Dennis "Curly" Smothers was born March 21, 1931, to Andrew and Mattie Lou Smothers in Cross County, Parkin, Arkansas. Following the untimely death of his father when Dennis was just four years old, his mother moved the family to Jonesboro, Arkansas, in the early 1940s. Although Dennis received a formal education, he began working at a young age to help support his mother and siblings. He picked cotton, worked in construction, and took on various demanding jobs to help provide for his family.

Later, Dennis moved to Chicago in search of better job opportunities. He worked various jobs and even had a brief stint as an amateur boxer. Dennis met and fell in love with Willie B.Robinson, and the two were married on February 25, 1958. He began working for Electro‐Motive (General Motors) in LaGrange, Illinois, where he provided efficient, high‐quality service for over 25 years before retiring.

Dennis valued his health and walked three to five miles daily with his wife, well into his seventies. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cooking. Known as the family "historian," he could recall stories and events from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Most importantly, Dennis deeply loved his family and consistently promoted love and unity among them.

Brother Smothers joined New Birth Church Of God In Christ and accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior under the leadership of Pastor Johnnie B. Wheeler. Because of his commitment to God and dedication to the church, he was promoted to the office of Deacon by Bishop Willard L. Payton. He was well known for his sharp dress, friendly smile, and compassionate heart for helping those in need. Deacon Smothers faithfully served New Birth Church for many years until he relocated to Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 2005.

After he returned to Jonesboro, Arkansas, he rejoined his childhood church, Miller's Temple C.O.G.I.C., now led by his nephew, Pastor Glenn Conley. Deacon Smothers continued to fulfill his calling by serving faithfully as a Deacon at Miller's Temple.

In 2020, his loving wife of more than 62 years, Willie B. Smothers, preceded him in death. Shortly afterward, Dennis moved to Rowlett, Texas, to live with his nephew, Superintendent Mark Clemons, and family. He attended Pentecost C.O.G.I.C. as his health permitted and received loving care and supervision from the Clemons family. Deacon Dennis Smothers peacefully transitioned from this life in his sleep on December 14, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Mattie Lou Smothers, his wife, Willie B. Smothers; and all eleven of his siblings: Claude, Cora, Roy, Annie Lou, Estelle, Addie Mae, Nancy, Andrew Jr., O.C., Cari, and LouElla.

Dennis Smothers leaves to cherish his memory: Lionel, Gail, and Jacqueline. Grandchildren: Anthony, Felisa (preceded him in death), LaTanya (Julius), Brian, D'Artagnan, and Nikita (Bryce). Great‐grandchildren: Demetrius, Kayla, Asya, and Kelston; and two great‐great‐grandchildren, Rilynn and Denim. He also leaves a host of cousins and five generations of nieces and nephews.