Jeanne Butler

Jeanne Smith Butler was born on November 15, 1966, in Arkadelphia. She was the daughter of Alberta Smith; when her mother married Claude Beard, Sr., she stole his heart. He loved and raised her as his own. A natural-born leader, “Gina” was the glue that held everything together. She made sure that everyone was accountable and knew their role. She was the big sister, mediator, and role model and took pride in being in charge.

She was first introduced to Christ at an early age. She accepted Him and was baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. A. W. Terry. She was a 1985 graduate of Arkadelphia High School. She was an engaged athlete who helped lead the team to championships in volleyball and she ran long distance in track. She was outgoing, smart, and a quick learner. She made friends easily and was always a team player, being the leader. 

When Tevin was born, her life changed forever. She understood that her role as “mama” was serious and that this new chapter in her life would come with challenges and many joys. Tevin was her heart, and she would bend over backward to make sure that he had everything that he wanted or needed. 

She loved children and the attention from her nieces and nephews as their favorite aunt. Fiercely loyal and private, she stayed low-key in all things. She mastered keeping her business to herself and keeping others out of her business. 

Gina was a hard worker who worked several jobs including the Wal-Mart Vision Center and Continuum. She always raised her bar and challenged herself. She specialized in Optometry and received several certifications, she did it all while making it all look easy.

She enjoyed intimate moments at home with close friends and family. She supported all family functions, whether it was a ballgame, party, the Craig and Lock Family Reunion, or a relatives doctor's appointment, Gina was there. 

On Saturday, October 5, 2024, surrounded by family and a few friends she peacefully passed from this life. Gina was 57 years old and lived a full, good life. Her absence leaves a huge void, but the memory of her smile, laughter, and big heart will fill the emptiness. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Isiah “Zack” Craig, Sr. (2017) and Claudie Beard (2024); her sister, Dana Rochelle Craig (2017); and her brother, Isiah Craig, Jr. (1990).

Her memory will live in the hearts of her beloved son, Tevin Smith of Arkadelphia; her grandchildren Jazlyn Bills and Khancellor Davis; her mother, Alberta Beard of Arkadelphia; her sisters Rovonda Smith, Koren (Darryl) Young, LaSandra Beard all of Arkadelphia, Kelly Craig (Donta Thrower) of Bearden, AR, Ebonie (Patrick) Craig-Dawn of Malvern, AR, Keiana (Alim) Craig-Hogan of Malvern, AR, Shakara Oakley-Lomack of Sherwood, AR; Michelle Craig and Bobbie White (cousins) both of Malvern, AR; her brothers, Claudie (Beatrice) Beard, Jr., of Arkadelphia AR, Kelvin (Julianna) Beard of Germany, Melvin (Robin) Randle of Louisville, KY, Rafael (Tiffany) Beard of Bluff City, AR, Jason Beard of Arkadelphia, Norman (Felecia) Jacobs, Sr., of Malvern, AR, Reggie (Barbara) Craig of Hot Springs, AR, and Corrie (Vanessa) Craig of Camden. She also leaves her companion and close friend, Ronnie Parham; her aunt, Rose (John) Hope of San Antonio, TX and uncles, Wardell (Mary) Smith and David (Debbie) Smith all of Nashville, TN; an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends, Shalonda Crite, Angelia Mack, and Renee Cornell and countless other friends.

The family has planned to celebrate her life at noon on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church with Dr. Lewis A. Shepherd, Jr., officiant, and Rev. Llewellyn E. Terry, Sr., eulogist. The interment will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 12 noon until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the funeral home. An evening with family and friends will be from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Family and friends are asked to wear hunter green, one of her favorite colors.

Pallbearers will be Trace Young, Jae-Kur Lockhart, Donta Thrower, Corrie Craig, Terre Smith, Jashon Dawn and Patrick Dawn. Honorary Pallbearers will be Wardell Smith, Davis Smith, and the AHS Class of 1985.