Ocie Romine Wilhite

Ocie Dell (Romine) Wilhite, 93, of Little Rock, AR, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2026. A visitation will be Monday, March 30th, at 5:00-7:00 pm at Smith NLR Funeral Home. Funeral on Tuesday, March 31st at 11:00 am at the funeral home with the burial to follow at Mulberry Cemetery.

Ocie was preceded in death by her first husband, Jack Romine, the father of her children, who passed in 1987; her second husband, William “Bill” Wilhite, who passed in 2013; her parents, Claude and Martha Dove; and many beloved brothers and sisters.

Ocie and Jack were married in 1951 and raised their five children in the North Little Rock area. They were devoted members of Rose City Pentecostal Church of God. In 1989, Ocie married Bill Wilhite, and together they faithfully attended New Hope Nazarene Church.

She lived her life devoted to her family—especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel loved. She was well known for her delicious home-cooked meals, but she will forever be remembered for her legendary breakfasts featuring homemade buttermilk biscuits drenched in butter and her famous chocolate gravy. She also enjoyed quilting alongside her mother and sisters, creating many treasured quilts for loved ones. Her quick wit and playful sense of humor brought joy to those around her, and she delighted in pranking her family whenever she had the chance.

She is survived by her five children: Marie Barker of Little Rock; Jack Romine (Maggie) of Cabot; Randy Romine of Hot Springs; Sandra Brasfield of Fort Smith; and Mary Dyson (Kim) of Cabot. She leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Ralph Dove and Billy Dove (Ann), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished members of the Wilhite family, all of whom she dearly loved.

Ocie’s legacy of love, laughter, and family devotion will live on in all who knew her.

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.