Community Comes Together to Honor Rita Harlow and Clifton Tankersley
News Summary
The community mourns the loss of two cherished members, Rita Harlow and Clifton Tankersley, who have left a lasting impact through their kindness and dedication. Their memorial services are scheduled for December 29th and 30th, with loved ones reflecting on their legacies of love and service.
Community Comes Together to Honor the Lives of Rita Harlow and Clifton Tankersley
This week, two beloved members of the community have left this world, and their absence is felt deeply by friends and family. Rita Harlow and Clifton Tankersley were both extraordinary individuals, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication.
Remembering Rita Harlow
Rita’s journey in life was marked by her incredible spirit. A devoted member of the First Church of the Nazarene, she was passionate about making a difference, particularly in the lives of children. Rita worked as a health caregiver with Home Helpers, where she touched the lives of many families. Not one to shy away from competition, she even *took home a League Champion title* alongside her daughter Keila in 2022, earning a reputation for her unique bowling style that included a distinct slide on her right foot.
Beyond her achievements, which included the prestigious Clara B Rogers/Roy Culverson service and contribution award in 2015, Rita was known for her generous heart. An organ donor, she will continue to help others even in her passing. Rita was also an animal lover, and her pets often reflected her nurturing character.
A celebration of Rita’s life will be held on Monday, December 29th, at 1:00 PM at the First Church of the Nazarene, located on 4813 N O St. After the service, her family will lay her to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Park.
Honoring Clifton Tankersley
Visitation for Clifton will take place on Monday, December 29th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Edwards Funeral Home. His funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, December 30th, at 12:00 PM, also at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, with interment to follow at Fort Smith National Cemetery.
Remembering Their Impact
Both Rita and Clifton were known not just for their personal achievements but also for the warmth they shared with their community. Their kindness and commitment to bettering the lives of those around them will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in their names can be made to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, causes that resonated with the values they held dear.