Myrtle Blankenship Bell

On Jan. 8, 2015, four days before her 94th birthday, Myrtle Blankenship Bell died at her home at Culpepper Place in Fayetteville, Ark. She was born in East Alton, Ill., to Henry and Nellie Ann Tiek on Jan. 12, 1921, and was a longtime resident of Rogers, Ark. Her husband, Leon Bell; parents; two sisters, Vi Wake and Alice DeWitt; and one son, Clyde Edwards, predeceased her. She is survived by her brother, Mel Tiek of Arlington, Texas; and four sons, David Edwards and wife, Caroline Lennox, of Fayetteville, Jerry Edwards and wife, GeeGee, of Conroe, Texas, Curt Edwards and wife, Winifred, of Lee's Summit, Mo., and Keith Anderson-Edwards and partner, Pip, of Jomtien Beach, Thailand; along with 10 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. Throughout her long life, Myrt loyally served her church, closely followed politics and steadfastly led her family. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rogers, serving it in many capacities, including acting as a leader in the Women's Circles and as an elder. She was a staunch Democrat, never missing an election. Finally, she was one of the matriarchs of her family, leading and reveling in the activities of the annual Tiek Reunion. Myrt's family wishes to thank the First Presbyterian Church of Rogers and its members for its fellowship and steadfast support. Also deserving of our thanks are the staff members of Culpepper Place of Fayetteville for their love and care. Finally we wish to thank Washington Regional Hospice for its unsurpassed professionalism before and during her final illness. Myrt has asked that memorials be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Rogers. Myrt will be remembered and her life celebrated at a memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the First Presbyterian Church of Rogers. Arrangements by Benton County Funeral Home, 306 N. 4th, Rogers. Online condolences to www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com.