of Earle, AR

December 25, 1937 - January 27, 2026

Billy Wayne Smith, age 88, of Earle, Arkansas, was born on December 25, 1937, at his family's country home in Lepanto, Arkansas, to Perry Smith and Maude Smith (née Banks). He passed away on January 27, 2026, peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Billy was a lifelong outdoorsman who deeply loved fishing and hunting and was known for being exceptionally skilled at both. Family and friends often said he always shot the biggest buck, caught the biggest fish, and somehow won every clay shoot and turkey shoot he entered. The outdoors was not just something Billy enjoyed, it was part of who he was.

He was also an avid gardener and took great pride in his large vegetable garden. Billy loved driving his tractor, working the land, and nurturing all things outdoors. A true caretaker of the land, he found great joy in sharing the vegetables he grew with everyone, always happy to give away the fruits of his labor.

Billy was the proud owner and operator of Billy W. Smith and Sons, a framing contractor business built through years of hard work, dedication, and integrity. He was a faithful member of Earle First Assembly of God, where his love for the Lord and commitment to his faith were evident throughout his life.

Billy leaves behind his loving wife of 68 years, Faye Smith; his sons; Billy Joe Smith Sr. and his wife Delores, Johnny Smith and his wife Jill; and Michael Smith. He was a proud grandfather to Dylan, Davia, Elijah, Caleb, Hennley, Bren, and Genvieve, and a cherished great-grandfather to Ray Lynn. He is also survived by his sisters, Joann and Shirly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Maude Smith; his grandson B.J.; his infant daughter, Peggy Ann Smith; his brothers Buddy, Mutt, Jerry, Harold, and Bobby; and his sisters Marianne, Glenda, Juanita, and Thelma.

Even through the struggles of dementia, Billy's love for his Lord never wavered, and his faith remained strong. He was ready to enter Heaven and is now at peace.

 

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