Luther Jefferson Smith Jr.

Luther Jefferson Smith Jr “Sparky” was born February 28th, 1941 in Houston, Texas. He passed away, October 23 in Wylie, Texas. His wife, Rosemary Renner Smith, parents, Luther J Smith Sr. and Honar Victoria Smith proceeded him in death along with older sisters, Evelyn and Barbara, nephew, Tommy and nieces, Billie Lynn and Dee have gone before him as well.

Sparky is survived by his son, Luther J Smith III “Luke” and sister Candace “Candy” Sue Smith plus several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Luther was nicknamed “Sparky” as a baby, long before he was a Dallas firefighter. His grandmother gave him the name. It had to make God smile, knowing one day that little guy would become a fireman.

Sparky graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas where he played football and baseball. He played baseball with his Mustang team in leagues all through school.

He received a baseball scholarship to Paris Jr. College. Upon completion, he and best friends, David Uloth and Alvin Farley joined the US Navy. Stationed in New Orleans, Sparky was given the opportunity to play semi-pro baseball for the Navy.

Sparky was accepted as a candidate for the Dallas Fire and Rescue Dept and began Rookie School in April 1964. He worked hard to eventually make Captain and taught in the Dallas Fire Academy. Ut He loved teaching rookies but missed the action and leading a crew. Stations #3, and #6 were two of the stations he served. He was known as “Capt.” to his crews who served under his outstanding leadership and mentorship.

Sparky spent many years lobbying In Austin for the Dallas Firefighters Association. He was always trying to make a difference.

Sparky would often say, I” am so grateful to do a job that I love to do!!!!” He felt called to serve in this way.

Sparky and his crew were was honored over the years with recognitions. In March of 1986, Sparky was presented with the esteemed, John Stemmons Award. The award is presented to only one firefighter per year. for outstanding service. The plaque reads “This award recognizes exceptional contributions to the Fire Department while exemplifying the highest ideals of the profession throughout a distinguished career.

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Sparky was forced to retire after an injury in May of 1995. He became very active on the board of The Dallas Retired Firefighters of Dallas. He served on the board until he was unable to attend physically.

Through all of the years Rosemary was by his side while balancing her own career as an RN. She and Sparky dated for almost 10 years and married September 3, 1977. She was the love of his life. The whole family loved Rose. Then, March 27. 1981, Luther. J Smith III “Luke” was born.

Sparky loved Luke and was so proud of him. He attended every band concert, game, or talent show. The Three Smiths were a Disney family, a vacation family. Always creating fun memories.

Sparky’s faith in Christ was solid. His hope for eternal life was strong.

Sparky was baptized at Ferguson Rd Baptist in Dallas when he was 15. He and his little sister, Candy were baptized together after giving their hearts to the Lord.

When Rosemary became so critically ill. Luke was young. Sparky never left her side. He asked God to save her life. He promised to be united as a family in faith and vowed to be a catholic.

She got well miraculously and Sparky became a catholic. They rarely missed church until they both were physically unable to attend.

His spiritual life grew.

In recent days. Sparky and his sister would talk about faith, the hope of eternal life. Jesus.

One day, Sparky asked his sister, “Hows mom? Their mom died in the 90s. His sister replied, “I think she and Rose are fighting to be first in line to welcome you into heaven. They are probably telling Jesus what to do!”

Sparky just laughed and laughed. He was looking forward to that reunion. WE are all looking forward to our renunion.