Dortha Jane Webb, 96, passed away peacefully at Eaglecrest Nursing Home in Ash Flat, Ark., on Sunday, June 2. She was born on December 26, 1927, to Arley and Ona (Smith) Williams. Dortha lived her entire life in Rector until her health dictated her move to the nursing home.

Dortha was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Doyne Webb. Also preceding her were five siblings: James (Slug) Williams, Gene Williams, Johnny Williams, Earline Ward and Margarette Belote.

Dortha is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, David Neil and Tracy Webb.

Dortha started her work career at the age of 14 at Thompson’s Variety Store. She then went to work for Mr. Purcell at Purcell Drug Store on Main Street. Through Dortha’s 30+ years at Purcell Drug she worked with some fine folks – Mr. Purcell, Bucket Mosley, George Bearden, Annie Horton and Pam Benson-Forrest.

She was a member of the Rector First Baptist Church for a long, long time….86 years. Dortha was a devoted Christian and a daily student and reader of the Bible. From teaching Sunday school to WMU meetings to potluck, Dortha was always at church.

Her activities and hobbies throughout her life included: camping, weeks at the beach, reading, cooking for family gatherings and most certainly sitting on her front porch swing with a cup of coffee watching the world go by in Rector, Ark. Her most beloved yearly event was the Rector Labor Day Picnic. From the parade to the crowning of Miss Rector, she stayed the entire day! Dortha was Miss Rector in 1946.

Visitation was held on Friday, June 7, 2024 from 10 a.m. until noon at the First Baptist Church in Rector. Funeral services followed at noon with Mark Manchester officiating. Burial was held at Woodland Heights Cemetery.

Those who wish may sign the online guestbook at www.irbyfuneralhome.com.

Memorials in remembrance of Dortha can be made to The Woodland Heights Cemetery.