Dora Laverne Leslie

Dora Laverne Leslie, 93, of Magnolia, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 5, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at Wentworth Place Nursing Home.

Born on February 21, 1932, in McCaskill, Arkansas, Laverne was the eldest of four siblings, three brothers and one sister. At the age of 19, she married the love of her life, Joe Leslie, who was 21 at the time. Their marriage of 58 years was marked by deep devotion, shared faith, and unwavering commitment to family. Early in their marriage, Joe was drafted into the Korean Conflict and served as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. The couple was stationed in California, where they welcomed their firstborn son, Charles. They returned to Magnolia, Arkansas, to build their life together. They were blessed with two more sons, Gary and Tony, raising a family grounded in love, hard work, and Christian values.

Joe enjoyed a long career with Entergy, while Laverne worked at Gibson's Discount Store in Magnolia, from which she later retired. Together, Joe and Laverne lived their lives dedicated to the Lord, faithfully teaching His word to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their home was always a place of warmth, prayer, and hospitality.

Joe preceded Laverne in death in 2008. In the years that followed, Laverne remained a pillar of strength and love. She was an extraordinary wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, cherished by all who knew her. Her family will forever treasure her endearing expressions "flitter" and "hon"-and the way she never failed to say "I love you" at every visit.

At Wentworth Nursing Home, Laverne was a beloved resident who "ran the show," staying informed about everyone's schedules and forming close bonds with staff and fellow residents alike. They, too, became her extended family.

Laverne was a woman of remarkable strength, grace, and faith. She lived a full and good life, and now rests in heaven, reunited with her beloved Joe and in the presence of her Lord.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and support shown during this time. Laverne's legacy of faith, family, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all she touched.

Laverne is preceded in death by her husband, Joe Rufus Leslie and a daughter in law Carolyn J. Leslie.

Laverne is survived by her three sons, Charles R. Leslie of Anderson, Missouri, Gary A. Leslie of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Tony M. Leslie and wife Pat of Magnolia, Arkansas; grandchildren, Charles R. Leslie, Jr. (Nicola) Springfield, Missouri, Charity L. Noblitt (Wray) of Anderson, Missouri, Lori Ann Callison of Newport, Arkansas, Joe R. Leslie of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and Makala N. Leslie of Portsmouth, Virginia; sister Brenda Sisson (Lynn) of Boise, Idaho; brother, Charles Lively of Sanger, California; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00 PM on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Home Chapel with a Celebration of Life Service to follow at 2:00 PM with Bro. Micah Carter officiating. A private burial will be at Magnolia Memorial Park Cemetery on Monday.