James Michael Smith

James Michael "Mike" Smith, 72, of Benton, Arkansas passed away on January 22, 2024 at his home in Benton, Arkansas.  He was born on September 3, 1951, the youngest son of Frank and Audie Smith.  

Mike grew up in Oden, Arkansas and went to school at Henderson University.  He served in the United States Army and Army Reserves for 21 years.  Mike held many roles over the years including owning a Goodyear dealership, driving a school bus, being Mayor of Mount Ida, Interim Police Chief and a Methodist minister. Eventually, Mike became an environmental engineer and was contracted by the military, which required him to travel the southwest doing trainings and inspections.  Despite all these roles, his favorite titles were Husband, Dad, and Papa.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Audie Smith; three brothers:  Carl, Elmer, and Ronnie; and his first wife, Kathy "JoJo".

He is survived by his wife, Brenda (Boney) Smith; daughter, Amy James and husband Jason; son, Frank Smith and wife Lindsey; grandchildren:  Barrett Nieman, Brody James, Jemma James, and Maddox Smith; and a host of family and friends who love Mike and will miss him always.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mike's honor to The Wounded Warrior, at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org or to Arkansas Right to Life, PO Box 1697, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203-1697.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM, Sunday, February 4, at Mount Ida Methodist Church. Funeral service will follow at 4:00 PM.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.