Our beautiful and beloved Mom and Granny went home to Jesus on February 2, 2022. We are heartbroken but smiling as we tell stories of her feistiness and love for all of us. She was so many good things, but we all agree that family was her number one. Gatherings with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were some of her happiest times. All the grandkids will attest to her “yella pie” and the request to have it at every gathering. She was an avid gardener and lovingly took care of many flower beds with dozens of brightly colored flowers and blooming trees, still working in these beds at 89. 

Mom and Dad grew up together in the small town of Okolona, Arkansas, population 340. They became teen sweethearts and married on October 15, 1952. Dad joined the Air Force shortly after and their life-long adventure and travel began. Three children under the age of three were quickly born in three different states as they moved with the Air Force. Dad said many times that Mom was his biggest supporter, always ready for the next move. 

Mom gave us her huge heart for animals. We grew up with a pet skunk (de-scented), a raccoon, a 100- gallon aquarium, a Shetland pony and numerous chihuahuas and kittens over the years. 

When she took a stand, you would not budge her. During a road trip, Dad commented on how high the cotton was. Mom said it was only knee high. Twenty miles later and still discussing height, Dad turned the car around, went back to the cotton field, Mom jumped out, walked into the field, and said, “See, I told you it was only knee high!” as she stood there laughing, with cotton up to her ears.  

So many ways we will miss her. Farewell for now, Mom. You and Dad will be sweethearts again in Heaven and we will all celebrate together again. We might even have “yella pie.” 

Linda Grace McElhannon Killingsworth is survived by her husband, Billy D Killingsworth of Benton, Arkansas; her three children Roxy (Jim) Braga of Gooding, Idaho; Bill Killingsworth (Debra) of Mabelvale, Arkansas; and Becky (Jimmy) Holladay of Benton, Arkansas, as well as ten grandchildren: Dan Braga, Troy Braga, Tyler Braga, Jenna Holladay, Justin Holladay, Sarah Holladay, Jim Holladay, Angela Holladay, Kelly Killingsworth, and Nikki Killingsworth, along with 19 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Due to COVID, there will be no inside service.  A graveside service will be held at the Weir Cemetery in Okolona, Arkansas, on Friday, February 11, 2022 at 2:00 pm. 

Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Clark County, P.O. Box 435, Arkadelphia, AR 71923.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.  Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.