Harold Leon Smith

Leon Smith, 79, of Bentonville, Arkansas was promoted to heaven on October 1, 2023, after a lengthy battle with heart and kidney disease. Leon was born on May 22, 1944, in Mountain Home, Arkansas to the late Harvey and Myrtle Smith. During his time in Mountain Home “Smitty” competed in football, track, and basketball. In 2015, Leon was inducted into the Mountain Home High School Hall of Honor along with his 1960 football team in recognition of their undefeated, championship season.

Leon believed in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and was baptized in Norfork Lake just outside of his hometown of Mountain Home.

Leon attended college at the University of Central Arkansas where he competed on the track team, met his bride of 57 years and close friends that he has shared a lifetime of memories with.

Leon was enthusiastic about spending time with family and friends, and never passed up an opportunity to coach one of his children’s teams. Later in life, he regularly attended his grandchildren’s athletic events. Leon never met anyone that did not consider him a friend, he will be deeply missed by many.

Leon is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey, and Myrtle Smith; sister Ruby Lee Smith (Medlock); and brothers Gene, Orville, Leonard, and William Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Gaines) Smith, of Bentonville; children Shannon Estes and husband Brandon, Chad Smith, and wife Allison all of Bentonville; four grandchildren, Mac Estes, Millie Estes, Emma Smith, and Jennie Smith; inherited son Ion Bria of Queens, New York.

A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 pm on Sunday, October 15th, at the Northgate Plaza Event Center in Rogers, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider donating to the American Heart Association.

For those attending the celebration, the address is 5113 West J.B. Hunt Drive. Enter the parking deck from the West side in front of Ruth Chris and proceed to the top level. Lunch will be provided.

Go Bombers, Go Bears, and Go Hogs Go! Rest In Peace #32