Wesley M. Smith

Life’s Reflection

Born into a family full of love, Wesley M. Smith, Esq. was the eleventh child born to the union of Rev. Melvin James and Bessie Davis Smith in Ft. Scott, Kansas January 18, 1924. He was named after his paternal grandfather, Wesley Mack Smith, I. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings: Marvin James Smith, Melvin James Smith, Francis Wendell Smith, Vera Gwendolyn Smith Jett, Sophronia Smith, Octavia Smith, Helen Mona Smith, Ruth Amelia Smith Yolkum, Opal Naomi Smith Lucas, Darlene Marcella Smith Jenkins, Christine Mae Smith Figures, and Geraldine Marie Smith Clemoens.

Wesley attended schools in Coffeyville and Kansas City, and graduated from Sumner High School in 1943, however he celebrated with the Sumner Class of 1941, his original class. He joined the United State Marine Corps and had the distinct honor of being a part of the Montford Point Marine Corp. After his service in the Marine Corps, he returned home, and attended Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. He ultimately graduated with a Juris Doctorate Degree from Washburn. He was one of two African-Americans in his Class, and was a class mate to former Senator Robert Dole.

Wesley married his high school sweetheart, Ernestine L. Blackburn in 1945. To this union two children were born, Diana M. and Wesley M. Smith, III. They were also instrumental in the rearing of nephews Clarence R. Shaw, II, John Wesley Shaw and Joseph William Dobbins, III.  Wesley was a strict disciplinarian. The marriage was dissolved. In 1969, he married the former Wilberta Grace Howell. Wilberta also preceded him death.

He was an 83-year member of Walnut Boulevard Missionary Baptist Church. He was baptized by his father, Rev. M.J. Smith in 1934. He was licensed as a minister in 1967.

Wesley had a vast number of jobs over the years, but most notably remembered were his jobs at the Kansas State Highway as a State Trooper and as a lawyer. He practiced law in the State of Kansas for over 40 years. As he retired, he continued to work in the field of law, working as a researcher for area lawyers. His protégés include Annette Jackson and Rosie Quinn.

Wesley had a keen sense for good food. He knew every “good” eating establishment in the Kansas City Area, and the owners knew him. He frequented, Niece’s, The Peach Tree, Rosie’s Diner, just to name a few.

His “favorite girl” was his mother, Bessie. She had a way with her sons. When she baked pies, she would bake each their favorite pie, and then call them over so that they could get the pie. But for Wesley, she taught him how to cook. He cooked his meals until he no longer could take care of himself.

Attorney Smith possessed a brilliant mind, and with that shared the history of the Smith Family with members young and old. He felt the need for family to know the rich heritage of which they were a part. His best friends were his best friends. Often times on weekends you could find Carl Price, Sr., and Wesley going from house to house visiting family and friends. He talked with John Drew, Sr., until Wesley no longer could hold a conversation, they talked about everything but especially politics. His friend, Ed Simons, whom he met after Bert passed away, at a Grieving Support Group, often fellowshipped with one another. Mr. Simons was a frequent visitor at Providence Place where Wesley resided.

He loved life. He loved reading the newspaper daily, and working the puzzles in the paper. He loved his family and he loved the Lord.

Wesley passed away one day shy of his 93rd Birthday, January 17, 2017.

He is survived by his children, Diana M. English, Wesley M. Smith (Vonnie); brother, C. Eugene Smith (Anna Jean); grandchildren: Kevin Smith and Nicole Smith; his former wife and faithful friend, Ernestine B. Smith, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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