Martha Gayle (Shelnut) Lopez of Benton passed away on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024, at the age of 76. She was born on February 2, 1948, in Saline County. Gayle was preceded in death by her parents, Ray & Ola Mae Shelnut, and an infant sister.

Following graduation from Benton High School, she attended beauty school and worked at Moderne Beauty Shop before opening her own salon in Benton. Later she attended UALR and earned a bachelor's degree in communications. She retired from the VA Healthcare Center in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Gayle enjoyed cooking, water sports, traveling, and going to the gym. Also, earned a Black Belt in karate. Her favorite pastime was quilting, and she really enjoyed teaching others how to quilt. Prior to failing health, she was a member of the Saline County Quilters Guild and the Sertoma Club. She was a member of North Bryant Baptist Church.

Martha Gayle is survived by her daughter Gaylen (Andy) Herzfeld, and her son Justin (Brooke) Cornett; five grandchildren - Christopher (Tiffany) Stockton, Dustin (Haley) Shelnut, Cale Cornett, Drew (Ashlea) Herzfeld, and Abby Herzfeld; three great-grandchildren – Blaine and Rhett Shelnut, and Blair Herzfeld. She is also survived by siblings – Windell (Diana) Dumas, Freddy (Nancy) Dumas, Charles Bud (Jan) Shelnut, and Paul (Tracy) Shelnut; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Many thanks to the staff at The Manor in Bryant and the Hospice Care Center in Little Rock. Your compassion is amazing!

A graveside service will be held at Mt. Harmony Cemetery in Haskell, Arkansas at 9:30am on Thursday, April 4, 2024, with Brother Matt Thornton officiating.

Arrangements by Ashby Funeral Home, Benton, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.

Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com