Smith Walton “Walt” Tompkins Sr., 56, of Willisville, Arkansas, formerly of Magnolia, Arkansas, passed away on August 24, 2026, at his home. He was born in Magnolia, Arkansas, on November 20, 1969.
Walt was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He was strong-willed, one of a kind, and rough around the edges, but those closest to him knew the heart underneath it all. Life wasn’t always easy on Walt, but no matter what came his way, he kept going. He always tried, and he loved his family in his own unmistakable way.
He is survived by: His wife, Melissa Tompkins; his children, Smith Tompkins, Lacie Tompkins, Nolie Tompkins, and Lexi Tompkins; his grandchildren, Valarie Tompkins, Jayce Shackelford, Nova Shackelford, and Harper Tompkins; his parents, Wayne and Vicki Tompkins; his brother, Tommy Tompkins; his sister, Christian Tompkins; along with many extended family members and beloved friends.
He was preceded in death by: His brother, Chad Tompkins; his grandson, Dalton Gage Shackelford; and his grandparents, Labon Lacy Tompkins and Marie Tompkins, Nolie Walton Short, and Mary Jane Foster Short.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Cole Tompkins, Triston Tompkins, Ronnie Pipkin, Leon Butler, Grayson West, Alan Nix, Chris Parker, and Todd Gilfillian.
Walt leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, lessons, and memories that those who loved him will carry with them forever.
He was deeply loved, he will be deeply missed, and there will never be another quite like Walt.
At Walt’s request, there will be no formal funeral service. He wanted everyone to remember him as he was. After his ashes are returned to the family, we will gather together for a memorial to honor him, share memories, and celebrate his life in the way he wanted.
Walt would not want flowers. Please donate to your favorite wildlife foundation in his honor.