Ben Edward Williams
May 4, 1940 – December 18, 2025
Ben Edward Williams, age 85, of Saline, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in Jonesboro. A lifelong outdoorsman, Ben found his greatest contentment in the simple, honest joys of nature and community. He was an avid gardener whose tomato patch became legendary throughout the Carolina community near Saline, earning him the affectionate nickname “the Mater Master.” Ben took pride in sharing the fruits of his labor, generously keeping friends, neighbors, and passersby supplied with free, vine-ripened tomatoes each season.
When he was not tending his garden, he could often be found fishing or duck hunting, pursuits that reflected his deep appreciation for the outdoors. A devoted dog lover, Ben had a special fondness for Labrador Retrievers, whose loyal companionship brought him great joy throughout his life.
Ben is survived by his wife of 63 years, Glenda Thomas Williams; daughter, Jere Rushing and husband Randall; son, Terry Williams; grandchildren, Lecie Rushing, Jacob Williams, Justin Williams; great-grandchildren, Saylor Havard, Ryder Havard, Scarlett Shell, Ada Ruth Williams; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bennie Williams; mother, Mae Arbil (Calhoun) Williams; grandson, Seth Rushing; and an infant sister.
A graveside service was held at Carolina Baptist Church Cemetery near Saline on Saturday, December 20, 2025, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro with Bro. David Leggett and Barry Thomas officiating.
Serving as pallbearers was Terry Williams, Jacob Williams, Justin Williams, Randall Rushing, Paul Thomas and Ronnie Mathews.
Robert “Bobby” Vail
January 20, 1938 – December 18, 2025
Robert “Bobby” Vail, age 87, of Quitman, Louisiana, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on December 18, 2025. A man of deep faith and generous spirit, Bobby found joy in both the simple pleasures of life and in serving others. He loved fishing and could often be found tending his garden, on his lawnmower or working with his hands as an avid handyman and woodworker. Bobby’s greatest passion, however, was his love for the Lord. He served, when he was able, as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, and he never missed an opportunity to share his testimony, which he fondly called “His Story,” with anyone willing to listen. Bobby loved fellowshipping with friends and family and he loved watching his grandkids and great-grandkids grow up.
Bobby is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara (Grissom) Vail; daughters, Cindy Hammons and Angie Horn (Greg); grandchildren, Ashley Hines (Jeff), Daniel Hammons (Mollye), Samantha Taylor (Josh), and Mallory Willis (Caleb); great-grandchildren, Alley Hines, Evelyn Hammons, Jacob Hammons, Logan Hammons, Colby Taylor, Mason Taylor, Liam Willis and Gideon Willis; brother, Kenneth Vail.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Grady Vail; mother, Mary Lois (Kelley) Vail; sister, Lurline Whitten; brothers, Donald Ray Vail, James “Cotton” Vail and Richard “Dickie” Vail; and son-in-law, Jeff Hammons.
Friends may visit with the family at Fellowship Baptist Church near Quitman on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 12:30 PM until 2:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM with Bro. Craig Stephens officiating. Burial will follow in the Antioch Cumberland Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Serving as pallbearers will be Paul Maxwell, Red Burris, Johnny Toms, Jason Womack, Jeff Hines, and Josh Taylor.