Derwood Smith

Thomas Derwood Smith, 92, of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Little Rock. Known for his larger-than-life personality, quick smile, and heart for helping others, Derwood never met a stranger and left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered.
Born on July 29, 1933, in Wilmar, Arkansas, to Stanley E. and Gertrude Morgan Smith, Derwood grew up surrounded by small-town values that shaped his lifelong love for people and community. After moving to Pine Bluff in 1950, he graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1951 and went on to serve in the Arkansas National Guard's 875th Engineer Battalion.
Derwood began his working life at the Cotton Belt Railroad before finding his calling in the service station business. For over 50 years, he owned and operated Derwood's Exxon, Dairy Bar, and Car Wash - a true Pine Bluff landmark. The community affectionately dubbed him the "Mayor of Cherry Street," a testament to his friendly nature and unwavering commitment to those around him. His dedication extended beyond business as he served eight years as a City Alderman and held leadership roles in both the Quapaw and Summerset Condominium Associations.
A man of faith, Derwood was a longtime member of Watson Chapel Baptist Church and, more recently, Sulphur Springs Baptist Church. He lived his beliefs daily, serving others with humility, humor, and generosity.
Even after retiring, Derwood never slowed down. Whether driving his friend Ferd Bellingrath on countless adventures, welcoming visitors at Ralph Robinson and Son, or working at Sissy's Log Cabin with his dear friend Sissy Jones, he cherished staying active and building connections.
Derwood loved the Arkansas Razorbacks, keeping his yard pristine, and birdwatching from his home. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories, watching the Hogs play, or lending a hand on a project. His eyes told his story - lighting up at the sight of friends, sparkling when helping someone, and glowing with love for his wife, Janelle, his partner and best friend for 35 years.
Derwood was preceded in death by his parents; his children, Woody Smith and Vickie Smith Caldwell (Paul); his brothers, Stanley Smith, Jr. and Bobby Smith; and his sister, Shirley Pitts (Joe).
Survivors include his beloved wife, Janelle Emery Smith whom he married on April 13, 1990; children, Debra Hawkins of Memphis, TN, and Greg Smith (Aby) of Chesapeake, VA; stepsons, J.R. Harrell (Tracy) of Pine Bluff and David Harrell (Wesley) of Cabot, AR; sisters-in-law, Edna Smith and Jane Smith; grandchildren, Chris Caldwell, Sarah Sim (Nick), Will Caldwell (Brittany), Joshua Hawkins (Stacey), Patrick Smith, Darby Smith, C.J. Harrell (Reagan), Tyler Harrell, Walker Harrell, Aidan Harrell, Cameron Cobb, Ali Rushing, Matt Harrell, Easton Harrell, and Presytn Harrell; and great-grandchildren, Colt, Blaine, Cooper, Sadie, Bill, McKenna, Madden, and Marlee. He also leaves behind dear friends Dotty Varvil, Scarlet Hatcher, Sissy Jones, and Tina Rodgers, who shared in his life's many joys and adventures.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Becky Lindsey and Tom Wynn, whose kindness and care brought comfort and joy during Derwood's final journey.
Visitation will be Thursday, September 11th, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Ralph Robinson and Son Funeral Home in Pine Bluff. A celebration of Derwood's life will be held Friday, September 12th, at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Brother Mike Holcomb officiating. Interment will follow at Cypress Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sulphur Springs Baptist Church, 9127 Sulphur Springs Road, Pine Bluff, AR 71603.
Online condolences: www.RobinsonFuller.com