Arvy Richard Smith III

Feb 20, 1943 - Apr 26th, 2023

Birth Date: Feb 20, 1943
Death Date: Apr 26, 2023
Funeral Date: Apr 29, 2023, 11:00 am
Location: Ruebel Funeral Home
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Biography: Arvy Richard Smith III was born in Hot Springs, AR on February 20, 1943 to Arvy Richard Smith Jr and Helen Ruth Evans, wedged in between two older sisters and two younger sisters and it was obvious he was a rapscallion from the get go.

He was too smart for his own good and never met an impossibly difficult project that he didn’t love. His wit was rapacious and his laughter infectious. He befriended most that crossed his path and loved those that had the pleasure of being close to him.

He was a gifted athlete. He attended the University of Central Arkansas on a football scholarship and, according to him, was a scratch golfer. He also provided handsomely for his family through diligent, focused work in which he thoroughly immersed himself, with great satisfaction, his entire life.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, he loved his family with a love that was infinite, unwavering and independent of whatever may have been coming back to him. Through thick and thin, rain and shine, turmoil and peace, Poppy’s love never faltered and he will be dearly missed by all of us that had the blessing of that beautiful gift.

Richard’s celebration of life will be held at Ruebel funeral home, 6313 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR this Saturday, April 29th with visitation at 10am and services beginning at 11am. Please join us. A more complete obituary can be found at RuebelFuneralHome.com

Condolences(40)

Larry Imbeau

#40

May 30th, 2023 8:09 pm

My heart goes out to Peggy and the rest of Richard’s family. I grew up in Cammack Village, next door to Richard from when I was 5ish until we moved away when I was 14. He and his sisters were among my best friends in Arkansas. I last visited him in Bentonville a few years ago and we had a most enjoyable week with Richard, Peggy, Helen Ruth & Stuart.

Elaine Pratt Pild

#39

May 3rd, 2023 6:27 pm

Richard was perfect for Class President his whole life. All the efforts he made to keep the Class close and in touch were appreciated by all. He was one of a kind and as relatable and kind to all at 14 when I transferred into Forest Heights Junior High as he always was in his adult years. At Hall High we felt like Richard and Peggy were perfect for each other. Now we know they were! Heartfelt condolences are sent to Peggy and the children and grandchildren. It is a devastating loss for our class and all who loved Richard.

Buster Godbee

#38

May 3rd, 2023 8:13 am

I was saddened to hear of Richard's passing. I was disappointed that the news came after the celebration of his life. I could have and would have attended.
While much could be said, one occasion of our being together captures for me the type of person Richard was. The only time I
beat him in golf was due not to my skill but to Richard literally cheering me on. He took the roles of caddie, instructor, coach, commentator (in a good way), and cheerleader. In the end, he celebrated more than I. Quite a guy. He is missed.

Becky Bridges Bailey

#37

May 1st, 2023 6:20 am

along with so many others, I loved Richard so! He was a living example of a southern gentleman...heavy on the gentle! I am so sad that my granddaughter's wedding kept me from his service. My love to you and your family as your beautiful memories bring you peace and comfort, Becky

Jerry and Sally Johnson

#36

Apr 29th, 2023 12:30 pm

Dear Peggy and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Richards illness and death! We will be forever grateful for your friendship over the years and for his leadership in getting this us out of an apartment and into our house on Kings Mtn Dr. His determination led to our enjoying 22 years of hosting Sunday School groups, prayer groups and wild sledding parties in the winter months. ( Sally’s chili and brownies were always a hit and one day we had 52 tired shedders sitting on the floor!) We only moved when our son JG went to California for 10 years in a new business venture! We then sold it to Immanuel for a missionary residence! All those years were such a great blessing because of his dedication!
Also, your parents were such good friends and fellow Tennessee folks! Your Dad invited me several times to fly with him back to the “ Old Country”
We love you and are praying for comfort and encouragement,❤️

Cal Biggers

#35

Apr 29th, 2023 11:00 am

Peggy i just rea this obit today Sat 4-29 and i am on my patio in Queen Creek, thinking about. allthe ways our paths crossed with and you.my Father knew in at Munsey Toasters and told me a outstanding young man he was at their original plant in NLR. we were able to renew our Little Rock Central High and Hall High rivalries'.. you two were fine humble newly weds and a Example for many people including Veeta and I.

