August 27, 1949 ~ September 13, 2024
Private family services are planned to remember and celebrate the life of Louis “Eugene” Smith Sr. Eugene passed away at his home in Chelsea on Friday, September 13, 2024, with his family at his side. He was 75.
Born in Tulsa, OK on August 27, 1949, to Louis Ira and Bertha A. (Kenton) Smith. Eugene was raised and educated in the Catoosa area and attended Catoosa High School, graduating with the Class of 1966. He continued his education by attending Northeast Tech. Eugene faithfully served his country in the United States Army in the Special Forces unit. He was the father of four children and provided for his family working in the industrial and commercial construction business.
A man that liked to stay to himself. Eugene had a very small circle of friends. He was a man that liked to work and instilled in his children a strong work ethic. Eugene was a great provider for his children and family. He was proud of all their accomplishments and made sure their needs were met. When it came to discipline, some might say Eugene’s approach was a little different. According to his son, he would let them fight it out if it wasn’t inside the house. He taught all his children to shoot, and he shared his passion of fishing with them as well.
Eugene recognized the importance of a man’s word and handshake. To him it was as binding as a written contract. According to his children he was quick to share his personal philosophies with anyone that would listen. Eugene could be counted on to help anyone that he could and especially if he were asked for help. He liked his animals, especially his dogs, and made sure they were all well taken care of. No story about Eugene would be complete unless you mentioned his luck at the Casino. Perhaps one of his favorite destinations and rightly so as more times than not he walked out a big winner.
This Army Veteran has left a legacy that will live on in the lives of his family and friends. Eugene is survived by his children, Lynn Smith, Eugene Smith, Sue Degginger, and Bertha Smith, brother, Mike Smith, sisters, Kim Gunter and Crystal Karre, 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents and his infant twins.