Mary Louise (Byrd) Carman, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 2nd, 2026 at the Rector Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rector, Arkansas with her faithful niece Tresia by her side. Born on March 7, 1928 in Blue Cane, Arkansas, she was the seventh of ten children, and the second daughter born to W. C. and Ruth (Morris) Byrd.

Known as Miss Louise or, more often, Granny or Aunt Lou, she was more than words can describe and larger than life, only satisfied if everyone else was happy and having a good time. Her ringing' "Howdy!!!" with a big smile and a wave was her signature greeting to family or friends. She adopted anyone who stayed around her long enough and loved the whole world with her entire being. A steadfast member of over 75 years of the St. Francis Baptist Church, her love for people was only surpassed by her love for her God.

For over 60 years, she was known as Mrs. Carman after marrying her lifelong love, A. L. Carman, on November 2, 1946, a union which gave them three children, all of whom preceded her in death: Alan Lee, Jimmy Dale, and Patsy Dian Book.

Her daughter Dian was the only child to live into adulthood and brought her great happiness. Even more joy arrived when Dian married Sammy Lynn Book, of Piggott, AR whom she claimed as a son. Then came her starring role as Granny with the births of her two beloved grandsons , Patrick Lynn of St. Francis, Arkansas and Andee Lyle of Salmon, Idaho.

She was simply joy in a little package. Knowing her meant knowing life and laughter and always having a welcome place at her warm kitchen table, surrounded by handmade clothes, linens, and the best food in the countryside.

She was preceded in death by her parents, W. C. and Ruth Byrd; her husband of 66 years, A. L.; two sons Jimmy Dale and Alan Lee; her beloved son-in-law, Rev. Sam L Book and daughter, Patsy Dian (Carman) Book and many other relatives and friends.

She is survived by two grandsons: Patrick of St. Francis, AR and Andee of Salmon, ID; great-grandchildren: Denver, Dixie and Bailey; a host of other "adopted" kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, adopted family (Amy, Remington, Brianna, etc) and friends. She is also survived by her niece and companion during her last years, Tresia Harris Webb, who looked after her every need for many years and for which, the family is so very thankful.

Services will be held at Hoggard & Sons of Piggott, Arkansas on Wednesday, January 7th. Family will arrive at 11:00, friends at 11:30 with a service to be held at 1:00 PM with the Rev. Mark Book officiating. Burial to follow at Gravel Hill Cemetery.