Carmen Isabel Dale

Carmen Isabel Dale, 89, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at the home of her daughter in Rogersville. Her family was at her side as she passed very peacefully from this life into eternity – just in time for the big birthday party before the throne of Jesus.

Carmen was born Aug. 3, 1920, to Charles Julian Richards and Lela Mae (Allison) Richards in El Dorado Springs. She was the eldest of three children and was a lifelong resident of El Dorado Springs. On April 16, 1938, Carmen married her high school sweetheart, Clyde Dale, and their devotion to one another was a romance that lasted for the next 64 years–– until Clyde went to be with Jesus. The couple had two daughters, Nancy Ellen and Cheryl Lynn.

During World War II, while Clyde was with the troops in Europe, Carmen worked at the Tri-County State Bank in El Dorado Springs and upon Clyde’s return from the war, they started their family. Carmen ultimately was employed with the city of El Dorado Springs in the Board of Public Works Office. She worked there for many years as office manager and city treasurer.

After her retirement, Carmen was able to start or continue with many of her interests. She loved working in her yard, sewing and was a fabulous cook. As Clyde became ill, she was his best encourager and a very faithful caregiver. After Clyde’s passing in 2002, Carmen volunteered at the El Dorado Springs Hospital and was active in her church. Through the years, Carmen was a member of the United Methodist Church, the PEO Sisterhood and the Eastern Star.

Carmen was a great lady, full of life, always smiling and ready for a new adventure.

Survivors include: daughter, Nancy Roberts, and husband, Larry Roberts - Springfield; their sons, Aaron Roberts, and family - Cheyenne, WY, and Justin Roberts, and wife - Waynesville, NC; daughter, Cheryl Bryant, and husband, Fred Bryant - Rogersville; their children, Patrick Bryant, and family - Carl Junction, Ky Englund, and family - Springfield, and Elizabeth Bryant - Chicago, IL; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, J.D. Richards, and wife, Willie - Lubbock, TX; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel in El Dorado Springs with Pastor Patty Smith officiating. Internment followed in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Tim Englund, Patrick Bryant, Randy Richards, Ron Richards and Roger Eason.

Donations may be made to the El Dorado Springs Methodist Church in memory of Clyde and Carmen Dale.