Biography: Justlyn Jane Matlock, 81, of Little Rock passed away March 4, 2022.  She was born August 7, 1940, the daughter of Marcus Justus Matlock and Ethlyn Wade Matlock

“I am thankful that I grew up during this time period and in the U.S.A. I grew up on Ridgeway in Hillcrest. We knew the neighbors. Friends sat on the porch and talked. We played outside and rode bikes throughout the Hillcrest area. There was no air conditioning, but we survived somehow. The polio epidemic was frightening, but there were no lockdowns or mandates.
Civility, common sense, courage, and patriotism prevailed. People seemed to understand differences and we could have discussions.

I walked two blocks to Pulaski Heights Elementary and Junior High. Teachers were excellent. I'm especially thankful for Mrs. Rowe (4th grade-introduction to art), Mrs. Best (7th grade English grammar and literature), and Miss Thale (9th grade-scientific method). We had the flag salute each morning.

I walked three blocks to Pulaski Heights Baptist Church. I'm very thankful for all the leaders we had there and for all I learned.
I graduated from Little Rock Central High in 1958. I'm thankful for all the excellent teachers there. I'm especially thankful for the ability of the administrators and teachers to prevent death and destruction during this historic year. I learned that there is more to historic events than is recorded and that peace is not easy to achieve. I was glad when the 101St arrived. I graduated from Ouachita Baptist College and am thankful for all I learned, the experiences I had, and the lifelong friendships I made.

I am thankful for all of the people I worked with and friends I had while working for the F.B.I. in Washington, D.C., the Army Service Club in Orleans, France, teaching in California, working for Attorney Ralph Brodie, and working at the Arkansas State Library.

I am thankful for everyone who has helped me in the last few years as I have learned to slow down and focus as a result of health challenges. I am especially thankful for Dr. Harold Hughes, Joyce Jones, Lee Ann Hogue, Jana Helton, Dana Downes, Ralph and Marilou Brodie, Bob and Johnny Matthews, Janet and Greg Gillies, Hope, Roger, and Micah Hawkins, Marian and John Thomason, Mickey and Gayle Stephens, Lynn and Sue Jenkins, George Carter Miller IV, Bonnie Rosen, Glenda Ghio, Ilah Henderson, Denise Laster, Tess Aberle, Linda at Kroger in the Heights, and Adam, Kathryn, Peggy, and Taylor at Tanglewood Drug Store, also the staff at Baptist Health and Hospice Home Care.

I hope there are enough courageous citizens in the U.S.A. who understand the uniqueness of this country to enable the restoration of civility, responsibility, and safety. May truth, justice, and the American way prevail.”

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at 11 a.m. in Forest Hills Cemetery, 10200 AR-5, Alexander, AR 72002.  Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com