The Fort Smith community is deeply mourning the loss of Kurt Thomas LeBeau, who passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 43. Kurt’s sudden departure has left a significant void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Born on December 26, 1981, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Kurt brought warmth, humor, and a sense of dedication to every aspect of his life. His untimely passing has left his family and the community grieving, but his spirit and legacy will continue to live on through the memories he created and the deep love he shared with his family and friends.
From an early age, Kurt developed a deep connection to the land, growing up with a strong sense of family values. He spent much of his childhood outdoors, forming a bond with nature that would last a lifetime. Kurt’s love for the outdoors wasn’t just a passing interest—it was a central part of who he was. Whether he was tagging along on hunting trips with his father, casting lines into the quiet rivers of his youth, or helping out on the family farmland, Kurt found joy and peace in the stillness of nature. These early experiences shaped his deep knowledge of wildlife and land stewardship, and Kurt came to be known for his traditional skills, which he held in high regard throughout his life. For Kurt, hunting and fishing were not just pastimes—they were sacred rituals that connected him to his roots, his family, and the world around him.
Above all, Kurt was a family man. His love for his family defined everything he did. He was a devoted husband to Lindsay, his beloved wife, and they shared a partnership built on loyalty, patience, and unwavering love. Their marriage was a shining example of how two people can weather life’s challenges and celebrate its joys together. They raised three beautiful children, who were the light of Kurt’s life. As a father, Kurt took immense pride in teaching his children about life, instilling in them values that would last a lifetime. He taught them how to bait a hook, the importance of hard work, and the joy of spending time together in nature. His children knew him as their protector, their guide, and their most enthusiastic supporter. Kurt’s presence was a constant source of laughter, guidance, and love for them, and they will carry his memory with them forever.
Kurt’s career path was also shaped by his love of the land and his need to work with his hands. He found fulfillment in tilling soil, repairing machinery, and tending to livestock—tasks that allowed him to create something meaningful with his labor. He approached every project with humility and perseverance, showing the world the value of hard work and dedication. His colleagues and friends remember him as a man who could always be relied upon—a man of his word with a strong back and an even stronger heart. Kurt believed in doing things the right way, not the easy way, and he passed this ethic on to everyone he encountered.
Those who were fortunate enough to know Kurt remember him as a man of quiet strength and gentle wisdom. He had an uncanny ability to listen without judgment, speak with honesty, and share a laugh even on the hardest days. Family gatherings were never complete without his warm smile and quick wit. Whether gathered around a bonfire, a holiday table, or a backyard grill, Kurt’s presence made everyone feel welcome and loved. He had an innate ability to create a sense of belonging wherever he went, and his friends and family will forever treasure the moments they shared with him.
Kurt leaves behind a deeply heartbroken family. His wife, Lindsay, has lost her best friend and life partner, and their three children will grow up without the physical presence of their incredible father. Kurt’s parents, Richard and Tamara, will mourn the loss of a son who was more than a child—he was a best friend and confidant. His siblings, Kenyatta, Darius, and Tasha, who were his lifelong companions, now have to carry the weight of their grief without him. In addition to his immediate family, Kurt leaves behind a large extended family of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and lifelong friends who all cherished him deeply. Each one of them carries a part of his spirit—his values, his courage, and his unwavering love. They will hold onto his memory forever, finding comfort in the lessons he taught them and the kindness he showed them.
In his passing, we remember not just the man Kurt was, but the life he led—one of integrity, devotion, simplicity, and strength. Kurt was the kind of man who lived fully, worked hard, and loved deeply. His legacy lives on through the memories he created with his family, friends, and the countless people who were touched by his kindness and generosity. Kurt’s presence may no longer be with us physically, but the mark he left on the world will never fade.
A celebration of Kurt’s life will be held in the coming days, where friends and family will gather to honor his memory and celebrate the remarkable man he was. It will be a time for everyone who loved Kurt to reflect on the joy he brought into their lives and to share the stories that defined his character. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to a local wildlife conservation organization in Kurt’s memory, reflecting his enduring love for the natural world and his desire to preserve it for future generations.
As we say our final goodbyes to Kurt, let us all take a moment to remember him for the life he lived and the love he shared. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend—someone who exemplified what it meant to live a life of purpose, integrity, and love. Kurt’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the beautiful memories he created with them. Though he may no longer be with us, Kurt will remain a part of us always.
Rest in peace, Kurt Thomas LeBeau. Your spirit, your love, and your memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know you. You will never be forgotten.
