Burl Wayne Smith

Burl leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Jean Harle Smith, Virginia Smith (93); his sister, Pearlene Valenta. Children: Larry Carollo and his wife, Melissa Carollo; Stacie Mensik and Travis Mensik. Grandchildren: Lara Carollo, Cameron Carollo, Tyler Carollo. Nephew: Scott Valenta. Niece: Wendy Valenta; Great-niece, Danielle Valenta Smith and Great-nephew, Kyle Valenta.

Burl loved his life as a salesman. We teased him that he could sell anything. He loved car sales the most, and when he had to medically retire, he was the top salesman for Jack Roach Ford. He also had a wild side in his youth. After serving military duty in the Air Force, he got into the country music business. He booked country acts with “Make Mine Country”, made a Hollywood movie with Lee Marvin “The Professionals”, and wrote some country songs. However, he then had to grow up and come back to Houston.

He was always the life of the party and loved everyone. Unfortunately, at age 51 he became disabled with Parkinson’s disease. It has been a long road of medications, Physical therapy and deep brain stimulator surgery. All muscle function slowed down until last week when he could no longer swallow and the rest of his body functions shut down.

A visitation is scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 10, 2015 from 5-7 PM and a funeral service will take place at 1 PM on Friday, June 11, 2015. All services will take place at Forest Park Lawndale and immediately following the interment a reception will take place at Larry and Melissa’s home.