Vernon Smith Jr.

Vernon Smith, Jr., was born September 24, 1947, in Earle, Arkansas to the late Vernon Smith, Sr. and Emma Mary Ball Smith. Vernon departed this life on April 17, 2025. He professed Christ at an early age and attended First Baptist Church in Earle, Arkansas. Vernon Smith, Jr. attended Dunbar High School in Earle, Arkansas. He completed his Bachelors Degree in Health and Physical Education from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff (AR AM&N). Vernon was then drafted to the United States Army, where he served in the Vietnam War from 1969-1971. He received a Honorable Discharge for service to the nation. Following his service he obtained his Masters (1974) and Specialist Degree (1978) in Educational Administration from Arkansas State University while working in Helena/West Helena School district as an Assistant Principal. From 1984 - 1999, Vernon served as an Assistant Principal and Principal in several schools between North Little Rock School District and Little Rock School District. He ended his educational journey as a Principal at Hall High School from 1999-2009. Vernon became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in 1967, he was a member of Pro-Duffers USA Golf Club, a life member of the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association, and a member of Arkansas Principal’s Association. Vernon was a member of Saint Mark Baptist Church for over 25 years. Vernon was married to the love of his life, Sheila A. Smith, for forty-three years. They enjoyed spending quality time together, laughing, playing sports, traveling and supporting each other endlessly. They devoted time and attention to their children’s academics and extra-curricular activities, which kept them traveling throughout the years. Vernon was proud of and often bragged about his 5 brothers and sisters. He spent quality time with each of them due to his strong family dynamics. In addition to his parents, Vernon is preceded in death by one deceased sister: Mrs. Armazell Grant (Leroy) of Toledo, OH, and survived by two sisters and two brothers: Mrs. Susie Frazier (Nathaniel) of Toledo, OH, Mr. Thomas Smith (Barbara) of Tulsa, OK, Mr. Flynn Smith (Barbara) of Sherwood, AR, and Mrs. Jannette Glover (Enoch, III) of Memphis, TN. Left to cherish his memory and legacy of leadership is his devoted wife Sheila A. Smith; his three children: Vernon Smith,III. (Tammy) ,COL (R) Gregory Karl Smith (Regina),and Dr. Ava Smith. He also is leaves his three grandchildren: Reanna Karlyn Smith, Vernon Smith IV, and Kionna Baldwin. Along with these, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends. Vernon loved sports as a child and an adult. He played shortstop in his fathers community baseball league in Earle, Arkansas. As an adult ,he spent over 25 years officiating basketball at the high school and Division I levels. As a retiree, Vernon spent countless hours on the golf course with his wife and buddies.

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