Bessie Jewel Stutts

Bessie Jewel Stutts, 80, of Manila, died early Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at her home. Born March 18, 1935, in Manila to the late William and Ruby Kendrix Cater, she had lived in many places throughout her life as a military wife and mother. She returned to Manila in 1973 and was employed for many years at the former Borg-Warner Automotive Company in Blytheville and as a self-employed Avon sales representative. She was a longtime member of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Manila.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by two brothers, Junior Cater and Johnny Cater; one sister, Eunice Cater; two infant siblings; and a granddaughter, DeVonna Jewel Walker.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Mandi Stutts of Manila; two daughters and sons-in-law, Louise Hawkins Wilbanks and husband Jeff of Manila and Sharon and Larry Franklin of Las Vegas, Nev.; the father of her children, Fred Stutts, of Manila; three brothers, Lee Cater of Manila, Butch Cater of Caraway and Bobby Cater of Jonesboro; three sisters, not just a sister but also Bessie's best friend, Mary Sue Malloy of Manila, Rebecca Wilkey of Jonesboro and Karen Jane Wilkerson of Jonesboro. Bessie also leaves her dear friend, Edna Spencer of Manila; grandchildren, Masie, William, Jennifer, Kristin, Jacob, Cory, Brittney, Derek, Landen and Seth, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service was 2 p.m. Sunday at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. Troy Burrow officiating. Burial followed in Manila Cemetery. The family received visitors Saturday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home.

Active pallbearers were William Walker, Jacob Walker, Derek Stutts, Landen Stutts, Seth Stutts and Michael Spencer. Honorary pallbearers included grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friends may sign the guest register at www.howardfuneralservice.com.