Dortha Jane Arnold

Dortha Jane Reynolds Arnold, 80, of Jonesboro was called by her Lord on July 9, 2016, after spending a wonderful evening with her family.
Dortha was born on September 15, 1935, in Hattieville, Arkansas, to Melvin and Essie Reynolds. She graduated in 1952 from Fairview High School in Camden, Arkansas.

In October of 1954, Dortha drove from Arkansas to Montana to marry Bill Arnold, the man to whom she would be married for almost 60 years. Together they were blessed with two children, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Dortha was a loving and outgoing person who was quick to make friends. Affectionately known as "Memaw," she lived to love her family. Her kitchen was always filled with coffee and laughter, and her grandsons claim that her pancakes were the best in the world. Friends and family drew great strength from her humor and honesty, often at times when they needed it the most. So many people have said, "She was like a mother to me," and rightfully so: No one made you feel more special than Memaw.

Dortha loved to travel with her husband, Billy. They followed their grandsons across the country from summer camps in Michigan and Colorado to camping trips and soccer games in Idaho; there was no family occasion too far for Dortha and Bill.

She was a faithful member of the Southwest Church of Christ in Jonesboro, where she enjoyed the friendship of many.

She is survived by her children Steven (Marie) and Janet Parkey (Dr. Mike Parkey); her grandsons Justin Parkey (Lydia), Jonathan Parkey, Josh Parkey (Adrianne), James Arnold and David Arnold (Maddie); her brother William H. Reynolds (Jane); and her sister Martha Mierendorf. She is also survived by two great grandchildren, Bodhi (David and Maddie) and George (Justin and Lydia) and her beloved dog and constant companion, Charlie.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Billy E. Arnold, one brother, and three sisters.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday, July 13, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. at the Emerson Memorial Chapel in Jonesboro, Arkansas, with Dr. Jimmy Adcox delivering the service. A private burial will follow with grandsons and family serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Emerson’s.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Southwest Church of Christ, 1601 James Street, Jonesboro, AR 72401, or the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House, 1148 E. Matthews, Jonesboro, AR 72401.
An online guest book is available at www.emersonfuneralhome.com.