Barney Bell Smith Jr.

Barney Bell Smith, Jr., age 92, of Tyler, passed away in the late afternoon hours of Friday, September 7, 2012 at Hospice of East Texas. Barney was born on February 16, 1920 in Westhoff, Texas to Barney Bell and Mary Elizabeth Powell Smith; they preceded him in death. During high school, Barney worked as the sports editor for the Taylor newspaper. During World War II, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country. While in the Navy, Barney married the love of his life, his best friend, Inez Meyer in San Diego, California. Together they shared almost 62 years raising children and grandchildren and living a lifetime of memories until her passing in August 2004. Barney worked for many years in the newspaper printing business and for Cox Paper in Waco. His first love in life was his family and his second was sports. When his children and grandchildren were playing any sport, he was always their biggest fan and supporter. Later in life his favorite time was spent taking care of his yard. Through it all, taking care of his beloved wife, children and grandchildren was Barney’s biggest accomplishments and greatest source of joy.

Barney is survived by two sons, Barney Bell Smith, III, and wife Elaine, of Allen and Ronald Smith, and wife Rebecca, of Tyler; and by 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by one sister, Freddie Russell, and one brother, Garland Smith.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at Cathedral in the Pines Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 – 8 P.M., Tuesday evening at Lloyd James Funeral Home.