of Charleston, WV

December 11, 1978 - December 10, 2024

Natalie Jo Canard, a beloved daughter, fiancée, and friend, entered her heavenly home on December 10, 2024, in Huntington, West Virginia, at the age of 45. She faced a prolonged illness with strength and dignity surrounded by family in her final moments.

Born December 11, 1978 in Batesville, Arkansas, Natalie spent her childhood in Mountain View, where her passion for dance lit up every room she entered. Her parents, Shelby Joe and Brenda, recognizing her boundless energy and talents, ensured she was enrolled in every dance class the small town offered. Natalie's love for dance symbolized her vibrant zest for life, creativity, and joy. Her grandparents, John Finis and Sally Henderson, and Imogene and Joe Canard of Mountain View, were always proud supporters, often watching her perform clog routines with rhythmic perfection.

An extraordinarily talented writer with a deep love for literature and journalism, Natalie from an early age thrived in the world of words, weaving stories and finding solace in the pages of her favorite books. Her "book smarts" and academic intelligence led her to achieve multiple decorated degrees that most would only dream of. These God-given gifts for writing and communication allowed her to achieve a Master of Arts in Applied Speech Communication at UALR in 2020, a M.A. in Multimedia Journalism at Arkansas Tech University, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, Advertising and Applied Communication at UCA, where she was a member of Lambda Pi Eta honor society, and a B.S. in Journalism at Arkansas State University. Natalie had a deep connection with others and thrived on learning and expanding her skills. She saw communication as a form of dance, describing it as a beautiful craft, stating, ''Communication is a dance where you tell stories. It is such a beautiful craft. I love it.''

Over the last year, Natalie and her beloved fiancé, best friend and soulmate, Christopher Gilreath resided in Charleston, West Virginia, where they purchased a beautifully renovated home and filled it full of love, laughter and affection for one another. She enjoyed decorating and was a wonderful cook; much to the liking of Christopher. Together, they shared a special bond with their three cats, Jaxon, Lowry, and Reese, who brought them endless comfort and companionship. These furry friends were a cherished part of their family and they always thought of them as their babies.

Throughout her life, Natalie infused everything she did, including her career, with her vibrant spirit. During her six years at Vestcom International, as a Shopper Marketing Client Support Specialist, she pushed her teams to achieve company business goals through consumer packaged goods, grocery and adult beverage sales, tackling multiple merchant stakeholder accounts in the Southeast. She also spent several years working at PatientPoint in Little Rock. She truly was a "do it all" woman and there was nothing she wouldn't try. Natalie's work enthusiasm was contagious, advice wise; all done with a heart full of compassion for others.

Her abrupt entrance into God's kingdom has left an unfillable void in the hearts of her loved ones, but her memory will forever inspire those she touched to dance through life as she did-with grace, passion, and courage.

Rest in peace, Natalie Jo Canard. We are forever blessed by your passion, spirit, and unwavering fight for life, all of which will never be forgotten.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Crouch Funeral Home
405 Peabody
Mountain View, AR  72560
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com