Carolyn June (C.J.) Simpson

Carolyn June (affectionately known as "C.J.") Simpson, a beautiful gift from God, was born June 12, 1942, and returned to live with Him forever Oct. 5, 2008, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer.

She was born and raised in the farming community of Piggott. Her happy childhood instilled in her a life-long love of nature. After graduating from Piggott High School in 1960, she relocated to the Rogers area. She enjoyed her career as a production manager for Scott Paper Company, now Polymer Group, Inc.

After retirement from PGI in 2006, she began a second "career," which utilized her many creative talents. Her appreciation of God's beauty in nature evolved into a beautiful home garden. The backyard became filled with a variety of plants, bird feeders, fishpond and flowers. Anyone passing by the front of her home could not help but admire the exquisite roses, which beautified the neighborhood.

Along with her beloved sister Vicky, Carolyn found an outlet for yet another talent: art in the form of stained glass and handmade jewelry. Their company "Sweet Ole Sisters" became a fixture at craft shows from Arkansas to Texas. She leaves a legacy of beautiful art to be enjoyed forever by customers, family and friends. In appreciation of their wonderful care, some of C.J.'s jewelry and stained glass pieces have been donated to Circle of Life Hospice for an upcoming fundraiser event.

She was a devout Christian and a member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Rogers. Her faith in God sustained her during her last days on Earth. Christian love was evident in her everyday life -- generosity, kindness, gentleness and compassion were among her many attributes.

She is survived by many loving family members, including her mother, Narene Simpson and son Heath Wilson of Rogers. She leaves daughter and son-in-law Tonoa and David Whisel; grandchildren, David and Madison Whisel, of Springdale. Also surviving are her sister and husband Vicky and Dale Otterman; nephew, Brice Pritchett, great nephews, Braden and Jacob Pritchett, all of Hurst, Texas. Many people including extended family, church family and friends will also miss her. Her father, J. B. Simpson of Piggott, maternal grandparents Lessie and Zell Forrest of Pollard, and paternal grandparents, P. D. and Daisy Simpson of Greenway, preceded her in death.

A celebration of life service was held Saturday, Oct. 11, at Rollins Funeral Home Chapel and the family recieved friends after the service.

Arrangements were under the direction of Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers and those wishing to post online condolences can do so at www.mem.com.