Jane Grigsby Arthurs, age 81, of Little Rock passed away June 25, 2023. She was born in Heber Springs, February 12, 1942, to the late Edward Grigsby, a farmer, and Irma Dean Olmstead Grigsby, a school teacher.
Survivors include Bill Arthurs, loving husband of 56 years; Martha Hinesley (Dean), sister; Deana Moody, niece; Stephen Bengel, cousin; Godson, Will Trice; the Bridge Girls; her Delta Zeta Sisters; a host of nieces and nephews; and her beloved housekeeper Rayleen Bishop.
The Grigsbys moved to Mountain View when Jane was a second grader, and Janice Hinkle Sutton (Kenneth) became her everlasting friend. Jane was valedictorian of Mountain View High School (1960) and went on to Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) where she was a spirited Delta Zeta and outstanding student. Graduating in three years, she became a distinguished teacher at Hall High School, teaching Business Education for 35 years. She earned an MA from the State College of Arkansas (later UCA) and subsequently won a prestigious Stephens Award for outstanding teaching in the Little Rock School District. Those years of teaching were a great joy for Jane. She loved teaching, and she loved Hall High. She is remembered fondly by scores of Arkansas students.
A “Dedicated Bear” at ASTC, Jane became a lifetime member of the Alumni Association and both the Doyne and President’s Society. She established with Bill the William H and Jane Grigsby Arthurs Scholarship for a deserving business education student. They created a similar scholarship at the UofA for a Sigma Chi student in any field.
In retirement Jane and Bill traveled extensively through Germany, Ireland, Scotland, and England--and along the Danube from Prague to Budapest. But their favorite destination was a coveted location off the coast of Maine where they returned time and again with Cousin Stephen and special friends.
Jane led an active social life mingled with community service. During twenty years she made significant contributions to Arkansas Children’s Hospital as a lifetime member and one-time President of the Children’s Auxiliary. She also volunteered in the hospital gift shop. She was an accomplished tennis player and a workout enthusiast at Pleasant Valley Country Club. And on the spiritual side of life, she was a “Cradle to Grave Methodist,” a 55-year member of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church and a cofounder of the Fathomers Sunday School Class.
The Bridge Girls and hosts of women considered Jane vital to their lasting friendships. She kept friends together, tracked their personal lives, and supported their children. Those who knew her best spoke lovingly: “very hospitable, always,” “the best friend a person could have,” “loved an adventure,” “always on your side and happy for your successes.” She asked amazing questions and “loved coconut pie and divinity.” Jane was one of a kind.
Bill and their extended network of friends offer eternal thanks to Barbara Ellis, Theresa Carmichael, Lachasity Marshall, and Arkansas Hospice for providing loving homecare during Jane’s final months.
The interment in the Columbarium of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2023. A celebration of Jane’s life will be held in the sanctuary at 11 a.m., followed by a church reception.
Contributions can be made to UCA Foundation, Inc., Arthurs
Scholarship, 201 Donaghey Ave, Box 4986, Conway, AR 72035,
or to Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church. Arrangements
are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com
