Danny Charles Smith, 86, peacefully entered eternal rest on December 8, 2022 surrounded by his wife Ramona and family. He was born to Amanuel Amos and Lois A. Smith on August 17, 1936 in Lubbock, Texas. Growing up in Olton, Texas, he learned the value of hard work, where as a child he helped by shining shoes at his father’s barbershop. He also handpicked boles of cotton on his grandfather’s farm. As a young man, he fixed flat tires at the local Phillips 66 gas station and worked on water and oil wells. His strong work ethic instilled his value of service, dedication, and respect. His gifted athleticism earned him a football scholarship at Schreiner University, foretelling his lifelong career passion for teaching and coaching. He served his country in the Army Reserves; completed his Bachelor Degree at West Texas State University, and earned his Masters and Superintendent Certificate at Sul Ross State University. His career in education spanned 36 years with several West Texas School Districts, including driving the team buses to competitions; teaching speech, physical education and driver’s education and serving as principal, athletic director and superintendent. In 1987, he ventured to El Paso, culminating his genuine dedication to students as teacher and coach with Socorro ISD, earning his respected title: “Coach Smith”. He was preceded in death by his only sister Shirley White and his daughter Stacy Johnson. He is survived by his wife of over 32 years, Ramona; his daughters, Shawndi Hickman (Grant), Shelly Hurley (Jared); his son, Scott Smith; grandchildren, Kaci Brown (Shane), Daniel and Morgen Smith, and great granddaughter, Haizel Smith. Many cousins, nieces, and nephews will miss Danny’s affection. Coach Smith touched the lives of numerous colleagues, students and athletes who excelled in life and played college sports. Visitation will be Monday, December 19, 2022 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at FDA Evergreen East with a Prayer Service at 6 p.m. Graveside Service will be Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery (Northeast). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
