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Paul Turner Smelser
July 15, 1966 - February 14, 2026

Paul Turner Smelser of Harrisburg departed this life on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, AR at the age of 59 years, 6 months and 30 days. He was born in Los Gatos, CA and lived most of his life in California and then retiring to Arkansas. Paul fought the good fight with resilience and strength. He never met a stranger and had a memory that held every detail and every story close. He loved with his whole heart and will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him. He was preceded in death by his father, James Paul Smelser. He is survived by four daughters, Sara Naomi Gallagher-Metcalf of Sarasota, FL, Brianna Nicole (T.J.) Long of Brookland, AR, Jordyn Ashley Smelser of Fresno, CA, and Ashley Nicole Smelser of Jonesboro, AR; his mother Bonny Smelser of Stockton, CA; one brother, David Smelser of Naniano, Canada; one sister, Teresa (Timmy) Moss of Stockton, CA; two grandchildren, Ensley June Long and Azalea Naomi Long. Honorary Pallbearers are David Smelser, Mark Morton, Andy Dugas, Mike Hanks, T.J. Long, and Charles Smelser. The family will receive friends Friday from 4:00 until 5:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home. A celebration of life will follow after visitation at First Pentecostal Church, 407 Christy Ave. in Trumann. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers an account has been set up at Thompson Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses. An online register book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

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Service details

Visitation: Public/Visitation

February 20, 2026
04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Thompson Funeral Home
220 VIVA DR
Trumann, AR 72472-1208

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  1. Mark and Pam Vasquez, Stockton, Ca says
    February 21, 2026

    To the entire Paul Smelser Family. Our sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved Paul Smelser. we have known Paul for over 25 years. He was a gentle person with one of the biggest hearts a man could have. His faith in god made him very strong even when life made tuff turns. His friendship to me, my wife Pam, and our whole family is something that doesn´t come often. His determination to be a great father is reflected in his children. His work ethic was second to none. He is sorely missed and we are thankful that the good lord has accepted him with open arms into heaven. Know that his memory and friendship will last a lifetime. May he rest in peace. Mark and Pam Vasquez Stockton, Ca.

  2. Mark Morton, says
    February 17, 2026

    My heart and prayers are with each of you. Paul "Polywog" was a trusted and valued friend for 45 yrs. I will miss him dearly.

  3. Craig O’Brien , Jonesboro,AR says
    February 17, 2026

    Paul was a good friend. I loved this man, he came to my house and helped me do things when no one was available. I would call and ask questions and he would have some sort of answer. He definitely loved his kids he told me that all the time. He loved to also tell me that if no one could fix it he can or could, and he would too. Ha. Paul you will never be forgotten and always missed. Love you bub.

  4. Pinkie, Lodi, CA says
    February 17, 2026

    Wow, just wow. I can't believe I'm actually reading this while looking at your smiling face. You were alright, Paul. I had a lot of fun with you. You were always a great dad and loved your girls beyond measure. You were a true "girl dad". I'm gonna miss your "out of the blue" calls and texts. Just saying hi and how were things. I'm so sorry you were taken to soon. I hope you didn't suffer and I pray you are at peace with your dad. I still can't wrap my head around this one. You will always have a special place in my heart. Love you my friend. Until we meet again...rest in peace.

  5. Paul David Seagraves , Eagle River, Alaska says
    February 16, 2026

    Our Prayers and Condolences for the family.

  6. Kenneth Alexander, Mineola, Tx says
    February 16, 2026

    I know you will be missed! It was a honor to see you just a few short weeks ago. We will hold your family in prayer.

  7. Debbie Smith, Buffalo,Mo says
    February 16, 2026

    Paul, you were a shining light, never knowing a stranger, always a kind word. I will miss you, but will meet you at the pearly gates.

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