Cecil Smith

Cecil Smith, 74, of Glencoe, New Mexico went to be with our Lord and Savior Sunday, May 5, 2019 in Ruidoso, New Mexico at Lincoln County Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 7th at 11:00 A.M. at River Crossing Ministries located at 1950 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso, New Mexico 88345. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Cecil's honor to Gary Sinise Foundation (https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate).

Cecil was born on May 17, 1944 in Buna, Texas to Daniel Taylor (D.T.) Smith and Florine Wagstaff. He retired from the United States Army in 1987 after 20 years of distinguished service. Cecil was a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he proudly served alongside the brave men of the 1/9 Calvary. He earned numerous medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He was also the recipient of the highest honor bestowed by the Armed Forces during peacetime, The Legion of Merit. After retiring from the Army, Cecil began a career in public service as a psychologist for the state of Texas after earning his Master's degree from Chaminade University while stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii. He grew up in Kirbyville, Texas where he was a star athlete; playing catcher, on the Kirbyville High School baseball team. He continued to play baseball in junior college. Cecil loved his family, his friends and his country. He left an everlasting impression on every person he met and the countless hearts he touched; our world is filled with less joy but no less abounding love with his passing.

Cecil met the love of his life, Gwynn Marie Smith, in 2002. They were married in Allen, Texas on April 4, 2004. He is survived by Gwynn, his beloved children: Shanna Smith Carrizales, Jason (Jessica) Smith, Raquel (Shawn) Claborn, and Brent (Tauna) Duncan; and grandchildren: Ashton (Jake) Jordan, Garret Smith, Brandon Carrizales, Adelyn Claborn, Fallon Carrizales and Samantha Claborn; his siblings: Cleffie Kolander, Clifton Smith and Connie Smith and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family & friends. He was preceded in death by his parents D.T. and Florine.

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