Wendell Smith

Wendell E. Smith, 80, Rogersville, passed away Friday, Dec. 20, 2013, in his home surrounded by his family.

He was born Oct. 12, 1933, in Peace Valley, Mo., the son of the late Frank A. and Ether F. (Bennett) Smith.  

He was united in marriage on March 2, 1957, to Sally J. Pettey. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Mancil; two nephews, Frank and Mace Smith; and a brother-in-law, John DeShazo.

Wendell was a 1951 graduate of West Plains High School. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran serving from 1953-1957 and played for the Air Force Basketball Team. He worked for the Thom McCan Shoe Company for 14 years and retired after 25 years from R.T. French’s. He enjoyed farming, working in the yard, playing basketball, quail and deer hunting, family gatherings, the grandkids sporting events, traveling with Sally and the family, history, science and most of all reading Bible Spiritual. He was very fond of ice cream and Snickers.

He is survived by his wife, Sally; two daughters, Wendy Edwards and husband, Charles, and Jennifer Smith and Greg Roach; three sons, Kevin Smith; Jason Smith and wife, Lori; and Kelly Smith and wife, Shellie; two brothers, Norman and Edwin Smith; a sister, Vivian DeShazo; nine grandchildren, Derek Edwards and wife, Jessica, Justin Roach, Cory, Cody and Cole Smith, Jennalee Roach, Jansen, Matthew and Jordan Smith; a great-grandson, Brady Alec Edwards; and many other relatives and friends.

Graveside services, with military honors, will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013, in Smith Cemetery, Rogersville, under the care of J.D. Lee and Sons Funeral Home, Rogersville.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23, 2013, in the funeral home.

The family request memorial donations to Mercy Hospice, 1570 W. Battlefield, Springfield, MO 65807 or of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences and guest book signing may be made at www.jdleeandsons.com.