George Ray Smith

In loving memory of George Ray Smith, a man of unwavering faith, dedication, and love. Born in Waldo, Arkansas on November 26, 1947, to George Smith and Essie B. Standoak Smith, he dedicated his life to serving his country and community. George enlisted in the Army in 1968 and served with honor until his discharge in 1970, reaching the rank of SP4. He earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and Marksman Rifle. He specialized as a Hercules Missile Crewman.

A true outdoorsman, George found solace in the beauty of nature through hunting and fishing. He found his calling in faith at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church and later united with Union Grove Baptist Church, where he poured his heart into serving the community and spreading the message of love and compassion. Throughout his life, George epitomized hard work and dedication. From his longstanding career at Firestone, driving the bus for the Nevada County Daycare Center and to his service at Union Grove Baptist Church, where he held numerous roles including chairman of the Deacon board, Sunday school superintendent, Sunday school teacher, Male Chorus member, mentor and Faithful Brother of Prayer. George touched the lives of many.

George's legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him best. He passed from this life at Texarkana Hospice on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 with family by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, four sister, five brothers and a grandchild. 

He was a beloved husband of 53 years to Carolyn Smith, dedicated father to Derrick and his wife, Karla of Prescott, AR, Sheena Hunter of Lonoke, AR, and Candi Smith of Carlisle, AR; twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves two sisters, Emma Dean Gulley of Chidester, AR, and Annie M. Smith of Camden, AR, three brothers, Curtis Anderson, Perry Smith, Johnie Smith all of Camden, AR and Earl Smith and his wife, Ruby Jo of Bluff City, AR; two brothers-in-law, Frankie Lee Gulley of Chidester ,AR and Willis Gulley of Rockford, IL, several niece, nephews, other relatives and several friends, and a cherished member of the community.

Viewing will take place at Union Grove Baptist Church on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 12:00 pm followed by a home going service at 1:00 p.m. with Rev.. Spencer Hughes, officiating. Interment will be at Union Grove Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Travis Gulley, James Threadgill, Jr., Ralph Beard, Christopher Gulley, Dannon Box and Eric Gulley. The Deacons of Union Grove Baptist Church will serve as honorary pallbearers. 

As we bid farewell to George, let us remember the joy he brought to our lives, the faith he instilled in our hearts, and the love he shared so generously. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those who cherished him most.