Mary Cloud

Mary Cloud, a cherished member of the Hot Springs community, passed away on April 3, 2026.

Born on Nov. 28, 1935, Mary's life was marked by dedication, resilience and a generous spirit that touched many. She is preceded in death by her husband, Harry M. Cloud; and her parents, Aubrey and Louisa Rook; sisters, Peggy Sutton and Fay Rook; brothers, Morris and Marlin Rook; her son, Mark Cloud; and grandchild, Melissa Smith.

Mary's early years were shaped by responsibility and care, as she attended Dumas High School through the ninth grade before setting aside formal education to assist with her baby siblings and work on the family farm. Demonstrating remarkable determination, she later returned to complete her GED in her 20s and pursued two years of college education.

Her career journey reflected a diverse range of talents and leadership. From 1969 to 1974, Mary served as the director of the kindergarten at Lakeside Baptist Church, demonstrating her passion for nurturing young minds. Following this, she embraced entrepreneurship by owning and operating her own establishment, Cloud's Lakeside Restaurant, from 1974 until 1988. Her career then took a creative turn as she worked with Olan Mills photography from 1989 to 1993, before dedicating nearly three decades, from 1993 until March 2020, to the Oaklawn Racetrack.

Mary's roots in faith were deep and enduring as she was a charter member of Lakeside Baptist Church before continuing her spiritual journey at Hot Springs Baptist Church, where her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life.

Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Mary was known for her artistic spirit and love of beauty. She enjoyed creating exquisite flower arrangements, renting a booth in downtown Hot Springs to share her floral artistry with the community. Additionally, she delighted in decorating cakes for special occasions, infusing celebrations with her creative touch.

One of Mary's proudest accomplishments was her marriage to Harry Cloud. They were united in matrimony on Nov. 25, 1955, and shared a life together until his passing on March 9, 2012. Their partnership was a testament to love and devotion spanning more than five decades.

Her survivors include her son Mark Cloud's wife, Rita; daughters and husbands include: Kay Thompson, Melanie Mumford, Valerie Stanley and husband Rich, and Kim Cloud; brother, Mark Rook; and sister, Carrie Gereb; twin sisters, Nora Crofutt and Lora Cossett; grandchildren include Sheena Meyer (husband Chad), Tyler Thompson (wife Madison), Mandi Burford (husband Philip), Brittney Adams (husband Darcy), Lindsey Tarver, Stacey Collins (husband Kyle), John Hazelwood, Macey Derris, Maranda McClelland (husband Jameson), MacKensie Hirth (husband Matt), Chris, Jeremy and Breanne Carlin, Jessica Thomason (husband Rob); as well as 19 great-grandchildren. She has many nieces, nephews, extended family and the most wonderful friends who are all dear to her. Including many at Garrett Woods. Special thanks to all the doctors, caregivers and especially the nurses who worked diligently to provide loving care at the end of her life.

Family, friends and all who knew Mary will remember her for her warm heart, creative talents, and unwavering dedication to those she loved.

Pallbearers will be: John Hazelwood, Tyler Thompson, Darcy Adams, Mike Eickhoff, and Kyle Collins.

Those wishing to pay their respects may attend her visitation from 10-11:30 a.m. on April 13, 2026, followed by her funeral service beginning at 11:30 a.m. The services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home — Hot Springs, located at 2205 Airport Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas.