Bessie Stutts

Bessie Jewel Stutts, 80, of Manila, died early Friday, January 8, 2016 at her home. Born 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 her husband, Jeff of Manila, Sharon and Larry Franklin of Las Vegas,

The father of her children, Fred Stutts, of Manila;

Three brothers; Lee Cater of Manila, Butch Cater of Caraway, 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.

Her grandchildren; Masie, William, Jennifer, Kristin, Jacob, Cory, Brittney, Derek, Landen, and Seth, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Sunday at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. Troy Burrow officiating. Burial will follow in Manila Cemetery. The family will receive visitors Saturday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home. Active pallbearers will be William Walker, Jacob Walker, Derek Stutts, Landen Stutts, Seth Stutts, and Michael Spencer. Honorary pallbearers will include grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Friends may sign the guest register @www.HowardFuneralService.com