Mary Jane Bridges Williamson and Melba Jean Bridges

On Tuesday, March 28, 2023, after 584 days without her twin, Mary Jane Bridges Williamson, 79, of Maumelle, passed away. That Melba Jean Bridges managed to pass peacefully in her sleep at home after a multitude of health crises over the last few decades is a testament to her stubbornness. That Jane passed in the same way would likely cause Melba to point out that Jane always copied her.

Anyone who knew them knew that they were, despite ongoing evidence to the contrary, each other’s favorite person. They were very particular about what they would and wouldn’t share. Facebook was fine to share but not a coffee pot. This is supposed to be Jane’s obituary, but because we lost Melba during the pandemic, she didn’t get her own memorial service- so they are sharing this one. One can only imagine what they would have to say about this.

They bickered incessantly but quickly joined forces if anyone else wanted to argue, never losing a fight when they were on the same side. Jane’s daughters only recently won a long-standing disagreement with them, as Jane and Melba were vehemently opposed to having a memorial service. Their memorial service will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home in Glenwood, Arkansas on Thursday, April 6 at 3:00pm.

They enjoyed watching sports, going shopping, talking about sports, vacationing at the beach, reading about sports and spending time with family- especially if it involved sports.

They were preceded in death by their parents and Jane’s husband. Their older sister, Sherry Bridges Ledet, passed away after Melba but before Jane- putting her in the unenviable position of being between them, which is not a place anyone ever wanted to be. Ask Dottie Williamson, who spent decades making certain she went into any church pew or stadium row first or last.

They are survived by Jane’s daughters and their families. Laura Bailey and Gary Waters of Northwest Arkansas and Sherry Williamson and Debora Inman of Maumelle. They are also survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Silas, Finn and Jasper Inman of Maumelle as well as Taylor Bailey, Chandler Rooks and their son Rowan; Mason and Kaylee Bailey and their daughter Ava; Shelby Waters, CJ and Kaylee Waters all of Northwest Arkansas. Speaking of sons and daughters, Jane always wanted sons and would tell anyone who would listen. Even her daughters.

Melba and Jane will be missed by a multitude of family, extended family, former co-workers and friends. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in their memory to: Special Pals of the Shelter (SPOTS) P.O. Box 824 Glenwood, AR 71943.

Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home, Glenwood, 209 North Third Street, Glenwood, AR 71943.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.