Molly Sue Stauber Turner

Molly Sue Stauber Turner, 92, of Arkadelphia and North Little Rock, Arkansas, passed peacefully from this life on June 17, 2026 — the seventieth anniversary of her marriage to the love of her life. She was a woman of deep faith, enduring grace, and abiding warmth whose influence touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

GranMolly as she was known by her grandchildren and great grandchildren was born on October 25, 1933, in North Little Rock, Arkansas, to Clyde S. Stauber and Minnie S. Wolfe Stauber. She grew up surrounded by the music and community that would shape her entire life. After graduating from North Little Rock High School, she earned her degree from Henderson State College, where her passion for music, the piano and the organ was nurtured into a calling.

Molly began her career as a public school music teacher, first in Crossett and later in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, where she inspired generations of young students with her love of song and her patient, encouraging spirit. Music was never merely a subject to Molly — it was a gift she gave freely and joyfully to all who listened.

On June 17, 1956, Molly married Otis H. Turner in what would become a partnership defined by love, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Together they built their lives in Arkadelphia, where Otis distinguished himself as a prominent lawyer and judge. They raised two sons and created a home that was a warm gathering place for family and friends alike. That Molly drew her final breath on their wedding anniversary — exactly seventy years to the day — speaks to a love that was, in every sense, lifelong.

Faith was the cornerstone of Molly’s life. She taught Sunday school faithfully throughout her years, sharing her deep knowledge of the Bible with curiosity, warmth, and conviction. She was a devoted and active member of PEO, a philanthropic organization she held dear, and her commitment to her church and community never wavered. Whether in the classroom, the choir loft, or the Sunday school room, Molly always showed up with her whole heart.

Those who knew Molly speak of her unfailing kindness, her delight in children, her love of reading, and the way she made every person feel genuinely seen, special, and welcome. Her friendships were treasures she tended carefully over decades. She was the kind of woman whose laughter brightened a room and whose counsel, offered gently, was worth more than most people’s loudest pronouncements.

She is survived by:

Her two sons: Neal Otis Turner of Gulfport, Mississippi, and Tab Turner of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and Miramar Beach, Florida.

Seven granddaughters: Erin Turner Hogue (Fayetteville, AR); Emilee Turner Cooley (Memphis, TN); Mallory Turner (Fayetteville, AR); Abby Turner Kuykendall (Rogers, AR); Molly Anne Turner Sandefur (North Little Rock, AR); Laura Leigh Turner Rogers (New York City); and Sabrina Turner (Jackson, MS).

Fourteen great-grandchildren, who carry forward the joy and character she poured so lovingly into each generation.

Molly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Otis H. Turner; her father, Clyde S. Stauber; and her mother, Minnie S. Wolfe Stauber.

The family takes comfort in the knowledge that GranMolly lived a life of extraordinary fullness — rich in faith, in music, in learning, and in love. She leaves behind not only those who bore her name, but the countless students, friends, and fellow believers whose lives she quietly and permanently changed for the better.

Memorial service details to be announced.

Arrangements are by Smith Family Funeral Home – Arkadelphia/Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel, www.smithfamilycares.com.