Dorothy Jean Elder, lovingly known as Memee, went home to be with the Lord on January 4, 2026, at the age of 97. She was born on October 5, 1928, in Malvern, Arkansas, to the late Andrew and Ella Roberts.

Memee was a faithful member of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 68 years, where she loved serving the Lord, especially through Sunday School and VBS. She was a member of the Sunshine Sunday School class and Keenagers. Her faith was not only spoken; it was lived daily. She raised her family to fear God and follow His Word and to walk in obedience. She loved God and she loved others, and through that love she quietly built a lasting legacy of faith. Her life was her testimony.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, wife, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and child of God. Memee was the epitome of a loving, worrisome "mother hen," and because of that care, her family never lacked love or attention. She was generous beyond measure, often going without so others could have what they needed.

Memee had the very best sense of humor and was always ready to laugh. A laugh shared with her was pure joy. She could find the funny in almost anything and brought light wherever she went. There was never a stranger in her presence; if you knew Memee, you were loved by her. There was always room at her table and in her home for anyone who needed care, comfort, or friendship.

She loved the outdoors and God's creation. Camping and traveling brought her great joy, and she made countless memories with her family in campers by the lake, in the woods, and on road trips across the state and country. Even at 80 years old, she ventured to New York City, and in her 90s visited the ocean in Florida, never ceasing to surprise her family with her adventurous spirit.

Memee could often be found in her yard tending to her flowers, mowing barefoot, raking and burning leaves, or picking up pecans. She found joy in simple, everyday beauty, and those who passed by "that corner" always loved seeing her outside. Home was her favorite place to be.

Memee was deeply loved by all who knew her. Her life touched countless people across generations, and her influence reached far beyond her family. Through her kindness, faith, laughter, and quiet strength, she left an imprint on every life she encountered. Her love will continue to ripple through the many hearts she forever impacted.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, John Roberts; her sister, Betty Strickland; her husband, Dwain Elder; and her daughter, Janie Welch.

She is survived by her daughters: Elizabeth Carter and husband Jimmy of Benton; Brenda Potts Banks and husband Tommy of Benton; and Susan Elder of Little Rock; and son-in-law Jim Welch of Benton. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Jennifer Thornburgh and husband Guy, Amy Welch, Chrissy Keith, Deric Davenport and wife JP, Drew Farley, Dustyn Crossland, and Savanna White and husband Donovan; three great-grandchildren: Ella Blair Keith, Conner Keith, and Deacon Davenport; along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends she loved like family.

Between the dates of her birth and death was a dash that represented a life well lived.  Memee filled that dash with faith, love, service, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and her Lord. She understood that life is not measured by years alone, but by how deeply we love, how faithfully we serve, and how many lives we touch along the way. She lived her dash with purpose, leaving a legacy that will continue for generations. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). We rejoice knowing she heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21).

Pallbearers: Deric Davenport, Dustyn Crossland, Donovan White, John Paul Roberts, Shane Banks, Jackie Banks, and Nathan Banks. Honorary Pallbearers: Drew Farley, Conner Keith, Deacon Davenport, Guy Thornburgh, Mike Roberts, and Chris Roberts.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 9 at Ashby Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 10 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Pinecrest Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to Baptist Health Hospice or Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Benton, Arkansas.