Uriah Smith_2fld (Purple

Precious Memories

Service of Celebration Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 11:00AM Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church 956 East Jefferson Avenue | Fort Worth, Texas 76104 Dr. Monty E. Francis Order of Service

Obituary Uriah Smith, affectionally known as Smitty, was born November 14, 1938, in Marlin, Texas, to the parentage of the late Sam and Roberta (Williams) Smith. He was one of twelve children born to his parents and entered this world with his twin, Mariah. Smitty received his formal education from the Marlin Independent School District. As a child, he enjoyed boxing, which he frequently recalled stories about. As an adult, he was employed for the railroads and worked in construction and at a factory, until he retired. Later in life, his passions were repairing cars, watching westerns, collecting scrap metal, and spending time with his family, especially playing cards and dominos. His caregiver spent a great deal of time with him outdoors and took him for walks often. He thoroughly enjoyed the company, the sunlight and scenery. He recalled his adventures nightly. Smitty met and married his first love, Lola Faye Williams Smith. Ten children were born to their union: Lola Pearl Johnson (Ricky); Manuel Williams; David Smith, Regenal Smith, Freddie Smith (Tonya), and Lee David Smith; David Stuart and Samuel Stuart; and the late Clifford Williams and James Smith and Uriah Smith, Jr. In 1999, he married Debra Kay Foreman Smith, who shared their lives together until her death in March 2023. Through their union he gained two daughters, Hollise Phillips (Michael) and Andrea Carter and one son, the late Brennan James Carter. Smitty valued family and readily accepted the role of patriarch, something his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews spoke highly of. For several of Smitty and Debra's nieces and nephews, they were the first primary childcare providers and together they accepted the role of grandparent figures. He loved to joke and laugh. He also loved to tell stories and share memories of his youth. He didn ’ t mind giving sound advice and he was stern. However, he was there with a helping hand, if needed. He was a good steward of all that was entrusted to him. Smitty transitioned from this life to eternity on Thursday, October 26, 2023. Smitty was preceded in death by his parents: Sam and Roberta Smith; his sisters: Alberta Johnson, Maria Manigo, Ernestine Harris, Clara Finely, and Ruby Smith; his brothers: Sam Smith, Jr., Caylee Smith, Jesse Smith, William Smith, and Charlie Smith; his sons: Clifford Williams, James Smith, Uriah Smith, Jr., and Brennan Carter. He leaves to cherish his memory his children, grandchildren, siblings (in - law), grandchildren, LeaTrice Tobin (devoted caregiver); a host of nieces and nephews, with whom the shared a special bond; extended family; and numerous friends.

Uriah Smith 1938 - 2023