11 May 2025 501DER WOMAN 2025: Reba Smith

Reba Smith had no idea that taking up her sister on an offer to work together would lead to her “forever job.”

Smith, Arkansas Director of Operations for StoneBridge Senior Living, said her sister was an activity director in a nursing home and asked if she’d come work with her. “I started as a social director in a nursing home, then eventually became the billing specialist, marketing director and then the administrator. When I joined StoneBridge as the administrator of the cottage-style homes in Cabot, I knew I had found my forever job,” she said.

The most rewarding part of her career is “spending time with our residents, listening to their life stories and building those lasting relationships with their loved ones,” Smith said. “When you care for someone, you are also caring for their loved ones. You build lifetime friendships that will continue even when your services are no longer necessary.”

Smith said serving as regional director allows her to “continue doing what I love while building up others in their careers in assisted living.”   

She praised her team. “We have very dedicated women who have put forth the time and effort to continue their education to be better caregivers and leaders,” she said. “Being part of making that happen makes my heart happy.”

Smith believes there is a “little bit of Wonder Woman in all of us,” especially her mother.

“My mom is my hero. She taught me that no matter what challenges or disappointments life throws my way, there is always a reason to be thankful,” she said. Her mother was partially paralyzed after an accident and was told she would always use a wheelchair. “Her determination to walk and faith in God’s ability to heal her made her able to walk with a walker. She is a perfect example of strength and compassion.”

Smith is also passionate about her ministry of serving free weekly meals at her church, Vilonia Assembly of God. “Whether your gift is to teach, serve or care for others, just to name a few, they were specifically given to you for a greater purpose,” she said.