of Benton, AR

October 7, 1930 - January 31, 2026

Dorothy Nell Rhinehart, 95, of Benton, Arkansas formally of Paris, Arkansas passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at her home in Benton surrounded by her loved ones leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and family devotion that will be cherished for generations. Dorothy was born on October 7, 1930, in Magazine, Arkansas to her parents, Bethel Jordan and Mable ''Mae'' (Ellington) Jordan. She worked for Cooper Clinic in Fort Smith as a medical records supervisor and for Farm Bureau Insurance in Paris as a secretary. She collected crystal butter dishes and fine China sets; working in her flower garden where she grew peonies, daylilies and purple irises. Her favorite color was red, and she enjoyed watching the cardinals fly around her yard.

Dorothy was the true matriarch of her family. Nothing brought her greater joy than caring for those she loved, and her family was always her highest priority. Her home was a gathering place where large, lovingly prepared dinners brought everyone together around the table, creating memories that will last a lifetime. A gifted and tireless seamstress, Dorothy was rarely without a project in hand. She lovingly sewed for her grandchildren at every stage of their lives. Pageant dresses, Halloween costumes, special outfits, and countless alterations, each stitch a reflection of her care and attention, her creations were more than clothing; they were expressions of her love. Dorothy also had a special place in her heart for her beloved cat, Daisy, who was a constant companion and a source of comfort and joy. Their bond was a sweet reflection of Dorothy's gentle and nurturing spirit. Her faith was an important part of her life. She greatly enjoyed attending First Baptist Church Paris and was especially fond of her Sunday school class, where she found fellowship, encouragement, and joy. The family would like to thank them for their steadfast love and weekly cards that she treasured so very much. Dorothy was a past member of Eastern Star Council Oaks Chapter #589, where she was selected as Worthy Matron several terms. Above all else, Dorothy will be remembered for her kind heart, quiet strength, and the unwavering love she gave so freely. Though she will be deeply missed, her life was one beautifully lived, and her love will continue to be felt in every family gathering, every shared meal, and every cherished memory.

She is preceded in death by her previously mentioned parents, her husband of over fifty years, Kenneth Rhinehart; a daughter, Linda Core; two brothers, Thurman and Donald Jordan; three sisters, Mable Serpa, Anita McGrath and Arweila Davidson.

She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Bunting and fiancé, Stephen Cheatwood of Maumelle; her grandchildren, Leslie Benge and husband, Chris of Paris, Sandy Maddox and husband, Austin of Paris, Lindsey Tull and husband, Kurt of Benton, and Nic Allen of Post Falls, Idaho; Great Grandchildren, Laine Harris of Benton, Alley Robertson and Caleb Easterling of Benton, Christian Robertson of Benton, Emily Reese and husband, Tyler of Fort Smith, Kaiden Benge and wife, Brooke of Fort Smith, Blaine Maddox of Paris and Liam Maddox of Paris; Great-Great Grandchildren, Graham Allen Reese and Charlotte Kay Reese; son-in-law, Mike Core of Paris; her extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 p.m., on Monday, February 9, 2026 at Roller Funeral in Paris with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Harlin Brewton with burial at Ellington cemetery in Magazine after the funeral service.

Funeral service and arrangements are under the direction of Roller Funeral Home in Paris.

Pallbearers will be Laine Harris, Kaden Benge, Liam Maddox, Blaine Maddox, Nic Allen and Chris Benge. Honorary Pallbearers are Austin Maddox, Mike Core, Kurt Tull and Caleb Easterling.

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