Reflections
Carl Eugene “Gene” Smith 1934 – 2019
Carl Eugene “Gene” Smith was the 15th child born to Melvin James and Bessie Davis Smith, January 3, 1934 in Coffeyville, Kansas. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Marvin Smith, Melvin Smith, II, Francis Smith, Vera Smith Jett, Octavia and Juanita Smith, Helen Smith Armstrong, Ruth Smith Yolkum, Opal Smith Lucas, Darlene Smith Jenkins, Wesley M. Smith, Christine Smith Figures, and Geraldine Smith Clemoens; son, Ricky Whitney and three grandsons.
Eugene attended schools in Kansas City, Kansas, graduating from Sumner High School in 1952. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, completed two tours of duty in Viet Nam and was honorably discharged in 1973 with 20 years of service.
Upon his return to Kansas City, he worked at Armco Steel and retired from the Kansas City, Kansas School District as a Custodian at F.L. Schlagle High School. In his spare time, he completed two Associates degrees from the Kansas City, Kansas Community College.
Eugene was baptized by his father, Rev. Melvin J. Smith at the Walnut Boulevard Missionary Baptist Church as a teenager. He was ordained as a Deacon in the late 1970’s at Walnut Boulevard where he faithfully served. In his later years, he joined the Oak Ridge Missionary Baptist Church where he continued serving as a Deacon. He reached Deacon Emeritus status.
His favorite pastime was playing Pinochle with his Tuesday evening Bunch! He was an avid bowler. He adored his wife and family, which included their dog, Prince. His favorite saying was, “Never fear, the Good Guy’s Here” as he flashed his big beautiful, infectious smile.
Deacon Smith transitioned from death unto life, Monday morning, August 5, 2019.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 44 years, Anna Jean Smith; children: Anthony W. “Tony” Johnson, Dakota Whitney, Melvin Alexander Smith, Sr., and Kimberly Smith Collins; several grandchildren and great grandchildren ; brother in-law, James Satterwhite, sister in-laws: Barbara Ballinger (Sam) and Ernestine B. Smith; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, church members and friends.
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