Gladys Pauline Smitherman

Gladys Pauline McBride Smitherman, born January 14, 1923, died Sunday, August 5, 2018 at the age of 95. She was the first child of Elbert Mitchell McBride and Nora Mae Becktold, born in Franklin, Texas. She graduated in 1940 from Franklin High School. Gladys is preceded in death by her husband, Jake Cleveland Smitherman of Franklin, sister Margret Jo Hastings, son Jake Randall Smitherman. Gladys and Jake were married on April 23, 1942 and were married for 69 years. She was a devoted housewife and served her Lord and Savior.

Gladys and Jake moved to Baytown in the 40’s where he worked for Baytown Exxon. Upon retiring, returned to Franklin, Texas. While in Baytown they were devoted members of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Baytown in which they were charter members. They went abroad to Okinawa, Japan for a short term with Esso. Gladys loved cooking, sewing, crocheting, UMW, and helping on the farm and garden after they retired. In her later years she enjoyed traveling and taking cruises. Gladys was also a member of Franklin United Methodist, New Baden Baptist, and Franklin Worship Center.

Gladys is survived by her son David Mitchell Smitherman of Franklin/Baytown, Texas, daughters Dianne and Jerry Harris of La Porte, Texas and Janelle and Robert Fears of Plano, Texas, sister Winnie Hillin of Baytown, TX, grandson Travis Harris of La Porte, Texas, granddaughters Laura Harris of Seabrook, Texas, Suzanne and Graham Hagood of Carrolton, TX, and Robyn and Dr. Ken Moore of Carmel, IN, along with numerous other nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren.

Many thanks to all the nurses, doctors, and caregivers that made her last days wonderful. Her experience of life has been a true celebration filled with joy, happiness, and zeal for each day.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, August 12, 2018 from 3-5pm at Earthman Baytown Funeral Home. A funeral service with Curt Williams officiating will be held Monday, August 13, 2018 at 10am at the Earthman Baytown Funeral Home Chapel, 3919 Garth Rd. Baytown, TX 77521. Serving as pallbearers is David Smitherman, Travis Harris, James Hillin, Pete Coté, Jerry Harris, and Cameron Coté. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 8624 Garth Rd. Baytown, TX 77521.

A memorial service will be held on August 16, 2018 at 6pm, with Pastor Rodney Box officiating at the Franklin Worship Center, 231 Cooks Ln, Franklin, TX 77856.