Eldred Smith's Obituary
Eldred Smith
Eldred Smith, 86, died Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at Good Shepherd Hospital in Longview following a brief illness.
He leaves his wife of 63 years, Ruby West Smith; his son, Stephen Smith of Longview, Texas; his daughter, Suzan Dortch and her husband, Rick Dortch of Sugar Land, Texas; and two grandchildren, Jonathan and Amanda Dortch.
Born on August 28, 1925, in Harmon, Louisiana, the son of Orie and Myrtle Smith, they moved to East Texas in 1935 when he was ten years old.
Following his graduation from Sabine High School in 1943, Mr. Smith served for three years in the U.S. Army Air Corps, 24th Combat Mapping Squadron, in China, Burma, and India. He was a B-24 gunner and flew "The Hump" in World War II. Returning from service in 1946, he met the love of his life, Ruby West, and they were married in 1948. Mr. Smith and his wife, Ruby, moved to Waco, Texas where he graduated from Baylor Law School in 1950.
Mr. Smith was a prominent practicing attorney for 55 years in the state of Texas. He was an avid horseman and enjoyed tending his ranch. He was also a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Kilgore and in Longview.
Visitation for Mr. Smith will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, December 9, 2011 at Rader Funeral Home. Private graveside services will be under the direction of the funeral home.
What’s your fondest memory of Eldred?
What’s a lesson you learned from Eldred?
Share a story where Eldred's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Eldred you’ll never forget.
How did Eldred make you smile?