Arkansas Couple Turns Farm and Bakery into a Destination Stop

Their operation has grown into a featured stop on the state’s farm trail.

SHIRLEY, ARKANSAS (RFD NEWS) — Wade and Marlene Lucas have turned their farm into a featured stop on this year’s Arkansas Farm Trail, offering everything from fresh strawberries to homemade pies.

The couple moved from Florida and spent years building their operation into a place that now draws visitors from across the area.

Marlene says it is the people who keep them going: “Community is so important to me. It’s so good to get to see people. You become family with people, you get to know them, you get to know their children.”

Over the past 25 years, they’ve expanded the farm to 12 acres, turning it into a scenic spot for lunches, desserts, and fresh-picked produce.

The Arkansas Farm Trail Passport now features more than 35 stops across the state, highlighting agriculture, food, and local experiences.

Related Stories
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital officially becomes Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, marking a new era of compassionate, world-class pediatric care in Tennessee.
Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.
Lynn County 4-H students showcase robotics and STEM skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, highlighting how ag education programs are preparing the next generation in agritech.
As National FFA Week continues, Ag Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the lasting impact ag educators have on students, communities, and the future of American agriculture.
High beef prices are squeezing South Texas restaurants, but Texas Farm Bureau says consumer demand remains strong despite record costs.
Stephenville FFA students showcase robotics skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, blending teamwork, technology, and competition for the next generation.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Rodeo Austin exhibitor Kash Morrison reflects on how FFA taught him the importance of hard work and time management while competing in livestock shows during the school year.
Rodeo Austin exhibitor reflects on years of showing and the routines that get her ready for the ring.
Exhibitor Camdyn Neuman reflects on family and the life lessons learned through showing cattle at the Rodeo Houston Livestock Show.
Rodeo Austin exhibitor reflects on years of experience and the bond formed through training difficult cattle
Senior exhibitor reflects on years of work in the ring and the bond that led to his first sale
After years of showing livestock, Gosda reflects on the bond and responsibility of taking care of her cattle
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.