Thurzia Russell Corker, 65, of Rison, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Baptist Health Hospital in Little Rock.
  Born June 26, 1943, at El Centro, California, and raised in Portales, New Mexico, she lived most of her life in Austin, Texas.
  She was the daughter of the late W. L. “Buck” Mathis and Georgie Brown Mathis.
  Thurzia was an exceptional sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. No matter who you were or how she knew you she made a special place in her heart and family just for you.
  Her gardening skills could make a desert resemble the Garden of Eden and her cooking could win awards. She was an exquisite homemaker who was loved by all. Her family and friends will rejoice in her memory as she will be greatly missed.
  Survivors include her husband, Leland Corker, of Rison, whom she married on July 10, 1982; one son, Mark Pitchford of Rison; three daughters, Leanna Socia of Rison, Debbie Machado and Brenda Dubois, both of Austin, Texas; three brothers, Walter Mathis of Dallas, Texas, Jerry Mathis of Houston, Texas, and Glen Mathis of Turlock, California; two sisters, Alene Cunningham of Houston, Texas, and Linda Smith of Austin, Texas; four grandchildren, Julie Kennedy, Samuel Machado, Jessica Machado and Brittany Norris; two great-grandchildren, Madison Kennedy and Jonah Kennedy.
  She was preceded in death by two brothers, Bobby Mathis and Melvin Mathis.
  A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, November 20, 2008, at Buie Funeral Chapel in Rison with Bro. Wade Totty officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery at Rison.
  Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2008, at Buie Funeral Home.
  Arrangements are under the direction of Buie Funeral Home of Rison. Please share your sentiments in person or on the onlie guestbook at www.buiefuneralhome.com.