Brandes Henry Smith

Following high school he resided in West Caldwell, NJ with his mother, Evelyn Kudlich and stepfather, Captain John P. Kudlich. Brad attended Rutgers University in New Jersey, graduating Magna cum Laude in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Subsequently earning his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Cornell University in New York in 1960.

Following university studies, Brad hired on with Standard Oil of New Jersey (Esso), which later became Exxon. In 1960, he joined Esso Research & Engineering and then moved to the Paramins Department of Esso Chemical where he developed additives for fuels and lubricants. In 1970, Brad and his family moved to Houston, TX with Exxon Chemical. In the late-1980s, Brad and Judy moved back to New Jersey, where he was the Purchasing Manager of the Chemicals Division at the Bayway Refinery. In 1990, they permanently moved back to Houston where he worked for Exxon Company USA in chemicals purchasing. In total he spent 30+ years with Exxon in research, product development, sales, planning and purchasing both in the New Jersey and Houston offices. In 1992, Brad retired to enjoy time with family, travel, and pursue his hobbies.

Brad had the honor of serving for three years in the United States Air Force as a First Lieutenant, and then Captain. He was stationed stateside in Washington, DC and Dayton, OH concentrating on chemical research critical to the military.

While attending college, Brad met the love of his life, Judith Nancy Dunn. They were married in 1956 and had three children: David Allan Smith, Nancy Smith Draper, and Steven Allan Smith. Brad and Judy have been blessed with 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life Brad was an ardent sailor, racing E Scows while in New Jersey and later sailing a 32’ cruiser on Galveston Bay. In addition, he was an avid stamp collector amassing a large collection over the years. In retirement Brad and Judy were busy travelers visiting more than 70 countries worldwide, sailing locally on their own boat and chartering sailboats in the U.S. and foreign waters. Brad was an active volunteer and an elder at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, particularly in Children’s Education and Facilities. Their greatest love was being with their grandchildren, often taking them with them on their adventures.

Brad is survived by his wife, Judy, his children, Nancy and Steve. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kathryn, Michael, Caitlin, Patrick, and Rachel, and great-grandchildren: Penny, Della, Heidi and Kinley.

A Memorial Service with a reception following will be held August 1, 2023, at 11:00am in the Chapel at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, 11612 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77024

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Camp Cho-Yeh

2200 S. Washington Ave Livingston, TX 77531

or

Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church

11612 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77024