Denise Lorre' Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Denise Smith, a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and treasured great-grandmother. She left this world on May 17, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy of love, compassion, and creativity that will be remembered by all who knew her.

Born on March 10, 1952, Denise was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and kindness. As an educator, she impacted the lives of countless students, nurturing their minds and guiding them with her patient and gentle nature. She loved watching as the lights come on in the minds of those student that she tutored that were struggling in a certain subject. Her passion for the arts shone through in her beautiful crafts, heartfelt poetry, and exquisite sewing projects, each a testament to her vibrant spirit and boundless creativity.

Beyond her artistic talents, Denise was a gifted counselor and mediator, always offering a listening ear and wise counsel. Her ability to resolve conflicts and bring people together with grace and understanding reflected her deep empathy and remarkable insight. As a protector, she fiercely safeguarded her loved ones, providing a sense of security and unwavering support.

She was the heart and soul of her family, a loving wife to Harry Smith,  and a devoted mother to Donna (Jenceson) Payte, Steve (Lori) Smith, and Audrey (Don) Hensley. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and the comforting embrace of a mother’s love. She was also a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren Kayla (Paul) Herndon, Derek (Allison) Smith, Sarah Smith, Spencer (Anna) Smith, Paige (David) Williams, Aurora Smith, Piper and Kyra Hensley, and a great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and inspired with her wisdom and joy.  She is also survived by her sister Toni (Jay) Martin. Her home was a sanctuary filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting embrace of a mother’s love. She was a guiding light, a source of strength, and an unwavering supporter of her children’s dreams and aspirations. She was preceded in death by her parents Elmer Wheeler Sr and Betty Stevens, brother Elmer Wheeler Jr., sister Cheryl Baglio, grand daughter Lauren Payte. 

Denise leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege to know her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish the love, creativity, and compassion she brought into their lives. The most amazing thing about all that Denise had accomplished in her life was that it was all done to glorify her Saviour Jesus Christ, and to be a light that would direct other to the marvelous gift of salvation. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Rest in peace, Denise. Your light will continue to shine brightly in the memories and hearts of those you touched.

Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Monday, May 20 at Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Smith Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following:

CASA

17724 I-30

Benton, AR 72019

Victory Baptist Church

5364 HWY 67

Benton, AR 72015

Saline County Christian Academy

5364 HWY 67

Benton, AR 72015