Kimberly Ann Baxter

Kimberly Ann Kelly Baxter, 54, of Fayetteville, Arkansas went to be with our Lord and Savior on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. She was born November 4, 1970, in Russellville, Arkansas, to Frank Carl Kelly and Ann Douglas Kelly. Kim was a lifelong resident of Fayetteville and a cherished daughter, devoted "daddy's girl", sister, loving wife, aunt, and friend whose presence touched the lives of everyone around her. She spent her youth playing a variety of sports, from dancing to softball. She attended Fayetteville High School, where her bubbly personality and social nature allowed her to make friends easily. She cherished these friends and kept them close – many of her dearest friendships spanned more than 30 years, a testament to her loyalty, warmth, and ability to bring people together. Her love for sports ran deep, whether cheering on the Razorbacks or pushing her own limits. She pursued fitness with grit and determination, even completing multiple half-Ironman triathlons and endurance races – a testament to her strength and perseverance. On this journey, she met her partner and loving husband, John Baxter. Married on December 31, 2013, they shared 25 years together. Their marriage was a beautiful blend of love and friendship, filled with laughter, support, and a bond that brought joy and comfort through every season of life. Kim was a woman of endless generosity, a true light in the lives of those around her. She loved nothing more than bringing joy to others, whether through her handmade crafts, her thoughtful holiday traditions, or her simple acts of kindness that lifted spirits when they were needed most. Christmas was especially dear to her heart. She collected Snow Village pieces for more than 30 years, creating magical displays that captured the wonder of the season. One of her fondest memories was decorating the windows of the Bank of Fayetteville on the square – a tradition she cherished and one that made her daddy so proud as a board member. For Kim, every ribbon, decoration, and painted detail carried a piece of her love. A natural caregiver with a servant heart, she dedicated herself to helping others, offering comfort, encouragement, and a steady hand to anyone in need. Animals brought her tremendous joy, but none more than her beloved dog Digger. They were her constant companions and kindred spirits, offering unconditional love that she happily returned tenfold. Her deep connection with animals reflected her gentle and compassionate spirit. With a Dr. Pepper always nearby, she appreciated life's simple pleasures and shared them freely with those she loved. She was just as at home in the quiet woods as she was around a bustling holiday table. Hunting gave her peace and a chance to connect with nature, while holidays gave her the chance to connect with people-family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to be welcomed into her warmth. Her adventurous spirit shone brightest in the outdoors. Whether hunting gators, predators, or pheasants, Kim embraced the wild with a passion that few could match. However, her love for fishing outweighed all other outdoor activities. She spent numerous weekends on the White River fishing for brown trout, traveling to the coasts to fish for red snapper and redfish, and fished for Mahi in Hawaii. To her family, Kim was the glue that held so many moments together. As a daughter and sister, she gave unwavering love and support. As a wife, she shared a deep companionship built on foundation of love and laughter. As an aunt, she poured her heart into her nieces and nephews, creating special memories that will forever be cherished. As a friend, she offered a steady hand, a listening ear, and an open heart. Though her time with us feels far too short, the impact she left behind will live on in every heart she touched. Her legacy will not be measured in years, but in love: in the smiles she sparked, the traditions she started, and the countless ways she showed us how to care for one another. Though she is gone from our sight, she remains with us-in the laughter around the table, in the beauty of a handmade keepsake, in the comfort of a helping hand. We will carry her spirit forward by loving others as she so effortlessly loved us. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always treasured. Kim is survived by her husband, John Dale Baxter; her mother, Ann Douglas Kelly; her brother, Kenneth Douglas Kelly and his wife, Barbara Kelly; a niece and nephew, Cerissa Hayot, Chase Kelly; a great-niece, and great nephews, Edmond Hayot, Henry Hayot, Isabel Hayot; her parents-in-law, Robert and Jenny Baxter; and her sister-in-law, Brandi Baxter. Private graveside services were held at Fairview Memorial Gardens in Fayetteville. To place an online tribute, please visit www. https://bernafuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Fayetteville Animal Services, 1640 S. Armstrong Ave, Fayetteville, AR, 72701.