Community mourns area businesswoman and leader

The community mourns the loss of area leader Susan Bearden, who passed away due to a motor vehicle accident on October 14 in north Arkansas.  

Bearden was traveling on Highway 65, in the Bear Creek area north of Harrison, when the vehicle she was driving crossed the center line and struck a semi-truck. According to the Arkansas State Police, the falling rain significantly contributed to the accident. Bearden was transported to Mercy Hospital in Springfield where she succumbed to her injuries. 

Bearden was a lifelong resident of the Branson area, and operated the Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home Forsyth Chapel, along with her husband, Darrel. Susan was a long-time active member of the Taney County Federated Republican Women and the Missouri Federated Republican Women.

Bearden served several terms as President of the Taney County club, as well as serving in several other positions. She formerly served as treasurer for the 7th District of the Missouri FRW.

Susan will be greatly missed by fellow members of the federation, her family, friends and the community.