Helen Robbs Brunner, 85, of Marked Tree died Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2007.

She was a lifelong resident of Marked Tree, and the widow of John A. Brunner, Jr., both of whom were active members in their local and regional business community.

For over 30 years, Brunner operated the Travel Air Motel, a popular stop-over and eatery for travelers located along Arkansas highway 63. She was the honorary commissioner of the Marked Tree Airport and a member of Friends of the Marked Tree Library. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church and served on its bereavement committee, the memorial committee and pastor parish relations committee.

Among those closest to her, Brunner was known for her acclaimed ability to play bridge, and will be remembered as a dear and loyal friend who loved the challenge of a good game. She was a Life Master of the American Contract Bridge League, the highest level attainable by this internationally recognized organization.

Brunner is survived by her two children: Patricia Brunner Jackson of Newport and Dr. John A. Brunner, III of Fayetteville; her grandchildren: Mary Ann Jackson of Memphis, Katherine Jackson Allen, Narcissa Phillips Jackson and Lacey Davidson Brunner, all of Little Rock, Patricia Jackson Murray of Birmingham and Benjamin Nelson Brunner and Matthew Murphy Brunner, both of Fayetteville; and her six great-grandchildren: Jackson Allen, Thomas Allen, Wallis Allen, Warner Davidson Narcissa Murray and Helen Murray. She was fortunate to have Peggy Parsons, Peggy Stacks, and Elizabeth Ann Peppers as her caregivers during her illness.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Feb. 15at First United Methodist Church in Marked Tree with Murphy's Funeral Home of Marked Tree in charge.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, the Marked Tree Library or a charity of the donor's choice.