Gayle L. Parker, 81, of Springdale, passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2026 in Springdale. She was born January 15, 1945 in Bidville, AR to Velt and Oma Kelley Shepherd.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Doug; and her siblings, Remmer Shepherd, Velta Brady, and A.K. Shepherd.

Gayle and her husband Doug were owner/operators of 4-Way Transportation, a trucking company. She enjoyed traveling and flower gardening. Gayle was also active with her church and enjoyed watching her grandson play baseball.

She is survived by her daughter Hope Matthews of Springdale; a brother Randall Shepherd and his wife Shirley of Bidville; three sisters, Lora Mullen of Elkins, Brownie Mullen of Elkins, and Linda Basham of Nacogdoches, TX; a grandson Parker Matthews and his wife Katherine of Springdale; a great-granddaughter Kinsley Matthews (and another great-granddaughter on the way); and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 PM Monday, June 15, 2026 at Beard’s Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Beard’s Chapel with Reverend Richard Perry and Reverend Roy Biswell officiating. Interment will follow in Bidville Cemetery.