John P. "Smitty" Pederson, age 53 of Harrison, AR passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at his home.

He was born June 14, 1952 in Indianapolis, MN a son of Theodore M. and Ethel (Giesler) Pederson. He had lived in the Harrison most of his life where he attended the Church of Christ. He loved fishing, the outdoors, and was an artist. He was also a route driver for Pepsi Cola Bottling Company.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Survivors are his wife, Patricia "Pat" (Rains) Pederson of the home; mother, Ethel Pederson of Harrison; son, Allen Pederson of the home; step-sons, James Sweeney and Donnie Phillips and his wife, Diane all of Harrison; step-daughter, Tammie Breger and her husband, Carl of Lead Hill; brothers and sisters, Ron Pederson and his wife, Joyce of New York State, Doug Pederson and his wife, Joanie of Berryville, Jerry Pederson and his wife, Karen of Bergman, Steve Pederson and his wife, Becky of Harrison, Karen Parker of Rogers, Patsy Brothers and her husband, Mike of Eustis, FL, and Terri Willis and her husband, Jack of Harrison; grandchildren, Brandon Phillips, Brittney Faught, Zack Lewis, Bailey Breger, Amber Phillips, and Libbie Phillips. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Graveside service was March 3 at Denning Cemetery with Steve Powers officiating. Pallbearers were Bill Thompson, Henry Pannell, Denzel Stringer, Seigel Stringer, Johnny Stringer, and Al Pierce. Honorary pallbearers are Tavis Villines, Roger Dickey, Joe Smith, Billy Evans, Robbie Evans, Jim Baughman, all the "special angels" of Hospice of the Hills, Dr. Ali Abdelaal, and Dr. Rainer Birk.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Hills, P.O. Box 1927, Harrison, AR 72602.