Nelma Dean Porter

Nelma Dean Porter, a woman of deep faith, generosity, and devotion to her family, passed away on June 1, 2026. She was born to Bazzel Dean and Lorraine Slaughter on December 29, 1939, in Amity, Arkansas.

Nelma dedicated 30 years to AFCO Metals, where she earned numerous accolades and took great pride in her work. Her career brought her much fulfillment, and her dedication was evident throughout her years of service.

A faithful member of the Church of Christ, Nelma loved serving the Lord and her church family. She was known for her generous heart, always willing to help those she loved and anyone in need.

Nelma had a passion for decorating and a gift for finding beauty everywhere, whether at Goodwill or Ethan Allen. In fact, when rewarded for her outstanding work with trips or bonuses, she often chose furniture instead. Her home reflected her excellent taste and love for creating a welcoming space.

Alongside her husband of 54 years, James Elton Porter, affectionately known as "Porter," Nelma found joy in life's simple moments. They enjoyed playing Scrabble over meals, sitting together in lawn chairs in the garage watching the world go by, and sharing breakfast at Cracker Barrel. They attended the Bryant Cracker Barrel's opening day and became familiar faces there for years afterward. They lovingly referred to the children in their lives as "little woods," a nickname that remains a cherished family memory. To each other, they were simply "Bun" and "Bun-Bun."

Nelma dearly loved her nephews and nieces: Chad Slaughter and wife Trena, Dean Slaughter, Carol Boulden, and Mark Bear; as well as her sisters-in-law, Barbara Slaughter, Katie Keeton, and Nancy Freeman. She especially adored her great-nieces and great-nephews, whom she loved as her own grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Elton Porter; daughter, Deana Renee Porter; parents; brother, Roy Lee Slaughter; and sister, Evelyn Slaughter Bear.

A visitation to honor Nelma's life will be held from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at DeLamar Cemetery in Sparkman, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Corin Read Christian Camp, c/o Northside Church of Christ, 917 N. East Street, Benton, AR 72015.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the caregivers and staff of Gentiva Hospice, Pleasant Hills Care Home, and The Lily House for the compassion, kindness, and exceptional care they provided to Nelma.

Nelma's legacy is one of steadfast faith, devoted love, and generosity. She will be remembered for the kindness she shared, the family she cherished, and the example she set for all who knew her.