Mrs. Verba Lee Birge, age 98, of Lindale, Texas, formerly of De Queen, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026. She was born in Polk County, Arkansas, to Berta and Maynard Smith.

Verba dedicated her life to education, earning a Master's Degree in Education and spending 35 years as a teacher. She was a faithful member of Memorial Baptist Church in De Queen, Arkansas, where her kindness, faith, and servant's heart touched many lives.

She found great joy in cooking, gardening, and quilting, but nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with her family and friends. Verba's home was always filled with warmth, love, and hospitality, and she leaves behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

She is survived by her daughter, Jerri Lynn Rivers of Hideaway, Texas; her son, Dexter Birge and wife, Lynda of Emory, Texas; her daughter-in-law, Joy Birge of Guy, Arkansas; her grandchildren, Christopher Rivers, Cheryl Smyth, Michele Smith, Angela Norton, Brad Birge, and Micki Copeland; a sister, Marian Bailey of Springdale, Arkansas; dear friends Ann Luckett and Margaret and Junior Hicks; as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Berta and Maynard Smith; her beloved husband, Coolidge Birge; her son, Carroll Birge; her son-in-law, Gerald Rivers; her granddaughter, Jill Birge; and her grandson, Kyle Birge.

Verba will be remembered for her gentle spirit, steadfast faith, generous heart, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends.

Her influence as a teacher, mother, grandmother, and friend will continue to be felt for generations to come. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in the many cherished memories she leaves behind.

Graveside funeral services for Mrs. Verba Lee Birge will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home, De Queen. You may leave an online condolence at www.chandlerfuneral.com, or you may visit Chandler Funeral Home on Facebook.