Bob Childress

#34

Apr 29th, 2023 10:05 am

A favorite client but more importantly a great friend for almost 40 years !! Will miss him dearly !

Thomas Anderson

#33

Apr 29th, 2023 7:57 am

Peggy and family, so sad to hear the terrible news about Richard. A true gentleman and great friend and fraternity brother. He will be missed, but the fond memories of him will last forever. Prayers for your family.

Debbie Matteri

#32

Apr 28th, 2023 8:48 pm

Dear Smith Family,
We will treasure our neighborhood gatherings and potlucks with Peggy and Richard . He was always laughing and happy. We will miss him.
Peggy, we are here for you.
Looking forward to our next get together
as friends and neighbors.

Ken Tuttle

#31

Apr 28th, 2023 8:36 pm

Peggy and family, we are praying you experience God’s comfort and peace in the days ahead. Richard was a dear brother in Christ! He was kind and encouraging. I will miss him.

Suzanne Vinson Hamilton

#30

Apr 28th, 2023 7:28 pm

The Hall High School Class of 1961 has lost its great Warrior-leader. Although it is difficult to capture the essence of this man in a few words, the tributes by our classmates on our communications chain is awesome. It will be shared with Peggy and family .

Scott Clark

#29

Apr 28th, 2023 5:59 pm

I love you both Peggy and Richard, both of y’all have always loved me and I sure did need it. Richard will be missed but never forgotten

The Dunaway Family

#28

Apr 28th, 2023 11:45 am

Peggy, Bob and I were glad to have met you and Richard and your family members at Briarwood last week. Your love and devotion to each other were a blessing to us. We are so sorry for this loss and we are praying for you all.

Bob Poynter

#27

Apr 28th, 2023 8:46 am

Richard and I worked together for many years at Munsey Products. I remember him as kind, considerate and helpful. If you had a problem Richard was always there to help you in any way that he could. He was a true friend and all of us will miss him. My deepest condolences to Peggy, Ashley, Brent, Rebecca and the family.

Chuck Meyer

#26

Apr 27th, 2023 8:19 pm

What a maverick......God broke the mold with Richard! He "danced to his own drum" with enthusisiam, care, friendship, and loving others extraordinarily well. It was a privilege and an honor to share life-changing moments with Richard over many many years. Richard impacted others in such positive ways and allowed others to impact him as well. He was unafraid in allowing the Lord to challenge him and make unbelievable changes in his heart. Richard then used his winsome personality to comfort and challenge others. He had men he trusted around the campfire with "tears, beers, and cigars" over the last 25 years as he sharpened himself.....giving him great compassion in the sharpening others. Richard was a man who imaged himself to me as a very close brother although he never had one of his own. He will be greatly missed and long remembered by those whose lives he touched and changed.

Ben Arnold

#25

Apr 27th, 2023 7:40 pm

One of the finest persons I’ve ever known and a great friend. He is what a great class president should be.

Pamela Pettler

#24

Apr 27th, 2023 7:11 pm

Sending love and condolences to the Smith family. I heard many stories about Brent's dad from Brent, and he sounds like he was a wonderful, one of a kind guy, a terrific father, a terrific human being. Wishing you all comfort and peace.

Becky Bryan

#23

Apr 27th, 2023 6:14 pm

Peggy, Tom and I are so sorry to hear of Richard’s homegoing. Our early years of dating and marriage include many wonderful memories of you, Richard and your family. We will be praying for you in n the days ahead.

