Wayne S. Smith

Wayne S. Smith, 74, died Monday, February 3, 2020 at Christus Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler, TX due to complications from a stroke.

He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Ruth (James) Smith; his son, Charles Smith; daughter-in-law, Julie Smith; three grandsons: Austin, Aaron & Adam; cousins; and many close friends.

Wayne was the son of Urshiel and Mable Smith and was born in Corsicana, TX. Most of his life was spent in Dawson, TX.  He later moved to Millsap, TX and then Pittsburg, TX to live near his son.

Wayne graduated from Dawson High School in 1964; Navarro College in 1966; and Sam Houston State University in 1968.  He was a teacher in Fairfield, TX for 9 years; Navarro College for 9 years; then at the Corsicana State Home for 11 years, where he retired as a state employee from the Texas Youth Commission.  The primary subjects he taught were Texas History and Computer Science.

He actively served his community as the mayor of Dawson, TX for 8 years, and served on the board and as President of North Rural WSC while living in Millsap, TX.

He enjoyed traveling until his health became an issue and visited at least 35 states.  In his later years, he enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to play 42, rummy, blackjack and checkers.

The family is going to miss him greatly, but is thankful he isn't going to suffer with health issues anymore.

A graveside memorial will be held at the Dawson, TX cemetery on Sunday, February 9 at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made to a charity of your choice in his honor.