Loretta Ladkins

Loretta Ann Ladkins, a spirited soul and enchanting personality, departed from us on May 3rd, 2026. Born in October 1959, in Patchogue, NY, Loretta, fondly known as Lorie, left an indelible mark on everyone that had the privilege to cross her life's path. A loving mother, loyal sister, dedicated spouse, and an extraordinary chef, she was a beacon of strength and resilience, her life being a true testament to the saying, "The secret ingredient is always love."

Loretta's journey from a small town in New York to Houston, Texas then to Greenbrier, Arkansas, was as remarkable as she was. Her passion for the food industry led her to become a chef, a role she savored for 18 years as the head chef at Hendrix Collage. Her dedication touched countless lives, her culinary creations being the highlight of many a day for students and staff alike. Her love for cooking was only surpassed by her love for her family, as she often said, "Family is the heart of the home." Outside of the kitchen, Loretta had a zest for life that was contagious. She was an avid motorcycle rider, a gardener, a craft enthusiast, and a farmer. These hobbies were not merely pastimes for her, but avenues through which she expressed her creativity and love for life.

Loretta leaves behind her loving spouse, Renerick Ladkins, her adoring children, Melissa Hernandez, Dee Hernandez, Roshanda Brisco, Mitchell Bryant, Bobby Wilson, and John Salazar, and her caring siblings, James Grubel, Barbara Nguyen, and Jacqueline Carson, sixteen grandchildren and one graet grandchild on the way, along with a host of nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Loretta Grubel. Loretta's legacy is not just in the memories she leaves behind, but in the lives she touched with her unwavering spirit and infectious love for life.

In the words of Haruki Murakami, "Death is not the opposite of life, but a part of it." Please join us in celebrating Loretta's life by sharing your memories, stories, and photographs on her memorial page. Her life story is not just about her, but about the love and warmth she shared with you all. Let's remember Loretta, not with sorrow, but with the same joy and love she showered upon us.