Biography: Joelynn Smith, 51, of Roland, beloved husband, father, son and brother, rejoiced as he entered heaven on Friday, May 4, 2007, after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Joelynn was preceded in death by his father, Billy Joe Smith of Salem, and his mother-in-law, Wanda Miller of Pine Bluff. He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Dana Miller Smith; his precious son, Will; his beloved mother, Norma Smith of Mammoth Spring; and his brother, Keevin Smith and his wife, Brenda, of Salem; his father-in law, Johnny B. Miller, of Pine Bluff; and sister-in-law, Alison Melson and her husband, Tom, of Little Rock; his nephews, Wyatt Smith of Bentonville; Sam and Owen Melson of Little Rock; and Michael Beard of Melbourne; and numerous friends and relatives. He was born in Thayer, MO., on October 21, 1955 and grew up in Salem, Ark. and Little Rock. He graduated from Mills High School and attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. One of Joelynn’s greatest joys was watching his son, Will, play baseball. He also enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping, as well as a good thunderstorm. He loved living near Pinnacle Mountain, where he and his wife made their home for more than 20 years. Joelynn’s constant smile and kind heart will be greatly missed. The family wishes to thank friends, neighbors, caregivers and the many others who have visited and said prayers for Joelynn during his illness. The compassion shown to our family has been overwhelming. Also, a special thanks to Joelynn’s care team at Arkansas Hospice. Visitation will be 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 6, 2007 at Ruebel Funeral Home. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday in the Chapel of Ruebel Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Howard Loetscher. Burial will follow in Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Donations may be made in Joelynn’s memory to any ALS organization or the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements are by Ruebel Funeral Home of Little Rock, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
Cookie Peckham