Mary Joyce "Pat" Nipps

Mary Joyce “Pat” Nipps, 91, of North Little Rock joined her love in Heaven on March 29, 2023. She was born on July 16, 1931 to Clarron and Ruth Swint in England, AR. Surrounded by seven brothers and sisters, they grew up working the cotton fields. She graduated from Central High in England, AR. It was high school where she met George Calvin Nipps. He walked in and she said, “that’s the one!” They married in 1950 and spent 72 years as best friends and partners in everything.

The first few years encompassed several moves before Calvin was drafted into the Army. The first of four children arrived in 1954 and Pat took on her longest and best role of homemaker and mother. She had an outgoing personality, never met a stranger and could be counted on to host any event at her home or church. She home baked every birthday cake, decorated for every holiday, and was well known for always taking care of family and friends.

Her faith was first, and she worked as the church secretary at Victory Baptist in Sherwood. She organized and arranged bussing for children to get to Sunday school and vacation Bible school.

Awaiting her in Heaven are her parents; devoted husband, Calvin Nipps; daughter, Donna Sue; brothers, Carlos, Charles, and Arlie (Runt) Swint; and sister, Freeda Varnell.

Remaining to celebrate her memory are daughters, Debbie Burrow (Rodney), Lisa Hicks and Karen Mihecoby; five grandchildren, Heather Burrow (Thad), Crystal Calhoun, Joshua Hicks, Jasmine Jones and Sidney Mihecoby; four great-grandchildren, Shelby and Sierra Burrow, Anabella and Gabriel Crone; two great-great-grandchildren, Aleigha and Aubreigh Fortenberry; and so many friends and family members. She will be deeply missed by all who were touched by her bright light, infectious smile, and loving spirit.

Family will receive visitors on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock. Funeral will follow at 2:00 p.m. Interment at Union Valley Cemetery in Coy, Ark.

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.--