Terri Lynn Williams Womack, wife of Arkansas U.S. Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR), died on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at age 68 at Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville following a brief illness, which some sources claim was related to an abdominal cancer diagnosis.
The deceased woman was born on November 2, 1957, in DeWitt, Arkansas, and graduated from DeWitt High School, attended the University of Arkansas, and married Steve on August 4, 1984, resulting in 41 years of marital bliss. She worked for over 35 years in Northwest Arkansas courts as chief clerk and case coordinator, retiring in 2019.
Described by her family as an avid landscaper, cook, and pet lover, she had a large family, including three sons and four grandchildren, and her death followed President Trump’s January 15 commutation of son James Phillip Womack’s federal drug sentence, allowing for a final family reunion.
Both Rep. Womack and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued heartfelt tributes, while condolences poured in from Arkansas leaders and the public at large. Announcing the tragic news, Rep. Steve Womack stated, “Sunday afternoon, Heaven welcomed an angel. My wife of 41 years, Terri Womack, went to live in eternity with Jesus. My heart is broken and that space remains without her presence.”
“I take comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering in pain and is at peace evermore. Her legacy of love will live in the hearts of all who knew her. Our family appreciates the outpouring of prayers and support. You have all honored her in such a special way, and we are eternally grateful,” he added.
Issuing her own statement, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders added, “Bryan and I are mourning the loss of Terri Womack, Congressman Womack’s wife of more than 40 years. She and Steve were true partners and institutions in their hometown of Rogers and across Northwest Arkansas and her loss will be felt throughout our state.”
Wrapping up her statement, she noted, “Steve’s public service in the National Guard, as mayor of Rogers, and as a congressman would not have been possible without the incredible, steadfast support that Terri provided. My prayers are with Steve, the Womack’s three sons and grandchildren, and all who knew and loved Terri.”
"*" indicates required fields
Likewise, Leslie Rutledge, the former Arkansas Lt. Gov, said, “She was a steadfast partner in her husband’s dedicated service in the armed forces, as mayor of Rogers, and as a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Terri’s grace, strength, and compassion inspired all who knew her.”
“A kind, gracious, and faithful presence in the lives of so many, and a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who cared deeply for her family and her community,” stated French Hill, another Arkansas lawmaker, expressing his sentiments about the departed woman.
Senator John Bozeman posted, “Cathy and I join so many other Arkansans in mourning the loss of Terri Womack, and send our love and condolences to Steve and their entire family. Her deep devotion to them and their community leaves an immense void not only among her loved ones, but throughout NW Arkansas. We’re praying for an outpouring of comfort and peace during this difficult time.”