Aretha Ann Smithey

Aretha Ann Smithey, 94, of Ward, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. She was born on January 3, 1932, to the late Jesse and Dixie (Smith) Paul.

Aretha was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother whose life was filled with family, love, and treasured memories. She was married to the love of her life, Harvey Smithey, Sr., for 65 years before his passing. Together, they shared a beautiful life and a special love for flea markets. Many of their happiest weekends were spent side by side at the Beebe Flea Market, where they enjoyed being together and making memories.

She spent most of her life working at Searcy Industrial Laundry, operating Aretha’s Used Clothing and Antiques in Plainview, or selling treasures at garage sales and flea markets.

She loved watermelon, strawberries, peanut butter cake, and chocolate gravy. She enjoyed watching Cops on television and had a special fondness for cardinals (“red birds”).

She is survived by her children, Sharon Jones (John) of Finchville, Kentucky; Darline Osborn (John) of Prosper, Texas; Harvey Smithey, Jr. (Teresa) of Garner, Arkansas; and Tim Smithey (Phil) of Bentonville, Arkansas.

She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who will carry her memory and love in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey Smithey, Sr.; her parents, Jesse and Dixie Paul; her son, Rickey Smithey; and her siblings, Jeanette Simpson, Shirley Coleman, Jerry Paul, and Bill Paul.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Searcy McEuen Funeral Home.