Name: McConnell Funeral Home
Address: Greenwood, AR

As Kendra knows, Dee was such an important part of my life during our high school years. She was like a second mother to me, and in many ways I could share things with her that I couldn't share with my own mom.  One memory that really stands out is that Dee taught me how to drive because my Mom couldn't handle it!  LOL I think she probably went through WAY to many cigarettes as she was teaching me, but by the end of the day I could drive! She will be truly missed. 

I worked with Ms. Dee for several years. We became friends the moment we met. She was smart, funny, kind and independent. She comforted me during tough times and celebrated with me during good times. What a great role model she was!! We bonded over our love of animals and devotion to family. She loved the Lord and shared her faith daily.  “Mama Dee,” is what her family called her and she truly became that to me as well. There’s no doubt that she is an angel in Heaven now. I will always remember Mama Dee and know she will be greatly missed by all who knew her. My sincere sympathy goes out to all her friends and family. 

Lisa Foust
Nashville, Tennessee

My mom, Lodema Ruth Peoples, was born at home on September 3, 1933 in Greenwood, Arkansas to Earl and Grace Peoples. She was the eldest girl, and the apple of her daddy's eye. She grew up singing in church and learned to play the piano. Music was always a passion in her life. She used to talk about having one little feed-sack dress that she would wear to school everyday. As a child she loved her paper dolls that she'd cut out of a Sears and Roebuck catalog. She and her brother Dwain we're as close as any two siblings could be. Rolling tires and climbing trees, they were relentless at playing pranks on one another. She married young and left Greenwood shortly thereafter. Although she had a gypsy soul and never stayed in one place too long, she always found her way back home. She was the proud mother of five children and was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She had struggles and she had triumphs, she was a sinner and a saint. She found grace and forgiveness in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was with her through it all.  She was nurturing and tender, kind and gracious. She loved passionately and her love still endures. 

My sincere sympathy is offered to Dee’s family. Dee was my coworker in Nashville, at the State of Tennessee. There are so many precious memories, too many to mention here. Her smile was a constant one and entirely genuine. We worked together so easily, one of the best working relationships I’ve ever enjoyed. I have missed her but had no way of getting in touch. I’m so glad my son let me know. Hers was truly a life well-lived unselfishly. 

To my cousins: What I remember the most about your Mom is her independence. She struck me as a strong woman who could make her way in life, on her terms. She was talented, strong willed and tough. Most of my memories are from years ago when we were all kids, either in California, Tulsa, or Greenwood. If a person can be judged in life by their children's paths through life,  then I would say she was a mighty fine woman. Beautiful, intelligent, savvy, talented, and driven. These are just a few things that describe Aunt Dee. I will miss her greatly.

Kendra,  I worked with your mom in the Revemue department in Tennessee. She was a very nice person. 
Stephen Paul

Hello Kendra, 

I remember how positive, caring, and happy Dee was in almost all situations. She was a dear friend with whom I had the pleasure of working on multiple occasions in our near 20-years of overlapping of State service. I remember that Sunday morning when the Kosuts, Al Rogan, and I helped your mom pack on her way to AR. I bought your mom's dining room table and chairs - the solid oak furniture, remember?...  My daughter loves it and is one of her show pieces in her home in northern MS. Life goes on. Remember this: the reunion with all of our friends and loved ones is yet to come! What a party and a celebration that will be - the praising of God for His mercy and grace! And never forget the reunion of His children in Heaven! All the people that we'll see again, introduce to other friends and family and spread the network of the joy, love, and peace of Heaven! 
Peace, joy, and grace to us all. May Dee help lead the way. 

Always yours, 
Greg H. Dozier 

I have so many wonderful memories of my Aunt Lodema. When she came to visit, I was always so excited. She called me her baby girl and took me with her wherever she went. I was quite upset when Steve was born, because I was no longer the baby. She told me I’d always be her baby girl and she still called me that whenever I talked to her on the phone. She was loved and will be missed.  My condolences to my cousins and a special thanks to Kendra for keeping the Texas branch of the family  informed of her condition. 

Love ,
Dianna Peoples Milligan

The words “Hey girl” keeps playing through my mind. Many memories flood my days lately. Dee was a very special friend. I will miss her oh, so much. Love you girl!

Kendra, 
I thought the world of your Mom.  She was a professional business women that knew how to get the work done.  She was gracious, big  hearted and a true friend to me.   My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.  We have  lost one of the good people, but I know she is with God. 
Love 
Peggy Kosut 

I am so sorry for your loss.  My BEST memory of Dee was in January 1992.  Dee and I would walk at lunch and I had just found out I was pregnant.  You see, I was told I could not have children and had been trying for 7 years.  Dee stopped in the middle of the road, started jumping up and down, as she was so excited for me.  I just love her!  She will always hold a special place in my heart.  By the way, that little boy will be turning 28 next month. :)  While Dee was in Nashville, we went to several events to support Kendra.  What a beautiful soul!  Kendra also holds a special place in my heart.  May God give you comfort knowing so many friends and family care and are praying for you. Joan Cagle

3 Girls Animal Rescue

Private Funeral Service

Deeis survived by two brothers, Jack Peoples and Dwain Peoples; five children, Steven Jones, Jim Cox, Brenda Oliver, Etonna Tincher-Wahl and Kendra Miles; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

OBITUARY

Lodema "Dee" Audrain

September 3, 1933 – July 27, 2020

McConnell Funeral Home

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