Ruth Newkirk, age 88, of DeValls Bluff, Arkansas went to be with the Lord on September 15, 2026 while at Southridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Heber Springs. Ruth was born on March 14, 1938 to Frank and Margaret Kirkemier. Ruth was a member of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in DeValls Bluff. Ruth fought a good fight. Ruth was a farmer’s wife for years before going to work at the DeValls Bluff School District as a bus driver and in the cafeteria for 18 years.
Ruth loved needle point, crossword puzzles, Willies Roadhouse and Real Country on Sirius XM radio, Bluegrass music, watching Hallmark movies, and playing scrabble with her good friend, Opal Flippo.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Houston Newkirk; her brothers, Calvin Minor, Henry Lee Kirkemier, Frank Fred Kirkemier (Sonny); her son in law, Bill Houvener; and great grandson, Zachery Dalton Anderson.
Those left to mourn her passing are her children, Rhonda Houvener, Connie Anderson, Angie (Dean) Newell, and David Newkirk; her grandchildren, Jason (Crystal) Anderson, Lindsey (Chad) Skinner, Darren (Hannah) Newell, Derrek (Jettie) Newell, Haley (Brad) Cathey, Riley Burton, Gage Hankins; her great grandchildren, Chase (Bo) Skinner, Drake and Averi Newell, Tatum Cathey, Hayden and Lacey Rogers, Zoey Anderson; and bonus great grandson, Zakery Skinner; her Great Great Grandchild, Steele Rogers; her brother, Rodger Kirkemier and a host of family and friends.
Visitation will be Wednesday, September 16, 2026 beginning at 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen, Arkansas. Funeral services will be Thursday, September 17, 2026 beginning at 10:00 A.M. held at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in DeValls Bluff, Arkansas. Interment will be in Peppers Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted with Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen, Arkansas.
I’m so sorry to hear of her passing. She was like a second momma to me and Bert. I know she is celebrating in heaven with the family and friends ( including my momma) who have gone on before. What a great reunion that has to be. Love hugs and prayers for those of us who are left behind with the memories that we all cherish,
Phyllis, Thank you for being with us! Thank you for the prayers, love and years of friendship.
Mrs. Ruth Newkirk was faithful and dedicated in her church work. Whenever I would see her at her church or at another church for a funeral, revival meeting, etc., she was often helping in any way that she could. She was a pleasure to be around. She offered encouragement to those who were in need. She left a legacy that will be dearly cherished. She will be remembered as one who cared about others and would help them in any way that she could.
She will be missed.
Our prayers continue for her family.
Mr. Billy and Mrs. Gail, Thank you so much for your kind words and prayers!
Rhonda, Connie, Angie and David
I sure loved Ms. Ruth. We visited at her home and at Hurricane church,Community often. A very sweet lady who loved her Lord. I know there is a wonderful reunion time in heaven today.
Connie, Rhonda, Angie, and David, its tough without our moms here. Prayers for all of you and your families. Fly high, Ms Ruth, see ya again one day!
Karen Sue, Our families go back more years than we really know. The friendships that were built are priceless. Thank you so much for the prayers and thoughts. Angie
I remember going to Ms. Ruth’s alot when I was younger. I was at the service, but didn’t get to sign the book. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Darrin Smith
(Pat Stokes son)
Darin, I will make sure to add your name! We chatted briefly after the service, Thank you for being there. Angie
I did not know The Lord has welcomed Ruth And she is now in heaven where she is with Jesus and her loved ones. I just love her so much and the last time I saw her was at my own mother’s graveside service in De Valls Bluff. I did not get back to see her as I had planned, but I know I will see her again. May the family know that she will always be a treasure to me.