Niva Nell Hefton

Niva Nell Hefton, a beloved member of her family and a cherished friend to many, passed away on December 30, 2024, at the age of 69 in Gentry, Arkansas. Born on December 22, 1955, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, Nell was the daughter of O.L. "Dink" and Niva Iona (Vessell) Hefton. Her early years were filled with laughter and love, setting the foundation for the joyful spirit she maintained throughout her life.

Nell was a true treasure to those who had the privilege of knowing her. She found joy in the simplest of things—cats, ice cream, pictures and painting. Nell once won an award for her painting. She also had a love for traveling, keeping secrets, and being the boss of Hefton Hill. Nell was adored by her entire family and spoiled rotten for all of her 69 years.

Nell enjoyed attending church services, where she delighted in singing hymns. One of her most cherished memories involved using sign language during the singing of "Oh How I Love Jesus," a testament to her spirited personality. 

She leaves behind her two brothers, Dale Hefton and Sharon of Thomaston, GA, and Wendell Hefton and Sharron of Kingwood, TX. Her legacy continues through her innumerable nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and a host of friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Nell was preceded in death by her parents; and five sisters: Lois McCauley, Reba Lindsey, Willene Lipe, Wanda Young, and Melba Baker; along with her brother, Bill Hefton. Though her physical presence may be gone, her spirit, love, and laughter will echo in the lives of those she touched.

The funeral service for Niva Nell Hefton will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, with burial following at Round Mountain Cemetery. A committal service will be held at the Round Mountain Church in Vian, Oklahoma, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc. Viewing will be on Thursday, January 2, 2025, from Noon to 8 PM at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, where the family will greet from 5 to 7 PM.

Active pallbearers will be Phil Lindsey, Carol Lipe, Hefton Young, Josh Hefton, George McCauley, and Kevin Baker. 

As we remember Niva Nell Hefton, let us celebrate a life that was full of love, laughter, and cherished moments that will remain in our hearts eternally.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Round Mountain Cemetery or Down Syndrome Association (www.dsaco.org).