J. Smith, Sr.

J.V. Smith, 76 of Odessa, died Friday, November 14, 2008, at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa.

He was born July 21, 1932, in Ballinger, Texas to J.V. Smith and Essie Pearl Jones Smith.

As a young cowboy from San Angelo, he met a young lady named Barbara Ann in Kerrville, and married her on October 17, 1960. Throughout the 48 years of their marriage, not only were they husband and wife, they were friends. They enjoyed taking trips and exploring museums together.

His passion in life was his family. He was a man of high morals and principles who instilled honorable values in his children. He was a man of his word, and a hand shake was all it took. His gift of storytelling constantly entertained family and friends. He loved history and could recite facts and dates from just about any time period. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting at the farm, and fishing. He loved old westerns and was a huge John Wayne fan.

He served in the Texas National Guard and U.S. Army from 1951-1956. He served his country proudly during the era of the Korean War and was honorably discharged in January 1956 as SSGT. During his early career, he was an accomplished salesman with several insurance firms and was recognized as a top producer with AFLAC. He grew up as a farmer and rancher at heart; and in later years, was able to pursue his love of livestock.

He was preceded in death by his mom, Essie Pearl Smith in 1995 and his father, J.V. Smith in 1965.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Ann Smith of Odessa, sons, James Jimmy Vernon Smith, Jr. of Odessa, and Vershel Alan Smith and wife Shelbae of Colorado City, Texas; daughters, Diana Kaye Workman and husband Larry of Odessa, Bonnie Janette McCleery and husband Phillip of San Angelo, and Wanda Wyonia Castro and husband Richard of San Angelo; brother, Vershel Hale Smith; sister Wanda Spurgin and husband Bill; eleven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

He will be greatly missed by all.

Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 PM Tuesday, November 18, 2008, in Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Bob Thayer officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

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