Terryl Ann "Terry" Smith's Obituary
Terryl Ann "Terry" Smith peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, in Springdale, Arkansas at the age of 74. She was born on February 7, 1949, in Athens, Texas, the daughter of Jerry Clyde Townley and Elizabeth Ann Royal Townley.
While Terry's love for her home state of Texas was evident, she grew to love Arkansas just as much. She spent her formative years in Athens, Texas. She graduated from Athens High School in 1967. She went on to graduate from Baylor University with a teaching degree followed by getting her Master’s in Education at East Texas State University. As a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma teaching sorority, Terry shared her knowledge and expertise with fellow educators, leaving a lasting impact on the teaching profession. After a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher in Texas she finished her teaching career in Bentonville. Terry's passion for education and nurturing young minds shone brightly.
Terry was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Bentonville for over 35 years. She was involved in the children’s ministry over the years teaching Sunday school, coordinating children’s choir programs, volunteering at vacation Bible school even the month before she got sick. She also loved playing in the handbell choir, participating in women’s Bible studies and taking trips with the senior adult group. Her favorite trip was when she went to Israel last fall and walked where Jesus walked. She loved the cool fall weather and going to craft fairs with family and friends over the years and looking at all the colorful leaves, all while cheering on her beloved Arkansas Razorbacks.
Terry was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Clyde Townley and Elizabeth Ann Royal Townley, and her husband, Stewart Smith. She is survived by her loving children, Sharon Scogin and Taylor Smith (Amber); her sister, Jerry Watkins (Bill); and her adoring grandgirls, Lindsey Scogin, Courtney Scogin, Whitney Scogin, Meadow Smith, and Hazel Smith. Her most cherished moments were spent with her family, particularly her beloved grandgirls, who held a special place in her heart.
A memorial service to celebrate Terry's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 21st, at First Baptist Church in Bentonville, with Pastor Chris Dixon officiating. Memorial gifts may be made to Circle of Life Hospice at 901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR, 72762 or www.GiftsToCircle.com
Terry's memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy of love and education will be cherished forever.
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