Joseph Duane Flatbush

Joseph Duane Flatbush of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith. He was born on July 8, 1956, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to the late William Edward Flatbush, Jr. and Trudence Darlene (Hayden) Flatbush. He was 69 years old.

Joe was a retired District Manager for Southwest Times Record, where he dedicated many years of service and built lasting relationships throughout his career. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, and he enjoyed traveling and collecting, finding joy in exploring new places and pursuing his interests. Above all else, Joe cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and treasured great-grandfather. His kindness, dedication, and love for those closest to him will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, DeAnne (Newsom) Lee; a daughter, Alicia Marie Knotts and husband Donnie of West Fork; a son, Jeremy William Denson and companion Desiree Newton of Bella Vista; his step-children, Amber Robison, Ashton Merriman, and Adam Robison, all of Fort Smith; three sisters, Vickie Steckel, Linda Upton, and Karen May and husband Fred, all of Illinois; a brother William Flatbush and wife Vanita of Florida; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Cremation Services in Fort Smith, 914 N. 32nd St. Fort Smith, AR 72903. (479) 434-3901 or (479) 965-8202.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.