Emmett Eugene Smith

Emmett Eugene Smith, 85, of San Antonio passed away, Tuesday, February 27, 2018 in Willow Park, Texas. Emmett was born October 20, 1932 in Henderson, Texas to Emmett and Lorette Smith. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. While in college, he was a member of the Varsity Tennis Team and was awarded Gulf States Conference Champion. He was inducted into the “S” Club, an athletic honor, and was a member of the R.O.T.C., graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1956 and served 11 years. While in the Air Force, he received numerous awards and was a Captain, Fighter Pilot, and Instructor Pilot. From 1971-1984, Gene was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Texas Air National Guard. He served our country for 25 years, primarily flying the F-101, F-4, and F-100 Fighter Jets. During his time with the Air National Guard, he was a Captain for Braniff Airlines and later Continental Airlines flying the 707, 727, and DC-9. Gene enjoyed flying his Van’s RV-4 Airplane in retirement.

He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed spending time at his lake home with his family. His love for the outdoors and adventure combined with his sweet and loving personality made him a man others could not help but enjoy being around. He lived life to the fullest and will be dearly missed.

Gene is survived by three children, Dixie Luque and husband, Ron of Plano, Dinah Smith of Carrollton, and Jett Smith and wife, Ginger of Aledo; Grandchildren, Chase Gilmore and wife, Melissa, Christina Vasquez, Savannah Vasquez, Dillon Smith, and Summer Smith; Great Grandchildren, Cameron Gilmore, Lincoln Gilmore, and Connor Gilmore; Sister, Betty Jo Snellgrove and husband, Gary of Baton Rouge, LA; one niece, Jennifer Baum and husband, Steve; one nephew, Gary Ward Snellgrove and wife, Jennifer; Great Nephews, Michael Baum and Ben Baum, and Drew Snellgrove; and great nieces, Meg Snellgrove and Anna Snellgrove. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside service: 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 9, 2018 at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery with Military Honors. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. www.alz.org

Galbreaith Pickard in Charge of Arrangements.