Margie Ruth Sandridge Kluck

Margie Ruth Sandridge Kluck, age 98, of Arkadelphia, passed away peacefully at Amberwood Health and Rehabilitation in Benton, Arkansas. She as born in Earlsboro, Oklahoma to William Lee Sandridge and Mary Ola (Duncan) Sandridge. Margie was one of three children, growing up with her brother Hollis and sister Doretha “Do-De.”

After World War II, Margie met Carl Wesley Kluck, Sr. at Texas Wesleyan College. They married on August 25, 1947, beginning a 73-year marriage marked by love, partnership, and ministry. In 1960, the Klucks moved to Arkadelphia, where Carl served for 30 years as a pastor of Second Baptist Church, and Margie served faithfully at his side.

Margie’s life reflected quiet strength and constant care for others. While raising her family and supporting Carl’s ministry, she also pursued higher education at Henderson State University. She taught kindergarten in the Arkadelphia Public Schools for fifteen years as well as summer sessions at Henderson where she worked with practicum students in Early Childhood Education. Margie’s students remember her as a sweet, gentle, and deeply devoted to their growth.

Margie was a member of Second Baptist Church in Arkadelphia, where she taught Sunday School, served as church librarian, and welcomed countless students and church members into her home. Her hospitality and quiet wisdom shaped generations in the congregation and community.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rev. Carl W. Kluck, Sr.; her parents; her brother, Hollis Sandridge; and her sister, Doretha Crow.

She is survived by:

• Daughter, Sharon Kluck Townsend and husband John
• Son, Dr. Carl “Wesley” Kluck, Jr. and wife Debbie
• Grandchildren: Kristin Lavendar (Ryan), Sean Townsend (Laura), and Jennifer Hopkins (Seth
• Great-grandchildren: Megan Lavender, Sydney Lavender, Clara Townsend, Audrey Townsend, Carli Hopkins, and Mackenzie Hopkins

She is also lovingly remembered by nieces, nephews, former students, and dear friends—many of whom simply called her “Miss Margie.”

A graveside service will be held at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Arkadelphia on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. where she will be buried alongside her husband. 

Pallbearers will be Ricky Griffin, Seth Hopkins, Kevin Wright, Phil Baldwin, Kevin Boyles and Dave Risius.  Honorary Pallbeares will be Matt Williams, Kenny Thomas, Clark Baldwin, Scott Jackson, Jon Fitzgerald, Lowell Connell, John Hardman and Danny Watson. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carl & Margie Kluck Scholarship Fund (awarded by Second Baptist Church of Arkadelphia), c/o the Arkansas Baptist Foundation, 10 Remington Drive, Little Rock, AR 72204.

Arrangements by Smith Family Funeral Home-Ruggles Wilcox Chapel, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, AR 71923.  www.smithfamilycares.com