Billy Herbert Smith 1927–2011

Billy was born on April 16, 1927, in Tupelo, Texas, to the late Alvy B. and Lily (Mitchell) Smith. He married Minalee Wilson on February 3, 1952, in Wichita Falls, Texas. Billy graduated from Wichita Falls High and Midwestern State University, where he played football at each school. Billy was a disabled veteran who served in the Navy during World War II. He resided in Odessa, Texas, for 40 years and retired after 25 years as a Drilling Superintendant for Forest Oil Corporation. He was an avid golfer, outdoorsman, and enjoyed his RV – taking many trips to the mountains in Colorado. Billy was a family man; he loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren very much – and also was a loving son and brother.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Juanita Tufares of Wichita Falls, Texas.

Those left to cherish his memories include his wife of 59 years, Minalee Smith of Lubbock; daughter, Melanie Sanderson and husband Brian of Lubbock; son, David R. Smith and wife Karen of Burleson; three grandsons: Joseph Smith, Daniel Smith, and Matthew Sanderson; two granddaughters: Emily Sanderson and Heather Sanderson; two great granddaughters: Brooke Smith and Valerie Sanderson; sister, Diantha Dickens-Reznicek of Corsicana; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.