Obituary of Homer Earl Smith

Homer E. Smith was the first born of a twin on June 3, 1938 in Tyler, Texas of Smith County, to the loving parents of Homer Smith and Ely Mae Smith. He grew up in the Butler College Community and attended W. A. Pete Elementary School. Later, he attended Emmit Scott High School, played sports, and participated in many other school activities. Homer was a member of St. James Baptist Church where he was active in the Junior Choir and Sunday School. Homer’s nickname was “Twin” from birth through his college days. He attended Butler College and Texas College and graduated in 1960. He majored in Physical Education and minored in Biology. There, he met his longtime soulmate, Ouida M. Sanders, of sixty-four years and to this union one child was born, Shjuania Gail Smith.

Homer began his teaching career in Jewett, Calvert, Hemphill, Wilmer-Hutchins, and later in Dallas, Texas. His tenure at Wilmer-Hutchins included coaching and motivating students. His motto to students was: “Stay motivated, study hard, stay focused, and make good decisions.” Coaching and teaching students to become independent citizens for the future was always Homer’s dream. He also worked in the summers during the 1970s with the Dallas Neighborhood Youth Program, which assisted the youth with finding employment. Overall, Homer E. Smith dedicated over 43 years of his life training and encouraging our youth.

Homer was a member of the Texas State Coaching Association and the National Teachers Association. He won the District Championship in Basketball and was runner-up in many games. He enjoyed coaching and his players loved him.

            He is survived by his wife of sixty-four years, Ouida Smith; daughter, Shjuania Smith; grandson, Danté Smith; and three great-grandchildren, Cain, Samiya, and Danté, Jr. all of Dallas, Texas. His twin brother, Harvey Smith of Tyler, Texas; sister, Betty Walker (Larry) of Rusk, Texas; brother, James Smith (Media) of Cedar Hill, Texas; and sister, Lavern Edward (Donald) of Dallas, Texas. His niece, Stephanie King. He leaves a host of great nieces, nephews, and relatives.

           He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and sister, Margaret King.