Dr. Cortez E. McFarland

Dr. Cortez Evon McFarland, affectionately known as "Pop Pop" and "Paw Paw," entered this world on July 27, 1945, in Newton, Mississippi, born to Yvonne Whitfield McFarland and Spivey McFarland. From an early age, he embraced faith and community, accepting Christ at Sylvester African Methodist Episcopal Church in Newton. As a young man, he excelled both academically and athletically-participating in basketball and football, earning valedictorian of his senior class, and receiving an athletic scholarship to Alcorn State University. He later completed his collegiate studies at Tougaloo College and proudly became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, where he served as Dean of Pledges.
In June of 1968, Cortez married his college sweetheart, Sharon Rose Vaughn, and together they welcomed three children. After teaching science and mathematics at Pelahatchie High School in Mississippi, he pursued his dream of becoming a physician, earning acceptance into the University of lowa College of Medicine. He completed his internship and OB/GYN residency at UCLA's San Bernardino Medical Center, where he also served as Chief Resident.
Following residency, Dr. McFarland returned to Mississippi to open his first medical practice with his fraternity brother, Dr. Wesley Prater. In October 1987, he brought his calling to Little Rock, Arkansas, and founded Woman's Pavilion-a solo practice where he served women and families with unwavering dedication for more than 30 years. Known for his compassion, tireless work ethic, and commitment to quality care, he often spent long hours at his patients' bedsides. In 1992, Doctors Hospital in Little Rock recognized him for delivering the most babies within a single year. He delivered countless children into the world, leaving an immeasurable impact on the community he cherished.
Outside of medicine, Dr. McFarland enjoyed life with passion. He loved playing softball and baseball, shooting bool, fishing, and collecting rare and unique firearms. A fierce and loyal Raiders fan, he shared his love of sports with his grandchildren, encouraging them to play and pursue their interests. Known for his warm humor, charming smile, and unmistakable wit, he brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.
On Saturday, November 8, 2025, Dr. McFarland departed this life surrounded by his loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents, Spivey and Yvonne McFarland; his grandparents, Wiliam Leon Whitfield and Catherine Whitfield; and his first wife, Sharon McFarland.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 27 years, Marilyn Johnson McFarland; his children, Anthony Cortez McFarland (Monica) of Jackson, Mississippi, Sembene Bian McFarland of Little Rock, Arkansas, Dr. Courtney Johnson-Donner (Tracy) of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jared William McFarland of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Omari Campbell of Jackson, Mississippi; his brother, William Leon McFarland (Bonnie) of Meridian, Mississippi; his aunts Joy Griffith of Raleigh, North Carolina; Julia Babbs (Kobert) of Chicago, Illinois; and Bennye K. Seraile of San Diego, California; his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of extended family and friends whom he loved deeply.
Dr. McFarland's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched- with healing hands, his steady presence, and his boundless compassion. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.