Zelma Ruth Whitley, who resided in Charleston, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, February 8, 2017, in Barling, Arkansas. She was born June 16, 1931, in Cushing, Oklahoma to the late Jesse King and Ruth (Brickey) King. She was 85 years old. She was also preceded in death by her three sisters and five brothers.

Zelma worked in sales and as a bookkeeper for several companies.

She is survived by one daughter, Mava King of Tulsa, Oklahoma; one son, Martin Whitley of Rogers, Arkansas; her companion, Ben Duncan of Charleston; four grandchildren, Manda Ostendorf, James Whitley, Jason Young and Jackie McGuire; thirteen great-grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home and Flower Shop in Charleston.

To pay an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.