Carol Rayleen Smith

Carol Rayleen Smith of Temple Texas entered heaven on February 5, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe C. and Ozerene Watson Clark and her husband of 58 years, Doyle Gene Smith. She is survived by her children, Glenn Smith and wife Paula of Corpus Christi,Texas, Debra Herzog and husband Lloyd of Rogers, Texas, David Smith and wife Charlotte of Temple, Texas and Vickie Gerhart and husband Charles of Salado, Texas. She enjoyed nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Carol was born October 20, 1934 in Lamesa, Texas and graduated from Colorado City High School and the University of Mary Hardin Baylor. Carol taught for 33 years for Temple ISD, heading up the high school science department promoting many innovative programs. It made her happy that many of her high school students went on to be medical professionals, some of them even taking care of her these last few years. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, singing in the sanctuary choir and Celebration Singers. She was devoted to Women on Mission and the Naomi Sunday School class. Community service included Yellowbirds of Scott & White, scholarship program for the City Federated Club League, Retired Teachers of Bell County, Avolante Study Club, Temple Public LIbrary, and Churches Touching Lives for Christ.

At home, her passions were cooking, gardening and reading.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to send a memorial to Texas Baptist Men, Round Rock Children’s Home or First Baptist Church, Temple, Texas.

Private graveside services will be held at Greathouse Cemetery followed by a memorial at 11:00am Friday, February 9, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Temple.