Lavone Fowler, of Harrison, passed away at her home on Sunday, June 7, 2026. She was 88 years old.

Born on November 19, 1937, in Optimus, Arkansas, Lavone was one of twenty children born to the late Harvey and Zola (Sutterfield) Smith. Growing up in a large family instilled in her the love, resilience, and devotion to family that would characterize her life.

Lavone was a faithful servant of the Lord who, alongside her beloved husband, Frank, dedicated 59 years to ministry, pastoring churches and sharing their faith with countless individuals throughout the years. She was a member of Union Baptist Church and lived her life as an example of Christian love, compassion, and service.

A talented and accomplished seamstress, Lavone was known for her remarkable skill with a needle and thread, even creating her daughters' wedding dresses by hand. She was also an exceptional quilt maker, spending countless hours crafting beautiful quilts that became treasured keepsakes for family and friends. Lavone faithfully served North Arkansas Regional Medical Center for more than 17 years, beginning her volunteer journey in 2008. She was a cherished member of their volunteer family whose kindness, generosity, and servant's heart touched countless lives.

Family was at the center of Lavone's life. In addition to lovingly raising her own children, she helped raise Frank's two youngest siblings, Clint and Ada, following the loss of their mother, providing them with the care, guidance, and love they needed. She found great joy in spending time with her family, especially during their many camping trips to Buffalo Point, where memories were made that would be cherished for generations.

Lavone was an avid outdoorswoman and an excellent fisherman who often managed to outfish Frank, a fact she enjoyed reminding him of from time to time. She also shared her gift of hospitality through Von's Cafe, the small restaurant she owned and operated. There, she welcomed customers with warm conversation and home-cooked meals. Among her most loyal patrons was Duke Burchell, who could almost always be counted on to stop by for a meal and a cup of coffee.

Known as an outstanding cook, Lavone prepared many delicious meals throughout her life, including fried chicken, squirrel, and venison. However, she was perhaps most famous for her homemade biscuits and chocolate gravy, dishes that brought family and friends to her table and left lasting memories long after the meal was over.

Lavone was also a woman of tremendous strength and perseverance. A cancer survivor, she courageously battled the disease for 26 years, facing each challenge with determination, grace, and an unwavering faith in God. Her resilience, loving spirit, and devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; twin grandsons, Jamie and Jeremy; 12 brothers; one sister; and one son-in-law, Gary Don Smith.

Survivors include her husband of 72 years, Frank Fowler; five children, Brenda (Richard) Sessions, Wanda Smith, Shirley (Darvin) Adams, James (Sharon) Fowler, and Robbye (Tobby) Allen; nine grandchildren, Christie, Denyse, Kerry, Cassandra, Amanda, Matthew, April, Alicia, and Eric; 24 great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren; two brothers; four sisters; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Union Baptist Church. Pastor Bill Melton will officiate. Honorary pallbearers include Dalton Burch, Kolby Curtis, Logan Franklin, Eric White, Asher Hendrix, Scout Curtis, Calab Franklin, Henry Adams, and Kaden Franklin.

A private family interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International.

Lavone's chapter on earth has been beautifully written, but her story is not finished. Through faith, we trust that this is not the end, but the beginning of a new and eternal chapter. To be continued...

Condolences may be left online at www.coffmanfh.com