Freddie R Smith 89, a long time resident of El Paso, passed away unexpectedly on November 21, 2023. He was born August 6, 1934 in Louisville, Kentucky. Freddie was one of four sons born to Russell Smith and Lillian (Wall) Smith.
He served in Korea and Vietnam; he was stationed at Fort Bliss Army Base, where he worked at McGregor Range with R-CATS. He retired after 20 years with a rank of E6. Freddie was very proud to have served and always wore his Retired Veterans hats wherever he went. He was an avid CBer, his handle was Big Daddy, but through the many years he handle changed to Pancho. After retiring he worked in several car dealerships as a mechanic and also fixed cars in his home garage for family and friends.
He loved wood working and making things for family. Freddie loved going to storage auctions where he made a lot of friends.
Freddie is survived by his wife of 52 years Nancy J Smith, his three daughters Christine Capps, Karen Gardner, and Carol (James) Whistler; and his seven grandchildren Allen and Adam Chilson and Scarlet Lujan, Jerry Chilson and Cassandra Brogdon, Adria and Steven Gardner. He is also survived by ten great grandchildren and one special niece Yayoi Winfrey.
He is predeceased by his mother Lillian (Wall) Smith, father Russell Smith, his brother Bob Smith, and his son Eric Chilson.
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held Monday, December 18, 2023 at 1:30pm at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Avenue, El Paso, Texas.
