Ricki D. Smith

Ricki D. Smith, 72, of West Fork, (formerly of Farmington) Arkansas passed away January 10, 2024. He was born June 18, 1951 in Winamac, Indiana to Orville D. and Maxine E. (Hamilton) Smith. He is survived by: his son James C. Smith of Springdale, his daughter Rori Willard (Bill) of New Plymouth, Idaho; two grandsons Levi and Cody Willard and three great-grandchildren of Idaho. He lived with his nephew Gordon Smith (Amy) and nephew Jacob Smith of West Fork at the time of his death. Also surviving are niece Kathleen Kovach (Eugene) and nephew Matthew Canfield (Janalee) of West Fork; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and sisters-in-law in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, Georgia, Florida, etc.

Ricki was preceded in death by: his parents; brothers- Raymond, Charles, Roy, and Paul Smith (Adrene); his wife Edith (Hopper) Smith in 2010; his sisters- Hazel Butterbaugh (John) and Ellen Van Alstine.

Ricki grew up mostly in California, eventually ending up in Arkansas. He enjoyed Car racing in his younger years and watching his nephew and great nephews race in his later years. He restored old cars and worked on many vehicles in his lifetime. He was also a fine carpenter and home builder. He worked for Harold Pearce trucking in West Fork for 4o years. He also built his homes and his parents’ home. When he was young, he served briefly in the United States Merchant Marines where he had the opportunity to visit many countries. He was loved by many family and friends alike. He leaves behind his beloved friend Carole. Ricki enjoyed talking and telling about the good ol’ days and struck up conversations with just about anyone that would listen. He will be missed. Many people knew him for riding around West Fork in his motorized wheelchair. He enjoyed his freedom. Ricki was also a big animal lover.

Thank you to his friends at the West Fork Café who loved to visit with him and helped him when he needed it. He enjoyed your company very much.

Ricki was under the home hospice care of Willard Walker Hospice in Fayetteville. Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Cremation was done by Epting Funeral Home in Fayetteville.