Burl Smith

Burl Edward "Ed" Smith, 61, of Blytheville, AR, went to heaven Wednesday September 30, 2014, at his home. Ed was born in Searcy, AR to Alvin and Bea Smith. Growing up in Butlerville, he learned to farm, fly airplanes, and play football. He took his first solo flight at age 12, taking off in his back yard, from what is now known as Alvin Smith Airport. He was the center for the Cabot Panthers 1969-1971. Ed relocated to Blytheville, AR with his wife and three children in 1989.

He was an educated man who always encouraged his family to obtain their education as well. Ed graduated from Cabot High School in 1971. He continued his education at Southern Arkansas University and graduated with an Industrial Engineering degree.

Ed was a hardworking man. Places of employment include A.O. Smith, AR Dept. of Health, and AR Dept. of Labor. He ended in career as Health and Safety Manager at Cyro in Osceola, AR.

Ed was a big man with a big heart. He loved his family. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his whole world. He loved Cardinals baseball, was a competitive B-B-Q'er, and three time chili cook-off winner.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin Coleman Smith and Rachael Beatrice Smith. He is survived by his wife, Debby L. Smith of Blytheville; his three children, Cindy Smith of St. Louis, MO, Katie Courtright and husband, Dustin of Maumelle, and Benjamin Smith and wife, Lindi of Dyersburg, TN; three grandchildren, Victoria and Lee Smith of Dyersburg, TN and Peyton Courtright of Maumelle; his sister, Janet Watkins and husband, Bill of Maumelle; four nephews, Buddy Watkins of Maumelle, Alex Hawk of Little Rock, Sam Hawk of Little Rock, and Stewart Miller of Sherwood; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ed should be remembered as a loving husband, wonderful father, hard-working, good generous man.

The memorial service will be Monday, October 6, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in North Little Rock. A reception will follow. Graveside service will be held at 4:30 p.m. at Salem Cemetery in Butlerville. Arrangements by Smith - Westbrook Funeral Home.