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Obituary: Frances Judy (1927-2025)

Frances Judy, 97, of Mansfield, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at her home. Born on November 17, 1927, in Lucas, Arkansas, to Felix and Mary Mima (Taylor) Smith, Frances lived a long life filled with faith, devotion, and love.

Frances was a woman of deep Christian faith and a former member of Freedom Church. She carried that faith into every part of her life-into her family, her work, and the kindness she shared so freely. For many years, she served as a supervisor at Waldron Furniture Factory, where her strength, wisdom, and steady hand earned the respect of many.

One of Frances’s greatest joys was her marriage to the love of her life, Davis Judy. The two shared over 60 years together, building a home filled with laughter, music, hard work, and the simple pleasures of country living. Whether it was gardening, singing, hunting, fishing, or just taking long drives down quiet country roads, Frances and Davis delighted in every moment together. After his passing, she carried his memory tenderly in her heart.

She also had a lifelong love for animals, especially her dogs, who were always by her side and part of her family. Her gentle spirit and her warm smile brought comfort to everyone who knew her.

Frances is survived by her two cherished sisters, Doria Harrison and Margaret McCafferty, both of Waldron, Arkansas, along with many nieces and nephews who adored her and will carry her legacy forward.

Frances is reunited in heaven with her husband, Davis Judy; her parents, Felix and Mimi Smith; her sisters, Roxie Essman, Ola Essman, Dovie Williams, and Evie Jewel; and her brothers, Melvin Smith, Lester Smith, Jesse Smith, and Ardell Smith.

Family and friends are invited to visitation from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Keith Elmore officiating. Frances will be laid to rest at Freedom Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Arnold Williams, Paul Williams, Allen Williams, Aaron Evans, Stevie Cowan, and Lester Smith, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Jeff Brown and Bill Weaver.

The family would like to invite family and friends to join them for a dinner after the graveside service at Westside Pentecostal Church in Huntington.

Arrangements are entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home of Waldron, Arkansas.

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AFP Arkansas: Lead Co-Sponsor of RNN Town Hall

The Arkansas chapter of Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a grassroots organization dedicated to advancing economic freedom and individual liberty, will serve as the lead sponsor for Resident News Network’s upcoming town hall. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Mansfield High School cafeteria.

The town hall aims to bring residents together for an evening of open discussion, community engagement, and civic dialogue on key issues affecting the region. Local leaders, educators, and community members are expected to attend, providing an opportunity for citizens to ask questions and share concerns in a collaborative environment.

AFP State Director, Ryan Norris

“Americans for Prosperity Foundation considers it a privilege to be included on this panel. We believe citizens deserve to know more about their candidates, and this forum is a perfect way of helping them decide their votes,” shared AFP State Director Ryan Norris. “We look forward to hearing how candidates believe they can help the citizens of their districts achieve the American Dream through liberty-based policy.”

Founded in 2004, AFP is a nationwide organization with state chapters across the country. The Arkansas chapter has been active in promoting policy initiatives focused on lowering taxes, encouraging economic growth, supporting small businesses, and advocating for limited government. By sponsoring events such as this town hall, AFP Arkansas continues its mission to connect with communities at the local level.

The event also reflects Resident News’ ongoing commitment to fostering conversations that matter to readers across the Arkansas River Valley. With AFP-Arkansas taking the lead as sponsor, the town hall is expected to draw strong participation and generate meaningful dialogue on issues impacting families, schools, and businesses.

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Brenda L. Brewer Announces Candidacy for State Senate, District 26

Brenda L. Brewer, a lifelong educator, licensed REALTOR, small business co-owner, Christian, Conservative; who is very family oriented from Booneville, Arkansas, today announced she is running for State Senate in District 26. This seat was previously held by the late Senator Gary Stubblefield, who was dearly loved and respected in District 26. Brenda Brewer pledges to continue Gary Stubblefield’s commitment to the people of District 26. Brewer is currently the Justice of the Peace for District 11 in Logan County, a member of the Logan County Republican Party and serves as both First Vice Chair and District Committee Woman in the Logan County Republican Party. Having worked since the age of 11, she knows how to work hard and will put that work ethic to use in the State Senate District 26. Brewer is Pro-Life, a champion for education and educators, greatly supports farmers, veterans, and those in law enforcement fields. She believes in less taxes, and is a defender of Second Amendment rights. Brewer believes communication is essential to success and has learned how to communicate with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and the communities in which she has taught and lived during her time as an educator. She was the Chairwoman of the Personnel Policy Committee in multiple school districts and this is where she learned how to work with others from all walks of life to ensure success for everyone. She plans on using those same communication skills to work with the people of District 26 to advance their causes, concerns, values, and to improve their lives. She is against the prison being located in Franklin County and believes communication in advance with the community members could have solved a multitude of problems and would have saved the state a great amount of money. Brewer was born in Booneville, Arkansas and has lived the majority of her life in Booneville and the District in which she wishes to serve. She is married to Aaron Brewer and has two children, Brittany (Haley) Goff and Blake Haley, all of Booneville. Her pride and joy are her grandchildren, Callie Goff, Claralee Goff, and Chloe Goff. She is a member of Glendale Baptist Church in Booneville, Arkansas, and a graduate of Arkansas Tech University.

