, or just a friendly chat over a cold can of Pepsi.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Fant and Ollie Holt; daughter, Amber Kathleen Holt; and siblings, Betty James Holt, Dorothy Fay Holt, James Waylon Holt, and Jerry Don Holt.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Diane Holt; son, Eric Holt (Sandra); daughters, Tammy Holt, Tina Holt, and Janet Boling; brothers, Keith Holt and Tony Holt; sisters, Joann Easton and Diane Keen; grandchildren, Michael Bounds, Adrianna Boling, Bradley Boling, Christian Holt, Joshua Garlinghouse, Brennex Melton, Lathan Melton, and Isabella Holt; and great-grandchildren, Ryan Bounds, Presley Barnhill, and Lynnlee Bounds.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 5, at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 6, at Phillips Funeral Home with Bro. Kim Bridges officiating. Burial will follow at Harvey’s Chapel Cemetery.

01/02/2026

Grief shows up in all areas of our lives, including the workplace. If you have a grieving colleague, check out these helpful suggestions for offering support and encouragement at a time of loss.

Grief touches all parts of our lives, including the workplace. If you'd like to support a grieving colleague, check out these suggestions!

01/02/2026

Jackie Delora Straub, a cherished soul whose life was marked by an unwavering commitment to nurturing those around her, passed away on January 1, 2026, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Jackie, born on February 14, 1979, in El Paso, Texas, spent her 46 years spreading warmth and love through her exceptional cooking skills and her ability to make every person she met feel like family.
Jackie's passion for cooking was more than a hobby; it was a way of life. Her kitchen was where family and friends were always welcome to gather. Her love for cooking was only matched by her love for shopping.
Above all, Jackie's heart belonged to her daughter, whom she loved with a ferocity that only a mother can know. The time they spent together was sacred to Jackie, filled with lessons, adventures, and unconditional love. She extended this love to her nieces and nephew, whom she treated as her own, always ready to listen, support, and encourage them at every turn.
Jackie was preceded in death by her father, Joe Cheshire; sister, Jamie Thomason; and father-in-law, Robert Straub.
Survivors include her mother, Jum Soon Cheshire; husband, Sean Straub; daughter, Jasmine Straub; nieces and nephew, Mackenzie Dodd (Will), Emerald Thomason, and Hayden Thomason; and mother-in-law, Tammie Straub.
The family will receive friends Monday, January 5, from 1:00 p.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

01/01/2026

We wish you a new year filled with new friends, new joys, new adventures, and new triumphs!