of Little Rock, AR

June 5, 1928 - December 4, 2024

It is with profound sadness that the family of Frances Joy (Shackelford) Tarpley announce her departure from this life into her heavenly home on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Frances was born in Okolona, Arkansas on June 5th, 1928 to Rube and Bertie Lee Shackelford. She was married to her sweetheart and best friend, Wallace Austin Tarpley, for 61 years.

She will be lovingly remembered by her Daughter, Carol Fran Rangel (Little Rock); Daughter In Law, Pamela Tarpley (Charlottesville, VA); Grandchildren, Christine Tarpley Stofer (St. Louis, Mo), Tracy Tarpley Gilliam (Martin) (Charlottesville, VA), Gwen Tarpley (Seattle, WA), Stephen Richard Tarpley (Julie) (Chicago, IL) and Samantha Joy Rangel (Little Rock, AR); Great-grandchildren, Austin and Kathryn Stofer (St. Louis, MO), Allison and Madison Gilliam (Charlottesville, VA) and Theodore and Harry Tarpley (Chicago, IL); Her sister, Carolyn Ricketts (Gurdon, AR) and many nieces and nephews. She will also be missed dearly by her friends at Little Rock First Baptist Church, where she was a member.

Frances was predeceased by her loving husband, Wallace Tarpley; her loving son, Richard Lee Tarpley; her brother, Richard Harris Shackelford; her sister, Virginia Seckel and her parents, Rube and Bertie Lee Shackelford.

Frances grew up in Okolona, Arkansas and after marrying Wallace, they began a new adventure, as he enlisted in the Army. She was a proud military spouse for his 20-year Army Career.

A new chapter began after they retired from the military and moved home to Okolona. Frances and Wallace graduated from Ouachita Baptist University with their Masters in Education.

Upon graduating they began teaching at Delight elementary school. Frances was an amazing Kindergarten teacher who believed in the potential of every child. Through her years at Delight, she touched the lives of many children.

After retiring from teaching, Wallace and Frances relocated to Little Rock, Arkansas. Frances enjoyed spending time with her family, as well as her beloved church family. She enjoyed working in her yard (where you would often find her) and continuing to be an avid reader.

Visitation and funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 7th at Roller-Drummond Funeral Home. Visitation from 12:30-1:30pm, Service to follow at 1:30-2:30pm. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Cemetery.

Memorial Donations may be made in Frances Tarpley's name to either Bethel Cemetery Fund, 2351 Old Military Road, Arkadelphia, AR 71923 or Little Rock First Baptist Church, 62 Pleasant Valley Dr., Little Rock, AR 72212

The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. Special thanks to the team at Baptist Hospital and Arkansas Hospice for the wonderful care Frances received.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com