Belinda Sue Mann

Belinda Sue Mann, 64, of Booneville, Arkansas, was born on June 1, 1961, in Van Buren, Arkansas.

Belinda was born with a severe intellectual disability, a condition that shaped the course of her life. Had she been born just 25 years later, advances in technology and understanding might have opened new doors for her to communicate in ways that were not available in the 1960s and 1970s. Even so, those who knew her learned to understand her in her own unique ways.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Manuel Mann and Betty Mann of Booneville, Arkansas.

Services are scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at The Southside Assembly Of God Church in Booneville, with burial in Grace Lawn Cemetery in Van Buren, Arkansas, under the direction of Roberts Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 12:00 P.M.- 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday prior to the service at the church.

She is survived by her brother, Danny Mann (Karen Mann) of Central Square, NY; her nieces, Ashley Mann (Jesse Sidhu) of Los Angeles, CA, Julia Mann of Sequim, WA, and Sophia Mann of Central Square, NY; her aunt, Brenda Burkhart of Van Buren, AR; her uncle, Larry Stockton (Raylene Stuart) of Van Buren, AR; her cousin, Michael Breedlove (Marie Breedlove) of Booneville, AR, who was like a son to her parents; numerous additional cousins; and many devoted friends and caregivers at the Booneville Human Development Center.

Belinda remained at home, lovingly cared for by her family, throughout her childhood and early adulthood. Life was not always easy, but it was always filled with love. When she said "bull," you knew she was upset about something. If she stretched out a long "uuunnnnnn" while biting the back of her hand, everyone nearby understood that a quick kick to the shin-often delivered with her pointed cowboy boots-might soon follow if they didn't respond quickly enough. In her own way, she made sure she was heard.

In July 1988, at the age of 27, Belinda was admitted to the Booneville Human Development Center, just a few miles from her childhood home. There, she found a place where she lived and thrived for the remainder of her life. Although she enjoyed occasional outings, she was usually ready to return to her home at BHDC after a short time. She loved being there and enjoyed interacting with fellow residents and staff who became like family to her.

Belinda enjoyed all kinds of music, sitting outside, and "picking at" her friends. Her life was different from most, but it was filled with love, connection, and meaning. She will be remembered for the unique ways she communicated, the joy she found in simple pleasures, and the love she gave and received throughout her life - a love that defined her story.