Willie Pearl Babb Stewart's story is one woven with love, strength, and an unshakable faith in God.

Willie Pearl Babb Stewart, 77 of Jacksonville, AR, transitioned on Tuesday, September 09, 2025. On August 4, 1948, in the small town of Prescott, Arkansas, a radiant soul was born to Elder Frank J. Babb, Sr. and Addie Mary Redic Babb. From the very beginning, it was clear Willie Pearl was set apart, destined to leave a mark not only on her family but on every life she touched.

Raised in Mountain Pine, Arkansas, she graduated from Mountain Pine High School and continued her academic journey at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. But the deepest knowledge she ever carried came not from books alone; it came from a profound love of reading and an unwavering devotion to the Word of God. Willie Pearl didn't just attend church; she lived her faith with intention and fervor, answering the call to serve as a Church of God in Christ Evangelist Missionary. Her spirit was full of compassion, conviction, and the quiet power of a woman rooted deeply in her purpose.

She was a woman of many gifts. She could minister and nurture in the same breath. Her hands, both gentle and strong, could be found creating beauty in flower beds or arranging blossoms into breathtaking floral displays, always reflecting her ability to turn the ordinary into the divine. She was also a self-taught pianist, filling homes and sanctuaries alike with music that lifted hearts and stirred souls.

Her life was a beautiful testament to perseverance. She endured trials and heartbreaks with grace, holding fast to the promises of God. Even in the face of loss, she carried herself with quiet dignity and continued to pour love into her children, her grandchildren, and her community.

Willie Pearl was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Eddie Lee Stewart, Jr.; her beloved parents; her cherished daughter, Sandra K. Babb McAfee Foote; her grandson, Tyrone L. McAfee; and several siblings and loved ones who welcomed her home.

She leaves behind a legacy overflowing with love, her devoted children, Felicia Highsmith of Hot Springs, LaSonja (Eric) Reed of Jacksonville, and Lee Foote, Jr. of Hot Springs, who will forever carry her strength and wisdom in their hearts. She was blessed with nine grandchildren and an ever-growing lineage of nearly twenty great-grandchildren, each of whom was a source of joy and pride to her. Her life was also closely intertwined with that of her beloved siblings: Mary Ethel Babb of Texarkana; Elder Frank (Betty) Babb Jr. of Mountain Pine; Elder Larry (Annie) Babb of Mountain Pine; Willie Robert Babb of Dallas; Celquetta Delniece Pride of Sherwood; and Reginald Keith Babb of Hot Springs. Along with a host of nieces, nephews, her church family, and countless friends, they will cherish her memory and the example of faith, resilience, and love that she set.

In her final chapter, her children and grandchildren pulled together to honor the strong and faithful woman who had always held them close. Willie Pearl's life was a testimony of grace under pressure, quiet strength, and unwavering love. Her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those she uplifted with her wisdom, laughter, and endless devotion.

The Graveside Service will be held on September 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Mountain Pine Community Cemetery, 222 School St., Mountain Pine, AR 71956, with Pastor Larry Babb officiating.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.