Chester Earl Smith, Sr. of Nacogdoches passed away Sunday, March 24, 2019, in Nacogdoches at the age of 83. He was born February 3, 1936, in San Augustine County to parents Les Smith and Bertha (Allen) Smith.
Chester worked as a lineman for Rural Electric Association (REA) co-op, and retired after 42 years of service in 1990. He was always an incredibly hard worker, and spent his retirement days on the tractor. He enjoyed gardening, and grew some of the finest watermelons for all of Nacogdoches to enjoy. His other hobbies included fishing, hunting and farming. Chester’s primary interest was his family. He loved taking time to be with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mr. Smith was one of the sweetest men around. He was loved by all, and could truly light up a room. He had a kind, caring heart and was a joy to be around. He will be missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Chester was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Pete Smith and Vester Smith.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Linda Smith; son, Chester Smith, Jr.; daughter, Belinda Jones and husband Gary; granddaughters, Callie Rapsilver and husband Harold and Annie Meyer and husband Cliff; grandsons, Logan Warren, Ethan Smith, and Haydn Smith and wife Elizabeth; great-grandson, Heath Rapsilver; great-granddaughters, Hallie Anna Rapsilver and Lily Anne Meyer; sisters, Joy Hill and husband Haskell and Jeneane Landrum and husband Jerry; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2019, at Cason Monk-Metcalf.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2019, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Denning.
Serving as pallbearers will be Harold Rapsilver, Sr., Larry Baize, Craig Smith, Chester Smith, Jr., Cliff Meyer, Harold Rapsilver, Jr., and Gary Jones.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial donations be made to New Hope Pentecostal Church in Denning.
Please visit www.CasonMonk-Metcalf.com to leave your online condolences and memories.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches.
