Earnest Smith

Earnest L. Smith, son of Robert and Ophelia Morris Smith, was born on September 21, 1926, in Justin, TX. At an early age he united with the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, where he was a lifelong member. He received his education in Marshall, TX. After his high school graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, combating in WW II and Vietnam. Earnest was a great provider for his family and spent many years working in construction before retiring. Some of his hobbies included hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. His was united in marriage to Mrs. Lillie Mae Haley-Smith. To this union two daughters were born, Barbara Smith and Gwendolyn Smith. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Gwen Smith, parents, four brothers, Emmett, Robert, Johnny and William Smith; five sisters, Geraldine Smith-Epps, Hilda Gibson, Ara Marcella Franklin, Josie Smith Burk and Pearl Smith Bell. He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Barbara Smith; three grandchildren, Nannette Falkner (Eric), Kimbera Smith and Clifton McKnight, Jr.; four great grandchildren, Erica, Taelor, Erin and Joy; a host of special nieces, nephews and a long list of friends.