LaRita Chitwood

LaRita Chitwood, age 82, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born on Friday, August 1, 1941, to Lawrence Wade and June Evelyn Harpole in Brooklyn, New York.

Proud, confident, and endlessly tenacious, she pursued her dreams with unwavering resolve, shaping her own destiny at every turn. With a sharp wit and an honesty that was both refreshing and at times, unyielding, LaRita charmed those around her, infusing every moment with laughter and light. Her love for her family knew no bounds, as she fiercely protected and cherished them with unwavering loyalty. LaRita’s vibrant presence illuminated every room she entered, and her zest for life served as an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey. Though she may be gone, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who were touched by her warmth and grace.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one son, Jerry Dean Inman Jr; two brothers, Larry Harpole and Gary Harpole.

LaRita is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Jake Chitwood of Mena; one daughter Teresa Lunsford of Mena; grandchildren, Brian Inman of Bauxite, Shawn and Mandi Inman of Rogers, Joshua and Stephanie Lunsford of Fayetteville,  Zachary Lunsford of Mena, Amanda and Travis Cook of Mena; great-grandchildren, Raya Camille Inman of Rogers, Waylon Lee Lunsford of Fayetteville, Julianna June Cook of Mena; and daughter-in-law, Vanda Inman of Mena; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, Arkansas with Father Norbert Rappold as celebrant. Interment will follow at the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM with a Rosary Service taking place at 6:30 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas.

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Ethan Nahté

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