Mildred W. Squires

Mildred W. Squires, born February 24, 1939, in Gurdon, left this world on February 17, 2026, just shy of her 87th birthday. A devoted homemaker, she dedicated her life to raising and caring for her family, placing their needs and well-being above all else, second only to her unwavering love for the Lord. Mildred’s impact on those around her cannot be overstated; she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family deeply.

Throughout her life, Mildred worked various part-time jobs, but her most important role was in her home. She possessed a unique blend of strength and gentleness. Standing at just 4’11”, she knew how to stand her ground when necessary, demonstrating quiet fortitude in the face of life’s challenges. Soft-spoken by nature, her steady strength made her larger than life in the hearts of those she loved.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Mildred was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, and she and her husband quietly supported Missionary Baptist Seminary with their time and resources for many years, holding a deep appreciation for its work and ministry. Together, Mildred and James were honored to encourage and assist many young preachers as they prepared to spread the Word of God, offering steady support and quiet generosity along the way.

An incredibly talented individual, Mildred had a passion for caring for others through her gifts. She enjoyed canning and made sure her family was always supplied with homemade preserves. Her sewing skills were unmatched; there was seemingly nothing she could not create from fabric; from dog coats to car upholstery to custom blue jeans. While her children were still at home, she lovingly clothed her entire family with garments she made herself. She was also known for her exceptional banana pudding, a treasured family recipe passed down from her mother and now shared through five generations. Her talents extended to cooking and floral design, and she often volunteered at a friend’s shop during busy seasons. Even with a full home, she found time to serve as a Den Mom while her husband faithfully served as Scout Master for their son, Leroy.

She is survived by her son, Leroy (Sherry) Squires; her daughter, Angela (Kendall) Marshall; her grandchildren, Derrick (Summer) Marshall and Donovan (Savanna) Marshall; her great-grandchildren, Harper and Hudson Marshall; her sister, Linda Sanchez (Pete); along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Mildred was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, James L. Squires, Jr.; her parents, David Robinson and Elsie Fay Beard; and her siblings Sonny, Pat, Katherine, Gordon, and Margaret.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 6715 Hwy 5 N, Bryant, Arkansas, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 12:30 p.m. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be the Deacons of First Baptist Church, along with her grandsons, Derrick Marshall and Donovan Marshall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mildred’s name to First Baptist Church in Bryant or to Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jeff Mayfield for his compassionate care and faithful support of Mildred throughout the years.

Mildred will be remembered for her unwavering love, steadfast faith, exceptional talents, and the quiet joy she brought to those blessed to know her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends.