Evelyn Maxine Tidmore

Evelyn Maxine Tidmore, born on January 3, 1939, in Newport, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. She was a dedicated educator, a beloved mother, and a cherished grandmother whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many.

During her professional years, Evelyn was dedicated to teaching Home Economics at the Jackson County Extension Office, where she shared her passion for cooking and baking. She was particularly known for her exquisite wedding cakes, a testament to her culinary talent and warmth.

Outside of her profession, Evelyn enjoyed a rich family life, surrounded by her beloved children: Ronald (Zana) Tidmore, Karen (Steve) Wagster, Sue Renee (Ronald) Kesterson, Peggy Jean Tidmore, and Frankie (Jerry) Gilliam. She was a devoted grandmother to her grandchildren: Doug Thornton, Amy Thornton, Amanda Davis, Stephanie Benish, Krystal Wagster, Sam Wagster, Kayla Tidmore, Elizabeth Kesterson, Lucas Martin, Aaron Kesterson, and granddaughter Harper Summers. She reveled in watching her grandchildren play on the farm. Her 13 great-grandchildren were the light of her life, inspiring her to get up early and to keep moving each day.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Willie Dean "WD" Tidmore; father, Frank McClour; mother, Aline McClour; daughters, Peggy Jean Tidmore and Frankie Gilliam; and her siblings Clyde McClour, Pat Haner, Julius McClour, Laverne McClour, Andy McClour, and Carol Thornton.

Evelyn was an enthusiastic participant in her community, coaching the Grubbs softball team and actively supporting the local baseball team coached by her husband, and opening her home and yard to many children from the local sports teams, fostering a nurturing environment that echoed with laughter. She also served as a 4-H leader, imparting valuable life skills to the youth in her community. Her competitive spirit shone brightly at the Senior Bees, where she enjoyed engaging in games, particularly bean bag baseball.

A dedicated member of the Hillcrest Church of Christ and later, the Pine Knot Church of Christ, Evelyn's faith was central to her existence, guiding her actions and the love she extended to others.

Evelyn will be remembered for her singing, her warmth, her unwavering dedication to family, faith, and community, and especially her enthusiasm for her hats. She leaves a legacy of love and kindness that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Heath Funeral Home. Public visitation is set for Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The funeral service will take place on Monday, September 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM, officiated by David Flanrey. She will be laid to rest at a Committal Service at Ballews Chapel Cemetery in Grubbs at 12:00 PM.

Evelyn Maxine Tidmore will be sincerely missed, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.