Rodney Lynn Smith

Rodney Lynn Smith
March 24, 1947 – June 5, 2024

Rodney “Pappy” Smith of Whitney, TX, passed away on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 77 years old.

Rodney was born in Meridian, MS, on March 24, 1947, to parents Rayford Smith and Katherine Williams. As a teen, he developed a passion for fixing up cars and earned a reputation for driving with “a heavy foot.” After graduating from Meridian High School (MS), he served in the U.S. Army as a mechanic, which furthered his love for cars and engines.

Rodney’s mechanical knowledge led him to a long and successful career at General Motors, where he helped manage assembly line operations. His impeccable work ethic, punctuality, and ability to “fix anything” made him highly respected among his colleagues and earned him several awards throughout his career.

After his retirement, Rodney went full “Pappy mode,” dedicating himself to supporting his family and grandchildren. From choral and band concerts, plays, dance recitals, to every sporting event imaginable, he was there cheering on his grandchildren. As his friends and family well know, his support extended beyond his family to the Whitney community, earning him the title of the No. 1 Wildcat Fan of Whitney sporting events.

Rodney was also a fan of NASCAR, Aggie football, the Texas Rangers, and the Dallas Cowboys.

A runner and avid cyclist, Rodney won multiple race awards and took part in the Hotter’N Hell cycling event.

However, Rodney’s greatest passion was always his family. In addition to attending every sporting event and activity, he brought lunch to school for his grandkids, taught them to drive (or napped while they drove), and happily shared with them his wisdom. He loved his family with his whole heart and made sure they were never in need of anything. He always stood ready—to visit, shake a hand, give a good pat on the back, or give one the biggest and best of hugs.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Rayford Smith and Katherine Williams.

He is survived by former spouse and dear friend Sue Smith; daughter Carol Eubank and her husband Lon; daughter Scarlette Baker; son Ryan Smith; daughter-in-law Laura Smith; granddaughter Addison Scott and her husband Sam; granddaughter Ashlon Ezelle and her husband Chris; grandson Grant Eubank and his wife Jasmine; granddaughter Allie Baker; grandson Cade Baker; grandson Rylan Smith; grandson Ryder Smith; great granddaughter Nora Kay Scott; great granddaughter Rose Evelynn Ezelle; great grandson John Whitfield Scott; and sister Diane Blythe.

Funeral Service Details
Location: Marshall and Marshall Whitney
Visitation: Monday, June 10, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Funeral: Tuesday, June 11, at 1 p.m., followed by a private graveside service

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please donate to the following funds:
Pappy’s Wildcat Scholarship Fund
Mail donations to P.O. Box 518, Whitney, TX, 76692
OR drop off at Citizens State Bank
Town Hall Estates Whitney Activity and Renovation Fund
Mail donations to P.O. Box 1830, Whitney, TX, 76692