Charles Leroy Utt

Charles Leroy Utt Sr., born on July 15, 1944, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, in the same beloved city. He lived a life dedicated to education, compassion, and family, leaving an undeniable mark on all those who crossed his path.

For 14 years, Charles was a dedicated teacher for the Lake Hamilton School District, fostering a love for learning in countless students. His passion for education did not end there; he later went into christian ministry and education, where he continued to inspire and nurture young minds. His commitment to teaching was matched only by his dedication to ministry, as he sought to uplift the community through both education and spiritual guidance.

On March 10, 1967, Charles married Juanita, and together they built a loving family, raising six children who would continue his legacy. He is survived by his loving wife, Juanita Utt; Four sons: Freddie Utt Branch (Elena), Charles Utt Jr. (Martha), Sean Utt (Theresa), and Freddie Utt (Candee); Two daughters, Tiffany O'Neal (Thomas) and Tara Garces (Carlos); Brother, Gary Thomson (Gwen); Brother; Theron Summit (Lynn); Sister, Sherry Mitchell and her late husband, John Mitchell. Another sister, Brenda Jo Avant and late husband Pat; Sister, Sharon Lee Dimler (Larry); Sister, Charlotte Osteen (Eddie); Cousins, Suzanne Utt and the late Carolyn Utt. Charles was also a proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren, including Edgar Cassidy, Brianna Hoffman (Paul), Joshua Cassidy (Greyson), Joseph O'Neal Jr. (Candace), Chyanne Brown Utt, Freddie Utt II, Landon Vanhorn (Zy), Caleb Cassidy (Bailee), Justin Vanhorn, Jared Utt, Kayden Vanhorn, and Gabriel Mayer. He delighted in the joy of his great-grandchildren, Scarlett Hoffman, J.B. O'Neal, and Waylon Hoffman. He is also survivied by several neices and nephews.

Charles is preceded in death by his mother, Grace Summit; father, George Utt; and step-father, Aldon Summit.

The Utt family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice Services and Dr. Kyle Roper for their compassionate care during Charles's final days.

Friends and family are invited to honor Charles’s life. A visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home - Hot Springs on November 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on November 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the same location.

Charles Leroy Utt Sr. will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his students, and his community. His legacy of love and leadership will carry on through those he leaves behind.