Henry L. Smith

Henry Loyce Smith passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012 at Wisteria Place Nursing Center. Visitation will be 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 10, 2012 at Community Memorial Funeral Home, 1443 North 2nd . His life will be celebrated with a graveside service in the Hamby Cemetery on Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. His son-in-law Mike Patrick will preside.

Henry, who was called Buddy most of his life, was born on Jan. 21, 1928, in Blevins, Arkansas, to Ray and Effie Bell Smith. After serving in the Army, he met and married his wife and love of his life, Norma Jean Carr, on July 26, 1947. They moved their family to Texas in 1955, living briefly in San Angelo and Sweetwater before moving to Abilene in 1956, where he and Norma have lived ever since.

For almost 40 years, Henry worked for West Texas Lawn Sprinkler Company, which he later owned and operated. He and Norma ran the business until they retired in 1993.

Henry was a member of North Park Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for many years before his health declined.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters. He is survived by his wife Norma of 65 years; his daughters, Nancy and husband Mike Patrick; Peggy and husband Jerry Bramblett of Dallas; Stanley Burkman; three grandsons, Kevin Burkman, Keith Burkman, and Jason Patrick; and four great grandchildren as well as one brother Raymond Smith, and nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Barry Moak and his staff, the wonderful staff of Wisteria Nursing Center for their care and concern, and Hendrick Hospice Care.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Meals on Wheels or Hendrick Hospice Care.