Teresa Rene Lively

Teresa Rene Lively, a devoted registered nurse known for her grace and compassion, passed away on July 9, 2024. Teresa was born on May 1, 1976, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and her legacy as a caring healthcare professional will be cherished by all who knew her.

Throughout her career at the National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Teresa exemplified unwavering dedication in the emergency department. Despite the frantic pace and challenges of the ER, she consistently delivered compassionate care to her patients, earning admiration and respect from colleagues and those under her care.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Teresa found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a profound love for animals, with a particular fondness for dogs and cats. Her nurturing spirit extended not only to humans but also to our furry companions.

Teresa's vibrant personality shone brightest in her roles as a devoted mother and daughter. She adored her daughter Madilynn, sharing a bond that was likened to two peas in a pod. As a self-proclaimed Daddy's girl, Teresa found unwavering strength in the rock of her father's support. Equally significant was her close relationship with her stepmother, who embraced Teresa as one of her own.

In her leisure time, Teresa enjoyed immersing herself in nature while working in her yard and tending to her beloved flower beds. A dedicated softball mom, she enthusiastically cheered on her daughter's teams during games. However, it was no secret that Teresa's true passion lay in shopping – an activity that brought immense joy to her life.  She was the definition of a shop-aholic.

Teresa is preceded in death by her mother, Ethel Dunnington Lively, and her grandparents.

Teresa is survived by her father, Randolph Lively and his wife Mary of Benton, Arkansas; her cherished daughter Madilynn Faith Brinkley of Benton; adopted daughter Brooke Brinkley of Benton; father of her children Terry Brinkley of Benton; loving sister Alicia Lively; nephew Jacob Lively of Benton; father-in-law Gary Brinkley and mother-in-law Elaine Brinkley of Langley, Arkansas; lifelong friend Ben Smith of Fayetteville, Arkansas; along with numerous other special family members and friends who held a special place in Teresa's heart.

A visitation service to honor Teresa's memory will take place on July 18, 2024, at Smith Family Funeral Home located at 322 N Market Street in Benton, Arkansas. The visitation will begin at 5:00 PM and conclude at 7:00 PM on the same day.  Special honors by the Arkansas Nurses Honor Guard will be bestowed at 6:30 PM.  

Teresa Lively will be deeply missed but never forgotten by all those whose lives she touched with kindness and compassion. Her legacy of love and caring nature will continue to inspire others for years to come as they celebrate the remarkable life she lived.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.