Esther Whedbee

Esther Ivalee Whedbee was born on July 10, 1930, in Dayton, Arkansas, and passed away on November 28, 2025. The daughter of Edgar and Lucy Yancey, Ivalee came to know the Lord at a young age at Coop Prairie Presbyterian church in Mansfield. She was instilled with strength, strong faith, and a loving spirit - qualities that shaped the life she built and the family she treasured.

Those qualities shone especially bright when, at just fifteen and a half, she married her lifelong partner Charles on the day he turned seventeen. Their marriage of 77 years became a powerful testament to resilience and commitment. Together they created a home filled with warmth, devotion, and countless family memories.

Ivalee became a mother at eighteen with the arrival of her first child, Tommy. In time, she also welcomed twins, Barry and Pam, and embraced the role of motherhood with immense joy. A devoted helpmate as a preacher's wife, Ivalee lived a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering support. She was also known for her strong will and honesty. Ivalee never hesitated to speak her mind, but she carried it with gentle humor and a good-heartedness that endeared her to all.

Ivalee was known for her delicious pecan pie, warm scones, and chocolate-covered peanuts. She loved homemade ice cream, ribs, and a fun game of Wahoo with her grandkids. Despite her beautiful snow-white hair, Ivalee never seemed to look her age. She carried a youthful spirit and appearance that left people guessing.

Ivalee was a devoted wife and mother. For 77 years she shared a deep and abiding love for her husband Charles and together they created a warm and loving home. Ivalee is survived by two sons, Tom and wife Betty of Dayton, AR and Barry and wife Terry of Gilmer, TX; and one daughter Pamela Williams and husband Tom of Advance, North Carolina. Ivalee was not only a beloved mother but also a proud grandmother of 6 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister Imogene McAlister and husband Dan of Texarkana. She is preceded in death by her husband Charles, parents Edgar and Lucy Yancey, and sister Wilma Black and her husband Galen Black.

Arrangements and cremations are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas. You may leave words of comfort and remembrance for Ivalee's family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com.

All those who were touched by her kindness and inspired by her faith are invited to join in remembering her at a memorial service to be held at Fellowship Baptist Church, in Witcherville, AR on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 4:00 pm with visitation after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Fellowship Baptist Church Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (111 College Road, Huntington, AR 72940).