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Arthur Louis Smith, loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend to all who knew him, embraced God on February 16, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness- as well as a collection of marathon and half marathon medals, earmarked Bibles, and well-worn baseball caps. Born on November 11, 1964, in McAllen, Texas, Art was best known for his unwavering faith, tireless work ethic, and bright eyes and smile. He spent his early years supporting his parents, Jack and Maria, in McAllen. Eventually, Art moved to San Antonio, where he raised two daughters, grew his business, and met and married his wife, Mary. Arthur’s faith remained the cornerstone of his life: he attended Oak Hills Church and often shared passages of Scripture with loved ones as reminders of hope and grace. He was a man of boundless love and interests. When he wasn’t cheering for the Spurs or sneaking chocolate from the pantry (a habit his eldest daughter proudly inherited), you could find him lacing up for a run, grilling up something savory in the backyard (perhaps with a Shiner Bock in hand), or offering love to one of the beloved dogs in his life—Tank, Buddy, Lucy, and Zeus. He loved embracing new adventures—be it a family RV trip across Texas or a spontaneous night sleeping on the beach in a tent. Arthur leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary, as well as two adoring daughters: Celesia (26) and Bella (23), and his stepson: Brandon (25), all who love and miss him dearly. He also leaves behind his extended family and a legion of friends who remember his warm smile, selflessness, and Nacho Libre impersonation. Art’s mother, Maria Zuniga Smith, and father, Jack Alan Smith, preceded him in death. We know they are with him now. Art was many things: He was a fighter who defeated stage 4 colon cancer. He was the guy who always found a seat for you at the table (especially if there were flautas from Las Palapas or lasagna from Albi’s on the menu). He was a father who taught his daughters and stepson to be guided by love, forgiveness, and grace. He believed in the healing power of a good Scripture verse, a brisk run, and anything chocolate. Through every challenge, he reminded his loved ones that no matter what life throws our way, faith and family come first. Though we mourn that Art left us much too soon, we take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his parents, Jack and Maria, in eternal peace—no doubt wearing one of his baseball caps and rooting for his favorite teams from the best seat in the house. In his memory, we promise to love big, look to God, forgive quickly, and find a reason to smile every. He always told his loved ones to “make it a great day.” While that seems nearly impossible without him, we promise to do our best.

Tributes

Arthur Louis Smith

November 11, 1964 - February 16, 2025