Frances Charlene Epperson

Obituary for Frances Charlene Epperson
August 25, 1936 – February 7, 2026

Frances Charlene Epperson, age 89, of Batesville, left this world peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by love. Born in Knobel, Arkansas, to Guy Alexander and Elva (Madding) Alexander, Charlene grew up with strong family values and a gentle spirit that remained with her throughout her life. She cherished her roots, loved her family, and was a Daddy's girl.

Charlene devoted her life to her family and faith, finding fulfillment in being a homemaker. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and devotion-a place where all felt welcomed. She enjoyed reading, especially her well-loved Bible. Charlene found love and comfort in its pages. She also enjoyed listening to audiobooks. She loved playing cards and teaching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to play.

Her creative talents flourished through her love of making ceramic figures and Christmas ornaments. She was known for her M&M cookies, Chicken Enchiladas, and hashbrown casserole for church potlucks.

Charlene loved visiting with family, whether in person or on the phone. Her laughter brightened every conversation, and she maintained a loving connection with relatives near and far. She was famous for remembering birthdays, sending cards timed perfectly to arrive on that special day-a simple gesture that made her loved ones feel valued and remembered.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of forty-nine years, Emmett Epperson; her infant daughter, Karen Sue Epperson; her sisters, Twila Blanchett and Dorothy Epperson; and her stepmother, Bernice Alexander. Charlene faced these losses with grace, drawing strength from her faith and the support of her family.

Charlene leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness through her surviving family: her daughter, Coleda Gardner (Johnny) of Rosie; grandchildren, Krisalyn McGaha (Bill) of Newark, Brook Horton (Tommy) of Sulphur Rock, and Cyndel Armstrong (Ronny) of Thida; and great-grandchildren, Kyler Crabtree (Carmen) of Newark, BreeAnn Shannon (Jayden) of Ballwin, Missouri, Wyatt Northcutt (Bailey) of Newark, Wesley Horton of Sulphur Rock, Shaylee Horton of Sulphur Rock, Cally Armstrong of Thida, and Kyera Armstrong of Thida.

Charlene's impact extended beyond her immediate family. Friends remember her as a compassionate neighbor and a loyal confidante. She always had a kind word or a helping hand for those in need, and her laughter was a source of joy in her community. Charlene took great pride in her church family at the Church of Christ, where she found fellowship, support, and the opportunity to share her faith.

Services to honor Charlene's life will be held at Olyphant Church of Christ at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, prior to the service. Burial will follow at Coffeyville Cemetery.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Bill McGaha, Tommy Horton, Ronny Armstrong, Kyler Crabtree, Wyatt Northcutt and Wesley Horton.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Carolyn Armstrong, Karen Herring, and Alexis with Caring Hands Hospice.

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