Minnie Fernow is now in the loving arms of God at the all too young age of 28. Minnie was absolutely and totally passionate and committed to teaching. After graduating from Southside High School, Minnie went on to Lyon College here in Batesville.  After earning her degree there, she worked with the City Year Organization in Little Rock (a non-profit group designed to help and encourage young students). Minnie was living her dream as a 4th Grade Teacher at Terry Elementary in the Little Rock School District. It's no wonder Minnie was such a beloved teacher, she was said to be selfless, inspiring, hardworking, dedicated, and always positive. Minnie also loved animals. She had 3 dogs, 3 cats, and even went so far as to apply for a grant so the classroom could have a pet Rabbit. Minnie will always be remembered as a true blessing to the lives she so powerfully touched.

Minnie is preceded in death by her father Gary Smith, her grandmother Minnie Smith, her maternal grandparents Bud and Geraldine Wycough and five uncles:  Johnny Smith, Carson Paul Smith, and Mike, Mick, and Max (Skeeter) Wycough. Minnie is survived by her mother Madonna Wycough, her sister Evelyn Smith, of Southside, AR, two brothers:  Steve Kelly Jr. of Southside and A.J. (Jamie) Kelly of Sidney, AR, her aunt Kay Millspaugh, three nieces: Lyndsey, Dixie, and Payton Kelly, and two nephews:  Brock and Dillion Kelly.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 21 from 4-8 PM. Her Funeral will be Monday, July 22 at 10AM. Both services will be at Willis Funeral Service in Batesville, AR with burial to follow at Egner Cemetery in Southside, AR