of Conway, AR
November 27, 1959 - March 2, 2025
Marti L Rankin passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2025 surrounded by her husband and children at the age of 65. She was born in Castor Valley, CA on November 27, 1959 to James A Benefield and Neva L Smith.
She is survived by her husband of 31 years, James (Jim) Rankin of Conway; her stepfather, Ray Smith of Conway; sisters, Beth Jones and Patti Wise (Brandon) of Summerfield, FL; stepbrothers, David Smith of Conway and Bruce Smith (Michelle) of Tahlequah, OK and stepsister, Suzan Gilbert of Greers Ferry; daughter, Melinda (Mindy) Johnson (Tino) of North Little Rock and son, Derek Rankin (Erica) of Sheridan; Adopted kids, ''Cooter'' and ''Roscoe''; grandkids, Azurea Andrews, Kaylib Andrews, Aiyana Johnson, Brock Johnson and Kaiden (KJ) King. Marti is preceded in death by her parents, many friends that were close enough to be family and many adopted kids (pets).
Marti liked to make her own path and held several jobs over her lifetime, but ''mother'' was her favorite. She strived to always put her kids above herself. She was always eager to help and opened her heart to anyone needing a kind word or a helping hand. Marti enjoyed the outdoors, camping with friends and family, traveling to new places and reading a good book. She was a loving wife, mother, Nina and an amazing friend to all that knew her and will be dearly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 8th, 2025 at 10am at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Flowers are accepted, or gifts in her memory may be made to Fuzzy Hearts Animal Rescue in Fairfield Bay, AR.
To order a DVD copy of this video memorial, please contact our funeral home at + 15013277727.
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17 Condolence(s)
Bryon Smith
Friday, March 7, 2025
Marti told the best ghost stories when we were kids. I always looked forward to hearing them when we would come visit Arkansas about every three years or so from the late 60s to the early 80s. She took great delight in scaring the "you-know-what" out of us younger cousins.
I remember her big smile, her infectious laugh, and her quick wit. I'll especially remember our long phone conversations that we had over the last nine months after I visited last year. Marti still had a child-like quality to her, and I never felt like I was talking to an "old person." She was still happy, ornery, sassy, young at heart but full of wisdom, and above all, loving.
My condolences go to her husband, kids, grandkids, and to all who are part of her earth-bound family and friends. I know their loss is immeasurable. But at the same time, our family members who are already in Heaven are rejoicing, for they just received another angel.
Cindy Watkins
Friday, March 7, 2025
The world is certainly a little less sparkly and fun. Marti was that and so much more!
I will always cherish our friendship over all these years. The memories made. Her laugh and smile. Her stories.
I hope our mansions in Heaven are near each other; I would say “rest in peace”, but she’s probably busy cleaning mine hers and everybody else’s.
Until we meet again, my friend! I love you! Thank you for all the laughs!
Jim, Mindy, Derek, Pops, (and Pups,) you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
May God Comfort and Bless you now and in the days to come.
I am so sorry.
Love, Cindy
-donation made to Fuzzy Hearts in Marti’s honor
Darryl filban
Friday, March 7, 2025
When I first met Marti, I fell in love with her sweet demeanor and that accent. She Showedme nothing but love the very first day I laid eyes on her. The way she takes care of my big brother always made me know that he’s Well taken care of. The love he has for her is unmatched, their hearts are one. And there’s no doubt in my mind that she knows how much everyone loves her and will always keep her close to our hearts. every memory that we have of her will keep us going. I love you Marti, Thank you for being One of the best parts of our family. Rest in heaven queen
Missy Mahan White
Friday, March 7, 2025
Dear Jim and family, I was blessed to call Marti my cousin.. I loved how Marti could make everyone feel welcomed, her laid back gift of gab, and our shared love of our furry children.. I'm so glad we got to camp together at our Greets Ferry Reunion.. My heart hurts with you.. She loved big n I pray that you can continue loving big to continue her legacy! One day we will all be together again if we've asked Jesus into our hearts to live for eternity Love Always, Missy
Charlie and Earlanna Alred
Thursday, March 6, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers for peace and comfort. We knew Marti briefly but knew her thru Neva. She was a caring and kind person. I'm sure she and Neva are dancing for our Lord. Much love
Sarah Newland
Thursday, March 6, 2025
I have lost my sissy and there's a hole in my heart where she was for so long. My heart goes out to her family
Tania Vicknair
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
We are saddened by the news of Marti’s passing. The world has lost a precious soul. We at fuzzy hearts hold her in our hearts.
Amy and Jerry Lusk
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Our sincere condolences to Jim and he and Marti's family.
Ronald jack Rist
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Rest in piece.
Sandy Filban
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Marti was the best sister -in-law but an even better wife to my brother. I will be forever grateful for the many years of love, support and fun that they shared. I hope she knew how much she changed his life and how loved she was by all of us. We will miss you, Sis!
Barbara Jordan ragonese
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Marti wil be missed. Iam so sorry to her family, love and hugs
Robert Farley-Willis
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Rita filban
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
First time meeting her with Jim,through Sandy and Darryl her in laws,we bonded,the love overflowed,how absolutely one of a kind she is,this took my breath away,love you Ladylove,Rita
Ken Price
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Totally shocking, Marti was so full of life. My deepest condolences to those who knew her best. I know that is many and they are in my thoughts and prayers for the pain they must be enduring.
Duane and Willota Andrews
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
We were so sad to hear about the passing of Marti.Know that our love thoughts and prayers are with all of her sweet family.
Shari Little
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
I’m so very sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers .
Suzan Gilbert
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
The last few years Marti and I shared a lot of early morning conversations even after I moved to Greers Ferry. We were there for each other in ways that mattered. I was proud that she called me her sister. I visited with her last Wednesday and turned around for a second goodbye hug. I will always remember that.
I’m going to miss her and all the things we laughed about together. But I know I will see her again one day and that gives me some measure of peace. Rest in eternal peace, Marti. I love you.