Artha Mae Johnson Minton passed away on August 5, 2024, in North Little Rock, Ark.
Born on May 16, 1928, she was a beloved figure in her community and a retired educator, having dedicated over 30 years to the North Little Rock public schools. Artha’s spiritual journey was deeply rooted in her faith. She was a long-standing member of Bethel A.M.E. Church, where she contributed in various capacities, including serving on the Trustee Board and Steward Board, teaching Sunday School, and chairing the Pastor’s Aide Board. Her Christian experience began at Shiloh Baptist Church, where she was superintendent of the Youth Sunday School and a member of the Willing Worker’s Club and choir.
A staunch advocate for civil rights and community development, Artha was a life member of the NAACP, actively involved in the North Little Rock branch, sponsoring many youth activities, and served on the Executive Committee. She also held a position on the North Pulaski Community Housing Resource Board, Inc., and was president of the Les Bonnes Amies Club, a charitable and social organization.
Artha was a proud alumna of Jones High School and Philander Smith College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She further pursued a master’s degree at UALR. Her love for education was only matched by her dedication to her community and her church.
Artha was preceded in death by her husband, Paul L. Minton, Sr.; her mother, Ethel Simpson; her father, Rev. Barry Simpson; siblings, Eulalia Johnson, Earl Simpson, Juanita Simpson, Elsie Simpson; and a niece, Ella Louise Simpson.
She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Minton Keating; son-in-law, Gerald Searles; son, Paul L. Minton, Jr.; three stepdaughters, Pauline Porter Roberts, Ann Ramsey, and Alma Williams; three grandchildren, John Alexander Keating, Nicole Paulette Keating, and Sydney Marie Keating; nephew, Charles Simpson; and nieces, Alice Vernell Simpson, Renee Michele Simpson, and William David Simpson; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A service to honor and celebrate Artha’s extraordinary life will be held at Bethel AME Church on Saturday, August 10th, located at 815 W 16th St, Little Rock, Ark. 72206. The viewing will commence at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home in Little Rock, Ark., is assisting the family with arrangements. Artha’s legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her as she lived a life full of passion, service, and love.