John Mac Smith's Obituary
John Mac Smith passed away on Tuesday morning, September 24, 2013, at his home in Longview, Texas. He was born on January 2, 1924 in Hawkins, Texas, to Robert Bert Smith and Bird McGrede Smith. On August 29, 1953, he married Mary Lou Barnwell and they celebrated 60 years of marriage this year.
John received a BBA degree from Baylor University and an LLB degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He was licensed to practice law in 1953. He began his career with Earl Roberts Sr. and spent his entire legal career in Longview, ending with the firm of Harbour, Smith, Harris & Merritt.
He also graduated from the US Naval Reserve Midshipmen School at Columbia University in New York City, and received a commission as an ensign. He participated in the Okinawa invasion of WW2 while stationed
aboard the USS Teton.
John was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife Mary Lou Smith, his daughter Karen and her husband David Schwalb of Dallas, and his son Bruce Smith of Longview. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Stephen and his wife Lauren Schwalb of Dallas, Andrew Schwalb of Los Angeles, California, Emily Smith of Hyde Park, New York, and Sarah Smith of Tyler, Texas. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Faison of Norman, Oklahoma.
The family wishes to thank Faith Hospice of Longview, and his loving caregivers, Pat Harvey and Kiska Caldwell.
Those who wish to make a donation in lieu of flowers may do so to the Faith Hospice Services of Longview, 4362B Hwy 259N, Longview, Texas 75605, or First Baptist Church Longview, 209 E. South Street, Longview, Texas 75601.
Memorial services for John Mac Smith, 89, of Longview will be 2 PM Thursday at the First Baptist Church under direction of Rader Funeral Home with private family committal be at Rosewood Park Mausoleum. Mr. Smith died Tuesday morning September 24, 2013 in Longview. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 5 to 7 pm.
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