Meriko Bunting, age 80

Meriko Bunting, affectionately known as “Oba” by her family, passed away in the early morning hours of June 3, 2025, at Baptist Health Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 80 years old.

Born on May 24, 1945, in Tokunoshima, Japan, to her parents, Shiro and Taru Fujiyama, Meriko was raised alongside her two brothers, Masag and Ichiro Fujiyama, and her sister, Toyoko Dinger. It was in Japan that she met the love of her life, Mickey Bunting, while he was stationed there during the Vietnam War. They were married on October 7, 1971, in Okinawa. After moving to the United States, the couple built a beautiful life together in North Little Rock, Arkansas, sharing 57 wonderful years of marriage.

Meriko was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She worked at Maybelline for over 30 years, all while raising her family with incredible love and care. Her dedication to both her work and her home was a reflection of her strong spirit and generous heart.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Shiro and Taru Fujiyama, and her brothers, Masag and Ichiro Fujiyama.

She is survived by her sister, Toyoko Dinger; her husband, Mickey Bunting; her children, Sayuri (John Barnett) and Jimmey (Rebecca Bunting); her grandchildren, Brock (Taylor Bunting), Sierra Barnett, Lauren (Josh Imhoff), Trent Bunting, Samantha Barnett, Brody Bunting, and Kinsey Barnett; and her great-grandchildren, Sophie Bunting, Ryley Bunting, and Lynnlee Bunting.

Meriko dedicated her life to making sure all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were “happy and healthy.” Nothing brought her more joy than watching them grow and succeed.

She found happiness in life’s simple joys: gardening, folding origami, crocheting, spending time with her cats and beloved dog, Baxter, and cheering on her favorite football teams.

Oba leaves behind a legacy of love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

A private celebration of life with close friends and family will be held at a later date in lieu of a traditional service. In honor of Meriko, condolences may be sent to Mickey Bunting at 928 Roseclair Drive, North Little Rock, AR. The family wishes to thank everyone for their love, support, and kindness during this time.