Ardis Colleen Arthur

Ardis "Colleen" Arthur, 96, of Rolla, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on September 29, 2025. She was born on November 17, 1928, in Piggott, Arkansas, to Troy and Veda Bricker. On February 22, 1947, Colleen married the love of her life, Jimmy J. Arthur, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together they built a life and raised their family in central Missouri, living in the Flat, Millcreek, and Edgar Springs communities before settling in Rolla. Colleen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who lived a long and wonderful life. She will be remembered for her love of gardening, especially her flowers, and was honored to receive the "Yard of the Month" award. She was also a talented quilter, creating treasured handmade quilts for family and friends that became cherished holiday and birthday gifts. She had a keen eye for bargains and enjoyed attending yard sales, estate sales, and auctions. Colleen was also well known for her exceptional cooking, having perfected southern dishes from her Arkansas upbringing. She continued to cook for her children well into her later years. Colleen's life was one of service, support, and love. She was always willing to help family, friends, or anyone in need. A longtime member of Greentree Christian Church, she cherished her fellowship there and held a deep and abiding faith in Christ. Colleen is survived by her children: Sandra Diane Allison of Rolla, MO; Russell James Arthur (Connie) of Edgar Springs, MO; Barbara Kay Brown (William) of Newburg, MO; Donna Jean Hays (Jodi) of Clever, MO; Connie Sue Martin (Mike) of Russellville, MO; Gary Wayne Arthur (Singne) of Richland, MO; and Jimmy Dale Arthur of Moberly, MO. and sisters Joycelyn Owes, and Getonia Clark. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Eric (Jessica) Allison, Jason (Kristyn) Allison, Marta (Kevin) Milliken, Mandi Ramaeker, Abbey (Brian) Auten, Brownie (Taylor) Brinkley, Jaci (John) Mitchell, Jessie (Corey) Daniel, Toby (Amanda) Martin, Austin Martin, Cheyenne (Lucas) Bouldin, Dakota Arthur, Adam Zeman, Andrew Zeman, Meciah (Karly) Zeman, Cainan (Rachelle) Zeman, and Jamin (Brooke ) Zeman; 30 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and her dear friends Diane Crowder and Sarah Gaddy. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmy J. Arthur, and her parents, Troy and Veda Bricker, her brothers Harley Bricker and Amon Bricker and sisters, Camilla Cox, Foye Speers, and Leata Jane Groves. Colleen's life was a gift to all who knew her, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and faith.