Sammye Winton, 84, of Dierks, Ark., entered her heavenly home on Nov. 21, 2025. She was born on Sept. 4, 1941, in her parents’ home in Lockesburg to Andrew Tildan Dowdle and Ola Wyatt Dowdle. She grew up in Lockesburg and graduated from Lockesburg High School. On June 5, 1959, she married her beloved husband, Elbert Wayne Winton, in De Queen, Ark. God blessed them with 66 years of marriage, and together they built a life centered on love, family, and simply faithfulness. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elbert Wayne; and her siblings: Elva Audine “Aunt Sook” Butler, Andrew Dowdle Jr., Ellen Revels, and Bobby Butler. She is survived by her sister, Erma Friday of Lockesburg.
Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Jeffrey Winton, and his wife, Malinda; her grandchildren, Zack Winton and his wife, Leslie, and Hannah Peek and her husband, Chase; and her great-grandchildren, Adyson, Mylie, Emmitt, Fletcher, and Lexi. She loved her family dearly and prayed continually for each of them.
She enjoyed reading, cooking, and quilting blankets for people in need. She was well-known throughout Dierks and the surrounding community for her fried pies and coconut pies — treats so beloved they became almost legendary. Feeding people was her way of showing love, and she poured her heart into every dish she made. Her faith was steady and sincere, and she loved her church family at Dierks United Methodist Church, where she worshipped and served for many years.
Anyone who knew her would tell you she was a one-of-a-kind mix of sweetness, wit, and just enough stubbornness to keep life interesting. She was strong-willed in the best possible way — determined, steady, and never one to back down when she knew she was right. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they brought out a joyful and tender side of her. She loved her family fiercely and unconditionally, always ready to pray for them, encourage them, or offer a little correction if she felt it was needed.
Her devotion to her husband, Elbert Wayne, was deep and lasting. She loved him wholeheartedly, even while making sure he knew when he needed straightening out. Their marriage was filled with love, humor, and countless stories that show her strong-willed spirit and her unwavering loyalty.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dierksen Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided during her final days. Their kindness meant so much.
She lived her life with purpose, faith, and a spark of humor that made her unforgettable. Though she will be dearly missed, we rejoice knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior and reunited with those who went before her.
Funeral services for Sammye will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, at Dierks United Methodist Church with Bro. Carroll Jackson officiating. Burial will follow at 3 p.m. in Muse Cemetery in Muse, Okla., under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home.
The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Monday, Nov. 24, 2025, at the funeral home in Dierks.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Pathway to Freedom, Inc., a ministry that held a special place in her heart.
Donations may be mailed to:
Pathway to Freedom, Inc.
17200 Chenal Parkway, Ste. 300-319
Little Rock, AR 72223
You can visit their website here:
“Well done, good and faithful servant … enter into the joy of your Lord.” –Matthew 25:23
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com.
