Richard Harold Smith

Richard Harold Smith went to his heavenly home on April 14, 2024 with his loving family by his side at his home in Cuero, Texas.

He was born to Clifford Smith and Lovey Lamerle Smith on February 6, 1936 in Goosecreek, Texas. Richard attended Haughton High School in Haughton, Louisiana where he graduated in 1954. He then went on to attend Victoria College in Victoria, Texas.

Richard retired from Dupont Plant in Bloomington after 35 years of distinguished service. Following his retirement, he owned and operated Victoria Presort for over 10 years. Later, he became Administrator for the Victoria Christian School.

Richard was a deeply spiritual man who felt his calling was to share God's love and message with others. He became the minister for Cuero Church of Christ where he touched many lives and spent 9 years leading a prison ministry at the Clarence Stevenson Unit in Cuero, Texas. Richard had a tender heart and a selfless love for others. His gentleness and sweet spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

'Papa Rich' is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jo Beth Smith; brother, Jack Smith; children, Lana Kay Cooley (Jay), John Harold Smith (Stacey), Elizabeth Fae Barta, Shane Rae Smith (Wendy), David Lee Smith (Laura), Lisa Wright Davis (Terry), Michael Charles Davis (Kim), Johner Martin (Melissa), Gavin Walter Davis and Ava LaRayne Davis. He also leaves behind a legacy of 21 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bobby Joe Smith and his wife, Kay, and Gary Burt Smith and his wife, Jane; daughter, Linda Karen Smith Upchurch and her husband, Frank; son, Mark Allen Davis; sister-in-law Bonnie Dutton; and motherin- law, Nina Luker Ramsey.

Services will be held at Freund Funeral Home in Cuero, Texas on Friday, April 19th, 2024. Visitation begins at 1:00 pm followed by a celebration of life service at 2:00 pm.

You may sign the guest book or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome. com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361-275-2343.