Buster WIllbanks

Buster Willbanks, 69, of McRae, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on October 17, 2026. He was born on November 12, 1957, in Newport, Arkansas.

Buster was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back without thinking twice. He had a heart for helping others and was always willing to make sacrifices for the people he loved. He showed his love through his actions, putting others before himself and doing whatever he could to lend a helping hand. To know Buster was to know a man who cared deeply for his family and the people in his life. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who loved him that can never truly be filled.

Buster was preceded in death by his parents, John Willbanks and Goldie Willbanks, as well as his 11 siblings.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Jerrie Willbanks; his son, Kody Willbanks (Samantha); and his three precious grandchildren, Penelope, Cashlee, and Hazel, who will forever carry a piece of him in their hearts.

He also leaves behind a host of beloved family members and friends who were blessed to have known him.

Although saying goodbye is never easy, Buster’s life was about so much more than the years he spent here. It was about the people he loved, the sacrifices he made, the helping hand he was always willing to offer, and the memories he leaves behind. While his family and friends must now learn to navigate life without him, his love and the impact he

made will never be forgotten.

Buster will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered by those who had the privilege of sharing a part of their lives with him.

Buster’s family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank-you to Rachel with Arkansas Hospice for the wonderful care, compassion, and kindness she showed Buster. Not only did she provide comfort and support to him, but she was also a shoulder for the family to lean on during such a difficult time. Her help throughout this transition and her

willingness to step in wherever she was needed meant more to the family than words can express. They will forever be grateful for the love and compassion she showed Buster and his loved ones.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 1:00 p.m.to 2:00 p.m. at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, located at 404 W. Dewitt Henry Drive, Beebe, Arkansas 72012. The graveside service will follow the visitation at 2:30 p.m. at Lebanon Cemetery, located at 298 Lebanon Road, McRae, Arkansas. Flowers may be sent to Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home at 404 W. Dewitt Henry Drive, Beebe, Arkansas 72012. Online guest book at www.smithfamilycares.com.