Biography: Garner Brian Smith, age 58, passed away unexpectedly on December 16, 2024. Brian was born in Little Rock, Arkansas to Marvin Dwight and Lula Ann Smith on October 4, 1966. He was a graduate of Hall High School and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Brian had many interests; sports, music, books and especially his Hillcrest neighborhood. But most of all, Brian leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and loyalty to the many people he encountered throughout his life. The following comments from friends are reflective of the man he was.

"Brian Smith was a 21st century enigma. His eyes twinkling with all the knowledge, goodwill, and mirth he bestowed upon us every time you saw him. Brian cared about everyone in his orbit, truly cared— deeply cared. He could name all your relatives, their employment, children's names, sickness, accomplishments, and failures. Never judging, always listening, offering aid wherever needed. He was the definition of treating others as they would want to be treated. Brian was fiercely loyal, never leaving a friend in need. If he could do it for you, all you had to do was call. Brian Smith was a better man than most—a good soul and he was dearly loved."

"Brian was a special friend to many people from all walks of life. He genuinely cared for you, your family, and interests. What matters in your world also mattered to Brian. He showed up countless times for friend's special occasions and he was there for you in hard times too. He treated all with kindness and generosity every day of his life."

He is predeceased by his father, Marvin Dwight Smith, his brother, Gordon Dwight Smith, his partner, Shirley Courtney, and his uncle, Marvin Bob Burford. He is survived by his mother, Lula Ann (Lu) Smith, aunts, Brenda Burford and Glenda Driskill, special friend, Beka Drew, and numerous cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Brian's life will be held on January 25, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the Eastside Scrapyard, 1416 E. 9th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the Gordon Dwight Smith and Garner Brian Smith Memorial Book Fund c/o Trinity United Methodist Church, 1101 N. Mississippi, Little Rock, Arkansas 72207, or the charity of your choice.

      "Farewell!!  A word that must be, and hath been - a sound which makes us linger; yet - Farewell!!"
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                                     -Lord Byron

Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com