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Flora Mae Fitzsimmons of Berryville, Arkansas was born April 26, 1928, in Winfield Township, Illinois to Edward and Irene (Lies) Schramer. Flora passed away on January 4, 2026, in Bentonville at the age of 97.
Flora had a heart that opened easily to everyone she met. She loved babies and found deep joy in caring for others, a compassion she carried into her volunteer work at Hope Place, formerly The Cradle. Her greatest happiness came from her family, and she especially cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren. A dedicated EMT and firefighter with the Beaver Fire Department, Flora served her community with courage and steady kindness. She never met a stranger and was known for her warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. For many years, she shared her voice and reflections through her weekly editorial, Across the Bridge, in the Eureka Springs Times Echo, touching readers with her insight and sincerity. A faithful member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Flora lived her life with generosity, devotion and an open heart. She is survived by her children, Dale Fitzsimmons and wife Kathleen, Mark Fitzsimmons, Kaye Marie Donahoe and husband Daniel, Lou Ann Price and husband Dale, James Fitzsimmons III and wife Ilse; 16 grandchildren; 30 great‑grandchildren; two great‑great‑grandchildren; along with several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Flora is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Irene Schramer; husband, James Fitzsimmons, Jr.; siblings, Betty Auwaeter, Donald Schramer; granddaughter, Kate Marie Lowrey.
Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 10, 2026, Charles M. Nelson Memorial Chapel with Father Joseph Archibong officiating. Burial will follow at Beaver Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to Hopeplace, 213 Hailey Road, Berryville, AR 72616. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to nelsonfuneral.com.
