Loretta Stokes of Benton, Arkansas, passed away on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at the age of 85. Born on March 7, 1936 she was one of six children to  Cecil and Mellie Tarpley. At the time of her birth the family home was located in Bowie, Texas, where Loretta received formal education, later graduating from Bowie High School.

On April 10, 1987, she became the bride of Dwayne Stokes. They have lived in Little Rock and North Little Rock before moving to Haskell where they have made their home for the last 11 years. Loretta was of the Christian faith and attended times of worship at the Willow Beach Baptist Church located on England Highway.  After relocating she became a member of  the Traskwood Baptist Church.

Before retiring from public work Loretta was employed with the public schools as a food service worker. She enjoyed collecting star burst patterns and when time allowed, working the  garden, canning and  sharing the fruits of her labor with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Mellie Tarpley; son, Eddie Jackson, brothers, Billy Tarpley and Dean Tarpley.

Loretta is survived by her husband Dwayne Stokes, of Benton, Arkansas; son; Curtis Jackson of Benton, Arkansas.; daughters, Brenda Murray and Raymond of Lonoke, Arkansas, Angelia Crosley and Quentin of Ocala, Florida; step-son, Jerry Stokes and Sandy of Jacksonville, Arkansas.,  step daughters, Tracy Craig and Shena Stokes, both of Jacksonville, Arkansas.; brother, Tommy Tarpley of Amarillo, Texas and sisters, Barbara Tuengue and Leon of Glen Rose, Texas, and Diane McDaniel of Cleburne, Texas. along with 17 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Visitation 10:00A.M. Bob Neal and Sons Funeral Home in Clarendon, Graveside services will begin at 12:00 at Roe Cemetery.

Following services family and friends will meet at the Roe Community Center.