Ronald "Ronnie" Clyde Crews

Ronnie Crews, age 80, of Benton, AR passed away on September 14, 2022.

He was born on February 20, 1942 in Charleston, Missouri to the late Vernon and Mabel Crews.  He had 4 older brothers and 3 younger sisters and was taught to work hard and love well.

Ronnie loved the outdoors and enjoyed deer hunting with his sons and grandsons.  He loved people and people were drawn to him by his quick wit and gentle ways.  Ronnie loved life and the people God brought into his life.  He truly believed that each new day was a gift from God and never expected to live to be 80.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers: Adron Crews; David Crews; Ray Crews; Wayne Crews and his sister Mary Crews.

He leaves behind his cherished wife of 61 years Jeanie Crews and their children: Keith Crews (Melinda) of Arkadelphia, AR; Brien Crews (Ann) of Benton, and Audra Eason (Wayne) of Roland, AR.

Grandchildren: Ashleigh Debeza (Alfonso); Derek Kinkaid; Dillan Kinkaid (Ashleigh); Drake Kinkaid (Taylor); Aaren Burnett (Jordan); Breana Crews, and Nathan Crews.  Great-grandchildren: Maddie Grace; Brynner; Layla; Caroline; Cameron; Cathryn; and Lady.

He is survived by his sisters: Doris Wimberly of Memphis, TN and Linda Cecil of Steele, Mo., three sisters in laws and several nieces and nephews.

Ronnie started school in the small rural community of Steele, Mo and completed High School there in 1960. Until the end of his life, he stayed in touch with school friends dear to him. When Ronnie was 17 he made a profession of faith during a revival at First Baptist Church in Steele, Mo.  Ronnie served in many capacities in the churches he attended. He taught youth in his younger years and was currently the department director of his Senior Adult Sunday School at First Baptist Church in Benton, AR.  Ronnie was a good cook and was known for his deer chili and apple pie.

He began his career as a scale technician at Howe Richardson Scale Company in Memphis, TN.  Later In 1977 Ronnie, along with his wife Jeanie, formed the Pioneer Scale Company which has grown to four locations with the corporate office located in Benton under the leadership and management of their two sons.  Ronnie was a mentor and friend to his sons, his employees and many customers over the years.

Ronnie will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Special thanks to Encore Hospital nurses and doctors and especially nurse, Jessica Bliss (Ronnie’s great niece) and her husband, Walter for their excellent care and assistance.  Also, thanks to the staff at North Little Rock Baptist for their kind and compassionate care in Ronnie’s final days.

Memorials may be made to Gideons International or Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 23, 2022 at 10:00 am at First Baptist Church in Selph Hall.  The Celebration of Life service will begin at 11:00 am with Dr. Rick Grant officiating.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.