Deidra Neshia Carrigan

Deidra Neshia Carrigan came into the world on Wednesday, December 29, 1982 and those who were touched by her life would never be the same. She was born in Texarkana, Arkansas to the union of James Edward and Rutha Bell Porter Carrigan. Her parents knew right away that Deidra would one day make a forever lasting impression in this world. As a baby she was active and exploratory; she warmed up easily to anyone and possessed an infectious giggle and smile that would melt any heart.

Naturally spoiled and being the only girl of the family, she stole the hearts of her brothers and her dad. She grew up in the Columbus area where she accepted Christ at a tender age and united with Macedonia Baptist Church Columbus. She was an exemplary student and athlete at Hope High School where she played basketball and was a 2002 graduate. She briefly attended UALR and worked for the Rainbow of Challenges, Inc.  in Hope for over 12 years.  She was very outgoing and made friends with all races. Deidra knew the value and worth of being a true friend. She loved being in the company of family and friends; and was often the center of attention.

Deidra was always independent and a “go-getter”. She enjoyed traveling, shopping, line dancing, leisure time at the casino and mudding. She would try anything at least once.

She was blessed to be the mother of Madisyn Janaya and most recently, Landree Noelle who was born August 2020. She loved her girls immensely and as a single mother was able to provide for them well beyond the necessities of life, exceeding the equivalent of a two-parent home.

Deidra loved Facebook and often posted “selfies” and her many of her experiences all while keeping up with family and friends, and sending encouraging messages. Her energetic personality, her giving nature and her pursuit for the next best thing was a magnet for those who wanted her energy to rub off on them.

She greeted life and its circumstances with a style and grace all of her own. On Saturday, October 3, 2020 Deidra traded time for eternity. Though she departs this life in body, her memory will live on forever.

Those left to relish in her memory are beautiful daughters, Madisyn and Landree; her beloved parents, James E. and Rutha Carrigan of Hope, AR; four brothers, James E. (Elonda) Carrigan, Jr., Anthony R. Porter and Derrick Carrigan all of Hope and Corey Carrigan of Texarkana, AR; her aunts, Leola (Jerome) Green of Hope, Everlean Porter of Little Rock, Carolyn Porter of Hope, Marilyn (Clayton) Miller of Bossier City, LA and Carolyn M. Porter of Hope and an uncle, Tommie Carrigan of Bossier City. She also leaves her nieces and nephews; a great uncle, Herman D. (Maudelene) Johnson of Washington, AR; special friends, Ashley and Eric Lowe, Jacque Jones, Ebony Craven and Renee Harris, numerous other friends, the Rainbow of Challenges and the Macedonia Baptist Church, Columbus families who loved her and added to the richness of her life.

Public visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2020 at Macedonia Baptist Church, 2216 Highway 73 W, Washington, AR 71862. A Celebration of her life will be shared at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at Westmoreland Cemetery with Rev. Lorenzo Kelly, officiating and Dean Freddie Smith, Eulogist.

On Saturday, October 3, 2020 the world as we knew it changed forever. We are comforted, first by God’s love and our memories. We are also comforted by the innumerable expressions of love many of you have extended to us in our time of bereavement. We cannot adequately express how deeply touched we are by your kindness. She loved her family dearly and would have appreciated all that has been done to make her passing rememberable, as well as, celebratory of her unique style. It is with the deepest sense of appreciation and great love we simply say, Thank you!