FAYETTEVILLE — Dr. Gene Cullis Smith,

born on December 8, 1930, entered eternal rest on January 6, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Margie Gaston Smith, daughter, Regina Smith Green (Tom), son, Reggie Smith (Carla). Surviving grandchildren are, Jonathan Green, Benjamin Green, Katelyn Green Myers (Brad), Matthew Smith (Sybil). Gene was preceded in death by his parents, George and Essie Smith and an older brother, George Jr. Smith. Surviving brothers are, Del Morris Smith (Clara) of Longview, Texas, and Wilson Smith (Pat) of Austin, Texas.

Dr. Smith was an Army veteran of the Korean conflict and a Baptist minister who served churches in Texas and Arkansas. He graduated with his Doctorate of Theology from Texas Baptist Institute in Henderson, Texas. Churches he served during his career: Mt. Bethel Baptist in Gary, Texas, Cavanaugh Baptist in Ft. Smith, Ark., Central Baptist in Fayetteville, Ark., Fellowship Baptist in Pasadena, Texas, and Olive Street Baptist in Pine Bluff, Ark. During his years of pastoring, he wrote Adult Bible lessons, devotional books, and other materials for the ABA Association. Upon his retirement from full time pastorate, he moved to Texarkana, Texas, to continue his writing for Bogard Press publications. Dr. Smith served the American Missionary Baptist Association as clerk of the national meetings for many years and was recognized for his service. He also served on many denominational boards and committees.

Graveside service will be held 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 11, at Fayetteville National Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m., Tuesday, January 11, at Nelson Berna Funeral Home in Fayetteville. Dear to his heart was the camp ministry at Bogg Springs Youth Camp. The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to: Bogg Springs, 784 Highway 84, Wickes, Ark., 71973. To place an online tribute, please visit: www.bernafuneralhomes.com