Helping Families and Friends Honor Their Loved One

Joanne Beasley Bear “Momma Bear”, age 90

Joanne Beasley Bear “Momma Bear” of Austin, Arkansas went to be with her Lord May 13, 2020 at 90 years and 8 months of age. She was born on September 19, 1929 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Varon and Roselle Beasley. Joanne was a member of the First Baptist Church in Sherwood, Arkansas and was a faithful member until her health began to fail. She loved traveling with her husband Jim in their motor home until Jim’s passing.

Joanne is preceded in death by her mother and father; infant son, Billy Floyd; son James Wyatt; husbands Bill Wyatt in 1958 and Jim Bear 2003. She leaves behind her son Steve Bear (who was her care giver) of Austin, Arkansas, her daughter Linda Smith (Don) of Pottsville, Arkansas; a cousin Nelson Jackson of Houston, Texas; her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of many friends and other family.

You never heard her say a harsh word about anyone and she never met a stranger.

In her last few years she had 2 furry friends; Piper & Jackson who were with her constantly and would let Steve know if anything was wrong.

In light of the current health concerns, Joanne’s family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers if you are not able to attend her memorial service. Please be aware, as per Arkansas directives, there will be a limit of 50 guests, all guests over age 10 must wear a face covering to attend and social distancing guidelines will be in place.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Alzheimer’s Arkansas. Arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 11:00am.

Arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400

9 Comments

  • Nancy Gladden Posted May 18, 2020 11:48 AM

    STEVE, I am so sorry for the loss of your Mother. Sending prayers of love, peace and comfort.

  • Robbin Waller Posted May 18, 2020 7:47 PM

    So sorry for your loss Steve, keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.

  • Dorothy Bellamy Putt Posted May 19, 2020 4:25 AM

    Thoughts and prayers for the family. You all have so many memories from your mother’s life, she was a loving, caring and her smile would light up a room.

  • cheryl bridges Posted May 19, 2020 12:33 PM

    Linda and Steve, so sorry for the loss of your mother and my Aunt. I have so many fond memories.

  • Linn Siems Posted May 19, 2020 1:38 PM

    I remember so well our trip to Israel several years ago. She was always so upbeat and fun-loving. Our trip was so meaningful to everyone and we were all changed from walking where Jesus walked. Thank you Bro. Carroll and Donna Roberson for your guidance.

  • Cecilia Hutson Posted May 19, 2020 3:49 PM

    I have so many good memories of Moma Bear teaching Sunday School class at Bethlehem. It seems like only yesterday sometimes. I am also thankful that i was able to visit with her these last couples of years. She was a sweet lady.

  • Shelly Marr Posted May 19, 2020 5:23 PM

    So sorry to hear about Mama Bear! You know Momma is squeezing her tight right now and talking up a storm! Love you guys!!

  • Susie Harbort Posted May 21, 2020 7:04 PM

    Mama Bear So Fiercely Loved

  • Cloy Turner Neal Posted May 22, 2020 5:59 PM

    Linda & Steve so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers during these difficult times. God bless each of you & know that now back together she & Papa Bear are planning their next adventure.

    Cloy Turner Neal

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