Raymond Carroll Smith's Obituary
Raymond Carroll Smith passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 96. He lived a life defined by service, dedication, and a deep commitment to his family, community, and country.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Truman H. Smith and Lula G. Smith; his sisters, Doris McDaniel and Mary Sue Smith; his brother, Truman H. Smith, Jr.; and his daughter, Sharon K. Smith.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Mary E. (“Marilyn”) Smith; his daughter, Amy Smith-Patterson (Harold) of Van Alstyne, Texas; and his son, Todd Smith (Clarissa) of Fayetteville, Arkansas. He also leaves behind six grandchildren—Ryan Smith, Heather Martin, Lindsey Cantwell, Nicholas Smith, Harrison Smith (Sophia), and Houston Smith, along with nine great-grandchildren and many other loving extended family members.
Raymond was a graduate of Paris High School in Paris, Arkansas. He went on to earn both his bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
Following his participation in the ROTC program at the University of Arkansas, Raymond began a distinguished military career in the United States Air Force. Over 26 years of service, he held numerous critical assignments, including roles with the Research and Development Command and Weapons Systems Project Office, as well as postings in Southeast Asia. His service also included the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), the SEATO Military Planning Staff, the Air Staff at the Pentagon, NATO’s Southern Region, and the Defense Communications Agency. He retired in 1977 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
After his military service, Raymond pursued his passion for the law. He completed law school, passed the Arkansas Bar Examination in 1980, and established a law practice grounded in service to his community and country. In recognition of his dedication, he was honored as Volunteer of the Year in 2015 by Legal Services of Arkansas for the 4th Judicial District.
Throughout his life, Raymond remained deeply engaged in professional, civic, and service organizations. He was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity (UA Law Chapter) and Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, and a past member of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association and the Arkansas Bar Association. He also served as a Small Claims Court Referee for the City of Fayetteville and volunteered as a judge for law students at the University of Arkansas.
Raymond was a charter member of the Northwest Arkansas World War II Museum and the Lake Wedington Cabin Restoration Project. He was also a member of the Fayetteville Town Club, a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Retired Officers Association, and a past member of Toastmasters International. His commitment to service extended to Lions Club International, where he was honored with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award.
A man of deep faith, Raymond was a longtime member of Central United Methodist Church and, more recently, Christ Church in Fayetteville, where he found fellowship and spiritual grounding.
A passionate outdoorsman, Raymond was especially devoted to fly fishing and conservation. He was an active leader in Trout Unlimited, serving as a Charter Member and Past President of Chapter 514, Chairman of the Arkansas Council, Vice President of the Midwest Region, a member of the National Leadership Council, and a Grassroots Member of the Board of Trustees. His contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the Coy Kaylor Conservation Award (2004, Arkansas TU Chapter 514), the Trout Unlimited Distinguished Service Award (2011), and the Ray Smith Conservation Award (2014, Arkansas TU Chapter 514). In tribute to his lasting impact, the Ray Smith Access Point on the White River was established by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
In addition to his conservation work, Raymond was an avid golfer who continued to play regularly well into his 90s.
Raymond Carroll Smith will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he served and loved. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 14, at 1:00 p.m. at Christ Church in Fayetteville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to:
Smith Family Cemetery
c/o Todd Smith
1722 N. College Ave., Suite C – PMB #281
Fayetteville, AR 72703-2640
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