William Jack Smith

William Jackson "Jack" Smith, 89, from Madison, Wisconsin, formerly of Parsons, Kansas, died peacefully on Friday, August 2, 2024, at Madison Pointe Senior Living.

Jack, as he was known to others (and Pop or Daddy to his children), lived a life of service. Whether as a clinical chaplain, a school board member, a Red Cross volunteer or the many other activities in and around Parsons, Jack was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and most recently great-grandfather, sharing his kindness and gentle words of wisdom and allowing people to be who they are, without judgment or criticism. He lived his life privately, yet generously, always giving and never expecting anything in return. He was gracious, loving, and dear to all around him. He will be remembered for his stories, his witty retorts, and often whistling a tune to lighten the load for himself and those around him.

Jack was born June 18, 1935, in Atlanta, Georgia, to John Truman "Jack" and Blanche R. (Elliott) Smith. He attended Lanier High School for Boys in Macon, Georgia, and the University of Georgia. Jack served in the United States Navy Reserves from 1957-1963. He later returned to Lexington Theological Seminary, where he graduated with a Doctor of Ministry degree.

On September 5, 1957, Jack married the love of his life, Arlice Gregory, at the First Christian Church in Tampa, Florida. From 1953-1957, Jack was a student pastorate, beginning his career in Kentucky, and extending his devotional work in Georgia and Kansas churches. He moved to Parsons in 1963 and began working at the Parsons State Hospital and Training Center in the role of Clinical Chaplain, as well as holding a variety of administrative positions. He retired from PSH&TC in 1999, after 36 years of service.

He was a member of the First Christian Church in Parsons and was active in the Parsons Ministerial Alliance. His community support was extensive, serving and providing leadership with the American Red Cross, Parsons Amateur Radio Club, Special Olympics Rodeo, Labette Community Players, and as a member of the Parsons USD 503 Board of Education.

He is survived by his wife, Arlice, of 66 years; his son, Elliott Gregory Smith and his wife, Melissa, of Monona, Wisconsin, and their children Ian Smith (Sophia) and great-grandson Jax Halstead Smith, llaina Smith (Bonnie Erickson), and Isabel Smith; and his daughter, Shirlene Bungo and her husband Michael of Palm Coast, FL, and their daughters, Tayler Bungo (Will Colón), and Caitlin Greatrex (Sean); his brother, Ronald T. Smith and his wife Iris, and their son Jarrett Smith (Diana) (two sons). Other family members include sister-in-law, Dr. Arlene Gregory, her children Shirlice Spence (Edgar) (three sons), Greg Spence (Laura) (three daughters), and Christine Hammersmith (Mike).

Visitation with the family will be at 9:00 AM with the service beginning at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the First Christian Church, 1500 S. 29th Street, Parsons, KS  67357 with the Rev. Jennifer Dawson officiating.  A private committal will be at a later time with the immediate family.

Memorials are suggested to the First Christian Church or the American Red Cross.  These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.

"The sound of a great name dies like an echo; the splendor of fame fades into nothing; but the grace of a fine spirit pervades the places through which it has passed..."   James Thurber 1894-1961