Orval “Gene” Smith passed away Sunday, July 9, 2023 at 8:40 a.m. after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s. He was born May 4, 1937, in Strafford, MO. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Lillian, his daughter, Terri Brown, who he was so proud of and a fine son-in-law, Terry Brown, Two grand-daughters Ashley McIntyre and her husband, Ryan and Lindsey Hutchison and her husband, Chris. Ashley and Lindsey were Gene’s pride and joy. His greatest love was spoiling and surprising them with toys and gifts, including their first cars. Also surviving, a sister Frances Barnes, a step-grand-daughter, Nicole Wieland and son, Joseph, special cousin, Freda Carroll, four great-grandchildren: Emerson, Barrett, and Ramsey Hutchison and Landrie McIntyre. Gene was a hard worker and enjoyed his successes in the trucking business, so he flunked retirement, but managed to keep busy with his cattle and hay business, along with the love of his Antique Cars.
Gene was a fun loving and generous person, but rarely gave compliments. So when He did, it was special and you knew you deserved it. He was a member of the Strafford Masonic Lodge and a 50 year member of Abou Ben Adem Temple in Springfield, where he helped organize the Greeters Club. He also enjoyed being a member of the Fraternal order of The Eagles Lodge in Ozark, MO.
A special thank you to Phoenix Hospice for their exceptional care, especially Nicole, Debbie and Breanna, who went above and beyond to care for Gene. Our family will continue our traditions and remember all the happy memories he left behind. Life goes on but it will never be the same without you. You will always be our hero and we will miss you forever.
A Memorial Visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 13, 2023.