Glen Edward Smith, Sr.

Glen Edwin Smith, Sr., affectionately known as “Rusty”, age 76, entered into rest on February 5, 2024, at his home in St. Francis, Ark., surrounded by family.

He was born on November 8, 1947, near Pollard, Ark., to James Edward Smith and Elsie Christine (Karnes) Smith. Rusty was fiercely passionate about fishing from the start of his life to the end. He was baptized in the mid 90’s at the Shady Grove Baptist Church by his very own brother, Charles Edward Smith Sr., who preceded him in death. He was a member of the St. Francis Baptist Church.

Rusty had some great loves: his wife, his family, God, and fishing. He would rather be sitting in a boat fishing than anywhere else in the world. And of course, telling a joke or two.

Known for his warm heart and skilled hands, Rusty touched the lives of many people. Whether it was fixing a flat tire, diagnosing car engine troubles, or dedicating countless hours beneath the hood of a school bus, he was always ready to lend a helping hand. His expertise as a bus mechanic and all around jack-of-all-trades for Kennett Schools from January 1972 to February 1994, and during those 22 years he was devoted to ensuring the safe transportation of students.

On May 1, 1970, Rusty married Janie Marie (Bedwell) Reagan and together they raised four children: Kim Johnson (married to Rick), Melissa Harmon (married to Kerry), Carla Smith, and Glen E. Smith Jr. (married to Jodi).

On March 22, 1999, Rusty married the love of his life, Gloria (Hampton) Smith, who is left to cherish his memory. Other survivors include: his daughter, Kim (Rick) Johnson; his daughter, Missy (Kerry) Harmon; his daughter, Carla Smith; his son, Glen Jr. (Jodi) Smith; and his stepson, Phillip Hampton and family; his eight grandchildren: Sara Allen, Eryn Crawford, Will Johnson (Sherilyn), Amy Johnson, Amory Carter, Alexis Smith, Jasmine Owens, and Jagger Smith; seven great-grandchildren; his brother, Jimmy (Lynda) Smith, of St. Francis.; sisters Paula (Dewey) Holcomb of Piggott, and Shirleen (Jimmy) Howell of Corning; and many other friends and family in Arkansas and in Kennett, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Dorothy Householder and his brother, Charles Smith.

Just as much as he loved fishing or just sitting in a boat in the river, he loved being a “fisherman” for Christ. He often shared the gospel to those who crossed his path. He was a member of a very special group of men who loved fishing and telling tales as much as he did. His personality filled a room with love and laughter, although at times he was known to stand strong on his beliefs and opinions no matter what anyone else thought. He would often share the same jokes again but each time he would bring laughter. He was a devoted “Daddy” and “Pa Pa Smith” and “Poppy” who created a nickname for everyone he met; and sometimes you were given more than one.

His passion for trucks and cars knew no bounds. Over his 76 years, the number of vehicles he owned remains a mystery, as he traded cars with a frequency that’s hard to fathom. He loved helping others with anything and everything and was always the stronger hand that someone could shake.

The family would like to thank everyone that has helped, sent cards, called, or visited over the past few years and to especially thank his brother, Jimmy Smith and nephew, Jimmy Jr., for all the many days of help with anything and everything. The family would also like to thank Legacy Hospice. It meant so much to him and his family.

As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of others. Rusty will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He would love to be remembered with funny, strange, or silly stories that celebrate what was good and blessed in his life. He would also love for you to know this and think about it daily: “Life on earth matters not because it’s the only life we have but precisely because it isn’t – – it is the beginning of a life that will continue without end.” His favorite scripture was John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us that in whatever we do, do it for the glory of God.

A celebration of a life well lived was held Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Hoggard and Sons Chapel in Piggott. Family visitation began at 9 a.m. with public visitation beginning at 10 a.m. until service time. Pallbearers were Charles Smith, Justin Smith, Rick Johnson, Jeff Smith, Matthew Vancil, and Virgil Rice. Burial followed at Gravel Hill Cemetery in St. Francis.

Memorials can be made to the Kennett #39 Educational Foundation. Please visit kef39.com for more information.