Evelyn Sue Nickell Gabbard, 82, of Springdale, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2020 in Springdale. She was born August 4, 1937 in Hazel Valley, AR to Richard and Alpha Brooks Nickell.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Johnny A. Gabbard; siblings, Andy, Hilda, Howard, Glen and Cecil (Nickell) and Wilma Hilsdon; and great-grandson, Samuel.
Evelyn was a Christian and a member of Eastside Missionary Baptist Church. She was a loving mother and enjoyed social gatherings with family and friends.
She is survived by her children, Johnny W. Gabbard and wife, Pamela of Springdale, Jim Gabbard of Corvallis, OR, Brenda Brown of Fayetteville and Arnold Gabbard and wife, Sherry of Springdale; a sister, Irene Alexander of Jonesboro, AR; a brother, Richard Nickell and wife, Roberta of Elkins; 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private graveside service will be 10:00 AM Friday, April 3, 2020 at Nickell Cemetery with Pastor Tom Hover officiating under the direction of Beard’s Chapel.
Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Gabbard, Justin Burley, Eric Burley, Alisa Sams, Terry Cline and Fred Nickell.
Due to recent circumstances and the health and safety of our family and friends, the family regrets that this will be a private burial. If you wish, in lieu of attendance or flowers, Evelyn’s wishes were that donations be made to the Nickell Memorial Cemetery Fund, c/o Arnold Gabbard, 378 Brush Creek Rd, Springdale, AR 72762.
We loved her very much, and going to miss Her very much. But God took her out of her pain, and took to her family in Heaven. Our Prayers are with the Family.
Her smile and laugh will be missed. I know she is no longer in pain. RIP Evelyn. Prayers for the family during this time.
We will meet again in heaven.
Your cousin,
Paul Dennis
Brenda, we’re so sorry for your loss. We loved your mom and dad and enjoyed many visits with them and think of them often. Together again in Heaven now, don’t you know how happy they are!
No amount of words can express the pain that you are going through. We are sending you love and prayers and hope you are able to find strength during this difficult time. We will miss Evelyn very much.
She was a sweet lady
We had many wonderful memories with the Gabbard family . Evelyn looks just the way I remember her . Sweet lady . Prayers and thoughts are with the family. Love from the Cobb family.
Blessings to you all, I treasure the memories and the fun times I shared with Evelyn many years ago. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
I loved Evelyn! I remember my grandmother and aunt “alphie” (alpha brooks nickell) talking about how beautiful she was…they talked about her being the prettiest of all the “brooks” girls….She was pretty but the glowing personality is What I just loved…she was my fathers first cousin and she told me several stories about him…if I ever saw her anywhere, she always had a big smile when she greeted me…I’m so sorry for the loss of your momma, Brenda and Arnold and all but I’ll bet those in heaven are happy they got her…she’ll be a keeper, they got a good one! Love to you all
Arnold, I have fond memories of your mom (and Johnny too) at the ball park. You and your family will be in my prayers during this difficult time.
I remember visiting with her family quite a few times with my parents James and Geraldine Coleman. Lean on GOD for support, he will get you through it.
My Aunt Evelyn, was the kindest person, loving and tender. Heaven ‘s gain and our loss. We all loved you Aunt Evelyn and will miss you everyday. So glad God made You my Aunt.
Your Niece,
Marsha Hilsdon Turner