Bruce "HB" Smith

Unknown - May 21st, 2011

Birth Date: Unknown
Death Date: May 21, 2011
Funeral Date: Unknown
Location:
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Biography: Bruce ?HB? Smith of Little Rock, Arkansas formerly of Yell County, Arkansas went to be with God on May 21, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Darlene F. Smith; son and daughter-in-law, Justin B. Smith and Jennifer Smith of Mabelvale, Arkansas; son Ryan D. Smith of Little Rock, Arkansas, brother and sister-in-law, Guy E. Smith and Erma Smith of Fort Smith, Arkansas; and mother Zelta L. Smith of Charleston, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold J. Smith. He was an honorary canteen member of VFW Post 9095, and active as the president of the Central Arkansas Pod of Chili Appreciation Society International (CAP-CASI). He was a yearly competitor in the international chili cook-offs in Terlingua, Texas. HB loved music, and was a singer and guitarist for the band The Paperboys. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 25, 2011 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 11 a.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home with Rev. Fred Haustein officiating. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

Condolences(46)

ray hatton

#46

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Loved you here and I'll love there

Kristy Carroll

#45

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Darlene,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Bruce will be missed. I only knew him through Krogers but felt that he was a very nice and special person. May God be with you and your family.

Kristy

Sherry and John Duggin

#44

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Family and Friends:
We were blessed with Bruce's friendship and entertained with his music. We pray that the sorrow you are feeling now will soon be replaced with happy memories. Until we see him again.....

Sherry and John Duggin

Tony Wittenburg

#43

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I first met HB in 1983. I managed Buffalo Bill's men's clothing store on University Mall and Bruce sold us paper bags as a rep for Little Rock Paper. It didn't take long to form a long-lasting friendship; it was an even shorter time for our conversations to turn to music. In no time, I would find myself sitting in HB and Darlene's living room on a Friday night, eating chili and accompanying Bruce's guitar playing with my bass. I remember having to keep an eye on my bass amp 'cause two little boys would run by and "adjust" the knobs for me! I watched those little guys grow into men and HB and I continued to eat chili and play music. He never wanted those evenings to end and neither did I. One thing about HB I remember is that he never said "goodbye" when finishing a phone conversation; he would just say "later".
Darlene, Justin and Ryan - I just want you to know what a pleasure and an honor it was for you guys to share your husband and dad, not only with me, but with so many people from all walks of life. It is my prayer that God will shower you with his Grace, Love and Peace during what seems to be the darkest of your days as a family. Doesn't seem right - just downright shocking - to know that we'll not share his laughter and charm this side of eternity. However, for those who have put their trust in Christ, brighter days are indeed ahead! Just think - if it was this much fun in this old, hard world sharing it with Bruce - how much fun it will be sharing eternity with him. I know at least one guy that God will have on guitar and vocals rockin' Heaven! I love you guys and will hold you close in prayer. HB, you will never know how much you meant to each of us who was graced with your wit, charm, laughter and generous nature. It was an honor to call you "Friend". I Love You, Brother! As was always the case with you, it's not goodbye, just - Later!

Charlotte and Rama Miller

#42

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Darlene, Ryan, Justin, Jennifer and Family, You will remain in our prayers as you adjust to life here on earth without Bruce. He will be sorely misssed. We love you, Charlotte and Rama

Randy and Lisa Padgett

#41

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I have known Bruce (HB) For many years. He was really a good friend. But he was a good friend to everyone that he knew. He was one of the most likeable people that I have ever met. He just had a way about him that could get a chuckle out of anyone. He will be truely missed. He's up there in heaven right now learning a few new songs. Darlene if there is anything that you guys need don't hesitate to ask. Take Care and God bless you and your family.

Barry & Lana

#40

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Sad to be communicating in this fashion, as time is fleeting and distance always an obstacle suffice it to say wish we could have all gotten together more. It was a privilege to know H.B. and an honor to spend time with all of you. Stealing a line from the Righteous Brothers, I do believe there?s a Rock & Roll Heaven. The H.B. is sitting in on one helluva band these days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peace,
Barry & Lana

Susan and Butch Hammack

#39

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I will always remember that smile and sparkle in his eyes when he was cooking chili or singing. He was a good man who loved his family and friends. Our prayers are with the family and friends who morn this tragic loss.

doyle hood

#38

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

David R. Arellanes

#37

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I first met Bruce in 1971. We both attended Central High and had more than one laugh together. We both wore the uniform of the Air Force ROTC and tried to pay attention, but with Bruce it was always time for his sense of humor, even when he stood at attention. He has a soul, a smile, and a sense of life like no other. I hope to have a chance to talk with his children so that I may relate a story that took place way back in 1973. Bruce reminded me of this story, and what we did way back then, the last time we saw each other when the Paperboys last played at The Pub. We both laughed till tears. I think it would be good for his children to know that part of their father's life, and what a very rare person he was even as a teenager. God bless you Bruce. God blessed me to know you and be your friend. There is no rest for talent like you. Playing the Big Show and cooking chili with the angels as you so richly deserve. No goodbye...See ya soon, buddy... Love you......

