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, Brianna Nicole (T.J). Long of Brookland, 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.