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.
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8 Condolence(s)
Peggy Huffman Wells
Saturday, December 7, 2024
My mother was very good friends with Frances Joy and Wallace when they lived at Okolona. They were special people. My sympathies go out to Carol Fran and her family.
Zela Strange
Saturday, December 7, 2024
My friendship with Frances began years ago when she and Wallace joined our Sunday School class at First Baptist Church. Our friendship was like a book-when she said she was from Okolana. I told her a person I knew from college days from there, and of course she knew him.
I have many memories from the years we shared in Sunday School. In later years, we have visited on the telephone both series and frivolous. It wasn't too many years ago that I learned we were the same age.
I will miss her!
With sincere sympathy to the family. It's been a joy for me to watch the special loving care Carol and Samantha have given her through the years.
Valerie (Dees) Rubin
Friday, December 6, 2024
Ms. Frances lived by her beliefs and managed her long life in this world the same way she departed for the for the next, at her pace and with her own style. The mpression she has made will linger for generations and she will be missed.
Patrick and Melanie Young
Friday, December 6, 2024
Sam and Carol,
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Praying for peace and comfort.
Lessa Payne
Friday, December 6, 2024
Carol and Samantha,
Your mom and meme was a very classy lady and she has left an Amazing legacy of her long life for everyone to see and celebrate. I pray that you will celebrate her life and enjoy all the wonderful memories you have with her. I told her not to worry I would make sure you are ok. Love you both BIG! Lessa
Tina Hale
Friday, December 6, 2024
I was blessed to have been one of those children she taught. She was an amazing woman and teacher. Her and Mr. Tarpley were both missed when they left. Many prayers and love to the family!!
Janet Lay ONeal
Friday, December 6, 2024
I am so blessed to have crossed paths with the Tarpleys . Thinking of you at this time in the loss of sweet Mrs Tarpley . A true lady . Rest in Peace with those who have gone before . Prayers for peace and comfort for her family
Nancy
Friday, December 6, 2024
Carol and Samantha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will continue to pray for comfort and peace to surround you during this difficult time,
You are both in my thoughts and prayers.