Graduating as Salutatorian in the Arkadelphia High Class of 1939 she attended Ouachita Baptist University (OBU). In spite of her excellent work as a student, she and her best friend, Neno Nolan (Flaig), later the Dean of Women at OBU, were regularly on the college prayer list for going to the movies. Transferring to the University of Arkansas, she was a Pi Beta Phi and met a graduating accounting major and soon-to-be Naval Officer, Ralph Lee McQueen. Graduating in 1943, she married Lt (jg) R.L. McQueen, and they moved to Naval Air Station, Norfolk, VA to start their wonderful marriage of over six decades.
Upon the end of WW II, they moved to Little Rock where he became a CPA, and they had two children, Ralph Lee McQueen, Jr. and Evelyn "Lyn" Ann McQueen before they moved to Dermott where he started his CPA firm. She was always busy being either a Sunday school teacher or Circle Chair as well as either a Cub Scout or room mother, supporting all of the children's activities in church, school, band or scouting activities. Chick and Ralph were instrumental in the rebirth of the school band. Besides hours of fundraising for instruments and uniforms, they were always chaperones for overnight competition trips. Every band member knew if they needed anything aspirin, Band-Aids, etc., "Miss" Chick had a supply in her big purse. She also was keeping up with and cooking for many of the sick and infirmed of Dermott for years. Lyn and Lee had a standing question of "Who died?" whenever they came home from school and there was a fresh coffee cake on the table. Her recipe made two and they were looking at the one "left behind" for her family. Many will remember her little five-foot body moving at high speed to get anything in which she was involved finished so she could go on to another family, school, or any other civic project on which she felt needed. Yes, she did talk a lot but it was only to share good information about folks that she thought one would like to hear.
She adored her grandchildren (Tre, Kelley and Dennis, Jr.), and would drop everything when they needed her care. She went often to the Dermott Nursing Home to "take cheer" to folks she had known for years and many with whom she had just met. She and Ralph moved to Parkway Village in October 2002, where she became acquainted with many old college and church friends of the last 60+ years.
She is survived by her children, Ralph Lee McQueen, Jr. (Carol) of West Memphis and Evelyn "Lyn" Ann McQueen Curtis (Dennis R.) of Little Rock. Her grandchildren are CDR Ralph Lee McQueen, III, USN ret. (Kelly) of Alexandria, VA, and Kelley Curtis Dunlap (Dr. Bryan), and Dennis Curtis, Jr. (Rachael), both of Little Rock. Her great grandchildren are Aleta and Arleigh McQueen, Grant and Jackson Dunlap, and Dennis Curtis III. Other survivors include her sister-in-law, Mrs. Glenn Allen, Jr. (Wanda) and her children and grandchildren. Special love is given to her attentive nieces and nephews, Allison DeLamar Echols (Ronnie), Suzanne Haug (Helmuth), and John A. Riggins (Nadalyn) and great nieces and nephews. We also especially appreciate the help and patience of her caregiving angels Janith Moragne, Latosha Mickles, and Penny Briggs.
There will be a private graveside service for family. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dermott Cemetery Association, PO Box 324, Dermott, AR 71638 or to your favorite charity. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(13)
Sandra Kay Daniels
Brentwood, TN Monday, April 6, 2020 Growing up in Dermott in the 50's and 60's I was one of many fortunate baby boomers to feel the energy and affirmation of Mrs. McQueen. I remember her bright smiling face and in her hands something good to deliver. As a young guest in the McQueen home, I was received with such warmth and I have always remembered how special I felt and the wonderful food and conversation. David and I send our deepest condolences to her children and family.Byron and Carol Eiseman
Little Rock, AR Monday, April 6, 2020 Chick and Ralph are probably celebrating now with my parents, Walter and Mary Cole and talking about the latest activities on the Accounting scene. They were best friends, and helped Mom and Dad when they were at Parkway Village. I am glad that you got to spend so many good years with this precious woman.Claudia Tolleson
Little Rock, AR Sunday, April 5, 2020 Mrs. Chick was an amazing woman and she will be so missed, especially her smile and twinkling eyes. We love you all and our prayers are with you!!Faber Horne
LITTLE ROCK, AR Sunday, April 5, 2020 Lyn and Lee, so very sorry to learn of your mom's passing. Where do I start? Aunt Chick had so many endearing qualities. Sure, you knew there were times she meant business, but there were so many times when she showed kindness and concern for others.Through the eyes of an 8 year old child, the trip from Des Arc to Dermott and back was eternity. And now 50 years later it feels like that was another life. Another life though that was blessed by knowing Aunt Chick.
I'll miss seeing you both Tuesday, but please know I will be present in spirit. I'm sure she and Uncle Ralph are having a great time now! Take Care.
Martha Horne Goins
Little Rock, AR Sunday, April 5, 2020 Lee and Lyn -Thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your families. I cherish the time I spent with Chick at Trinity.
Janice Stanford
LittleRock, AR Sunday, April 5, 2020 I have heard so many wonderful stories about Chick throughout the years. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.Bill and Pat Watkins
Tequesta, FL Saturday, April 4, 2020 We have many loving memoriesKaren Kuerner Carlisle
, AR Saturday, April 4, 2020 Lynn, I am so sad to learn of your mother’s passing. She was so special to my mom and we all loved her- I’ve often thought of her. You and your family are in my prayers.Teresa Craig
, AR Saturday, April 4, 2020 Lyn and family,So very sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to you all.
Teresa & Ronnie Craig
Stephanie Simmons
Shelbyville, IN Friday, April 3, 2020 Thinking of you guys. Wish that I could be there for Aunt Chicks service.marsha
little rock, AR Friday, April 3, 2020 Lyn, I know you will miss your mother, however, you will have so many Chick Stories to remember! You have been so devoted and kind to see about your mothers needs. I hope we can visit in the future, my number is 6806869. Thanks for sharing Chick and Ralf with Parkway Village and me. Marsha CMartha Allen Bryant
Arkadelphia, Ar, AR Friday, April 3, 2020 May God surround the family with love and comfort. What a wonderful homecoming for all the Allen children.Bobbie Ross
Warren, AR Thursday, April 2, 2020 Lee, I am so sorry to hear about your great loss. May God bless you all during this difficult time is my prayer.