Jackie Mae Arnes

It is with great love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jackie Mae Arnes, who left us on February 14, 2025, at the age of 85. She would have celebrated her 86th birthday on March 4th. Born with a generous spirit, she was the embodiment of love, joy, and laughter to everyone who knew her. She had a wonderful sense of humor that could light up any room, and her infectious laughter will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Whether you were in the presence of her wit or the warmth of her cooking, her presence was always a reminder that life should be enjoyed to the fullest.

A true culinary expert, Jackie was famous for making the best fried chicken. The crispy, flavorful perfection of each piece will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of tasting her cooking. Later in life, she spent many hours playing bingo, starting in the lively halls where the stakes were high and the friendships even higher. She continued her love for the game at the senior center, where she played with joy and camaraderie.

Jackie was a proud member of the Sherwood Senior Center community where she spent her days with friends, laughing and participating in a variety of activities, including bean bag baseball. A standout player, she was known for her competitive spirit, but more importantly, for her kindness and sportsmanship. The senior center also became a place where she attended many luncheons and enjoyed the company of others, proving that she had an endless ability to give and care for those around her.

Her style was always impeccable, often accessorized with elegant touches to enhance her favorite outfits. Whether in a formal dress or a casual ensemble, she had a knack for looking put together, always in her favorite color—purple. She wore it with pride and grace, a reflection of her vibrant personality.

Jackie also had a love for performing, whether it was through singing and dancing in skits at the senior center or simply adding flair to her daily life. Her zest for life never faded, and she always took the time to look after herself, enjoying things like a freshly manicured set of nails and a hot cup of coffee—her favorite drink anytime.

She was married to the love of her life, Harry Sherman Arnes, who preceded her in death just 13 weeks ago. Together, they shared an enduring love that spanned over 60 years of marriage, since 1958. Their love story was one of partnership, respect, and unwavering commitment, and now they are reunited in eternity.

Jackie and Harry spent almost two decades in Alaska, from 1973 to 1992, before relocating to Little Rock, where she spent the rest of her days surrounded by the warmth of new friends and family. Her legacy of love, humor, kindness, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit and the joy she brought to our lives will never be forgotten.

Jackie is survived by four loving children Christina (Michael) Hall, Harry Stuart (Leesa) Arnes, Michele Susan (Brent Miller) Hoffman, and Rebecca Ruth (Bill) Baker; her cherished grandchildren, Beverly, Jannis, Marquel, Zachary, Wesley, Dalton, Colton, Brent, Adelaide, Katie, Sammy; her precious great-grandchildren, Nate, Emiley, Isaak, Tristan, Lucas, Ezekiel, Lucy, Owen, Hugo, Ellie and Katie; her only sister, Georgia Duff; and her brother-in-laws, Jim Wickboldt and Dick Reese.

In honor of her life, the family invites those who knew and loved her to a memorial service to celebrate her memory at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, 10:30 a.m., at the funeral home. Jackie will be laid to rest next to Harry at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

We will miss you, Mom, but we know you are at peace, reunited with Dad, and your love will always surround us. May you rest in eternal love.