Darlene Lantrip

With deep love and gratitude for her life, we announce that Mildred Darlene Welsh Lantrip of Scott, Arkansas, a devoted servant of the Lord, was called home to Heaven on August 10, 2025 at the age of 79. Reunited with her husband, Don Lantrip, the love of her life of 61 years. She lived every day with an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and a heart overflowing with love for her family and friends.

Darlene was a true prayer warrior-interceding daily for her family, friends, church, and community. Her lips were often found in praise, her hands lifted in worship, and her heart tuned to the voice of the Holy Spirit. She radiated God's presence in every room she entered and carried His peace wherever she went.

Her life was a living testimony of God's grace, love, and mercy, and her joy in the Lord was evident to all who knew her. Whether through her words of encouragement, her gentle spirit, or her unwavering intercession, she touched countless lives and pointed them toward Jesus.

She was a faithful member of First Assembly of God in North Little Rock for over 75 years. Throughout her life, Darlene poured her heart into ministry. She taught Sunday School classes with passion and dedication, planting seeds of faith in countless hearts. As a Sunday School Department Leader, she guided both teachers and students with wisdom and compassion. She cared for the youngest in the church as a nursery worker, demonstrating the tender heart of Christ to each child.

Darlene served as a volunteer receptionist at a community outreach center, warmly welcoming all who came in need and praying with each person. She had a gift for creating fellowship and joy wherever she went, founding a women’s ministry called Ladies of Grace to encourage and inspire women in their walk with God. She also formed the Birthday Club and was an enthusiastic member of the Red Hat Ladies, bringing laughter, friendship, and celebration to every gathering.

A faithful wife, loving mother, cherished Mamaw, devoted aunt, treasured friend, and our family’s peace keeper. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her two sons, Daniel (Tina) Lantrip and Don E. (Julie) Lantrip. To her grandchildren, Don Austin Lantrip, Lacey (Chase) Withers, Katelyn (Clayton) Vaught, and Bailey Miller—she was simply “Mamaw,” a source of comfort, wisdom, and unwavering support. To her great-grandchildren, Wyatt Withers, Landen Miller, Lucy Miller, Jacquelyn Miller, and Haydence Miller—she was their treasured “Great Mamaw,” whose hugs and gentle words made every moment special. She also leaves behind many precious nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Each carrying a piece of her heart and the warmth of her love.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 61 years, Don Lantrip; her parents, Austin and Gladys Welsh; her sister, Billie Jean Welsh Evans; and her brothers, Jack Welsh, David Welsh, and Austin Welsh—each of whom she is now joyfully reunited with in her Heavenly home.

In her final years, she faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s dementia with the same quiet grace and steadfast faith that defined her life. Over the past seven weeks, the compassionate team from Arkansas Hospice became an extension of our family. We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary care and kindness shown by Holly, RN; Kathy, CNA; Deborah, LSW; Carly LSW and Chaplin Charles. Their gentle words and prayers brought peace and comfort to her and to all of us. The dedication, love, and support made this difficult journey one of dignity, comfort, and grace.

A visitation will be held from 6:00PM-8:00PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home (1921 Main Street). Funeral service will be at 9:30 AM on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at First NLR with burial following at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery.