Thomas Eugene Smith of Thornton passed away suddenly, early Monday morning, March 7, 2022, at the age of 77 in the V.A. hospital in Temple with his family close by. Thomas, also known as Tom by many, was born on March 30, 1944 to J.L. and Winnie Applegate Smith in Belton, Texas. He attended school and grew up in the Belton area. Tom was a proud Navy veteran who first enlisted on August 25, 1961 and was honorably discharged after two enlistments and six years of service on August 1, 1967. When returning home from his first tour with the Navy from Vietnam, Tom’s sister Nelda introduced him to the soon-to-be love of his life, Nelda Bennight. After just two dates, Tom was smitten and proposed. They were married on March 10, 1965, at Nelda’s parent’s home in Belton, Texas.
The couple moved to multiple different towns with their three boys, John, Scott, and Mark in tow. Although they moved a lot, it never stopped their house from feeling like a home. Tom was a hard-working man who proudly and selflessly provided for his family as a welder and truck driver. His boys have fond memories with their father on trips in the “big rig” with their dad and Uncle Bobby; riding the boat on Lake Belton and going fishing and camping together. Tom and Nelda eventually made their way back to Groesbeck to be surrounded by family and to spoil their great-grandkids. No matter which generation of kiddos, either great or grand, Tom was always known as “Grandpa”.
He enjoyed hunting, attending his grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sporting events, giving his great-grandkids rides on his scooter, getting new vehicles, taking his daily trips to Brookshires, sneaking sweets, and spoiling his beloved dog, Bubba. Tom had a giving heart and was a smiling and friendly face in every room he entered and never had trouble making a friend or starting a conversation. At the age of 72, Tom accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior without hesitation in front of a large crowd of family and friends on October 15, 2016. Over the next few years, he grew within his faith as a Christian, praying daily and developing his devout and personal relationship with his Father in Heaven.
Tom is survived by his son Scott Smith, son Mark Smith with wife Melissa. Grandchildren Britney Knight, Scott Smith Jr. with wife Laura, Mandy Smith, and Mark Smith Jr. Great-Grandchildren: Haze Smith, Emerson Freeman, Dakota Beveridge, Dax Smith, and Crew Smith. Bonus Daughter Jean Scott with husband James. Bonus Great-Grandchildren Aubree and Brynlee Beveridge. Siblings Bobby Smith with wife Reanette, Ima Faber with husband Eddy, Dorothy Harper, Nelda Lewis, Thelma Fisher and many nieces, nephews, and loving friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nelda Smith; son, John Smith; parents, J.L. and Winnie Applegate Smith.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given in Tom’s memory and love for animals to LARAS House, the Limestone Animal Rescue Adoption Shelter. 1517 TX-171, Mexia, TX 76667. (254) 292-9552.
The family would like to give a very special thanks to Dr. Anderson and the wonderful nursing staff at the VA in Temple for providing such exceptional care for their beloved father and grandpa.
A memorial service will be held for Tom on Sunday, March 13th at 2:00 p.m. at the Thornton Cemetery.
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So sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed his company at family gatherings splashing that smile always a friend. May God keep his memory bright in your hearts.