Anabel Rae Hathcote

Anabel Rae Hathcote, loving mother and grandmother who was the rock of her family and a beloved member of her community, passed away on November 12, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on July 30, 1935, in Oklahoma City, OK, she lived a life filled with love and devotion to her family and profession.

Anabel dedicated 44 years of her life to serving families as a Registered Nurse, with the majority of her career spent as a surgical nurse at Saline Memorial Hospital. Her unwavering commitment to her patients and her remarkable skill made her a highly respected figure among her peers and those who had the privilege of being cared for by her. Before beginning her career as a nurse, she was trained in ballet and even appeared in the Nutcracker.

God and family were the cornerstones of Anabel's life. She cherished her role as "Grandma" above all else, finding immeasurable joy in her grandchildren. Their laughter filled her home, and her kitchen was a haven of love, often brimming with the delightful scents of her famous peanut brittle and peanut butter fudge. Anabel would make every birthday or anniversary special, always arriving with a homemade treat to celebrate her loved ones. 

 A natural caregiver, she volunteered her time at church, bringing joy to the staff who looked forward to her generous offerings of baked goods on her days there. Anabel’s heart was truly a servant's heart; her selflessness and readiness to put others' needs before her own defined her very essence. Anabel also possessed an unmistakable strength; she faced life’s adversities with a toughness that shone through even in the most challenging times. 

Anabel was deeply proud of her family, her daughters: Lori Simmons and Karen Johnson; her grandchildren: Lindsey Simmons (Cory Rogers), Matthew Simmons, Holly Gottlieb (Scott), and Karie Shepard (Josh); as well as her great-grandchildren: Hattie Gottlieb, Anabel Shepard, Magnolia Shepard, and Molly Sutton. 

Anabel is preceded in death by the love of her life, husband, Bobby Glenn Hathcote. Their marriage lasted for 55 beautiful years until his passing. Their union was a beacon of love, offering a model of respect and devotion to all who witnessed their partnership. She was also preceded by her parents, Ivan and Grace Daugherty, as well as her great grandson, Hank Gottlieb. Each of them held a special place in her heart and were awaiting her with open arms as she joined them in Heaven.

To honor the amazing life of Anabel, a visitation will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N Market Street, Benton, AR 72015. A graveside service will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park, located at 7401 Arkansas 5, Alexander, AR 72002, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to your favorite charity.

Anabel Rae Hathcote will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her remarkable strength, and her spirit of giving. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her and were blessed by her kindness.