Buford Boyd Latta

Buford Boyd Latta, 86, of Fort Smith, Arkansas passed away at home on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Buford retired from Superior Bank as Operations Manager in 2002, after more than 40 years in the computer and banking industries. Buford Latta was born on January 24, 1939, to Samuel Boyd and Essie Mildred(Treadwell) Latta. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sharon, their daughter, Laura Lea Latta, a sister Louise Fitzjerrel and a brother Melvin Latta. Known for his generosity, thoughtfulness, kindness, and unique “cornball” sense of humor, Buford was well-loved in the workplace, throughout the community, and especially at his home church- East Side Baptist Church.

Buford first became a Deacon in 1970, and he faithfully served in that role at every church he attended from that time forward. He was a man of a deep, Godly conviction- participating in several mission trips—including one to Brazil with his brother-in-law, David Patton, where they helped build a church. For years, he also delighted in coaching his grandson’s T-Ball and Pee Wee baseball teams through the Fort Smith Church League- an experience that brought him tremendous joy.

Buford leaves behind his children, Brent Latta of Springdale, AR; Valerie Davis of Taos, NM; Tamara Latta of Rogers, AR; and Sharon Kelley Latta of Fort Smith, AR.

He is also survived by grandson Chase Pulis, wife Carli, great-grandson Lucas; grandson Clint Pulis, wife Linda; brother Wayne Latta, wife Sharon; sister Carol Wallace, husband Jimmy.

Visitation with family and friends will be held from 4-6pm on Friday, November 21, at Ocker-Putman Funeral Home of Fort Smith.

Funeral services will be held 9:30am, Saturday, November 22, at East Side Baptist Church with a private burial to follow.