Lewis Dawson Smith

LEWIS DAWSON SMITH was born Nov. 28, 1932, and died Aug. 29, 2014. He was preceded in death by his father, James Smith; mother, Lilly Smith, and brother, James Smith III. Survived by wife, Janette; sons, Paul and Lewis IV; stepchildren, Cindy, Shuana, Melissa, Grant and Adam; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who affectionately called him "papa." Lewis was raised in Stephens, Ark. where he attended both grade school and high school. He was appointed to the United States Naval Academy, graduated in 1955, and became a carrier based Naval Aviator flying anti-submarine missions. He served with honor for six years as an active member and 17 years in the active reserves. He returned to Arkansas and earned his law degree from the University of Arkansas Law School in 1963. He worked as Assistant Attorney General and Administrative Law Judge with the Workers Compensation Commission. Lewis was well known for his wit and humor, nicknaming grandchildren and great-grandchildren, singing happy birthday, "double dipping" and taking care of his family. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014, in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 W. 12th St., Little Rock, Ark., 501-661-9111. Please share your condolences with his family at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.