Lovella was born on September 15, 1931, in Smithville, Oklahoma, to Lily (Sammons) Herron and Robert Emmitt Herron. She passed away on August 29, 2025, in Spiro, Oklahoma.
She graduated from Flippin High School, where she was a talented and active athlete who loved basketball and horseback riding. It was not unusual to see her ride her horse to school. Her love for staying active led her to become a dance instructor in her younger years.
In 1969, Lovella married the love of her life, Clifton Dilbeck. She worked many years as a telephone operator before joining Norge Company, later known as Whirlpool, Inc. Lovella made history as Whirlpool’s first female inspector and proudly retired after 35 years of dedicated service.
After retirement, Lovella poured her energy into creating and caring for her impressive backyard, which was recognized by the Fort Smith Garden Club. Her flowers, ponds, and waterfalls brought her great joy and were a reflection of her creativity and care. She was also deeply committed to her church family at Grand Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Smith, where she volunteered faithfully with Helping Hands Mission. Lovella especially loved the holidays, always looking forward to “adopting” families for Thanksgiving and Christmas, providing them with full dinners and thoughtful gifts.
Lovella’s life was a true testament to loving God and loving people. Her compassion, generosity, and devotion touched many lives.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Lillian Herron; her brother, Gerald Herron; cousins Maggie and Lillaya; and her husband, Clifton Dilbeck.
Lovella is survived by her son, Alan Coffman; nephew, Phillip Herron; niece, Diana Ridenour and husband Terry; great-nieces, Hannah Herron and Taryn Ridenour; great-nephews, Taylor Ridenour and wife Morgan, and Dylan Ridenour and wife Leah; great-great-nieces, Madeline and Charlotte; great-great-nephew, Roman; as well as two devoted friends, Shelly Smith and Mary Tatum. Lovella often said her family was her greatest blessing, and her love for them was unmatched.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Helping Hands Mission at Grand Avenue Baptist Church, 3900 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904, (479) 783-5161.
You may leave an online message at www.MalloryMartinFuneralHomeSpiro.com
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