Wendell A. Smith

He was born in Pisgah, IL in Morgan County near Jacksonville, Sept. 7, 1923 the son of Thomas Edward and Addie Lee (Witham) Smith. He served with the 36th Infantry of the United States Army during WW II. Wendell married Esther Lee Witham in Denver, CO Mar. 21, 1944 and she preceded him in death Sept. 19, 1996. He was also preceded in death by his 3 sisters and a step brother.

Wendell worked for the 7-up Bottling Company and then for Central States Coca Cola where he served in route sales and retired as an inventory clerk in 1988 after 14 years of service. A few years after retirement, Wendell was asked to come to work at the McDonald’s on Clearlake where he served as the hospitality host in the lobby. He was there for 19 years.

Wendell was a member of the Apostolic Gospel Church and became ordained in Bloomington, IL. He and his wife pastored the Full Gospel Pentecostal Church in Illiopolis for many years. He is a past member of the Four Square Gospel Church in Jacksonville, IL. He was a past Scout leader with Pack and Troop 1 in Springfield. He was a member of the PTA at Wanless School and the Teamster’s Local 916.

Surviving are his children; Warren (Connie) Smith Sr. of Springfield, and Joyce Lee McElyea of Paris, IL, Seven grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, his brother, Edward Smith of Jacksonville, IL and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation: The Smith family will receive friends from 1-4 pm on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen, Springfield.

Funeral Service: Mr. Smith’s funeral service will be held on Monday, Jan. 11, 2016 at 10 am with his son, Warren Smith Sr. officiating, assisted by Pastor Leroy Donathan . Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery where the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will provide Military Honor’s at the graveside. Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Ronald McDonald House or a charity of choice. Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.