Rebecca Lou McLaughlin-Winburne (née Dean)

  Rebecca Lou McLaughlin-Winburne (née Dean), 78, of Conway, Arkansas, passed away on February 7, 2025. She was born on November 18, 1946, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to William and Nell Dean, and grew up in Pine Bluff, graduating from Pine Bluff High School in 1965.

 Rebecca was blessed with two loving marriages: first to Frank Winburne, with whom she shared many happy years until his passing in 2005, enjoying ballroom dancing, picnics, and reading poetry together. Her second marriage was to Calvin “Bud” McLaughlin, who passed away in 2018; with Bud, she loved riding on the motorcycle, fishing, and cookouts with the family. Throughout her life, Rebecca worked in various positions but found her greatest joy as an administrative assistant/secretary. She also ran her own gift and wrapping shop in downtown Conway, Arkansas, for a time. Known for her open heart and open door, Rebecca never met a stranger. She welcomed friends and family alike into her home, especially during the holidays, cooking bountiful meals and celebrating with warmth and generosity.

 Her favorite pastimes included knitting, fishing, cooking, decorating for Christmas, and spending time with loved ones. A devoted woman of faith, Rebecca kept her Bible close and prayed for those in need, always eager to share the word of God.

 Rebecca is survived by her children: Charles Williams (wife Trish), Leslie Nutt (husband Don), and Glenn Watkins (wife Samantha); her grandchildren: Xander, Sloane, Jacyne, Alyssa, Anthony, Trinity, and William; her niece and nephew: Nikki and Brandy; and her cherished friends who were like sisters, Pam, Betty, and Mary Ann. Rebecca’s love extended far beyond her immediate family—if she were writing this list herself, it would fill many pages, as she considered everyone in her life to be family.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nell Dean; her brother, Pete Dean; her husband, Frank Winburne; her husband, Calvin “Bud” McLaughlin; and her son, Chad Williams.

 Rebecca will be remembered for her heartfelt hospitality, generous spirit, and unwavering faith. She touched countless lives and leaves a legacy of love and kindness.

 To everyone who touched Rebecca’s life, whether briefly or for many years, she would want to say thank you. Thank you for sharing life’s moments—both big and small—with her. She would remind you that you are beautiful and encourage you to cherish every minute. Know that she prayed for you and your loved ones, and she was deeply grateful for every conversation and every second spent together. She would wish you and your family all the best, and she would never forget to remind you: “Be careful.”

  Funeral services will be held Wednesday, 9:00 a.m., February 19th, 2025, at Smith Family Funeral Home-Conway (1751 Dave Ward Dr.).  Visitation will be Tuesday evening the 18th, from 6:00~8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, AR 72120, following services.  Please visit www.smithfamilycares.com/ Conway to sign the online guest register.