Duane Smith

Burl “Duane” Smith, Sr., lovingly known as “Papa,” passed away on March 7, 2025, at Circle of Life Hospice Springdale, Arkansas. Born on May 23, 1948, in Alpena, Arkansas, to Faye Coxsey and Efton Smith, he was the youngest of his siblings.

Duane spent his early years on the family farm in Alpena and later earned his GED, completing college courses at the University of Arkansas and Texas A&M. He dedicated over 38 years as a USDA inspector before retiring in 2010.

A passionate fisherman, Duane made history in 1979 as the first sponsored angler in Northwest Arkansas. He and his son, Burl, shared many victories, including a first-place finish in the 1993 Big Bass Tournament and representing Arkansas in 2000’s state championship win. He cherished crappie fishing, often taking his family out on the water and hosting fish fries.

Duane also had a love for gardening, growing special vegetables for his grandchildren. In retirement, he enjoyed his daily trips to the casino – except Sundays, which he reserved for the Lord and his Bible. His quick wit, storytelling, and signature birthday calls will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his children, Burl and Michelle, daughter-in-law Nancy, seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and his beloved dogs. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings James, Lloyd, and Jentie, and his great-grandson Kayden.

Now casting his line in the Big Lakes of Heaven, his memory remains forever in our hearts.

Celebration of Life service for Duane will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Smith Family Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Carrollton Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:30 – 7:30 PM, Friday, March 14, 2025, at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.net

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