Mr. Joseph Smith, 81, of Crossett, AR died Monday, January 21, 2019 at National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, AR.  He was a native of West Helena, but a resident of Crossett for 53 years, a machine operator in C Division at the paper mill, and a member of Gates Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Gertrude Washington-Smith, on December 1, 2017; and his parents, Rev. Earnest and Alice Turner-Smith.  Joe was a devoted father who enjoyed all sports, football, basketball, and baseball.  His favorite teams were the Arkansas Razorbacks, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bulls.  He was a big CB fan, when it was popular.  He enjoyed sitting around laughing and telling jokes.

He is survived by one adopted son, Rev. Darron Buffington, of Monticello, AR; two daughters, Demeto Jo Holt(Cedrick) of Crossett, AR and Cheryl Taylor, of Mesquite, TX; one brother, David Smith(Leon), of West Helena, AR; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Service will be Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 1:00 P.M., at Gates Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church with the Rev. Harriel White officiating.  Pallbearers are Roy Curtis, Walter Hendrix, William Willis, Maurice Williams, Larry Rogers, and Madison Bailey.  Burial in Ryles Cemetery, in the White Station Community.

Viewing will be Monday, January 28, 2019, 1:00-5:00 P.M., at Cromwell Funeral Home, Inc. in Hamburg.