Benny Ray Smith

Benny Ray Smith, 76, of Leola died Monday May 12, 2014 at Baptist Medical Center due to complications from lung surgery. Born June 1, 1937 at Manila, Ark., he was a son of the late Rev. John Lem Smith and Edith McCann Smith. Ben was a graduate of Princeton High School and received a Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arkansas. Most of his career was spent with International Paper Co. He was a devoted member of Leola Missionary Baptist Church where he had taught the Men's Sunday School Class and Baptist Training Course for a period of time. He was president of the Leola Cemetery Association, board member of the Princeton Cemetery, member of the Dallas County Cattleman's Association and the NRA. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rev. Lowry Smith and Rev. Searcy Smith. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Smith whom he married March 30, 1990. Also surviving is his son, Jason (Sherry) of Princeton and step-children that he loved as his own, Terri Davis (Steve) of Leola, Todd Riggan (Angie) of Sheridan, Traci Lindsey (Ray) of Magnolia; grandchildren surviving are Brenna Smith, Justen and Drue Davis, Erin and Emilee Riggan, Evan and Meghan Lindsey; sister, Marene Sue Fuller (Charles) of Rockwall, Texas; sisters-in-law, Nora Smith Conway of Hope, Sue Carolyn Smith of Warren. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews and a large host of friends. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Thursday at the Benton Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Paul Martin and Rev. Richard Sullivant officiating. Burial will follow at Princeton Cemetery. Pallbearers are J.L Smith, Blake Pierce, Scotty Pierce, Justen Davis, Drue Davis, Johnny Smith and Evan Lindsey. Honorary pallbearers are Luther Carter, Paul Orr, Dr. Hugh Nutt, Charles Treadwell. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.