Clifford Arnold Smith obituary

Clifford Arnold Smith, 81, of Cowlington passed away peacefully Aug. 12, 2025 at his home.

Funeral services are 2 p.m. Friday at the Mallory Martin Chapel in Spiro with Reverend Clyde Hess officiating. Burial will directly follow at Short Mountain Cemetery in Cowlington, under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home in Spiro.

Arnold was born Aug. 4, 1944, in Poteau to Juanita Beatrice (Goodin) Smith and Clifford Aaron Smith. On March 13, 1967, he married the love of his life, Kay, in Clayton, New Mexico. They shared 57 years together before Kay’s passing in 2024.  A great loss especially to Arnold, who left a piece of his heart with her forever.

Arnold lived a life full of strength, grit, and determination. He became known for his athleticism at an early age.  He was a talented football player during his days at Poteau High School and had a fearless streak that led him to ride bulls in competition and train racehorses. He loved the outdoors, and was happy whether hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying nature. Arnold was also skilled with his hands, taking great pride in carpentry and woodworking, crafting things that were as sturdy and dependable as he was.

He was not one to shy away from hard work and spent years in the coal mines.  He never minded the hard labor, even though he was doing a job that demanded everything a man could give.  Until, in his early 30s, an injury in the Hartford Mine changed the course of his life. Even so, Arnold’s determination never wavered. He became the devoted caregiver to his beloved Kay, tending to her needs with the same dedication he showed in all parts of his life.

Arnold also had a special place in his heart for his two dogs, who were always close by his side, and they returned his
care with loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love.

Arnold is survived by his daughter Melissa Payne and her husband, Tom of Oologah; grandsons Josh Wann and wife Elizabeth of Wister, Jacob Wann and wife Tiffany of Claremore, and Jared Wann and wife Amanda of Poteau; great-grandchildren Cole, Jalynn, Jolee, Parker, Lucas, Logan, Lane, Lexi, Maddie, Kenna, Harper and Wrynlee Kate; sisters Marie McCroskey of Poteau, Nancy Johnson and husband Lewis of Dumas, Texas, and Cecelia Vermillion of Wister; along with many other family members and friends who will deeply miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clifford Aaron and Juanita Smith, his most beloved wife Kay Smith, and his brother Randy Smith.

Those who knew Arnold will remember a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and stayed true to himself through life’s challenges.  The big man’s hands built, his giant heart cared, and his remarkable spirit endured.  Arnold Smith’s legacy continues in the stories told, the lessons passed down, the love shared, and the family he treasured.

Viewing is from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Mallory Martin Chapel.