Celia Little

Celia Maria Pola Little, 91 years old, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, at her home. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Neal Little; her mother and stepfather, Natividad and Narciso Frigillana; her father, John Pola; and her brother, John Pola, Jr.

She is survived by her sister, Normandie Hales (Mike), and her children: Dennis (Karen), Denise, Lisa Smitherman (Jim), Corey (Malinda), and Mimi Nunez, as well as her seven grandchildren.

Celia was a first-generation American citizen, as her parents immigrated from Puerto Rico. She grew up in Spanish Harlem, NYC, where Spanish was her first language.

Her mother and stepfather moved to the Panama Canal Zone so her stepfather could serve as an interpreter for General MacArthur. Celia learned to drive in an Army Jeep!!!!

Years later, at Henderson College, she saw this forlorn-looking man who had returned from Korea and decided she needed to meet him, so she joined the all-male softball team, which he coached. Her cheerleader spirit made him fall for her, and months later, they had a wedding and a one-night honeymoon in Hot Springs before returning to class. Five children came along, and Celia was a full-time wife, cook, and chauffeur. Many of her children's classmates will remember her driving a red-and-white VW bus to transport kids to HSHS ballgames.

After her fifth child went to college, she worked as a JCPenney supervisor and enjoyed having spending money.

Her last years were spent doting on grandchildren, Lindsey Butler (Zach), Dylan Little (Allie), lan Little, Madison Smitherman, Bradford Smitherman, Jorja Smitherman, and Cole Nunez.

She was longing to be reunited with her groom, Neal, and THE bridegroom, Jesus, who gives eternal life and love. It is with great certainty that she heard these words upon entering heaven, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

A visitation will begin at 1:00 on Friday, November 14, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 2:00 pm, both located at First Baptist Church, 2350 Central Ave.

Instead of flowers, please donate to The Salvation Army or a charity of your choice.

A livestream of the service can be seen at YouTube: First Baptist Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Guest registry at www.smithfamilycares.com.