Obituary: Harley McCurry, III (1969-2025)

Harley L. “Harlo” McCurry, III, of Waldron, Arkansas, passed away at his home on September 26, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on February 6, 1969, in Charleston, Arkansas, Harlo lived a life filled with adventure, loyalty, and love for those closest to him.

Harlo shared his heart and home with his fiancée, Debbie Maxey. He was a devoted brother to Josh and his wife Kelli of Waldron, and a proud uncle to his nephews, Raylan and Clayton, who knew him simply as “Uncle Harlo.” He was preceded in death by his father, Harley L. McCurry, Jr., with whom he shared many cherished memories.

A true patriot, Harlo served his country as a medic in the National Guard, completing a tour in Saudi Arabia. His service reflected the caring and selfless spirit he carried throughout his life. Later, he worked on the pipeline first driving 18 wheelers, then as a pipeline inspector, and eventually he worked his way into the job he loved and cherished as a construction coordinator. It was here that the wide skies of Montana and Wyoming became some of his favorite places to be.

Harlo had a deep love for the simple joys in life-riding his Harley-Davidson on the open road, caring for his loyal dogs Jasper and Lexie, and spending quiet moments with his Quarter Horses, Jazz and Newt. He especially treasured his trips to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, riding there three times, with the most memorable journey being the one he shared with his dad. Whether hunting, fishing, or sharing a laugh with family, Harlo’s happiest moments were spent outdoors and with the people and animals he loved.

He will be remembered as a man of strength, kindness, and adventure-someone who gave his all to his family, his friends, and his country. His legacy lives on in the memories he created and the lives he touched.

A private graveside service was held at Shiloh Cemetery to celebrate Harlo’s life. Arrangements are entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home of Waldron, Arkansas.

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Arrest Reports 9/21/25

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Obituary: Sharon Taylor (1964-2025)

Sharon Jean Taylor, 61, of Waldron, Arkansas, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 10, 1964, in Waldron, Arkansas.

Sharon lived a life filled with faith, music, and joy. She loved God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength, and she loved her neighbor as herself. She was the personification of the scripture, “the last shall be first and the first last,” always putting others before herself.

A talented musician, Sharon played guitar, fiddle, bass, and piano, glorifying God with her gifts and bringing joy to everyone who heard her. She was a faithful member of Packsaddle Community Church, where she shared her love of Jesus with all who met her. Every day, without fail, she sought first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Sharon married the love of her life, Guy Taylor, and together they enjoyed countless adventures, especially camping and fishing trips. She cherished every moment spent with her daughters and her beloved granddaughter, filling their lives with warmth, laughter, encouragement, and peace. She loved bringing tranquility and unity to her family, for, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

For many years, Sharon worked as a realtor, helping families find their dream homes. Later, she realized one of her lifelong dreams by establishing Travelers Lane RV Park in Waldron, creating a welcoming place where others could gather and enjoy the beauty of God’s Creation.

She is survived by her husband, Guy Taylor; two daughters, Ria Taylor and her husband Glen Scott, Chelsie Jones and her husband Ethan Jones and step children Guy Taylor Jr. and Danielle Taylor; one granddaughter, Ava Scott and step grandchildren, Lindsey Taylor, Gavin Taylor, James Taylor and Daniel Almario; and four sisters, Wanda Carolan, Lana Richie, Sandy Pyles, and O.J. Hinds.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Clyde Smith, and her brother, Tommy Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be George Martin, Ken Hinds, Gordon Pyles, Bobby Carolan and Dan Richie.

A celebration of Sharon’s life will be 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Waldron Pentecostal Church of God, with Rev. Rickey Hunt officiating. Interment will follow at Sehorn Cemetery.

Honoring her life as pallbearers will be Jim Ivy, John Ivy, David Jones, Konnor McKay, Thomas Mays, Bryan Self, and Andrew Parsons.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 29, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Arrangements are entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Sharon Jean Taylor will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, faithful sister, gifted musician, and above all a true servant of Jesus Christ. The love, joy, generosity, peace, and faith given to her by Jesus Christ will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Smith-Robinson Magic – The 72

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