Johnny Ray Spade

Johnny Ray Spade, age 80 of Benton, AR, passed away on Tuesday, June 30,2026, at Amberwood Health & Rehabilitation in Benton, AR. He was known as "Ray" to his family and friends.

Ray was born on November 2,1945, in England, AR to the late James Franklin Spade and Emmie Nancy (Ward) Spade. In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his wife Nancy "Cheryl"(Mitchell) Spade, and his stepdaughter Amanda Lynn (Brown) Rogers-Weeks.

Ray dedicated 31 years of service to the Little Rock Fire Department, where he proudly served his community as a firefighter. He retired in 2003 after a distinguished career marked by courage, commitment, and compassion.

Outside of work, Ray had a passion for collecting firearms. Family and friends knew that if he wasn't at home there was a good chance he was at the gun range enjoying the newest addition to his collection.

He is survived by his son James Ray Spade; his stepson Thomas Patrick Brown, Jr. and wife Jackie; his grandsons, Owen Brown, James Sterling Rogers V, and Ethan Brown; his granddaughters, Katelyn Brown and Ava Rogers; and his great granddaughter Zella French. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

A memorial service honoring the life of Jonny Spade will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will take place at a later date at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Monticello, Arkansas.

Arrangements are entrusted to Smith Benton Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.smithfamilycares.com.