Clara "Fern" Barentine

Clara "Fern" Barentine, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.

Fern was born on August 17, 1936, in Daisy, the daughter of Malachi Simmons and Silla Lavada Golden Simmons.  On July 11, 1953, she was married to the love of her life, Billy Barentine, who preceded her in death on August 19, 2021.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Keith Stephens; two brothers, Gerald "Tut" Simmons and Glen D. Simmons; and a special niece, Linda Fagan, and her husband, Glendale.

Fern led a fulfilling life centered around her family and touched the lives of many through her various roles. She started her career as a beautician while raising her family and later worked for several years at the Glenwood Nursing Home, where she held several positions, including Assistant Administrator, Activities Director, and assisted with the elderly in various capacities. Her dedication and compassion made a significant impact on those under her care.

Fern was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.  One of her greatest joys in life was cooking for her family. She always cherished the moments spent rocking her babies and could often be found holding two at a time with a heart full of love. She also enjoyed fishing, painting, sewing, and traveling with her beloved husband, Bill. 

Fern will forever be remembered for her kind-heartedness and unwavering love for her family. Her spirit will continue to live on through the memories shared by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.  

Fern is survived by her two daughters and one son-in-law, Tina Stephens of Dierks and Tracy and Richard Merrill, of Glenwood. her cherished grandchildren and their spouses, Amy and Dustin Brymer, Joe and Leisa Stephens, and Josh Lowery; her great-grandchildren and their spouses, Justin and Kyla Gilbert, Zack Gilbert, Brock Brymer, Olivia "Liv" Lowery, Jace and McKinsey Stephens, Cody Stephens, and Devin Stephens; five great-great-grandchildren, Raileigh, Keidan, Paisley, Elijah, and Declan; her two sisters, Pansy "Pat" Logan of Mena and Wanda Simmons of Dierks; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of wonderful friends.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, August 14, 2023, in the Mount Joy Cemetery with Bro. Raymond Dees officiating.

Visitation will be held Sunday, 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM, in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood, 209 North Third Street, Glenwood, Arkansas 71943.

Pallbearers will be Justin Gilbert, Zack Gilbert, Brock Brymer, Jace Stephens, Cody Stephens and Devin Stephens.

Honorary pallbearers will be the members of Mount Joy Free Will Baptist Church, the nurses and staff of Howard County Memorial Hospital; and Dr. Carla Pumphrey.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.