Levi Benjamin Smith, age 39, of Russellville, Arkansas, died Wednesday, July 5, 2023, from complications following a severe asthma attack. He was a beloved dad to 2-year-old Edison and loving partner to CJ Hathaway, also from Russellville. He was born May 20, 1984, in North Richland Hills, TX to Gary Smith of Gatesville, Texas, and Cinda Heinen Smith of Batesville, Arkansas, and was a brother to Stacie Smith Martin of Memphis, Tennessee. Gone before him are all four of his grandparents (Darrah and Sue Smith of Mesquite, TX and Howard and Sue Heinen of Batesville, AR), several extended family members, and his faithful dog Walter. He leaves behind hundreds of friends, fellow musicians, and extended family who loved and admired him.
Levi struggled with his health nearly every day of his life, beginning with asthma as a toddler. As an adolescent and adult, more often than not, he was physically exhausted, had a heavy heart, and a mind that rarely rested. Still, out of that he created beautiful, evocative music that compelled people to feel. As a recording artist and songwriter, he produced three albums, wrote dozens of songs, and played all over his home state of Texas, as well as across the US.
Though school was never his thing, he was extremely curious, well-read, and smart, and could talk to anyone about almost anything. He was kind and gentle and stubborn as heck. He was humble and creative and the funniest person in the room. He was fiercely and faithfully loyal to his friends, and a complete pushover for those he loved. He found so much joy in being a father and primary caregiver, and it was obvious that being with Edison was his absolute favorite place to be. In the last few years of his life, he had found love and peace with his little family, and for that we are so thankful.
Levi was also generous, and gave all he had and all he was without reservation. We found out in the last days of his life that he had always intended to be an organ donor. He had a tattoo on his right arm of a recycling symbol that represented his intention to give his whole self at the end of his life so that others could live. We were proud to carry out those wishes for him, and know that many people will have a better life because of his gift.
We are grieving and sorrowful, but “we do not grieve as those who have no hope.” Levi continually wrestled with his faith, but after all the years of struggle, he still considered himself a believer. We trust that though eternity is beyond what we can understand, he is fully present with God, at peace and fully healed. We imagine him joyfully singing, laughing, and resting, lungs full of air, with his beloved dog Walter beside him.
We hope many can join us to celebrate and honor Levi in the coming weeks. A memorial service will be held on July 29th in Batesville, AR, and his legacy of music will be celebrated in a memorial concert on August 24th in Lubbock, TX. Instead of flowers, the family would love to receive notes, prayers, or stories and pictures others may have of Levi throughout his life.
Cremation arrangements are under the trusted direction of A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400. Levi’s online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
8 Comments
Levi! Your were my first best friend after coming to Christ. You taught me a lot things even though I was about four or five years older. You taught me the guitar or at least got me started and we stayed up late talking theology and girls. Your whole family adopted me and the time we both lived in Sulphur Springs is a highlight of my life. I remember when your family moved I wept when I hugged you and I don’t think you knew what to do! My best friend was moving. Of course I left Texas for college in Arkansas about two months later. I remember taking you hog hunting and your glasses always fogged up with Texas humidity and it always made me laugh so hard. You will be greatly missed friend even though we hadn’t spoken in many years.
Hello Robert. It’s so sad to hear that he is gone. Do you know if anyone has a copy of his CD? About a month ago I remembered a song he used to play called I’d Like to Thing so. I can’t believe he is gone.
To all of Levi’s family and, specifically, my dear friend and sister in Christ, Cinda, my heart goes out to you. Praying for you to have the love and peace of God so clearly present with you in the days ahead.
So sorry we can’t be there with you. We loved Levi and are so sad to know he is gone. Know that we are with you in spirit and love all of you very much.
I always fueled my anxiety filled days with his album, “the one with the bass and drums”. Those songs lifted me and made me so happy. I listened to his music for more than half my life on constant repeat. I have the heaviest heart writing this. Thank you Levi for your gifts. All of them.
So sorry for your loss!
Hoping to get ahold of his music. I went to Camp Zephyr when he was making his rounds and totally fell in love with his music. Over 2 decades, the CDs are gone but I still stream on youtube. I would love access to his cds again. Strongest condolences for his family and loved ones.
Levi, We prayed for you a long time, though we were never able to meet you. We know your precious Mom very well, ever since her time of study at Logsdon Seminary in Abilene. We celebrated with all of you at the birth of your son! And we will continue to pray for your family as they walk these lonely days without you. Blessings of grace and peace.
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