William L. Smith
BISMARCK — William Loyd “Pete” Smith of Bismarck, Ark., departed this life peacefully on Dec. 18, 2021, at age 96.
Pete was the son of Charlie and Carrie Smith. He was a faithful member of Unity Missionary Baptist Church in Bismarck. He ran a dairy farm and cattle ranch most of his life, and then drove a school bus for Bismarck School District for 18 years until fully retiring at age 85.
Extremely devoted to his family and friends, Pete loved to joke and laugh and could easily be found in any room by following the sound of his laughter. He loved and appreciated those around him and absolutely touched so many with his kind, loving, compassionate and generous manner. An avid hunter and fisherman, he was most at home in a fishing boat, in his deer stand or out with his bird dogs.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Carl Smith; grandson, Zebulon Loyd Smith; and the love of his life and wife of 70 years, Maurine Smith. Heaven is now rejoicing with Papa’s arrival and, having joined Maurine and Zeb, the three of them have likely already taught all the angels to call those Hogs!
Survivors include one son, Stan Smith and his wife Dallas of Hot Springs Village; two daughters, Lana Hughes of Bismarck, Gaye Smith of Little Rock; three grandsons, Zach Smith and his wife Casey, Adam Smith, Austin Smith; two granddaughters, Kori Lee and her husband Jonathan, Carrie Cannon and her husband Jacob; six great-grandchildren, Evan, Bryce, Haidyn, Ella, Jenna, Harrison; and many nieces, nephews and friends who loved and adored him.
A graveside service will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021, at Marcus Gardens Cemetery in Bismarck, Ark. Brother John Payne will officiate.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ruggles-wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay St., Arkadelphia, Ark. Friends and family may sign the guestbook at http://www.ruggleswilcox.com.
Pallbearers include Bryce Cannon, Jacob Cannon, Jonathan Lee, Len Nelson, Phil Hughes and Clarence Wooten.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Unity Memorial Fund, c/o Unity Missionary Baptist Church, 206 Unity Lane, Bismarck, AR 71929.