Gene Smith, age 85, of Waco, was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 14, 2021 after being surrounded by his family.
Memorial Service: 11AM Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Church of the Open Door with Pastor David Arnett officiating.
Gene loved his wife and six children more than life itself. It didn’t matter who you were, his door was always open. No one that came in his door ever left with an empty stomach or without a grand tour of his knife and gun collection. He told the best stories and was so talented with his woodwork and making beautiful handmade knives and canes. He taught his children what hard work meant (and boy did he work them hard) but he wanted them to be independent and productive.
Gene and Barbara built a legacy on 68 years of marriage and were faithful to their vows to the very end. From his early years, he was an avid coon hunter and always had a story to share about every dog and every hunting trip. He shared this love with his boys who continue to hunt to this day. He was a husband, a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, best friend and our hero! He will forever hold our hands and our hearts.
He loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren with all his heart and they idolized him. Gene’s life lessons will be carried on through them so that his spirit will live on forever!
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Margaret Smith; sister, Ruby Shaw; brother, Billy Smith; and grandson, Jordon Smith.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Barbara Smith; son, Stanley and wife Vicky of Sherman; son, Steve Smith and wife Beckie of Valley Mills; daughter, Susan Wright and husband Dan of Waco; daughter, Sandra Abshier and Chuck of Waco; son, Sid Smith and wife Crystal of Speegleville; and daughter, Scarlett McMillan and husband John of Crawford. He is also survived by 35 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to express a special thank you to the Lutheran Sunset Ministries and Hospice for their loving care.
Gene was loved by many and will be terribly missed by all.
The family would like to express a special thank you to the Lutheran Sunset Ministries and Hospice for their loving care.
Gene was loved by many and will be terribly missed by all.
If you would like, floral arrangements may be delivered to the Church of the Open Door.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Place of Service: Church of the Open Door , 900 N. Loop 340; Waco, TX 76705
Print Obituary & Condolences
Scarlet, John and family. I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers during this sad time. Love and hugs. Jackie and Sammie
So sorry I loved hunting with him an his stories
Our heart felt condolences to you and your family. We love y’all so much, our prayers are with you
We are so sorry for your loss. Your grandfather, father will be remembered fondly as a very caring and compassionate person and we thought the world of him. All of you will always have a special place in our hearts. Please except our deepest sympathy.
Smith family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the Lord wrap his loving arms around you and hold you close.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time!🙏🙏🙏
My broken heart prays for THE HOLY SPIRIT to comfort your Beautiful Family. Mr.Smith was a role model for how to love one another and raise children to be adults who follow his lead. May you find Peace Mrs.Smith until you reunite ~
🙌💗🕊
We know he was such a special man and will be sorely missed. Praying for comfort and peace, and that you feel the love of the Lord with you during this difficult time.
To all the Smith family. Your parents have always been special to me. And I always felt the love they had for everyone. I will truly miss one of the sweetest man I’ve every known. Scarlett you are my sister and your family has always felt like mine. Prayers for all of you.
Barbara and family,
I’m so sorry and my condolences for all of you.
I would have loved to been there.
I love ya’ll with all my heart.
May God give y’all the strength today.
Love you all
Linda and Jerry Willett
So sorry for your loss, prayers going up for all of the family.
My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. Prayers are going out for you and your family.
Melana and your entire famiily
May your memories and God’s eternal love be a source of comfort at this time.
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your father/grandfather! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Scarlett and family
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers for you all!
I am so sorry for your lost Gene was a great Man .I met Gene when I was a little boy when my Dad was pouring concrete my Father bought Rowdy
From your family when i was 13 I always Respected Gene May God help you through these days of sorrow knowing he is in Heaven and you will meet up again.
Always such a sweet soul, enjoyed visiting anytime we came for family functions. I am Doris and Bud Williams daughter and live in Bandera Tx. Blessings to you. Love Gloria and Rick Thompson.
So very sorry for your family’s loss. May the lord help you find peace in these difficult times.
Bob and Sheryl Jabre