Vernell "Nell" Edwards Stamatis

With joy we celebrate the life of Vernell Edwards “Nell” Stamatis. She was 86 when she passed from this life in Searcy, Arkansas on November 10, 2024 at 2:00 pm. She was a wonderful mother and wife who was always present when we needed her most; offering support, wisdom and love in abundance. She was a cherished friend and mentor to many around the world leaving behind a spiritual legacy of kindness and strength. Nell was born on a snowy evening on October 17, 1938 in a half-dugout in the canyons of the Texas Panhandle. An uncle raced to retrieve the nearest doctor in a horse drawn wagon at break neck speed. She was born into the family of Lloyd Parino Edwards and Laura Bell Hanna Edwards. 

 Nell’s early life was spent roaming and exploring the Caprock breaks with her siblings. She told us amazing tales of tornadoes, giant rattlesnakes, and a multitude of pets she collected and took care of. In 1953, her family moved to Amarillo, Texas which led to her meeting, dating and marrying Jimmy Stamatis. They were married on April 20, 1957.

 In the beginning years of marriage, as a homemaker and mother, she began developing talents of entertaining, hospitality, Bible teaching, successful parenting and, decorating that would bless her family and many others in the years to come. The use of these talents she had developed in her early years made her a complimentary ministry partner to Jim. Dad cherished mom as a helpmate, secretary, encourager and confidante as they worked together in Texas, Louisiana, New York, Connecticut, Greece and Arkansas. Jim always referred to her as his “Quitaque gal”. After retirement, they lived 17 years in Searcy, Arkansas, followed by 4 years in Mountain Home, Arkansas. 

An obvious component of Nell’s character (displayed throughout life) was her competitive spirit. It was clearly seen as she played cards, dominoes, bridge, ping pong, volleyball, softball, bowling and many other pursuits.

Nell is survived by her beloved sister, Linda “Bunny” Parker. She is survived by two sons and their wives Ken and Amy Stamatis of Searcy, Arkansas and Steve and Deborah Stamatis of Crete, Greece. Also survived by four grandchildren: Teaven and Melissa Stamatis, Billy Quinn, Greer and Kayla Stamatis, and Teal and Travis Helton. She is survived by six great grandchildren McKenzie Stamatis, Leighton Stamatis, Knox Helton, Addison Stamatis, Wrigley Helton and Jude Stamatis. Nell was preceded in death by two brothers: Elmer Edwards, and Billy Edwards as well as her parents.

There will be a memorial gathering at 24311 Kanis Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72223. This will be on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. A meal will be catered. If you plan to attend, please inform Ken or Steve as soon as possible. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a work that would reflect the service and ministry of Nell Stamatis.