Mary Frances Lewis

Mary Frances Lewis, a beloved member of the Paragould community, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on September 23, 1949, in Paragould, Arkansas, Mary was a lifelong resident who cherished her hometown and the relationships she built throughout her life.

Mary was a proud graduate of Oak Grove High School, Class of 1969, and spent over 40 years as a dedicated machine operator at Emerson Electric, where she was affectionately known as "Little' Mary." Her strong work ethic and unwavering commitment left a lasting impact on her colleagues and friends.

A devout member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church, she greatly admired Pastor Kirk Neugebauer. Mary found joy and comfort in her faith and her church family, and her kindness and warmth will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary had a deep love for her pets, whom she affectionately referred to as her "girls." She took great pleasure in fishing and enjoyed cooking and eating catfish, often saying, "Catch it and eat it." Her enthusiasm for life extended to her passionate support of the Arkansas Razorbacks, a devoted fan of all their sports. She also treasured attending the sporting events of her nieces and nephews as they proudly represented the Paragould Rams. She always shared a close bond with her sisters, Ann and Rita, evident by their care and devotion to one another throughout her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, William "Mack" and Irene Tritch Lewis; brother, Bill Lewis; and nephew, Kelly Batey.

Mary is survived by her loving sisters, Ann (Norman) Batey and Rita (Tommy) Smalling; her cherished nieces, Leigha (Shawn) Roleson, Stephanie Emmert Batey, and Jaime (Shannon) Freeman; her nephew, Jacob (Nicki) Smalling; and her great-nieces and nephews, Brittian Roleson, Reese Roleson, Micah Roleson, Sam (Evelyn McHaney) Freeman, Maggie Freeman, Tyler Smalling, Logan Smalling, Emily Smalling, and her great-great niece, Freya Smalling. Each of these family members, including an aunt, numerous cousins, and friends, held a special place in her heart and will carry her memory forward.

In honor of her life, a funeral service led by Pastor Kirk Neugebauer will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with visitation from 11:00 AM until the time of service. Following the service, friends and family are invited to the burial at Greene County Memorial Gardens.

Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Shawn Roleson, Shannon Freeman, Jacob Smalling, Sam Freeman, Tyler Smalling, Logan Smalling, and Chris Brasher. Honorary Pallbearers are all the men of Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Mary Frances Lewis will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, unwavering love for her family and Redeemer Lutheran Church Family, and her unique ability to light up a room with her laughter. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and joy that will not soon be forgotten.

Memorials in Mary's memory can be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church of Paragould.