Evelyn Lucille Groom Petrus, 97, of Carlisle, AR passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, in Houston, TX.
A woman of profound faith and boundless generosity, Evelyn was the heart of every gathering. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Philip; her son, Phil; and her grandson, Mitch. Her legacy of love continues through her daughter, Marilyn Rice (Mark); her daughter-in-law, Sue; and her adored grandchildren, Trey, Zachary (Nicole), and Kaitlyn (Matt), as well as a large circle ofcherished nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
For many years, Evelyn shared her musical gifts as the organist at St. Rose Catholic Church. At home, she was the ultimate hostess; her kitchen was a place of warmth where delicious meals were served alongside an infectious laughter that echoed through her home.
As a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt, Evelyn’s capacity to love knew no bounds, remaining steadfast and bright until her very final breath. Her family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Mimi’s Cottage and Devotion Hospice for the tender care and dignity they provided in her final days.
Well done, good and faithful servant. It’s finally time to go home.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation, followed by a Rosary, at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen, AR, on Friday, April 10, beginning at 6:00 p.m.
A funeral service celebrating Evelyn’s life will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church in Carlisle, AR, with interment to follow at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery in Slovak, AR.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mitch Petrus Memorial Scholarship Endowment (through Arkansas Community Foundation) or St. Rose Catholic Church in Carlisle.