Ronald Harris Smith

Ronald Harris Smith, 73, of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, passed away on May 15, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born on May 20, 1952, in Forrest City, Arkansas, to Elmer Harris Smith Jr. and Dorothy Jean Smith. Ronald proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Over the years, he worked on oil rigs and later spent time as a radio disc jockey, where he shared his love of music with many. Music was one of Ronald’s greatest passions. He especially loved karaoke, playing guitar, and spending time enjoying and sharing songs with family and friends. Ronald shared a lifelong friendship with Mary Etta Perry, and their bond grew into marriage in 2021. Together, they built a life filled with love and companionship. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Etta Smith of Fairfield Bay; his children, Elmer “Trae” Harris Smith III and wife Jamey of Palmetto, Florida, Alycea Lewis of Las Vegas, Nevada, Savannah Young and husband Justin of Brandon, Mississippi, Natalie Perry and Tralus Whiteside of Wynne, Arkansas, Karla Kennedy of Little Rock, Arkansas, Kelly Gwathney and husband Colton of Higden, Arkansas, and Steven Gilmore of Jackson, Mississippi; his sister, Betty Smith McGruder and husband Donald of Marion, Arkansas; his precious Shar-Pei puppy, Sassy; 18 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. Ronald will be remembered for his deep love of music, his warm spirit, his sense of humor, and the joy he brought to those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be held at Stevens Funeral Home on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 1 PM until 2 PM. Funeral services will follow at 2 pm with Greg Hoskins officiating. Burial will be in Forrest Park Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Josh McGruder, Joe Perry, C. C. Perry, Colton Gwathney, Tralus Whiteside, and Matthew Morledge. Natalie Perry and Kelly Gwathney will serve as honorary pallbearers. Memorials may be made to the Disabled Veterans of American, Donate by Mail Payable to: DAV – Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 or Donate by Phone, 877-647-VETS (8387) or online at www.help.dav.org. Stevens Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. You may sign an online guestbook at www.stevensfuneralhome.net.

Tributes

Ronald Harris Smith

May 20, 1952 - May 15, 2026