Martha Jean Short

Martha “Jean” Short, age 78, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 22, 2026.

Jean was born on August 16, 1947, in Marietta, Mississippi, to Carl and Marie (Timms) McAnally. She lived a life grounded in family, hard work, and faith.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth “Ken” Wayne Short, with whom she shared her life and home; her children, Randy Bullock and Stephanie (Wayne) Orr. She is also survived by her grandchildren Emily Bullock and Evan Bullock, children of Randy Bullock, and Charlotte Orr and William Orr, children of Stephanie Orr.

Additional survivors include her stepchildren Kevin and Lisa; her step-grandchildren Keaton and Kaleigh; her brother Larry (Sherry) McAnally; and her sisters Mary Hatley, Wanda (Eric) Smith, and Cindy Dugan, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Arthur “Bud” McAnally; and her sisters Vernell “Nell” Crain, Sue Cox and Paula Fisher.

Jean worked at Frolic Footwear in Jonesboro for over 20 years, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. She was a member of North Main Baptist Church.

She adored her two brothers and six sisters and firmly believed that family was everything. One of her greatest joys was going on cruises with her sisters, creating memories she treasured deeply.

Jean also loved—and sometimes hated—watching the Razorbacks play, often all during the same game.

She will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her faith, and the love she gave so freely.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on January 31, 2026, at Emerson Funeral Home. A visitation will precede the service from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. The burial will be private.