Ralph Edward McKenzie

Ralph Edward "Rufus" McKenzie, 78, of East End, Arkansas passed away June 25, 2025.  He was born on June 9, 1947 in Bonita Louisiana to the late William and Ruby Beatrice (Brixey) McKenzie.  Ralph was raised by the late Leon and Vernalee Gunter (his aunt and uncle-better known as mom and dad).

Ralph was a Christian by Baptist faith.  He believed in Jesus Christ as his personal savior.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings:  William McKenzie, Donnie McKenzie, Glen McKenzie, and Billy Wayne Gunter.

After high school, Ralph was drafted into the Army.  He never liked talking about his military service, but was extremely proud of his service to his country.

Ralph retired from Fleet Pride Trucking.  He worked many years with other trucking companies as Parts Manager. 

Ralph enjoyed fishing and hunting.  He was one of the founders of Rusty Hooks Bass Club.  He loved playing the guitar and "jamming" with his friends.  Ralph cherished spending time with his family.  He loved watching the same old Westerns over and over.  He was a big jokester and always had special nicknames for everyone.  Ralph also adored all puppy dogs.

Left to cherish Ralph's memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Shirley McKenzie "Ms. Moe"; children:  Bettina Cole "Scooter Pooter" and husband Tim, Shelly McKenzie-Young "Stinker Pot" and husband Rudy, and Bridgette McKenzie; siblings:  Dwight McKenzie, Johnny Sue Rhodes and husband Bobby, and Sandy McKenzie; grandchildren:  Britney Acuff "Yode" and husband David, and Whitney Boyd "Monkey", great-grandchildren: Aris Brady and River Brady.

Ralph has a bonus daughter, Gayla Jones and husband Greg and a son-in-law, Kenny Boyd and wife Cristy; and many other extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 1:00-2:00 PM, with funeral service following at 2:00 PM.  Burial will be held at Salem Cemetery in East End with Rudy Young, Tim Cole, Kenny Boyd, Steve Crump, Charlie Kincaid, Richard Gray, and Greg Jones assisting as pallbearers.

Everyone is welcome at the home of Ralph and Shirley after the burial.

Any donations would be appreciated to Salem Cemetery in East End, Arkansas.

A special thank you to Southern Trace Nursing and Rehab in Bryant, Arkansas for their kindness, love, and support.  A special thank you to Samantha and Madison, his caregivers.  

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