of West Memphis, AR

December 2, 1936 - January 1, 2026

Eloise Golden Felts, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and respected businesswoman, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026. She was 89 years old.

​Early Life and Spirit
​Eloise grew up in Osceola, Arkansas, where her bright personality and energy were on full display as a high school cheerleader. Her roots in the Arkansas soil stayed with her throughout her life, eventually manifesting in her love for gardening and her lifelong dedication to her family and community.

​A Life of Devotion and Service
​In 1954, she married her high school sweetheart, Bill Felts. Together, they shared 71 years of marriage, a journey built on mutual respect and enduring love.
​Eloise's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a member of West Memphis First Baptist Church. During the 1970s and 80s, she dedicated her time to volunteering in children's Sunday school classes, Vacation Bible School, hosting Backyard Bible Club, and many youth group functions at her home. She also participated in the church witness program and poured her heart into the growth and spiritual guidance of the next generation. After raising her 3 children, she found delight in spending as much time as possible with her beloved grandchildren.

​Professional Excellence
​Known for her sharp mind and tireless work ethic, starting as early as 7 years old picking cotton, Eloise progressed to a distinguished career in several areas of occupation. She served as an Executive Secretary for the Curtiss-Wright Corporation (in Michigan) and Dacus Lumber Company, as well as holding positions at Spotts Drug Store, Delta Ice Company, Lee Wilson Company, and Bradley Realty. For over 30 years, she was the financial backbone of the family business, serving in any professional area she could for Felts Window and Door Company. Her business acumen also extended into real estate, where she was a savvy property investor. She enjoyed furthering her knowledge on many subjects at any opportunity given.

​Simple Joys
​Outside of her professional life, Eloise was a woman of many interests. In her youth she enjoyed singing solo and with friends on the local radio station and continued her love of singing all through her life. She also enjoyed painting and crafts and sewing. She spent many years creating a beautiful home for her family inside and out, hosting many magical holiday celebrations. She found great joy in the quiet of the garden and the thrill of the hunt while thrifting, always possessing a keen eye for hidden treasures. She enjoyed many animal friends; whether feeding the birds and squirrels or spending time with her own pets. She enjoyed time with close friends during card club, shopping sprees, or a visit over a cup of coffee or a phone call.
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Family
​Eloise is preceded in death by her parents; Rebecca Christine Reid and Fred Leon Golden, and her sisters; Catherine Haraway, Sue Liles, Gay Naron, and Nancy Smith. She is survived by her beloved husband, Bill; children, Rhonda (David) Zarlingo, William (Jenny) Felts, and Jennifer (Scott) Benton; and grandchildren: Jonathan (Arista) Longmire, Will Felts, Nate Felts, Warren (Mackenzie) Mullen, Jon Alec Benton, Brooklyn (Ethan) Woolridge, Ashtyn (Carson) Ray great-grandchild Jack Ray, her sisters Pat Hall and Brenda Crenshaw; and brother-in- law Marty Haraway, and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Service Information
​A service to celebrate the life of Eloise Felts will be held on:
​Date: Tuesday, January 6, 2026
​Time: Visitation at 10:00 AM. Graveside Committal at 11:30

A special thank you to Elite Hospice for their exceptional care during her illness.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to West Memphis First Baptist Church.

 

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