George McAlister

George Franklin McAlister (92) of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026 surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of Christian service, scholarship, music, mentorship, and steadfast devotion to faith, family, and community. He was born August 30, 1933, to Guy Wesley McAlister and Florence Marie (Kraft) McAlister in Hackett, Arkansas.

George believed strongly in the value of faith in the Lord, music, and education. His passion for history extended beyond the classroom, reflected in his love of reading, thoughtful conversation, and appreciation for the people and places that shaped Arkansas.

George was also a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Fort Smith for 68 years. He especially loved serving the Lord by decorating the church for Christmas, sharing his joy, creativity, and devotion to the church family during his favorite time of year. In addition, he directed an adult ensemble and the senior high bell choir.

A lifelong educator, George devoted his career to teaching history at Westark Community College (25 years) and Northwest Arkansas Community College (25 years), where he inspired generations of students to think critically about the past and its connection to the present. Known for his thoughtful lectures, steady presence, and deep knowledge, he made history come alive in the classroom and left a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike.

George’s love of music began early and stayed with him throughout his life. He was a proud member of the Fort Smith High School Marching Band and later the University of Arkansas Marching Band. He also served in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1957, where he played alto saxophone in both the Marine Corps Marching Band and the USMC Jazz Band. His most precious memories in the USMC Marching Band was playing for the opening of Disneyland (1956) and marching in the Rose Bowl Parade (1956).

It was on the University of Arkansas campus in 1959 that he met the love of his life, Martha Kathryn (Dalton). They were married on August 22, 1959, beginning a partnership filled with love, devotion, and shared memories that endured throughout their lives.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Martha Kathryn (Dalton) McAlister, daughters Laurie (Anthony) Apple of Rogers, AR, and Amye (John) Drackett of Fort Smith, one granddaughter, Kathryn Apple of Dallas, TX, and one grandson Charles (Chase) Chambers, Jr. of Sallisaw, OK. He is also survived by extended family Jeff and Lisa Neil of Fort Smith, and their children Caitlin Neil, Emma (Jarrod, Thea, McAlister) Echols, Merritt Neil, Sawyer Neil. He is also survived by two step-grandsons Austin (Emily, Reanna Fuller and Sterling) Drackett and Payton (Danielle, Nate and Betty) Drackett. They will remember him for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

He was preceded in death by his parents Guy Wesley and Florence Marie McAlister and six sisters. George Franklin McAlister will be remembered as a faithful follower of Christ, devoted educator, gifted musician, loving husband, father and grandfather whose life enriched everyone who knew him.

A private burial will be held at the Fort Smith National Cemetery followed by a memorial service held at First Baptist Church, Fort Smith on Thursday, April 30 at 1:00 PM. A reception will follow the memorial service to visit with the family in the fellowship hall.