In loving memory of Howard Kent Smith, Sr, who departed this life at the age of 77 on November 9, 2021. He was born on September 20, 1944 in East St Louis, Illinois to the union of William Smith from Arkansas and Helen (Oliver) Smith from Minneapolis, who both as well as his brother, Theodore W. Smith all preceded him in death.
Throughout his life, he lived in East St Louis and Belleville, Illinois and St Louis, MO. He attended the East St Louis public schools and after graduation from East Side High School, he enlisted in the United States Army. He graduated from college and obtained his degree in computer systems management. In 1962, he welcomed the birth of his oldest son, Keith. In 1967, he was joined in holy matrimony to Constance B.( Gully) Smith and to this union –Tavia, Howard and Shigayta were born.
For over 40 years, he worked for the Federal Govt at ATCOM and ALMSA in Computer Configuration Management, Data Communication, Information System Security and Defense Logistics while synonymously serving as an Army Reservist where he retired with the rank Chief Warrant Officer 3 in 2004. Throughout his career, he had the opportunity to travel nationally and internationally as he worked in his capacity for the federal govt and as an Army Reservist. He received and earned numerous awards,medals and commendations throughout his career.
He also dedicated his life to Christ and was a member of Pilgrim Temple CME Church in East St Louis, Illinois and member and Prayer Warrior at Florissant Church of Christ in Florissant, MO. All who knew our dad have been blessed with not only his gregarious personality, love, kindness, intelligence and dedication but also his wit and humor as well. Although he was not a professional comedian, he had no boundaries when and where he may say or do something funny. He could keep a smile on anyone’s face or keep you rolling with laughter as he was always able to capture humor in any situation. He maintained this wit and humor until the end.
He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Keith (Rhonda), his former wife, Constance Smith and their children, Tavia, Howard Jr (Corrine), and Shigayta; his grandchildren, Chanel, Ashley,Ralph, Adrien and Nona; and a host of relatives and life long friends.
WORDS of COMFORT
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
When tomorrow starts without me , please try to understand that an Angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand; The Angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above, And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates , I felt so much at home, for God looked down, smiled at me, And told me “Welcome Home”. So when tomorrow starts without me, I’m right there in your heart.
Acknowledgments
The Smith Family would like to extend our sincere appreciation to staff and his friends at St Catherine Retirement Community Center, Mason Pointe-Lutheran Senior Services, Davita Dialysis Florissant and Davita West St Louis, St Marys Complete Home Care, LLC; Dr Ringhofer, his nephrologist; and to all for their many acts and deeds of kindness shown during this period of bereavement.
SERVICES: Funeral at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY Chapel 5255 Lemay Ferry Road Thursday, November 18 at 10am. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitataion Wednesday 4-7pm.
In lieu of flowers, contribute to DAV (Disabled Veterans), American Diabetes Foundation or National Kidney Foundation.
Your dad’s love his laugh,the memories you made.the life lessons that will always stay with you.
These are his gifts to you.Hoping that the good memories and stories of your dad will bring some comfort through this difficult time…With Sincere Sympathy.. love and prayers MC and Rita Moore
Chief Smith was a great soldier. I enjoyed serving with him and enjoyed our friendship after we retired. I am sorry that I am just now receiving word of his passing. I would have liked to pay my respects in person.
Thoughts and prayers sent for the fallen.
Get Your rest Cheif Smith, always a fair soldier, the best personnel officer on Goodfellow Blvd., St. Louis Missouri
Howard K. was a friend to all of us at ALMSA. Yes, he was able to put a smile on anyone’s face and make whoever he encountered feel worthy. His face was one of those rare ones whose eyes lit up and his lips smiled seemingly ALL the time. A life well lived indeed and a treasure to those of us blessed to have crossed his path.
Howard was such a dear friend to everyone. He held a very special place in my husband’s heart. He will be greatly missed. My sincere sympathies to his family.
Deepest Sympathy from East Saint Louis Senior High School Class of 1962 & 1963
Clarence Cathion President, Faye Lee nee Frazier, Secretary, Carolyn Stacker, nee Smith, Treasurer.
My Condolences to the Smith family Howard was a special friend and member at Pilgrim Temple CME Church..
I worked with Howard at Almsa and in reading what you wrote, I enjoyed his wit and he was always smiling. You have my deepest sympathies at the loss of your father, but I am sure that Jesus is holding him now. God bless you all.
Howard was a co-worker of mine at Army Logistics Mgt Systems Agency (ALMSA) in St Louis. He always had a smile on his face and a humorous demeanor. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to his family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Really miss you grandpa