of Clinton, AR
July 22, 1919 - June 6, 2015
Mary Faye Kemp Woodell passed at the age of 95 from this life Saturday, June 6, 2015. There is jubilation in heaven as she joins those who preceded her in death: her husband, LN Woodell, her mother, Minnie Ann Kemp, father Fred Kemp, brothers, Bob and Bill Kemp, sister Raye Whillock, son-in-law AC Caldwell and many other friends and relatives.
Mary was cared for during the past few years by her loving daughters, Judy Phillips, Billie Caldwell-Fendley her husband Dr. Herb Fendley and granddaughter Kim (John) Barker. Survived by her grandsons Kevin (Laura) Caldwell and Mitchell (Vanesa) Caldwell and 4 great-grandchildren, Neal Crisler, Alex Caldwell, Anna Caldwell, and Sofia Caldwell, 2 great great grandchildren and a host of loving nieces and nephews - whom she spent several weeks in the summer entertaining.
Mary attended Clinton Schools where her talent in bookkeeping, typing and shorthand were of great advantage, graduating from high school in 1938. She worked at the post office for postmaster, Mr. Tolly Whillock. At 23 she married L.N. Woodell who was drafted into the army for World War II. During L.N.'s duty overseas, Mary, her daughter and parents moved to Wichita, KS to work in an ammunition factory.
Mary was known for her great home cooking. People from all around Clinton would come to Mary's to enjoy a good home-cooked meal. She would never turn anyone away and felt a special joy cooking for those she loved. ''Mary's famous cake'' and sweet tea were for every occasion and loved by all.
Mary loved her children and especially loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a great sense of humor and a love and zest for life. She was active in her church since 1945, First United Methodist Church and enjoyed weekly bible study for over 30 years. She helped start the Methodist Thrift Shop, helped with the Methodist Youth Fellowship, attended Methodist circle meetings and loved all her friends. Above all she was a sweet Christian lady with a beautiful smile and beautiful legs. It was always a joke that L.N. married her for those legs.
Mary was a friend to many in Clinton and was a staunch advocate for the town of Clinton - her lifelong home. She was happy there and never wanted to be anywhere else. She was like a mom and grandmother to many and they took her values to heart. God, family, food and love.
If one could look at her life in total, you would see that family, friends and love of God mattered most to her. She was so proud of all of her family and was always ready with words of encouragement. She set a great example of Christian charity and will be missed by so many. Her laugh will still ring in our ears as we recall the many good times we had with our dear mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.
Funeral services will be held 3 pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Clinton, AR with visitation from 2-3pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Clinton, AR.
Burial will be at Bradley Cemetery
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church 167 Joe Bowling Rd, Clinton, AR 72031
Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Arkansas. For online guestbook, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
Judy and Billie,
So sorry to hear of your Mother's death. She had such a good life and created many memories for you and your families. Everyone who worked in town ate lunch at the bus station when George and Raye owned it. I will always remember seeing your mom and dad there when I went to lunch. It was like one big family during lunch hour. Brings back lots of good memories. May you find peace and comfort in the days to come.
Love and Prayers,
Bonnie (johnson) Tietjen
Judy, Billie, Kim and family:
Mary Faye was a special lady. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God speed your healing.
Mary Faye was a special person, I extend my sympathy to the family.
So sorry Billy,Judy and family She will be missed by many
Billie and Judy, we are so sorry for your loss. Mary Fay was such a kind and sweet lady. My mother considered her a dear friend. We will be thinking of you during this time.
I always smile when I hear her name! Mary Faye was one of those people that you just love instantly. She was a blessing to all who knew her.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time-
My deepest sympathy, Judy and Billie..Clinton has lost another great lady.
Judy and Billie: What sweet and wonderful lady you mother was. What a legacy for the two of you to carry on. I pray that God will comfort you during this time of loss. God Bless You! We love you!
Judy and Billie; I was so sorry to hear of your mother's death, she was a sweet, wonderful Christian Lady who will be missed everyone who knew her. I will remember you and your families in my prayers during this sad time.
please accept my sympathy at this sad time for the family of Mary Faye. A charming lady who will be remembered with love by so many.
Billie and Judy, there are many fond memories of all of you on our visits to Arkansas. Always, your mother was so welcoming and hospitable. And her energy was amazing! I know you will miss her but what a wonderful legacy she leaves! Love and prayers, Sharon
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Her bubbly personality and bright smile made everyone who knew her love her.
She will be greatly missed by all.
My prayers and thoughts are with Judy and Billie during this time.
Dot
Judy, Billie and family, I am so saddened for your loss and I know how you feel; and yes, your Mother was sweet to everyone. I most remember her at Weds night church, when she would want the "4 Smith girls" to sing for everyone. We would hide in the bathroom as she came up the hallway but, somehow, she would always find us. May God bless you all and keep you strong, Love you always.