of Conway, AR

September 21, 1935 - April 5, 2025

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, Jack Dalton NeSmith Sr. completed his earthly journey and went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was born on Saturday, September 21, 1935, in Zephyr, Texas, to Sol and Alpha Bailey NeSmith.

In 1956, Jack met the love of his life, Joanna Kay King, at the Stamps School of Music, where he cleverly hid his songbook in his back pocket, ensuring she would have to share hers. Their relationship blossomed through letters and brief visits, and they were united in marriage on January 26, 1957.

From a young age, Jack was taught the value of hard work. He grew up working on a cotton farm, often waking at 4:30 a.m. to help his mother get to the fields. Later, he learned the craft of industrial painting, a profession that was difficult for many to fully understand. He worked for Graco and founded several businesses, but it was his partnership with his son and son-in-law to create Applied Finishing Systems that brought him the greatest fulfillment. Even in his later years, Jack continued to go to the office daily to enjoy a cup of coffee and stay informed about the business.

Jack cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always making sure they had coins for their piggy banks. He was passionate about woodworking, a skill he learned from his father-in-law, Joe King. He could build almost anything, including rocking horses for his grandchildren. One of his favorite creations was jar openers, which he generously gave away. Jack also loved tending to a garden, ensuring it was large enough to provide for his family and share with others, including widows, as the Bible instructed him to do.

Music played a central role in Jack's life. With Kay playing the piano, Jack would lead the singing at church. He loved teaching children the timeless, traditional hymns, even leading Children's Church at Friendship Baptist Church in his later years.

Jack had a heart for missions. He actively participated in building churches in Honduras, and as his health declined, he supported the mission work financially and through prayer, ensuring that others, including his family, could go and spread the love of Christ around the world.

A man of deep faith, Jack was always obedient to the Lord and never hesitated to share the gospel with anyone he encountered. He was a dedicated member of Friendship Baptist Church and a proud member of Gideons International.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Joanna Kay King NeSmith; their three children: Susan Bullock (Cliff) of Kilgore, Texas, Jack NeSmith Jr. (Kelly) of Conway, and Vicki Martin (Ray) of Conway; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was one of thirteen siblings and is survived by his brother, Joe B. NeSmith (Venita) of Lavon, Texas, and his sister, Ludy Smith of Rockwall, Texas, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Friendship Baptist Church on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. Rev. Ken Jordan and Rev. Sean Mills will officiate. Interment will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideons International or Friendship Baptist Church Missions 767 Rocky Point Road, Conway, AR 72032.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com