Obituaries 05/11/2023
William Beck
ROGERS, Ark. – William “Bill” Beck, age 81, passed away Monday, May 1, 2023, in Rogers, Ark. He was born July 27, 1941, in Water Valley to Walter Franklin and Willie Mae (Brower) Beck Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 32 years, Paula Edwards Beck; a sister, Luella Fair; and a brother, Walter F. “Dub” Beck Jr.
Bill graduated from Water Valley High School in 1959 and started college at Northwest Mississippi Jr. College in Senatobia. He joined the National Guard and served for several years while completing his college degree at Memphis State University. It was during this time when he met Paula.
Bill and Paula married on July 27, 1968 and Leigh Anne came along a couple of years later. The three of them moved to Forrest City, Ark. where Bill owned and operated the local Napa Auto Parts/Auto Care Center. After relocating to Bella Vista, Ark. in 1997, Paula was called Home on November 29, 1999. Bill proceeded to get his real estate license and joined the Lindsey and Associates Rogers office family where many friendships were built. His circles of friends meant the world to him.
Duck hunting and bass fishing were Bill’s favorite outdoor passions. As he would say in the duck blind, “this is what it’s all about,” then proceed to call in the ducks. Bill was kind-hearted and always ready to lend a helping hand. He was also witty with one-liners and nicknames while smiling from ear-to-ear. He never met a stranger. He loved telling stories and listening to stories as well. Most of all, Bill cherished his family and friends and wonderful memories throughout his well-lived lifetime.
Bill is survived by his loving daughter and his pride and joy, Leigh Anne Beck (grandpups Henry and Cate) of Rogers; his sister, Ida Browning; his brother, Bob Beck; and a host of extended family and friends.
There will be a celebration of life announced in the near future.
Shirley Mathis Jones
WATER VALLEY – Shirley L. Mathis Jones, age 84, of Water Valley went to her forever home Monday at Yalobusha General Hospital. She was born June 25, 1938, in Yalobusha County to the late Carmon and Lucille (Mooney) Mathis.
Visitation is scheduled Wednesday, May 10, in the Gardiner Room of Seven Oaks Funeral Home from noon until 1 p.m. The funeral Service will follow at 1 p.m. with Bro. Billy Childs officiating. Burial will be at Camp Ground Cemetery.
Shirley married Jimmie R. Jones in 1957. They had two sons that she adored and devoted her life to raising. She was a long time member of Camp Ground Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School for children and adult classes. She loved cooking and spending time with her family.
Shirley is survived by her three sisters, Clemmie Callahan of Oxford, Jerleen Harris of Water Valley and Dean Callahan of Oxford; one son, Gregory M. Jones (Kim Vickrey) of Water Valley and Jonesboro, Ark.; daughter-in-law, Mary Beth Jones of Oxford; grandchildren Megan Jones of Oxford, Tyler Jones of Water Valley, Morgan Jones of New Orleans and Kyle (Megan R.) Jones of New Albany; two step-grandchildren, Christian and Aubrey Grayce Vickrey of Jonesboro, Ark.; and Great-grandchildren Knight Jones Bennett (Megan J) and Hardin and Harrison Jones (Kyle and Megan R).
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie R. Jones, and one son, Jimmie Steven “Steve” Jones.