Maranda Charles Obituary

Maranda Charles was born on May 4, 1936, in Marianna, Arkansas, to the late Frank Morris and Anna Laura Buckingham. On Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the age of 89, she transitioned peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving daughter Pam, her son-in-law Charles, and a host of devoted family members.
From an early age, Maranda confessed her hope in Christ and remained a woman of steadfast faith throughout her life. She was a faithful member of First Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Charles Boyd Sr., where she served diligently on the Mother's Board until her health no longer permitted.
Maranda received her early education in Aubrey, Arkansas, in Lee County. She dedicated over 30 years of service to Mr. Ben Quinn of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where she became known not only for her tireless work ethic but also for her compassion, wisdom, and integrity.
She had a deep appreciation for nature and especially loved flowers, plants, and fishing. In 1987, she earned her certification as a Master Gardener-an accomplishment she was extremely proud of. Maranda eagerly shared her gardening knowledge with anyone willing to learn, enriching the lives of many through her passion and expertise.
In 1986, alongside her daughter Pam, Maranda became a foster parent. Together, they opened their home and hearts to more than 500 children over the years, offering love, structure, and stability to those in need. Her nurturing spirit defined her, and her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.
One of her most cherished memories came on May 4, 2024, when she celebrated her 88th birthday. Her favorite singer and dear friend, Bobby Rush, gave her a birthday to remember. With her granddaughters, Pinky and Amanda, she enjoyed a front-row seat at his concert. Bobby Rush acknowledged her from the stage and later visited her table for a heartfelt meet-and-greet and photos-an unforgettable experience for Maranda and her family.
Her generosity knew no bounds. She didn't wait to be asked-if she heard of a need, she responded. Her quiet strength, selflessness, and enduring kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Maranda was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Burks; her son, Curtis Burks; her siblings: Leo Buckingham, Daisy Kimbrough, Olar Ellington, Morris C. Buckingham, and Alfred Buckingham; and five grandchildren: Gary Wiley, Terry Stocker, LaQuavis Thomas, Curtis Burks Jr., and Christopher Johnson. She was the last surviving member of the Buckingham family.
She leaves to cherish her memory and carry forward her legacy her loving children: Willastine (Samuel) Turner, Annette (John) Sowers, Linda (Bobby) Braxton, Pamela (Charles) Kelly, Lesa Goodwin, and Sandra (Thomas) Luckett, 26 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, 14 great-
great grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Visitation 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Brown Funeral Home Pine Bluff, AR.
Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, at First Missionary Baptist Church Pine Bluff, AR by Rev. Charles Boyd, Sr. Interment in Henson Cemetery Pine Bluff, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR. Her body will lie in-state from 10:15 a.m. until service time.
Obituary submitted by The Family
Brown Funeral Home (Pine Bluff)