Vernell Downum

Glenna Vernell (Fowler) Downum, 83, of Viola, Arkansas passed from this life on Saturday, November 7, 2020 in Batesville, Arkansas.  Vernell was born September 19, 1937 to Arnold L. Fowler and Sallie E. (Threlkeld) Fowler in Manila, Arkansas.

Vernell was united in marriage to Vearl Dean Downum on October 26, 1988 in Bentonville, Arkansas. Vernell spent her working years as a waitress and was well known for her homemade pies. She was also a caregiver for several people and was a wonderful person who loved all animals. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, stepmother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, friend and was of the Baptist faith.

Vernell is survived by her husband, Vearl Downum of Viola, Arkansas; stepson, Chuck Downum (Debbie) of Viola, Arkansas; stepdaughter, JuDene Stroud (Junior) of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; five grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; two sisters, Maxine Palmer of Henderson, Arkansas and Ronella Cullen (Bill) of Gilbertsville, Kentucky; special niece, Sandy Fowler Hubler of Alexander, Arkansas; many nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.  Vernell is preceded in death by her parents, four brothers (Paul Elwin Fowler, Elwood Fowler, Arnold Fowler, and Frank Fowler), and nephew (Billy Belew).  

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, November 9, 2020 at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. Van Brown officiating. Visitation will be 1:00 P.M. until time of service on Monday, November 9, 2020 at Barker Funeral Home. Pallbearers are Steven Harber, Chuck Downum, Elwin Wray, Justin Hodges, Junior Stroud, and Charlie Foreman. Interment will be in the Viola Cemetery in Viola, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Humane Society of North Central Arkansas (2656 AR 201, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653). Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. 

Please be mindful of our social distancing guidelines. We will have hand sanitizing stations set up at all entrances and exits and with the register book. Signs will be posted as well.  

• Face coverings/mask are required
• 100  or fewer in the building at a time
• 6 foot distancing in seating and in lines
• No entry if any symptoms or contact with a positive patient