After a tornado, an Arkansas couple gets a new house

Jacksonville, Arkansas – A Jacksonville couple who lost everything is preparing to move into their new home with all they need as thousands of Arkansans attempt to resume normalcy following the March 31 tornado.

Although Earlene and Charles Jones are accustomed to tornado season in Arkansas, they weren’t planning on being in the storm’s direct path.

“My daughter called me and told us that we need to get cover,” Earlene Jones said. “It was coming over our house.”

The tornado tore through their home for 20 years, so the family hastily sought shelter in their hallway.

“It was something else,” Earlene Jones said. “It’s just, you’ll never forget it does something to you.”

The storm had other ideas, despite they believed it to be the home they would dwell in for the rest of their lives.

“We’re okay and thankful for everybody that’s helped us,” Earlene said.

Earlene Jones claims that they are extremely appreciative to their realtor, friends, and family who assisted them in locating a new residence in Bryant.

The home will be completely equipped for the family’s arrival on April 29 due to the previous owners.

“I was surprised,” Earlene Jones said. “They did that.. God bless them. They’re wonderful people.”

The family’s broker at Centrury 21, Courtney Jones, also sees to it that the pantry is well-stocked.

“Our agents are always super wanting to get involved with our clients and help with the community,” Courtney Jones said. “Several people kind of pitched in together. So we just kind of told the story. And then everybody kind of said, what can we do.”

Charles and Earlene Jones were taken aback by the pantry.

“I didn’t know that was gonna happen,” Earlene Jones said. “The realtors, they’re all just wonderful people and brought all that food. I can’t believe it.”

With their loved ones nearby, the Jones family is already creating memories in their new house.

“My daughter always wanted me to come over to Benton and everything,” Earlene Jones said. “Well, we’re closer to her now, but it took the tornado.”

Additionally, they anticipate spending more time with her grandchildren.

“I can see them growing up… the things that they’re doing,” Earlene Jones said. “It’s going to be good.”