of Little Rock, AR
June 11, 1923 - November 30, 2024
Earl Edward Smith was born in Little Rock, Arkansas to Ernest Wesley and Sarah Jane (Foxford) Smith on June 11, 1923 and passed from this life on November 30, 2024 at the age of 101. He served faithfully in World War II and upon his return married Eloise (Willmon), with whom he shared his life for over 57 years until her passing in 2003.
If you ever asked Earl how he was doing, he likely answered, ''Well, I woke up this morning, the good Lord got me out of bed and I didn't see my name in the obituaries, so I guess I'm doing okay!'' By reading this, you know that today his name showed up, but we who love him know and trust fully that today he is way better than okay today his name is here, but he is not. He closed his eyes here on earth and opened them in the heavenly realm and he is walking with Jesus!
He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and six siblings.
Earl is survived by his children, Kay Ericson (Jerry Spratt) and Eddie (Debbie) Smith; as well as four grandchildren, Chuck (Molly) Ericson, Heather (Lowell) Terrell, Amanda (Jeff) Jackson and Ellen (Clint) Shadwick; eight Great-grandchildren, Joshua (Leah) Terrell, Ben, Emily and Katie Ericson, Ty and Landon Jackson and Walker and Weston Shadwick; two Great-great-grandchildren, Elijah and Addison Terrell and brother-in-law, T.J. Bridges.
Earl worked in sales most of his life and never met a stranger. When you met Earl, you met a new friend and for some that friendship became family. We would be remiss not to mention Matt Glen of Jason's Deli, Lisa Weber and her family, and special friend, Shirley Plant, who all treated Earl as family and he loved them as his own.
Earl was a faithful member (the oldest both in age and years of membership) at Life Line Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Life Line Baptist Church, 7601 Baseline Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72209 or Covenant Presbyterian Church, #1 Covenant Dr., Little Rock, AR 72211.
To me, he was Uncle Earl, we worked together in the cash office every Sunday morning for a long time, and I loved him so much. When he got to go to Lifeline to church he always gave me a big hug. I didn't learn about his death until Dec 23 so way to late to be able to attend his service. But just know that he was very loved.
We will miss Mr Smith. Eddie, Debbie, and the Smith family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Eddie I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I remember you speaking about him one time to me. 101 it sounds like he had a long and interesting life. Jeanne and I send our prayers for you and your family.
So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing, we went to church at Lifeline with him. David and Shelba Harris
Eddie & Debbie l am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Clint & Ellen spoke so fondly of him. I know you all will miss him everyday. Sending my love & many prayers for your family in the days ahead.
Prayers of comfort and peace.
Eddie I’m sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. What a life his 101 years must have seen. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Debbie and your family.
Kay and family I’m so very sorry for the loss of your dad you mom he’s now with Jesus and I know you will have a grand reunion with him and your mom someday. Rest in gods word in the days ahead. Love to you my long time friend and to all your family. Johnny ruff
Eddie and family. I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Eddie and Debbie, we are so sorry for your loss. May God bless you always. We love you.
What a footprint this one man left, I will truly miss my friend!
Matt Glenn