Dorothy Ann Nigh

Dottie Nigh, 93, of Van Buren passed away Friday, February 13, 2026 in Fort Smith. She was born July 22, 1932 in Fort Smith to the late Carl and Inez (Nation) Bender. She was a retired special education secretary for the Van Buren School district, was a member of City Heights United Methodist Church, and enjoyed quilting, bible study and gardening.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter D. "Bo" Nigh; a son, Mark Nigh; and a brother, Dennis Bender.

She is survived by a son, Lee D. Nigh and wife Andi of Van Buren; a grandson, Cole Nigh and partner Sara Bishop of Springfield, MO; two sisters-in-law, Phyllis Bender of Cedarville and Debra Nigh of Springfield, MO; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be 11:30 a.m. Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

Pallbearers will be Frank Petray, Hagen Sargent, Carl Bender, John Bender, Cole Nigh, and Lee Nigh.

The family will visit with friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.