Tom and Becky Bryan

Ken and Shirley Ozmore

#22

Apr 27th, 2023 4:44 pm

Peggy and the whole family, we are so sad to hear of Richard’s passing. Loved knowing you both. Gracious hosts and definitely fun to be around will be special memories we will always have to cherish. God Bless a wonderful gentleman and condolences to the family.

Betty Rozzell

#21

Apr 27th, 2023 2:16 pm

How lucky we were to have Richard as our class President - Hall High 1961. I am so grateful that we had that last reunion!
I have many thoughts and wonderful memories of a lovely man. He will be missed.
Betty Rozzell

Don fayles

#20

Apr 27th, 2023 1:56 pm

My best friend. That says it all. I'll be lonely. And this 84 yr former Marine will shed a tear for a long time
. Semper fi Richard

Bob and Jamie Caporaso

#19

Apr 27th, 2023 1:30 pm

Richard was a wonderful friend and will be missed by all who knew him. Our hearts are with Peggy and the entire family.
Bob and Jamie

Kyle Stiles

#18

Apr 27th, 2023 1:24 pm

A great man who gave far more than one could imagine to all he came in contact with. His legacy will be one for the ages. Was a pleasure to have known Richard Smith

John Mitchell

#17

Apr 27th, 2023 12:10 pm

Peggy: I am so very saddened to learn of Richard's death. And I'm kicking myself, as I texted him the 6th of this month to inquire if he felt like and wanted visitors. As I told him in my text, I generally follow the rule that if one is in the hospital, that person is too sick to just assume he/she wants or needs visitors. It was my plan to go by and visit with him a bit if he wanted me to come. But I didn't ever follow up when I got no response from my text. I actually just assumed he had gone back home to NW AR. I never realized he was as sick as he obviously was. We were pretty tight long ago while at Jefferson Elementary, and he was one of the really good ones. I will miss knowing he's out there somewhere busting par! If I can do anything for you, please let me know. Mitch

Ann Parkinson

#16

Apr 27th, 2023 11:58 am

My dear Peggy and Ashley and Rebecca and Brent… My heart is hurting with the loss of your husband and dad. Everything that was written about him above is so true. He was so fun and could make people laugh… But he loved people and truly cared about them. I’ll never forget a bunch of couples were at your house, Peggy, and after dinner Richard was out in the kitchen at the sink washing all the dishes. And my husband Bill said,”Richard what are you doing?” And Richard said,” well I figure if Peggy could cook the meal then I can certainly clean up.” Peggy I want you to know every holiday after that Bill would make my mother and I sit down and he and the boys would wash all the dishes. It is still carried on in the Parkinson house to this day. I will so miss my dancing partner… At every wedding reception Bill was good for about two dances and then Richard and I would have our three in a row. He was the best dancer , but at the end of three I’d say,” Richard I’ve got to sit down I’m done!” So many stories…oh and the polyester leisure suits! We kept teasing him about getting rid of them and he just wouldn’t do it. So we knew it was an act of God when your closet caught fire and they all burned up! He was such a kind of man… He love to help people and and he purposely continued to grow in his faith. I will miss you, Richard Smith, but I know I will see you again someday.

Don fayles

#15

Apr 27th, 2023 11:40 am

Quite simply, he was my best friend. This morning, this 84 yr former Marine can't control the tears. The void can never be filled. Semper fi Richard.

Melanie Hales

#14

Apr 27th, 2023 10:26 am

Sweet Mrs. Peggy, Ashley and all your precious family, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Richard. What a beautifully written tribute. I’m so glad I had the pleasure of knowing him. You are constantly in my prayers, on my heart and in my thoughts. He was blessed to have such a wonderful and loving family.

Joe and Reba Wessell

#13

Apr 27th, 2023 10:19 am

Peggy, Reba and I were so sad to hear of Richars's death. We have many fond memories of both of you while we were in college. You were a great couple and we know you raised a wonderful family. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the coming days. Please keep us informed where you are living. We would like to stay in touch with you.

