Charles William Alspaugh, 94, of Smackover, passed into eternity peacefully on Monday, Feb. 4, 2013, in Hot Springs. William was born Feb. 26, 1918, in Prescott, AR, to Charlie Milo and Linnie (Nutter) Alspaugh. The family relocated to Smackover in 1922.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 68 years, Mary Alva (Thomas); a grandson, Collin Vaughn Stephens; and two brothers, Harold Dean Alspaugh and David Brant Alspaugh.

He is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth Ann Lowerre, of Hot Springs, and Rebecca Jayne and husband Don Stephens, of Pearcy, AR; five grandchildren, Jody Williams of Bentonville, Maley and husband Shawn Walsh, of Anthem, AZ, Jason and wife Ginger Stephens, of Pearcy, Drew and wife DeAnja Stephens, of Fayetteville, and Corey and wife Amanda Stephens of Hot Springs; six great-grandchildren, Michael, Peyton and Parker Walsh, Bailey and Lila Stephens, and Carter Stephens; one brother George and wife Ruth Alspaugh of Berea, KY; and one sister Ruth Kathryn Odum of Nashville, TN; five nieces and six nephews; and special caregiver & friend Connie Gilbert Weathersby. William was a man of great faith and dedicated service to Smackover. He was the oldest member of the Smackover United Methodist Church having joined in April 8, 1928. He and his wife were honored at Make a Difference Day in 1999 for their years of outstanding service. As a Junior Assistant Scout Master in 1937 he attended the National Council of Boy Scouts of America in New York City and later served as Scout Master to the community.

William was a member of the Smackover Fire Department for 47 years, serving as fire chief for 45. At his retirement in 1983, he was surprised with a community-wide appreciation party. He was a member of the Buckaroo Band Parents Club, managing concession stands at basketball and football games which served as major fundraisers.

His lifelong passion for growing beautiful vegetable gardens kept him busy each spring and summer and lead to organizing a William’s Farmers Market at Kennedy Park in downtown Smackover. He enjoyed giving demonstrations to elementary children on “exactly” how to plant tomatoes.

William was the owner of South Arkansas Foundry and upon his retirement in 1985, traveled the United States with close friends and family. He was an active member of the South Arkansas Development Council and made many trips exploring ways to increase the economy of South Arkansas. His later years were spent watching the traffic on Pershing Highway and wishing he could be active in the community again.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Hudson Nursing Home in El Dorado and Lake Hamilton Health and Rehab in Hot Springs for months of excellent care.

A service of celebration will be held at Smackover United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 8 with Rev. Leon Dixon presiding. Visitation will be held in the fellowship hall one hour before and one hour following the service.

Memorials may be made to Smackover United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 43, Smackover, AR 71762.

The family will be at the Smackover Super 8 Motel.

A private interment will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Young’s Funeral Directors of El Dorado.