Ann S. Smith

Ann S. Smith, wife of Dr. Eugene W. Smith, passed away on September 9, 2025. Miss Ann was born in West Helena, Arkansas, on October 15, 1933, to Bruce and Grace Slaughter. She earned an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Arkansas State Teacher’s College and, after marrying Gene Smith in 1956, received her Master’s degree from Old Miss.

She taught in the Jonesboro School District before choosing to retire to stay home with her children. Miss Ann served as first lady of Arkansas State University from 1984 to 1992 when her husband, Dr. Eugene W. Smith served as president. She was as outgoing as she was loved and will be greatly missed.

Miss Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Brucine Owen, her husband Dr. Eugene W. Smith, and her son, Bradley Eugene Smith.

She is survived by her daughter, Lucinda Smith McDaniel, and son in law Mike McDaniel.

Pursuant to her wishes, there will be no formal memorial service. Instead, Miss Ann asks that anyone wishing to remember her please donate to her scholarship at Arkansas State University which supports a member of the Arkansas State University Marching Band. Donations can be made to the Ann Slaughter Smith Marching Band Scholarship, P. O. Box 1990, State University, Arkansas 72467.