Leland Gantt

Leland Gantt, age 91, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026. He was born on March 5, 1934, in Lavaca, Arkansas, to the late John and Maude (Wray) Gantt. He was also preceded in death by his stepson Stephen Shackleford.

On October 10, 1958, Leland married the love of his life, Charlotte Graves Gantt and together they built a life centered on love, friendship, and shared joy.

He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte Gantt; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of extended family and friends who will cherish his memory; his special friend, Paula Baker; and his goddaughter, Diana Baker-Perez.

Leland began working at the young age of 15 at the Boston Store, where his strong work ethic first took root. He later purchased Hunt’s Beauty Salon and went on to own and operate Leland’s Beauty Salon on 22nd Street in Fort Smith for more than 40 years. Through his work, he formed lasting friendships and touched countless lives in the community. For over 30 years, he worked alongside his special friend, Paula Baker.

A faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Leland lived his life grounded in faith and service. He loved spending time with Charlotte, especially visiting friends at the Fort Smith Senior Center and enjoying a good game of bingo. In 2024, the couple was honored as King and Queen of the Senior Center — a reflection of the joy and warmth they brought to those around them. Leland also loved dancing, telling stories, and sharing jokes, and he will be remembered as a generous and kind man who loved everyone, especially his beloved wife.

A Rosary service will be held at 6 PM Monday, February 23, 2026, at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. The Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Burial will take place at Mayberry Cemetery in Central City, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Mike Andrews, Mitch Andrews, Mark Andrews, Patrick Andrews, Alex Brewton.

Honorary pallbearers will be those who held a special place in his life, including Meagan Clark; Doug and Janie Graves; Clark Kaelin; Dr. Laura Grace Farrell; and his many dear friends from the Fort Smith Senior Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fort Smith Senior Center (2700 Cavanaugh Rd. 72908).

Leland’s legacy of kindness, laughter, and devotion to family and friends will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.edwardsfuneralhome.com