Owen Gray Smith

Owen Gray Smith, 76, passed away on December 31, 2011, following a courageous battle with cancer. Owen was born on October 30, 1935, in Johnstown, Arkansas to the late Fred and Adlee (Brown) Smith. He married Ellen Sue Laird on November 4, 1956, and they raised their three children in Greenwood, Mississippi.

Owen managed retail stores with Sterling's and Wal-mart for more than 30 years before retiring and moving to Searcy, Arkansas. He was an avid fan and owner of Harley Davidson motorcycles. His passion for riding his Harley brought him much joy over the years. Sue, their children and grandchildren all enjoyed riding with him. Owen was a member of the Airport Loop Church of Christ in Searcy, Arkansas and was a Christian for nearly 60 years of his life. Owen was a devoted family man. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and siblings. One of Owen's comments during his last days here was, "Family is everything and don't ever forget that."

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Norman Dale Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sue Smith of Searcy, Arkansas; a daughter, Debbie Nail and husband Keith of Grenada, Mississippi; son, Jeff Smith and wife Jennifer of Allen, Texas; son, Wade Smith and wife Valerie of Meridian, Mississippi; grandchildren: Ashley Nail, Andrew Nail, William Peavey, Spencer Smith, Mackenzie, Smith and Emily Lucas.

He is also survived by two brothers and a sister; Troy Smith of Bald Knob, Arkansas; Virginia Moore of Grubbs, Arkansas and Boyce Wayne Smith of Newport, Arkansas.

In leiu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Cancer Center of Searcy.