Bill Hurt, Jr.

Bill Hurt, Jr., a visionary entrepreneur and beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. He was 86. Bill's life was a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a keen eye for opportunity.

Throughout the course of his life, Bill founded numerous business ventures that would shape the economic landscape of northeast Arkansas.

In 1964, Bill, along with his father Bill Hurt Sr., started Southern Marketing Affiliates, today known as SMA, Inc. Over the intervening 66 years, SMA, Inc. has grown to be one of North America’s largest distributors of after-market parts used in agriculture. Bill served as chairman of the board of SMA, Inc. from 1997.

In 1966, he launched Stor-All Tool Box, which manufactured tool boxes of the type that fit on the back of pick-up trucks. His success with Stor-All spawned another area-based tool-box manufacturing company, Delta, which he eventually owned via a merger of the two companies. Bill sold Delta in 1987, yet the company still carries on today as Delta/Apex Tool Group.

In 1979, Bill and his brother Porter Hurt co-founded Sun Industries, which grew to become a leading manufacturer of tanning beds in North America. Despite initial skepticism from his peers as to the viability of such venture, Bill saw potential in the tanning industry and, over two decades, nurtured Sun Industries into a thriving business.

His ability to recognize and seize opportunities was unique, and other ventures he co-founded, including 501 Steakhouse and Omar's Uptown, continue to impact the restaurant scene in Jonesboro today.

Bill was very active in his community, serving as president of the Jonesboro Country Club (1977), member/chairman of the Jonesboro Airport Commission (1981-1990), a founding member of the A&P Commission since 1976, chairman of the Finance Committee of First United Methodist Church (1978), and board member of various banks including Citizen’s Bank, Pocahontas Savings & Loan, Merchant & Planters Bank, and Iberia Bank. He was a proud member of Sigma Chi Fraternity (Omega Omega chapter, University of Arkansas), as well as the Catfish Club, a local men’s social group. He also served in the delegation from the state of Arkansas to the 1992 Democratic National Convention.

In his personal life, Bill was a devoted family man. He often said, "All I want to do is take care of my family," and he did just that. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and he took great pride in their accomplishments. Bill's legacy is carried on by his children, grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched through his work and generosity.

Bill Hurt, Jr. had a gift for putting things in motion and then enlisting others to join him in taking those things to unforeseen heights. His restless personality and boundary-pushing nature made him a formidable presence in any situation, but he also knew when to step back and let others shine.

Bill Hurt, Jr.'s passing leaves a void that will be felt by many, but his legacy will live on through the businesses he built, the people he helped, and the family he cherished. He was an American original and a prolific entrepreneur. His life was a remarkable journey, and his memory will continue to inspire us all.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Emerson Memorial Chapel, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be observed prior to the service at 9:00 a.m. Following the service, a buffett luncheon will be provided at 501 Steakhouse.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation , reflecting Bill's enduring respect for nature.

*Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205