Ms. Eva Marie Walden

Eva Marie Walden 93 passed away peacefully at the Cottages of Belle Meade in Paragould, Arkansas on Sunday July 30, 2023. She was born January 26, 1930 in Calhoun County, Illinois to Julius Sr and Freda (Curtis) Challandes. She was the oldest of five children. Her childhood was filled with the love of God and family. She was preceded in death by her husband Curtis Walden; both of her parents; three brothers Junior Challandes, Ervin Challandes and Wayne Challandes; her grandmother Nurse Frieda Hugh Neal and grandpa Frank Neal who ran the Kampsville Ferry. She was blessed with the heart of a mother to seven. We never knew lack because she sacrificed her own needs for ours. Summers at home were simple but rich. We were taught thankfulness for nature, the woods, the water and family. We learned to share. "The Best THINGS in life are not THINGS!" We also learned faithfulness. Eva left us a legacy of loving the Lord God with all our hearts, souls and minds and loving our neighbor as ourselves. The Bible was God's direct word to her. Many times through the years, she read it cover to cover. She meditated on the Word of God and "hid His truths in her heart". We all had the security of knowing our mother was interceding not only for us, but our spouses, children, and children's children. She loved dressing up, decorating her hair, and taking pictures. She found delight in making pies for any occasion, giving them as gifts. Her pies were the best! Eva was an active member at Assembly of God Church in Carrollton. Our mother was a lady in every way. She was gracious to all she met and prolific with kind words and compliments. Her household standard was cleanliness and godliness. During the last few years, Eva faced many painful health challenges. She did so with the same dignity and forbearance she exhibited throughout her long and eventful life. Her main focus was always her family's well being, rather than her own. Eva's gentle ways, willingness to listen, and soothing presence will be sorely missed. Eva leaves behind her 7 children Charles (Judy) Turner of Plainview, IL, Melvin Turner of St. Louis, MO, Betty Freytag of Alton, IL, Ralph Turner of Houston, TX, Alice Turner of Mt. Olive, IL, Shirley Elkins of Brookland, AR and Bonnie (Albert) Granger of Brookland, AR; 11 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren; her youngest sister Wanda (Danny) Pedigo of Chatam, IL along with many nieces, nephews and life long friends. There will be a Funeral Service Thursday August 3, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Airsman Hires Funeral Home in Carrollton, IL with Danny Pedigo officiating. Visitation will be at 10 AM with burial immediately following the service. Tri-City LLC Crematory Funeral Home is honored and privileged to serve the family of Eva Marie Walden. Online condolences may be expressed at www.Tri-CityLLC.com or www.airsman-hires.com

Ms. Eva Marie Walden

January 26, 1930 - July 30, 2023