Rena Caldwell

Rena Caldwell, 91, of Fayetteville died Feb. 5, 2012, at Washington Regional Hospice Center. She was born Nov. 19, 1920, in Sheldon, Iowa, to Burt and Mary Van Roekel. She was preceded in death by husband Cedric Frank Caldwell and son Thomas Frank Caldwell, both of Jonesboro, Ark. She is survived by one daughter, Jan Kennedy and husband Larry of Fayetteville; granddaughter, April Kennedy of Fayetteville; and grandsons, Chris Caldwell of Jonesboro, Ark., and Vincent Caldwell of Fort Worth, Texas; and one great-granddaughter, Christin Caldwell of Fort Worth, Texas; three sisters, Nancy Sanders and Jerry Brower of Sheldon, Iowa, and Martha Oester of Phoenix, Ariz.; and one brother, Abe Van Roekel of Sheldon, Iowa. Throughout her life she was an avid gardener and fisher. She prized education and the pursuit of knowledge, loving educational programs and crossword puzzles. Rena spoke her mind on most matters, yet remained intellectually curious on a wide array of topics. She also loved dancing and took great pride in her physical condition and appearance, which was evident by her good looks until the end. Rena remained sharp in her mind and strong in her body until the final days. Those who knew her affectionately referred to her as "tough as boot leather." The family would like to thank Highlands Oncology, Washington Regional Transfusion Center, Washington Regional Hospital and Washington Regional Hospice Center for their years of loving dedicated service. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date in Jonesboro, Ark. The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers honor contributions be sent to Meals on Wheels of Farmington, Ark.; 479-267-5709. Please visit www.nelsonberna.com to sign the online guestbook. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home, Fayetteville, Ark.