Judy M Van Cleave

Judy Margaret (Hardin) Van Cleave, 81, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Her life was marked by kindness, joy, and a faith that guided her every step.

Judy was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on the 8th of October 1944. She was the fourth of eight children of Ray and Dessie Hardin. She graduated from Bryant High School in 1962. On December 27, 1968, Judy married her life long love, Gene, and began an adventurous journey as an army wife and mother. She was a lifelong learner and eager to discover and grow. Judy excelled with words and typing skills, retiring from the VA after 25 years as a Radiology Transcriptionist.

She was a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church in Benton, AR. Through the years she found joy in worshiping with the choir, serving on the bereavement committee, and delighted in going on trips with her church family.

Judy loved reading, camping, and playing games with friends and family—simple moments that brought her the most happiness. She was known for her large collection of colorful jewelry, each piece reflecting her vibrant personality.

A devoted Razorback fan, she could always be found proudly wearing her Hog gear and cheering passionately on game days. She also loved watching her family play sports and never missed an opportunity to support them from the stands.

Judy leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and unforgettable memories. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband of almost 57 years, Gene Van Cleave; 3 children: Katrina Barnett (Paul), Bobby Van Cleave (Melodye), Danny Van Cleave (Melissa); 15 grandchildren: Cassie Roberson, Michele Knowlton (Steve), Andrew Barnett (Amanda), Sara Feingold (Alex), Andrew Walker, Rebekah Kennedy (Jackson), Abby Perdue, Thomas Cross, Aaron Van Cleave (Abbi), Ray Cross (Joselyn), Zac Van Cleave (Rebecca), Maddox Tyler Griffin, Tristan Faulkner (Angel), BreHana Goettsch (Austin), Jordan Faulkner; and by 11 great-grandchildren, along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, & friends. Judy is also survived by siblings Billy Ray Hardin, Ronald Hardin, Jackie Hardin (Linda), Janie Perry, and Linda Hardin. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Dessie Hardin, and siblings Joyce Lisle and Pete Hardin.

The visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 5th at Trinity Baptist Church. A celebration of life will follow the visitation at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Trinity Baptist Church Building Fund.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all the staff of Saline Rehab and Baptist Medical Center with special thanks to the following caregivers: Sharhonda, Michelle, Dallin, Ashli, Tyler, Jasmine, and Rachel.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home