Mr. Victor Smith, Sr.

Mr. Victor James Smith, Sr., age 86, resident of De Queen, Arkansas, passed from this life on Sunday, May 24, 2020 in Ashdown, Arkansas.

He was born July 2, 1933, the youngest of two daughters and two sons, to Earl Grady and Erma Louise DeKetelaere Smith in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. He was a graduate of New Haven High School in New Haven, Michigan and worked as a supervisor for General Motors and Douglas Aircraft, retiring from Weyerhaeuser with more than 20 years of service. He married the love of his life, Betty Joyce Pence, on June 13, 1955 in Royal, Indiana. To this union, two sons and one daughter were born. Victor attended the Methodist Church and enjoyed gardening, fishing, traveling, and volunteering with the local AARP chapter, serving as President. He was also a former member of a VFW Post in Michigan. More than anything, he cherished the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife of over 55 years, Betty Joyce Smith.

Victor leaves to cherish his memory, two sons and daughters-in-law, Vic and Paula Smith of De Queen and Rob and Tommi Smith, also of De Queen; one daughter and son-in-law, Venee and Terry Hetrick of Arroyo Grande, California; six grandchildren, Brentley Smith, Eric Smith and wife Brandi, Kaytlon Everitt and husband Bradley, Victor Hetrick and wife Tiffani, William Hetrick and wife Shonna, and Beth Wishard and husband Greg; six great-grandchildren, Madison Bagley, Codi Carroll, McKayla Clark, Roger Hetrick, Ryan Hetrick and Shiloh Smith; as well as, nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

Memorial Services will be announced at a later time. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home, De Queen. You may send an online sympathy message at www.chandlerfuneral.com.