of North Little Rock, AR
June 8, 1942 - March 1, 2025
The extraordinary life of Lynda Gayle Bowman Venable Jelks (82) came to an end March 1, 2025. Lynda was born in Pampa, Texas on June 8, 1942 with the world aflame in World War ll. She was the daughter of the late Ike and Kathleen Bowman of North Little Rock. Lynda was also preceded in death by her brother, Doug and sister, Cynthia (Cindy).
Lynda graduated from North Little Rock Senior High School with the class of 1960. Dallas Cowboy owner Jerry Jones was a childhood friend and classmate. Lynda worked for many years as a medical technician in both Arkansas and Florida.
She is survived by husband, William (Bill) Jelks of North Little Rock; son, Craig Venable of Jacksonville, Florida, son, Chris Venable of Frisco, Texas; grandson, Zachary Venable; stepsons, William (Billy) Jelks of Tracy, California, Michael Jelks of North Little Rock and Andy Jelks of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida and canine daughter, Halle of North Little Rock.
Lynda lit up every room she entered with her cheerful smile and caring personality. She worked countless hours volunteering for charitable causes and helping others in need. She was also active in Arkansas politics, as Campaign Manager for North Pulaski County for former Governor Frank White.
Lynda was an accomplished artist, enjoyed tennis (where she regularly bested her husband), gardening, walking on the beach during her 30 years on the Emerald Coast and travelling with husband, Bill on their many trips and cruises, capped by a world cruise in 2012.
Private Family services will be held at a later date. Please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens for the online guest book and obituary.
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9 Condolence(s)
Marianne Bailey Wilcox
Sunday, March 9, 2025
What Lynda Gayle lacked in physical stature she made up for in spunk and talent. Her paintings were incredible. She’ll definitely be missed.
Marianne Bailey Wilcox
Sunday, March 9, 2025
Pat Jennings Dyer
Monday, March 3, 2025
I’m remembering Lynda Gayle’s bright smile and her joyful countenance in High School. She was always fun to be around. God bless you, Bill, in your loss. May His comfort and mercy surround you in the days ahead and your memories be sweeter in the years ahead.
Norman Clifton
Monday, March 3, 2025
Bill,our prayers and condolences are for you and your family at this sad time. She will always be remembered by many of us as the bright ,funny, cheerful, and bubbly, Linda, Gail.
Kay Seay
Monday, March 3, 2025
Linda was always a lot of fun to be with. She helped bring me out of my shell. I’m sorry I missed seeing her in the last years.
Ron Tribell
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Bill, I am so sorry to hear of Lynda Gayle’s passing. Praying for you and families.
Ron Tribell
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Bill, I am so sorry to hear of Lynda Gayle’s passing. Praying for you and families.
Audrey Burtrum-Stanley
Sunday, March 2, 2025
How sad to read that this lovely woman's life has come to an end.
I was stunned to take note of the spelling of LYnda's name, (spelled with a 'Y' instead of an I''.) I have a cousin WITH HER GIVEN NAME SPELLED THE SAME WAY, with a "Y".
Then, Amazingly -- I read LYnda (from NLR). has a sister named 'Cindy.' My aforementioned Cousin LYnda also has a sister named: 'Cyndy'...only her NAME was spelled with another 'Y,' so the sisters would have a special link through their spellings.
Perhaps some time in the future, they can all get together' in Heaven' discuss this unique name business!
I also want to express how adorable I thought the photo of NLR's LYnda is in her Mickey Mouse apparel.
My sincere condolences to Lynda's family upon the loss of a loved member of their clan.
Nell )Norris) Clark
Sunday, March 2, 2025
She was always smiling in High School!