Moddie Eugene Smith

Moddie E. Smith, loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all, passed away on September 13, 2015 at the age of 87. Born in Luling, Texas, he is preceded in death by his parents, Moddie K. and Dorothy G. Smith, and wife Kathryne Myatt Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Evelyn, as well as his sister, June Philippus; son Steven Smith (Jacqueline), daughter April Myers (Bo), grandchildren Chris Myers (Michelle), Karisha Schattenberg (Charles), Shawna Schmidt (Michael), and Brad Smith. Moddie was blessed with four precious great-grandchildren, Spencer, Elaina, Zackary, and Camden. His profound love for his family was only surpassed by his devotion to God.

With deep roots in San Antonio, Moddie began his high school career at Brackenridge High. It was there he realized his true passion for music, and although clarinet was his primary instrument, he became equally proficient on Alto Saxophone. Moddie studied at North Texas State and St. Mary’s University before starting a long and rewarding career as a public school band director. Students from Lytle, Kenedy, Kerrville, San Antonio, Karnes City, San Marcos, and Temple were fortunate to have had his leadership, expertise, wisdom, love, and dedication.

While at North Texas State, Moddie was a tenor sax player in the Aces of Collegeland Dance Band, an experience that always held a warm spot in his heart. During the Korean War, Moddie entered the Air National Guard, was called to active duty, and assigned to Donaldson AFB in Greenville, South Carolina. There, he ultimately was assigned to the 566th, 18th Air Force Band. Once again, he was surrounded by fine musicians to whom he always credited for helping him to develop musically. He was extremely proud to serve his country in this way.

Moddie had the once in a lifetime opportunity to play with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, some years later. When one of their tenor Saxes became ill while on tour through Texas, he got the call to sit in and “play the book” as it’s called, for the upcoming concert. He was simply asked what size jacket he wore and given a time to show up! He felt so privileged to perform with such a class organization. It was by far one of his greatest “bucket list” fulfillments! Moddie also had the distinct privilege of being inducted into the Texas Bandmasters Association Hall Of Fame. This very elite accolade was one of the greatest accomplishments of his long career. As a dedicated educator and brilliant classical and jazz musician, Moddie shared his passion for music and the arts for 32 years as a public school band director and gifted soloist. His commitment to mentoring and inspiring both students and peers is a reflection of his character and devotion. His legacy will live on.

Respect, honor, integrity, and trust were the benchmarks by which Moddie lived his life and raised his family…always a gentleman, and a gentle man.