Esther Maxine "Mackie" Hagood (74) of Benton, AR passed away at her home on February 13, 2026 surrounded by family who loved her.  She was born in Houston, TX to Kenneth Williams and Mabel Jones.  She grew up in Crossett, AR where she met her adoring husband of 57 years, Allen Hagood.

She graduated Crossett High in 1969 and later graduated from Cossatot Community College, becoming the first graduate from her program to be hired by the College.  She worked in the banking world for years, retiring from Simmons First National Bank in 2013.  She loved fishing, camping, hunting, traveling, playing cards, going to the beach, listening to Bluegrass, she had a great sense of humor and her laugh was loud and contagious. She took pride in being a huge supporter of her daughter Becky, and grandchildren Carlee and Brody in their many activities. She welcomed her son-in-law (Rusty) and grandson-in-law (Caleb) as though they had always been part of the family and showered them with the same love and support.  If you talked to her for a few minutes you were sure to hear about one of them and how proud she was.  She served as a faithful and encouraging wife and helpmate as Allen preached at several churches over the years. She loved being "Mac Mac" to an untold number of kids through her 25 years as the Tiny Tots teacher at Holly Creek MBC in Dierks, Oaklawn MBC in Hot Springs, and Southside MBC in Star City.  She also loved being a member of Saline MBC in Tull and helping with the Senior Adults program.

She is survived by her husband Allen; her daughter Becky Hutchins (husband Rusty); grandchildren Carlee West (husband Caleb), and Brody Hutchins; her sister Kaye Spells (husband Tuffy); and brother Ray Williams; several nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family that were loved by her.

She is preceded in death by her parents Kenneth Williams and Mabel Jones.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton.

The service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 19 at Saline Missionary Baptist Church in Tull with a 4:00 p.m. graveside service at Crossroads Cemetery in Crossett, AR.  Bro. Kim Hammer and Bro. Doney Blackerby will be officiating.

The family wishes to thank Elite Hospice care for their compassionate care during the last few months.  They were essential in helping us navigate the questions and concerns, and gave us time at home together.  We also wish to thank Saline MBC for their unwavering support and love providing food, visits, rides to appointments, prayer, and love over the last months, especially when Mackie was no longer able to attend services.  This is the true example of being the hands and feet of Jesus to those around you.  A special thank you to Pastor Kim Hammer for constant support and friendship for years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Building Fund at Saline Missionary Baptist Church in Tull, AR, P.O. Box 554, Benton AR 72018.