Earl Smith Flood

Earl Smith Flood, age 93, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, in Barling, Arkansas. He was born on December 12, 1932, in Graves County, Kentucky, to the late Ennis Flood and Ruth (Smith) Flood.

Earl shared a devoted and loving marriage with the love of his life, Vivian N. (Howard) Flood, whom he married on July 18, 1960.

A lifelong believer in the importance of education, Earl earned his undergraduate degree from Murray State University and later received his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Illinois. His professional career was marked by dedication and service to others. He spent more than 20 years as a teacher before serving over a decade as an administrator in Christian schools across three states, including St. Louis, Missouri; Williamstown, West Virginia; and Fort Smith, Arkansas. In 1987, Earl began a new chapter by founding Flood Janitorial, a business he operated with pride and determination.

Earl also honorably served his country in the United States Army for two years. Outside of his work, Earl found joy in simple pleasures. He enjoyed exercising, walking his dogs, and caring deeply for the many beloved pets he had throughout his life. He was also a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Above all, Earl will be remembered for his unwavering faith and steady presence. The center of his life was his service to the church, particularly at West Ark Church of Christ, where he faithfully served as an elder for many years. He devoted countless hours to serving his church family and living out his faith through action and example. To those who knew him best, Earl was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and man of integrity whose life reflected kindness, wisdom, and devotion.

Earl is survived by his two sons, Paul Flood and John Flood; his five grandchildren, Jennifer (Logan) , Julia (Jeremiah), Jessica (Tyler), Michael (Liz), and Benjamin; and his nine great-grandchildren, Haven, Luke, Leah, Ava, Gavin, Judah, Aaron, Eila, and River.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ennis and Ruth Flood; his beloved wife, Vivian Flood; and his sister, Barbara Johnson.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. A graveside committal service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Fort Smith National Cemetery, with Chris Benjamin officiating. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the West Ark of Church of Christ in honor of Earl.