Nancy Ann Dumas, 79, passed away at her home in El Dorado on August 14th, 2024 doing what she loved, working in her flower beds.  Nancy was born May 29th, 1945 in Mt. Holly, Arkansas to parents Park and Jesse Jackson Birchfield.  She was a member of Galilee Baptist Church.  Nancy worked for many years as a teacher's aide at Southside Elementary School.  At the age of 37 she quit her job at Southside, enrolled in college at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and obtained her bachelor's degree in education in only two and a half years.  She then returned to Southside Elementary where she taught for several years. Nancy later enrolled at Henderson State University and commuted there during summer break to obtain her master's degree in education.  She later obtained her certification to be a school administrator. Throughout her lengthy career in the El Dorado Public School system Nancy held a variety of positions, including Assistant Principal, Director of the Direct Instruction Reading Program, Principal of Murmil Elementary School and any place she was needed.  She had a passion for education and truly loved and encouraged every student she served. She served alongside her husband Fred as he worked a full-time job and pastored churches.  Nancy taught herself to play the piano and was the pianist at several of the churches they served. In addition to the piano, Nancy also taught herself how to play five other musical instruments. After her retirement in 2007, she enjoyed many years of camping at state parks and spending time with her grandchildren. She loved crossword puzzles and watching game shows on television.  She was truly a Proverbs 31 lady.

Nancy was predeceased in death by her parents, grandson Park Edward Dumas, brothers Merle Birchfield, Dale Birchfield and sister Levenia Riefsteck.  She is survived by her husband of sixty-one years, Fred Dumas, sons Michael P. Dumas (Leah) of Benton and Paul F. Dumas (Susan) of Morrilton, grandsons Witt Dumas (Ashley), Greyson Dumas, James "Tripp" Dumas and Payton Dumas, granddaughter Reagan Dumas, brother Dennis Birchfield and a host of nieces and nephews.  The family wishes to thank Dr. Mathew Callaway and his staff, Dr. Rick Brown and his staff and Dr. Daniel D. Schrader and his staff for their many years of care for Nancy.  In addition, the family would also like to thank neighbors Becky Ward and Troy and Amanda Stell for their help and support. It was Nancy's wish at her passing that rather than flowers as a memorial that Gideon Bibles would be given.  Information on Gideon Bible donation can be found at Perry's Funeral Chapel or by visiting the Gideon's International website.  Public visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 PM Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Perry's Funeral Chapel in El Dorado, AR.  The family will have a private graveside service Monday, August 19, 2024, with Bro Clay Dickson officiating