Roy and Kristi Tobey

#36

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce was the kind of person that the first time you met him, you came away with the feeling that you had known him all your life.
His personality was contagious, always postive, upbeat, and of course the smile on his face.
We enjoyed being around him at the chili cookoffs, loved his music, and will truely miss him.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Darlene, the boys and family members, the "Paperboy's" band members and the "Amigos" Chili team members.
Bruce was a great person to have as a friend that will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Ronnie & Charlotte Curtis

#35

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce will be missed at the VFW!!!! He always had a smile and always had something nice to say. Our thoughts and prayers will be with his family. He will be joining a lot of our VFW members that also left too soon. I know they will all be there to meet him.

Darin and Tonya Jester

#34

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I am honored and privileged to have known Bruce. He was one of the "Good Guys". To the Smith family: We are all saddened by the loss of Bruce, devoted son, brother, husband, father and friend. His impact on the lives of his family, friends and acquaintances will forever leave a place in our hearts. We are thankful to have had Bruce in our lives and our hearts. Rest in peace dear friend, you will be dearly missed by all.

Woodie Howell & Mary Bivens

#33

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

WE WILL MISS SEEING BRUCE AT THE V.F.W.POST 9095. WE LOVE TO HEAR HIM PLAY AND SING.

Cliff Shearer

#32

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

"HB" as we knew him here at Wise Safety & Environmental, was the most personable, uplifting, and cheerful person anyone could know. Hardly a day went by that someone here at our office didn't talk with "HB" on the phone or be excited to have him come over to pick up something. His love for the guitar and chili cookoffs were amazing as his love for others. Our heartfelt expressions of sorrow go out to the family and friends of such a wonderful person.

Pitty & Stan Turney

#31

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Stan & I had the privilege to play with HB in the band, The Paperboys. I had HB to my right every year and every time we played. I would often get a nudge or quick joke during the gig. There is a hole in our hearts and hole where HB practiced at our house and where he stood on stage. We all have our own "spot" and I can't help but think about that when we walk in our den. HB had a sense of humor that no one else could rival. He was quick with his wit and loved music so much. He brought songs to our set list that made us smile, laugh, and "you just didn't say that??" We can't say enough about HB without saying that getting to know his family was a bonus. Darlene and her boys, mother and daughter-in-law are in our prayers. Darlene came and supported The Paperboys. She was a calming presence in the crowd and always positive and sweet. We will miss HB with all of our hearts.

Dee & Ralph Hay

#30

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We feel so privileged to have know Bruce and classify him as a dear Friend. He was always smiling, never complained about anything, never said anything bad about anyone, could keep you laughing and the special person that you wanted to be with if you were down in the dumps - he could bring you back to feeling great in minutes.

Our condolences an prayers go out to Bruce's Family, and Friends. We loved you Bruce Smith . . . We'll miss you till we meet again

Maria and Tim Swicegood

#29

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We were blessed to call Bruce our friend. He was a great friend who always had a smile on his face. A great chili cook! Just a great man. We will truly miss him. Our love to Darlene and the boys. Please let us know if we can do anything.

Ida Tibbit

#28

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Darlene,
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. May God wrap his arms around you and give you the strength that you need in this time of sorrow.

Ardee Eichelmann

#27

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I first met Bruce in 1975 when we worked at JC Penney's. He was a great guy and a good friend.

I was thrilled when Bruce found me on Facebook about 18 months ago because it was great to connect with him again after losing contact when we both left Penney's. Bruce had a great sense of humor and was just an all around good man. He will be missed.

Darlene, we only met a few times but my heart goes out to you and your sons. You were so lucky to have Bruce in your lives and I hope you remember all of the good times.

Blessings,

Ardee-ann Eichelmann

Glenda & Tommy Cupples

#26

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We are so sorry to hear of HB's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

Sandra Pack

#25

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Just wanted to let each one of you know how very sorry I am for your loss. What a Great Man Bruce was. He was always so nice to me. My Thoughts and Prayers are with each of You.