Your friends,

Joe and Reba Wessell

Alyson Brittain

#12

Apr 27th, 2023 10:01 am

We have so many memories over the years but those this past year were so special to us. Golfing, drinking wine together, hanging out downtown Bentonville . You were our Pard and you will be forever in our hearts . Thank you Richard for all the amazing memories. We will take care of mrs Peggy ❤️❤️❤️❤️your family is so precious to us

Dave Slaton

#11

Apr 27th, 2023 9:48 am

Peggy, Ashley, Rebekah, and Brent, I will always miss my brother, Richard. His passing leaves a huge hole in my life and in our Men’s Group - our band of brothers. Although he will no longer be with us physically, his spirit will forever be with us around the campfire and in our hearts. May the love of God comfort you and give you peace as we all mourn together.

Jim and Pat Hobbs

#10

Apr 27th, 2023 9:19 am

Peggy, we were so sorry to hear about Richard’s passing. We have so many fond memories of your family, and thank God for bringing y’all into our lives. Richard will be missed by so many. Know you and your family are in our prayers.

Joy white

Apr 27th, 2023 8:14 am

I can’t think of a family that we have more memories with than Peggy and you and your kids. One of my favorite pics is of Rachel and Brent about the age of 4 at the dedication of the First Baptist church building. After that it has been Christmas night family games, vacations and trips galore, hot tubbing in the snow, Carrie and Ashley belting out “ The Sun will come out tomorrow” downtown after seeing Annie together”, 5 and 10 K races followed by breakfast at McDonalds w other friends. Wonderful vacations w the Hoags at the Meyer’s and other fun places. Razorback games , staying at your house at the ones in Fayetteville, eating at Panchos in No Little Rock and lots of Mexican restaurants anywhere! Crazy conversations w John and Richard anywhere! Especially getting those white iced donuts in Colorado when the poor waitress believed they were “ fighting”!

Lynne Smith

Apr 27th, 2023 7:45 am

Dear Peggy and family, I have so many wonderful memories of Richard and you, and I will be forever grateful for the love and compassion I felt when Pete was so ill and after his passing. You were there when we needed you most. The relationship Pete and Richard shared was one of "Cousin Brothers" --- regardless of time and distance, they were so very close and always picked up where they left off. My fantasy is that they will soon be together sharing their favorite stories of growing up, singing, and of course playing golf with Uncle Dick and J.R.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I love you, Lynne

James Carpenter

Apr 27th, 2023 7:20 am

I remember Richard from his days at Munsey Products Inc. A very good person who believed in doing a job right.

Brett K Smith

Apr 26th, 2023 10:33 pm

I thoroughly enjoyed knowing Mr. Smith he was the Father to one of my favorite football players Brent Smith a tough determined athlete who loved his team and school. I owe him dearly for supporting myself and my wife in allowing us to Coach at PA. Thanks so much

Philip Khosid

Apr 26th, 2023 10:05 pm

Love and peace to the Smith family.
The Khosid’s

Rick Hatfield

Apr 26th, 2023 9:36 pm

Richard was a great person and friend. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. His legacy will live on through his family and acquaintances.

Brian Munsey

Apr 26th, 2023 9:32 pm

I'm so sorry for Peggy and the family, as well as his extended family and all friends who had the pleasure of knowing Richard. As I told them, perhaps the best example of marriage I have ever seen in my lifetime- one based on love, respect, honor, friendship, and God. And all who got to know Richard got to feel those exact feelings as well. God Bless a well lived life, and what an honor to be your friend and nephew.

JO ANN GEURIN PETTUS

Apr 26th, 2023 9:20 pm

Sending prayers of comfort for the Family.

Susan and Tommy SCHALLHORN

Apr 26th, 2023 6:53 pm

Richard was the quintessential extrovert who enjoyed everyone’s company and had the unique ability to show everyone a great time! We was loved by everyone because he made people feel special. The gift of Richard and Peggy’s friendship is a priceless treasure we will keep in our hearts. We adore them both. Susan and Tommy

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