Hazel Geraldine "Geri" Shields Coffman Bledsoe

Hazel Geraldine “Geri” Shields Coffman Bledsoe, age 96, of Hot Springs, passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023.

She was born on April 23, 1926, in Hopper, the daughter of Millard Shields and Lela Hunter Shields.  On November 1, 1945, she was married to Glen Coffman, who preceded her in death.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; her son-in-law, Danny Vaughn; her brother, Aaron Shields; and her second husband, Doss Bledsoe.

She was a member of the Airport Road Church of Christ in Hot Springs, and for over fifty years she was a beautician, taking care of many customers who would end up becoming wonderful friends.  Geri was a fun-loving person who always brightened any room she was in.  Everyone who knew Geri, knew the greatest gift in her life was her daughter, Joanne, who she loved and cherished.  Geri was the true image of a dedicated mother to her daughter, and the two of them held a bond that could never be broken.  Her love for her daughter, grandchildren and great-grandson, will carry on in their hearts forever.      

She is survived by her daughter, Joanne Vaughn of Pearcy; her grandchildren, Paige Vaughn and Chad Vaughn; her great-grandson, Haden Vaughn; her sister-in-law, Betty Shields Henderson and her niece, Dixie Montgomery, both of Benton; numerous extended family members; and a host of wonderful friends.

A Celebration of Geri’s life will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 15, 2023, in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel in Glenwood with Larry Mitchell and Chad Vaughn officiating.

There will be a private family burial following the memorial services.

Honorary pallbearers will be the nurses and staff of the Lake Hamilton Health and Rehab in Hot Springs; special friends, Larry and Gail Mitchell; and the Airport Road Church of Christ Ladies Class.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.