Glenda Vrba

#24

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce it was an honor to have known you. The Tuesday night gathering at Lajitas just won't be the same without you nor will Krazy Flats...see you in the Terlingua Sky the 1st Saturday in November buddy every year. You are all in our thoughts at this painfull time.

Kay Canerdy

#23

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We have all said "only the good die young", Bruce was a good one. His smiling face will be missed, his music will live on through his son. I know he was very proud when he played music with him. Save a place for me, I will see you on the other side.
Darlene and his children will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God touch each of you and comfort you in your sorrow.

Jimmy and Rosa Johnston

#22

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I was a privilage to have known Bruce. He will be greatly missed.

D'Ann Sexton

#21

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce was truly a joy to spend time with and I loved to hear him sing. He played an impromptu concert at my campsite for my birthday this year at Terlingua and I totally expected one this coming year. I will miss his kindness, his always ready smile and that mischevious twinkle in his eyes. He was one of the kindest souls I have ever met on the chili trail. Prayers for your family that you find some comfort in what great person he was and all the lives he touched.

D'Ann Sexton

rodney and rena jones

#20

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce will truelly be missed tremendously!!! We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers!! Chili will never be the same as far as we are concerned!
Love, Rodney and Rena Jones

Patti and Bill Watkins

#19

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Darlene and the boys,
Thank you for sharing your husband and father with the rest of us. He was a wonderful man and a friend to many. I learned so much from him about chili and going to Terlingua. He was an unbelievable musician and has left a mark on many with his talent. We want you to know that we are here for you if you ever need us. Please give Bexley a hug for me I know he misses his dad. We love you all.

Roy Huston

#18

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

R.I.P. Bruce Terlingua won't be the same without you & your music

Eddie Salazar

#17

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

HB was a good person, fun to be with love family, friends and music He will be greatly missed. God bless you and your family.

Richard Knight

#16

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

It is an honor to say that Bruce was my friend and fellow chili competitor. He brought smiles to the faces of people around him. I will miss his music at Terlingua.

Mike Collins

#15

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I know you're with God, but I also know you're gone too fast. You were irrepressible and irreplaceable. To say you'll be missed is an understatement!

Mark & Marla Hays

#14

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

The paper and music businesses won't be the same without you (and neither will all of us who love you).
R.I.P. Dear Friend.

Tina Barnes

#13

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce will be missed so much by the chili world! Sincerist condolences from Top Of Texas Pod Tina Barnes G.P.

Rodney and Donna Foshee

#12

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great and unexpected loss. Bruce was so sweet and funny he will truly be missed by so many.

Brandy Reid

#11

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce was a great friend and will be missed by many. Terlingua will never be the same with out him. I am very sorry for your loss.

Paul Burtcher "a.k.a. Quasar"

#10

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

One has to ask the question, "Why Bruce and why now"? Then when you stop and think about it.... you will know. God only wants the good ones. He got a real good one in Bruce. May your journey be swift and peaceful and when you get there, tell Everett I said Hi!!

Ann Kyzer

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce was a good friend , he will be missed.

Scott Ginn

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

HB will greatly be missed by all of his co-workers at Kerr Paper. He was a great friend. Darlene and family, you guys will be in our prayers. Love you guys!!!

Stephen P. Mers

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Connie Dunkin

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I was lucky enough to meet Bruce and his family last year at Thanksgiving; he even sang a song with me and I really enjoyed it. So sorry to hear that he has passed away. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

kimmi lee

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

you'll be missed, my friend...my thoughts and prayers to family and friends...

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bruce always had a smile for everyone he met. He was an entertainer, cook, and a very good friend. Go in peace my friend. I will see you there.

Dara and John Doss

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Darlene and Family,
The world will not be the same without Bruce. I am so sorry for your loss but truly hope you are able to find some comfort and peace in the many lives that Bruce touched. I know that he had an impact on my life "holding my hand" a time or two!
My prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Absent from the body, present with the Lord

mark and laura stokes

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Mark and I were so sorry to hear about H.B.. We
both remember him so excited and confident at the chili cook-offs. I am sure he has already entered another one, as we mourn his loss.. Mark and I hope all your heartfelt memories will comfort you and your children during this time. Our thoughts and many prayers will be with you ...Thoughtfully, Mark and Laura

Lydia R. Lee

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

The angels in heaven will be singing even sweeter music. Bruce was a very dear friend to me. One of the first people I met at the VFW. He was always kind to me; always had a smile on his face. I will, as I sure all, will miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

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