Jerry Lee Vales

Jerry Lee Vales, 78, ran into the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ on May 27, 2025.

Jerry was born on September 22, 1946, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to William and Lexie Vales.

In his youth he was a talented baseball player and was scouted by the minor leagues. However, he decided to enlist in the US Air Force and served two tours in Vietnam. Upon returning to the States he met and married Kathie (Smith) Vales, his loving wife of 57 years. Together they had three children, of whom he was very proud and loved them each with his whole heart.

Jerry loved the outdoors, enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping with his wife and children. He also was a skilled artist and painted several framed artworks hanging throughout his home.

Out of all the things he experienced and had seen in his life, the most life changing event was 22 years ago, on Easter Sunday. Jerry had previously been baptized in the precious Name of Jesus Christ, but on this Sunday, he completely gave his life to Jesus and was filled with the Holy Ghost at First Pentecostals of Benton. He was faithful to FPB and enjoyed working around the church with a spirit of excellence. Whatever was asked of him, he would gladly do it. The LORD changed Jerry into a child of God; and it affected his life and all those around him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father.

He is survived by his wife, Kathie Vales, mother, Lexie Vales, brother Larry (Margie) Vales, children, Kyle (Michelle) Vales, Michelle (Chad) Hogue, Lyle (Dana) Vales, the lights of his life, his grandchildren, Andrea Vales, Zander Vales, Andrew Hogue, Sydney (Jacob) Hinds, and great-granddaughter Lucy Hinds.

We, along with many other family members, and a host of friends from First Pentecostals of Benton, will miss him very much.

Although he was taken from us, we will see him again in eternity, where we will forever live with the Lord!

The family would like to thank Elite Hospice for the exceptional treatment and resources they provided. A very special thanks goes out to his caregiver, Gavin Berry, who went above and beyond in the care he provided.

Services will be held at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street in Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will be held Monday, June 2, from 5:00-7:00 PM and Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, June 3. Burial with military honors will follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock at Noon.

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