Wilburn Lee “Sonny” Smith

Wilburn Lee “Sonny” Smith of Clarendon, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2023, in Little Rock. He was born to Maurine Hudson Smith and Grover Lee Smith on September 16, 1942, in Clarendon. Wilburn graduated from Clarendon High School in 1960. He started his working career at the age of 14 working for Johnny Plant Gulf Service Station. Sonny moved to Stratton Seed Company where he built their first liquid fertilizer spreader truck. He ended his career working for the T & S Sawmill Company after 16 years as a mechanic. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed spending time hunting, fishing, trapping, carpentry and knife making. He was also an avid gardener and bee keeper.

In September 1964, he met the love of his life, Barbara Jean Bailey and were married on June 25, 1965. They enjoyed 57 ½ years together and raised two wonderful sons. He could build anything he wanted to, a self-proclaimed jack-of-all-trades, master-of- none.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Grover Lee Smith, Maurine Hudson Smith, brothers; Alton Smith, and Johnny Mack Smith.

Wilburn is survived by his loving wife; Barbara Jean Bailey Smith, sons; David E. Smith (Alice) of Clarendon, Michael L. Smith (Amy) of Stuttgart, grandchildren; Blake and Gabe Smith, great grandchild; Kathryn Wiley, brother; Calvin Smith (Linda) of Severance, CO, sisters; Carolyn Moore of Stuttgart; Alice Mayville (Buddy) of Clarendon.