Marsha Lea Besancon

Marsha Lea Besancon, 71, of East End, Arkansas, was received into Heaven by her Lord and Savior on February 11, 2026, with her husband faithfully by her side. She was born on December 14, 1954, in Searcy, Arkansas, to the late I.C. Jackson and Violet Marie Porter Jackson.

Marsha was preceded in death by her parents and her nephew, Kevin Bennett.

She is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Michael Besancon; her daughter, Mary Hooks and husband Jason Hooks; her son, Jeffrey Besancon; and her cherished granddaughter, Madilynn Grace Hooks, who brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her sisters, Carol Bennett and Dian Howie and husband Mike; her sister-in-law, Carolyn Snider and husband Charlie; along with a host of nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

From a young age, Marsha had a heart for music and ministry. She sang in a quartet and played both the piano and organ, sharing her talents in worship and blessing many through song. Music was one of the many ways she expressed her deep and abiding faith.

Marsha also had a servant’s heart and faithfully volunteered at Chicot Elementary for many years, where she poured encouragement and kindness into countless children and staff members. She found joy in simple pleasures—reading a good book, baking and decorating cakes, cross-stitching and crafting, and watching the birds she loved so much. Her quiet creativity and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Marsha shared her talent for needlework as a cross-stitch pattern tester for Leisure Arts, a role she truly enjoyed. She also retired from Health Advantage after years of dedicated service.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at UAMS, the compassionate staff at Greenhouse Cottages at Poplar Grove, and Lifetouch Hospice for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Marsha.

Marsha’s life was a testimony of faith, devotion to family, and service to others. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21, 2026, beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Funeral Home and Memorial Park. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m.