Wayne Ernest Smith

Wayne Ernest Smith, age 77, of Sparkman, passed from this life on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at his home. He was born May 3, 1936 in North Little Rock, the son of the late Elbridge Thomas and Alene Denton Sims Smith. Wayne was a former law enforcement officer, grocery store owner and retired boiler maker for local union no. 69 out of Little Rock. He was a United States Army veteran, a Master Mason and a member of First Baptist Church of Sparkman. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Frank Sims. Survivors are his wife, Betty Joyce (Sossamon) Smith of the home; two sons, Michael Smith (Victoria) and Todd Smith (Pepper) both of Sacramento, Calif.; two daughters, Dee Ursery (Keith) of Holly Springs and Becky Meier of Sparkman; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 5, 2013 at Delamar Cemetery with Bro. Billy Hastings officiating. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Welch Funeral Home in Arkadelphia. Pallbearers are Mike Smith, Michael Smith II, Danny & David Pecina, Brent Meier, Jordan Butts, Irwin Seale and Donny Denton. Memorials may be made to Delamar Cemetery Fund or First Baptist Church of Sparkman. Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia. Visit www.welchfh.net to sign guest book and view the video tribute.