Imogene “Jean” McAlister passed on June 24, 2026, at the age of 92 surrounded by her family. Jean was born on October 19, 1933, and was a resident of Texarkana, Texas.
Jean McAlister, known to all of us simply as Granny, was truly one of a kind. She never let anyone leave her home empty-handed, whether it was a quilt or crocheted treasure she’d made, a jar of something she’d canned from her garden, or a plate filled with her homemade pizza, strawberry delight pie, or whatever delicious meal she had prepared. She was boisterous, opinionated, and unapologetically herself, always letting you know exactly what she thought, but beneath that strong personality was a heart overflowing with love, generosity, and acceptance. Granny was happiest when she was busy, always tending a garden, canning vegetables, or working on a quilt or crochet project with a basket by her side. She found joy not in keeping what she created, but in sharing it with others, and she had a remarkable way of making everyone who walked through her door feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. She lived a life of giving, and the love she poured into her family, her home, and everyone around her will continue to be one of her greatest legacies.
She is a member of Highland Park Baptist Church, Texarkana, former member of Hope First Baptist Church, a member of the Hempstead County Extension Homemakers, Shover Springs Club and the Hope Quilters Guild. Active with the Southwest Arkansas District Livestock Show and Fair as the arts and crafts superintendent for many years.
Preceded in death by a son Alan McAlister and a daughter Brenda Boren. Two sisters Wilma Black and Ivalee Whedbee. Her parents Edgar and Lucy Yancey.
Survived by her husband Dan McAlister; daughter Dana Roberson; Six grandchildren Brant Boren, James Boren, Brooke Alston, Brock McAlister, Amity Whitaker and Shelly Sullivan. 13 Great-grandchildren plus numerous other nieces, nephews and family.
Celebration of Life will be 4:00 pm Thursday, July 2, 2026, at East Funeral Home-Moores Lane with Rev. Kevin Meyers officiating.
Family will receive friends from 3 to 4 pm prior to the Celebration of Life at the funeral home.
Graveside service will be 11:00 am Friday, July 3, 2026, at Rosewood Park Cemetery, 1884 FM 1844 Longview, TX.
Condolences may be left at www.eastfuneralhome.com