Jackie Gene Smith, age 71, of Hot Springs, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020.
He was born on July 18, 1949, in Mountain Home, Ark., the son of Ira Gene Smith and LaWanda Collins Smith. On Feb. 23, 1973, he married Vickey E. Blankenship, who preceded him in death on Jan. 17, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Gerald Eugene Smith.
Jack was a United States Marine Corps veteran. He served as the minister of 70 West Church of Christ for over 30 years. He was also a seventh-degree black belt in taekwondo. He was an avid fisherman, pool player and guitar player. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed writing and telling stories to his grandson. Jack was an author of many books. His biggest love was for the Lord.
He is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Karen and Randy Pate, of Hot Springs, and Kristi and Bradley Whinery of Sayre, Okla.; one grandson, Aiden Whinery, of Sayre, Okla.; one brother, Jim Smith, of Hays, Kan.; nieces, nephews, extended family members and a host of wonderful friends.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020, in the 70 West Church of Christ with Wes McAdams officiating.
Interment will be at Robertstown Cemetery, near Morrilton, at 3 p.m. on Thursday, under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Hot Springs.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until service time on Thursday, at the church.
Social distancing directives will be in place with no more than 66% of the total seating capacity occupied at the church, avoidance of physical contact and all attendees 10 years of age or older must be wearing a face covering at all times during the service.
Pallbearers will be Bradley Whinery, Aiden Whinery, Randy Pate, Jim Pate, Mark Livingston and Don Pogue.
Honorary pallbearers will be Eddie Squires, Dr. Stephen G. Divers and staff, Avory Brewer, Austen Brewer, members of the 70 West Church of Christ, Conley Mason and Tim Togami.
Memorials may be made to 70 West Church of Christ, 948 Airport Road, Hot Springs, AR 71913.
Guest registry is at http://www.davis-smith.com.