Ret MSGT Jack N. Smith

Graveside services with full military honors for Jack Nelson Smith, 83, of Copperas Cove will be at 11AM on Monday, May 8, at the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.

Ret MSGT Jack Smith died on April 28, 2023 at home with his wife by his side. Jack is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Sandra Smith, and Peggy Smith Chenoweth. He is survived by his wife, Gloria, daughters Lynn (Darrell) Hickey; Lori (Michael) Richardson; Lea Anne Smith; ex-wife Betty Smith; step daughter Jenn (Chris) Digby; step son Rev. Pat Crocker; and special friends Charles and Linda Hickman; and Bruce, Martha, Nathaniel Roberts. Grandchildren include Chris and Kyle Hickey; Brandon and Kilee Richardson; and Adam, Benjamin, Corban Rodriguez and Nelson Stumpt. Great Granddaughter River Rodriguez.

Jack was born on September 26, 1939 to John and Olean Smith in Wagoner, Oklahoma. He was delivered at home because there wasn't a hospital nearby and he wanted to be near his mother. He graduated from Broken Arrow High School in 1958 and Northwestern University later.

Jack accepted Christ at age 14 and held to God's promise of eternal life.

Jack entered the USAF Reserves in 1961 and retired in 1991, after having earned the rank of Command Master Sergeant. During his 25 year military tenure, he served in the Aeromedical Evac Worldwide, 50 states, and 13 countries. He saw action in the Vietnam era, the Berlin Crisis, and Desert Storm. His military awards, Kuwait Freedom medal, AF Commendation ribbon, and many more medals, ribbons, and accolades.

After retirement from the military, Jack attended nursing school and entered the medical field as an LVN. He worked in various doctors offices and hospitals for over 20 years.

After retirement from the medical field in 2014, Jack enjoyed time fishing and was a master of the Pre-Catch Release program. He also enjoyed traveling in his Airstream and time well spent with his grandchildren.

Jack joined Pidcoke Baptist Church this year and for the first time in many years, felt he was really at home.

At the time of his death, Jack was prepared to meet his Lord and Savior and be reunited with his family and loved ones. His message to us is Hear, Believe, and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. If you don't have assurance of your salvation, then ask Jesus to come into your life, forgive you of your sins and know peace that can ease your mind about eternity.

A Visitation will be held Sunday, May 7, from 5-7:30pm at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Copperas Cove.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial to Pidcoke Baptist Church, Pidcoke, TX or a charity of your choice is appreciated. Condolences may be left at www.crawfordbowers.org.

Jack considers it an honor to be laid to rest in the Texas Veterans Cemetery among the true heros.