Marvin "Smitty" R. Smith

Marvin Russell Smith, known to family and friends as Smitty, passed away on December 28, 2016, at the age of 80. He was born to Rudolph Preston and Ada Jewen Smith on February 16, 1936. He was preceded in death by his parents: Rudolph and Ada Smith, brother: Warren Ray Smith, his wife Linda and their daughter Wendy Hanks. Russell is survived by his children, Dawn Oberpriller and partner Gary White, Mark and wife Debbie Smith as well as his youngest son, Shane and wife Ilona Smith. His family also consisted of 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. After graduating Reagan High School he was employed by Texaco, where he met the love of his life- Linda Lou Harry. They married May 23, 1959 shortly thereafter they started their family.

As Master Sargent, Russell spent over 41 years working for the U.S Air Force proudly serving his country.

After retirement, Russell enjoyed traveling to craft shows, woodworking and site seeing in the country with his animals.

His hobbies included:

-riding his bicycles daily in the neighborhood and chatting with neighbors

-spending hours shopping on the computer

-feeding all and any hungry animal that came in his path

Russell had a heart of gold. He was always willing to help his family and friends. He was a very giving man and made it a priority contributing to many charitable organizations.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be sent to an animal shelter of your choice.

Funeral services will be held at Houston National Cemetery, located 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038 on January 4, 2017 at 10:00 a.m..

Arrangements under the direction of Heights Funeral Home, Houston, TX.