Rethelford Dean Ashworth

Rethelford Dean Ashworth, 82, of Little Rock went to be with the Lord on September 5, 2017. He was born September 21, 1934. Rethelford Dean Ashworth's life centered around one word: love. Dean loved his family. His parents, Herbert and Caddie Watson Ashworth, raised four sons near Camden, Arkansas. Even though he was the youngest, Dean took care of the family throughout his life. Dean met Patricia Abel in February 1959. Their first date was on Valentine's Day. Their love for each other resulted in a marriage on August 28 of that year. God graced their marriage with 58 years and three children: Kay, Deana, and Phillip. As the years passed, the Lord added a daughter-in-love and sons-in-love, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Dean was the perfect Granpop – just ask the grandchildren! Dean loved his country and served in the Army National Guard for six years. Dean also loved his work. For 59 years Dean reported for duty to Southwest Hotels and the Monty Scott Family. He was steadfast in his work and steadfast in his witness to his co-workers. He worked right up until the week he went into the hospital. He loved his church – Immanuel Baptist Church. When he was at retirement age the church was in a capital campaign for the new building. Dean put off retiring so he and Patricia could fully participate in the campaign. He served as deacon for many years and for the last 14 years he was a fixture at the North Entrance greeting members and guests as they arrived for Bible study and worship. If St. Peter really is waiting at heaven's gate, he has a sidekick now. Dean loved life and in death his loving family surrounded him. He peacefully transitioned from this life to eternal life because as a teenager in Camden he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. The greatest love one could ever know sustained Dean all these years and welcomed him home Tuesday afternoon. Memorial service will be Thursday, September 7, at 2 p.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 N. Shackleford Road, Little Rock, Arkansas and will be led by Dr. Steven Smith. Memorials can be given to Immanuel Baptist Church TV and Missions ministries. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.