Robert Smith

Robert Smith was born April 30, 1960, in El Dorado, Arkansas. He was a devoted family man and hardworking entrepreneur. He passed away on September 18, 2025, at the age of 65.
Robert began working in the restaurant business at the young age of fifteen, when his father opened a small fast-food chicken restaurant. At just twenty-one, he purchased the family business, beginning a lifelong career dedicated to serving others through his passion for food and hospitality.
In 2008, he fulfilled his dream of opening the first Flying Burger in Magnolia, Arkansas. What started as a small, modest restaurant quickly grew into a thriving business known for its fresh burgers, chicken wings, and later, seafood. His vision, dedication, and determination helped expand Flying Burger into a beloved gathering place for many communities.
While Robert was proud of his work, his greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who worked tirelessly to provide for them and to pass down the values of perseverance and kindness.
Robert was a member of First Baptist Church, Magnolia, Arkansas. The church and Sunday School have been a place of comfort for Robert and Gina during this illness.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Martha Rose Jinx Smith and his father, Thomas Alan Smith.
Robert is survived by his wife, Gina, his children, Ben (Kait) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Michael (Jennifer) of El Dorado, Arkansas, Landry (Kailey) of Magnolia, Arkansas, Lexie Tennison (Keeton) of Ruston, Louisiana and Emy Smith of Ruston, Louisiana. His bonus children, Lindsey Thomas of Jacksonville, Florida and Hayden Fant of Texarkana, Texas.
His precious grandchildren Georgia and Grayson Smith, Molly and Spencer Smith, Tyton and Keaston Tennison and Theo Smith.
His siblings Janie Smith and his favorite brother in law, Martin of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Max Smith (Stevie) of Dallas, Texas, Ricky Smith (Cleo) of Ft Lauderdale, Florida and Susan Bartlemay (Bill) of Longview, Texas. His stepmom Syble Smith of Little Rock, Arkansas. His father and mother in law, Dean and LaCrecia Barry of Texarkana, Texas. And numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are Tommy Cline, Russell Taylor, Larry Fowler, Rusty Hayes, Jerry Hollensworth and Pete Polk.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Magnolia, Arkansas. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. Private family burial will follow service.
Robert's legacy will live on in his family, in the community he served, and in the countless lives touched by his generosity and strong work ethic. He will be deeply missed.
Memorials can be given to First Baptist Church, PO Box 456, Magnolia, Arkansas 71754.