LTC Thomas C. Smith III

Thom was born in Phenix City, Alabama on July 6, 1953. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Auburn University. He met his wife, JoDean, while working as a Director at the Ritz Theater in Gadsden, Alabama. He joined the U.S. Army in 1982. He received his Masters in Healthcare Administration from Baylor University. He retired as Lieutenant Colonel after serving 22 years in Healthcare Administration. After retiring from the military in 2005, he began serving Veterans as Assistant Director and thereafter Director of the Central Texas Veterans Affairs hospital. After serving there eight years, Thom moved on to assume the Directorship role at the Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Throughout his career, each challenge presented to him was met with calm integrity and tireless dedication. As a leader, he was equipped with the innate talent to perceive the positives in each situation and a passionate commitment to see tasks through to the very end. Those who had the privilege to work with Thom always found it a special pleasure to know him.

Thom was a devoted husband and father. He loved his family fiercely and he sacrificed much to provide and care for the ones he treasured. Home truly was where his heart was. Between his brilliant witticisms and tireless love, Thom could be found beaming brightest when surrounded by his family. His Catholic Faith was of the utmost importance to him, and he truly sought to live each day according to Christ’s example.

He is survived by his loving wife, JoDean, son Justin and daughter-in-law Molly, son Drew and daughter-in-law Angie, daughter Adrienne and son-in-law Richard Stravitsch, daughter Emily and son-in-law Daniel Henson, daughter Laura, and daughter Kathleen, and fourteen grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Kaye Latulippe, Phyllis Mann, and Deborah Smith, who he loved and cherished greatly. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Thomas C. Smith II and Ganelle Putnam Smith. Visitation will be Tuesday December 18, 2018 at Jeter and Son Funeral Home Dallas, TX.

Graveside Service will Tuesday December 18, 2018 at Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation.

I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13