Arlen Ray "A.J." Smelley Jr.

A Celebration of Life Service for Arlen Ray "A.J." Smelley, Jr., will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 3:00 PM, at the Dickie Allen Funeral Home Chapel, in Cushing, Texas, with Pastor Toby Self Officiating.

Arlen Ray "AJ" Smelley, Jr. entered into eternal rest unexpectedly due to health complications. Though his passing was sudden, his life was marked by faith, love, and devotion to his family. AJ loved the Lord deeply and lived each day to reflect his Christian faith. He was often seen walking with his staff, joyfully sharing the gospel with all who would listen. His kind spirit, unwavering faith, and gentle strength left a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know him.

AJ loved his family dearly, especially his beloved son, Devin Smelley, and his devoted grandmother, Mardell Smelley, who were at the center of his heart and life. He is also survived by his father, Arlen Ray Smelley, Sr. of Cushing, TX; his brother, Joshua Smelley of Pasadena, TX; his aunt and uncle, Sonya "Sissy" and Terry Faver of Cushing, TX; and his many cousins, Tommy Baxter of Dallas, TX; Chase Baxter and Terran Speaker of Mt. Enterprise, TX; Steven Kelley of Moody, AL; Talon Hart and his wife, Emeral Hart, of Pipe Creek, TX; and Ashley and Darius Buckley of Lufkin, TX. AJ also leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews-Winter, Ethan, Ashton, Addy, Ryan, Chelsie, Maizette, and Phoenix-along with great-aunts, great-uncles, and numerous extended family and friends who will forever remember his loving presence.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Kay Smelley; his grandfather, James Ray Smelley; his aunt, Janet Lynn Smithers; and many other loved ones who welcomed him into eternal peace.

AJ's life was a testimony of his unwavering belief in Christ. His family and friends take comfort in knowing that he is now at rest with his Savior, reunited with those who have gone before him, and watching over those he so dearly loved.

The family invites all who knew and loved AJ to honor his memory not only through prayer and fellowship, but also by continuing the legacy of faith he embodied-loving God, sharing the gospel, and caring for one another.