Loretta Pickel, 83, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, February 20, 2026. She was born May 29, 1942, in Rogers, Arkansas, to Richard and Clara Hopper Graves. Loretta was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family dearly. She was happiest when everyone was together, whether around the dinner table or simply spending time at home. She showed her love in steady, everyday ways through her cooking, her care, and the way she made each person feel welcome and important. She shared many happy years with her husband, Glenn. They enjoyed dancing, hiking, and traveling together, and she treasured the time they spent side by side wherever life took them. Loretta found joy in the simple things, especially azaleas blooming, redbuds and dogwoods in the spring, and the faithful blossoms of her Christmas cactus. Her mornings often started with a cup or two of dark coffee and a doughnut, a small routine she enjoyed. She also dearly loved her dog, Touché, whose loyal companionship meant so much to her. Her family will always remember her for her biscuits and fried chicken, which they proudly said were the best south of the Mason-Dixon line and for the warmth she brought into their home. Though soft-spoken, she was steady and strong, and her kindness left a lasting mark on those who knew her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn Pickel.

She is survived by two children, Randy Graves and his wife, Jennifer, and Laurel Pickel; four grandchildren, Madilyn and Donovan Boyd, Logan Vaughn and his wife, Alejandra, and Connor Vaughn; along with many other beloved family members and friends.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Benton County Memorial Park & Funeral Home.