Joann Smelser

JoAnn Smelser, 87, of Paragould, passed from this life on Friday, July 7, 2023. She was born on November 26, 1935, in Fontaine to the late Joe and Ruby Denham Pillow. JoAnn graduated from Lafe High School in 1954. She then graduated from Arkansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Master of Science in Special Education. JoAnn taught elementary education, special education, and resource during her career in the Lafe, Oak Grove, and Paragould school districts. She married Willie J. Smelser on July 6, 1954. In her spare time, JoAnn enjoyed ceramics. She had her own kiln, and she would often craft and paint ceramics that she would sell and gift to others. She also spent time quilting and sewing. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Ruby Pillow; grandson, Cody Smelser; daughter-in-law, Melonie Smelser; sister, Marie Howe; and nephew, Tim Howe.

JoAnn is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, Willie; daughter, Kathy (David) Johnson of Jonesboro; Ricky (Filiberta) Smelser of Paragould; grandchildren, Shannon (Samuel) Lantz of Jonesboro, Michael (Brittney) Johnson of Jonesboro, Heather (Nate) Pohl of Madison, Alabama, Meagan (Everett) Lane of Hooker, Edgar (Kateri) Aguirre of Indiana, Zuri Aguirre of Paragould, and Jennifer (Nick) Jones of Paragould; fifteen great grandchildren; brother, Jerry (Linda) Pillow of Paragould; sister, Sharon (Jerry) Jones or Jonesboro; and several nephews and nieces.

Family and friends will meet at Greene County Memorial Gardens for a graveside funeral on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 10 AM with Rev. Jerry Pentecost officiating.