of Searcy, AR
July 7, 1937 - April 18, 2023
Nettie Lee Bledsoe, 85, of Kensett, Arkansas passed away April 18, 2023 at her home. She was born on July 7, 1937 in Little Dixie, Arkansas to the late Carl and Ethel Smith.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 58 years, David M Bledsoe; one son, David E Bledsoe; one great grandson Declan Bledsoe; two brothers, Elvin and Jimmy Smith, one sister, Betty Ray and her brother-in-law, Dwight Bledsoe.
Nettie is survived by her son, Russell (Belinda) Bledsoe of Grove, Oklahoma and daughter Kathleen Boyd of Searcy, Arkansas, her sister-in-law Helen Wooten of Hot Springs, Arkansas, seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren along with several nieces and nephews and many friends.
She was a longtime active member of Kensett First Baptist Church and would work with the children each year during their Vacation Bible Schools. She worked for JC Penney in Searcy for many years in the Women's Department where she made many friends. The Order of the Eastern Star was a big part of her life where she could travel and be with her best friend David. She served in many different offices in the Eastern and traveled across the state with her friends to attend meetings. She served as an Advisor for the Rainbow for Girls along with working as a leader in the scouting organizations for both her daughter and sons.
Most of all she was known for the love she had for her family and friends. She never let the thoughts of David leave her after his death. She loved to sew and would make most of Kathy's clothes including her formal dresses and cheerleading uniforms. She studied recipe books and would try new recipes on her family. She looked forward to the big family gatherings and was always looking forward to the next. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were very special to her and she looked forward to their visits.
TV was a favorite past time of hers and would watch the old shows and become associated with them such as ''Aunt Bee's famous Pickles'' from the Andy Griffith Show and ''Rose'' from the Golden Girls. She loved the Game Shows especially ''The Price Is Right'' with Bob Barker and would spend much time working ''Word Search'' Puzzles.
Services are scheduled for Saturday, April 22, 2023 at Kensett First Baptist Church with visitation at 10:00AM followed by the funeral at 11:00AM. Interment to follow at White County Memorial Gardens, Searcy. All services are under the direction of Roller-Daniel Funeral Home.
Nettie and I attended Eastern Star together in Kensett along with my Mom , Laverne Sowell. Such fun times of learning and fellowship. Kathy and my sister were best friends . I pray for the family during their time of grieving and the many memories they will cherish.
What a blessing to have known Mom Bledsoe…and to have been an honorary family member—spending many hours at her house or on the road traveling to all the places that Rainbow led us. I will never forget our laughter and shenanigans! Forever loved! Until we meet again! 😘
Kim, Jennifer, & Kat
She was indeed a loving, caring person. Sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the good times in the days to come.
So sorry to read of Netties passing. So many wonderful memories of the Bledsoe family when David worked for My Dad.
Nettie was always mom Bledsoe to me since I was a teenager. She was a great woman,she made one of my prom dresses and helped alter a few formals for Rainbow events and always made me feel like family.
She will be missed. I spent alot of time at her house. My prayers are with the family.
Nettie was like a mom to we Faith kids, and a second grandma to my daughter. She is already missed very much.
Kat and Family,
So sorry for your loss. She was a special lady and cared for her family! God be with you as you grieve.
Danna Cofer