Sally was a devout member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She was raised as part of a large, blended family in rural south Arkansas. Her playmates, mostly older, mostly boys, taught her toughness and tenacity. Combined with a sweet compassion for everyone, especially the underdog, she was a refuge and a transforming influence for many. She helped blaze a trail for strong purposeful women in a time when there was less space for that. Her formal education began in a one-room schoolhouse and ended with graduation from Drew Central High School class of 1944. She dabbled at writing children's literature, got more joy in catching a fish than most, and was an avid Razorback fan. She was a lover of children. Her forte' was in attending to, playing with, encouraging, and soothing children. One could not wish for a more supportive foundation. Even when she returned to full-time employment with Burlington Industries as a supervisor and trainer she still managed the competing needs of laundry, food, and transportation for four boys to various sporting events (one summer she had one son in each of four separate baseball leagues). Though content to stay ''close to home'' she relished trips to successive World's Fairs in San Francisco and Seattle. A product of her era, she had firm convictions about what was appropriate and inappropriate behavior but never let that judgment prevent her from loving people just as they are. Her nature was to always give people the benefit of the doubt. Her one service on a jury unsurprisingly resulted in a hung jury 11-1. He probably meant no harm, she rationalized. One juror could not be persuaded the defendant would intentionally do anything wrong. Of course!
Faith, hope, and love; the greatest of which is… Embodied in THIS life lived in THIS way which has left an impact that will live on!
In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by four brothers, Ray, R.L., Travis and Alfred; one sister, Marlee; two sons, David Gary and John Glenn; and two spouses, Herschel Qualls and Waymond Griffith.
Sally is survived by two sons, Michael Lee Qualls (Rhonda) and Randy Mark Qualls (Linda); six grandchildren, Micah Qualls, Randi McMahon (Jonathan), Jada Herrington (John), Keitha Dodson, Melanie Qualls Kohrs and Will Qualls; seven great-grandchildren, Ethan Kohrs, Gavin Kohrs, Race Adcock, Bristol Adcock, Cayden Dodson, Aaron McMahon, Nicolas McMahon; a former daughter-in-law who loved her like her own mother, Marilyn Enloe, along with others blessed to fall into Sally's orbit (Know you were loved as family right to the end).
Funeral services will be 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Rose Hill Cumberland Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jim Fisk officiating. There will be a visitation preceding the funeral service from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are John Herrington, Odell Lee, Barry Saffold, Jonathan McMahon, Ethan Kohrs, Gavin Kohrs, Race Adcock, Bristol Adcock, Cayden Dodson, Aaron McMahon and Nicolas McMahon. You can sign Mrs. Sally's guestbook registry on this page.
Condolences(5)
Regina Collins
Jacksonville, AR Friday, August 9, 2024 Mike, Mark, Marilyn , & family, I was so sorry to hear about Sally. She was always smiling and laughing. Just the best personality & best person to be around. She was so beautiful. It was such a pleasure, knowing her. keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.DeAnn Speer
The Woodlands, TX Saturday, July 27, 2024 I’m so sorry for your loss. Miss Sally was such a wonderful lady. Hugs and prayers for your family.Micah Qualls
Benton, AR Saturday, July 27, 2024 MeMe, there is an empty place in my heart where your strength always filled. I promise your legacy lives on in the warriors you raised. Your granddaughters are holding the line for you with our tenacity, kindness to others, wit, intellect, and love for everyone. Your voice is ever present when we stand up as independent women every day and speak our minds and run our families. Qualls women are loud. Qualls women have smiles that light up every room. Qualls women persevere. Just the way you taught us. We will finish what you started.Love and light forever and ever, my precious MeMe, Micah LeAnn.
Gloria Schwab
Bentonville, AR Friday, July 26, 2024 Michael and family , I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet mom . She always had a smile and a friendly hello . Prayers for you all .Pam
Forrest, AR Tuesday, July 23, 2024 Ms. Sally was the sweetest lady. She was full of kindness, laughter and always friendly. She will be greatly missed.