Stella Mae Cariker, aged 85, of Brinkley, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026. She was born on May 6, 1940, in Cypress Ridge, Arkansas, to Virgil and Anna Herndon Heath. However, due to family tragedies, Stella was raised by Big Grandma Heath. Stella shared childhood memories with two siblings and received formal education through the Aubrey Public Schools.

On January 14, 1966, she became the wife of Bobby Don Cariker and took great pride in her role as a wife and homemaker. Together, they raised three children and, through the years, were blessed to see their family grow with the addition of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Stella worked outside the home and was a dedicated employee, working at the Van Huesen Shirt Factory for 25 years. After its closing, Stella secured a position at Ferris Fashions, where she worked diligently for more than 20 years before retirement.

Stella was also a woman of great faith. For more than 47 years, she has been a dedicated member of the Brinkley Church of Christ. She enjoyed taking her children to church,  sharing with them the knowledge and value of their inheritance in Christ.

A woman of many interests, Stella loved reading, solving word finds, and working on jigsaw puzzles. When she had the opportunity to spend time outdoors, the simple pleasure of going fishing was one of her favorite things to do.

Stella was a woman of grace, resilience, and wisdom. She was known for her unwavering faith, and dedication to her family.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Anna Heath, husband Bobby Don Cariker, grandson Daniel Cariker and siblings Lawrence Heath and Christine Cupp.

She is survived by her son, David Cariker (Laura) of Atkins, Arkansas, daughters Deanna Saunders (Sean) of Salem, Arkansas, Melanie Jackson (Phillip) of Clarendon, Arkansas, eight grandchildren, Chris, Chad, and Bobby Cariker, Hunter and Drake Saunders,
Graden and Anna Jackson along with many nieces, nephews, church family and friends.

"The family would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the staff and residents of Southfork River Therapy and Living in Salem, Arkansas, for all the love and care given to Stella during her time there."