Jack Smithson Sr.

Jack Ashley Smithson Sr., age 93, of Benton, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2017 in his home of 67 years; a home that he built with his brother-in-law, Arlin Craig. He was born Oct. 18, 1923 in Malvern, Ark. to Jasper A. Smithson and Georgia Merburger Smithson. PFC Jack Smithson served three years of dedicated military duty in Europe; a proud member of 124th AAA Gun Battalion, 3rd Army. He was awarded four Bronze Stars, The European Campaign Ribbon and was a member of the Red Ball Express. Mr. Smithson entered the Army at a very young age and upon return to port; he dedicated himself to be a child of Jesus Christ. He and his brother, C.E. (Buddy) Smithson, owned QuickWay house moving company. Mr. Smithson retired from the hard labor of house moving and drove auction cars for Michael Callahan Motors. In his later years, he spent every weekday at the Benton Senior Adult Center. He truly enjoyed the fellowship of friends and the live bands. Mr. Smithson enjoyed hunting, fishing, target shooting and being involved in his family's activities. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Benton and so admired his Sunday school teacher, Dr. Joe Wright. He is preceded in death by his parents; and his loving spouse of 67 years, Juanita W. Smithson. Survivors include his daughter, Tresa K. Smithson; his son and daughter-in-law, Jack and Diana Smithson and one special grandson, Eric Smithson. He is loved by special nieces, Brenda Burton, Charlene James, Druetta Craig, Gloria Spearman and Janet Juengel. Also, he is loved by his dog, Junior, "the world's most perfect dog". Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 27 at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 28 at Ashby Funeral Home with burial at Smith-Rosemont Cemetery. Dr. Rick Grant will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Nathan Hopkins, Chad Crabill, Kenny Leitch, Stewart Juengel, Christian James and Ashley James. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of Dr. Joe Wright Sunday School Class. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.