Elva Claire Smith

It is with heavy yet grateful hearts that we announce the passing of Elva Claire Urick Smith, who left this world on March 4, 2025—but not before filling it with immeasurable love, laughter, and generosity.

Born May 26, 1944, in Velasco, Texas, Elva shared a remarkable love story with Max Leon Smith, her adoring husband of 56 beautiful years. Their journey together, which began in middle school, was an inspiration to all who knew them. After Max's passing in 2021, it seems only fitting that Elva would be reunited with him on what would have been their 61st wedding anniversary.

She was preceded in death by her husband Max, her parents, Sam Urick and Beatrice Hicks, and her sister (and best friend), Jewell Martin.

Elva leaves behind a family who cherished her deeply: her sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Jennifer Smith and Stephen and Amanda Smith; her grandchildren, Gillian, Max, and Sydney Smith, with whom she shared a uniquely special bond; her nephew, Geremy Martin; her sister, Adelle Frazier; her brother, Sam Urick; and many nieces and nephews.

A dedicated real estate broker for decades in the San Antonio and Sunrise Beach, Texas areas, Elva valued the deep relationships she built within her real estate family. She was admired for her warmth and unwavering support of others.

Elva's generosity knew no bounds. She often gave anonymously to local schools and charities, believing in the power of quiet kindness. During the Christmas season, she found joy in secretly paying off layaway accounts for families in need, ensuring children would wake up to gifts on Christmas morning. Her giving heart touched countless lives in ways many never even knew.

Elva will be laid to rest beside her beloved Max on March 12, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Elva’s memory to perform a random act of kindness for a stranger—a simple yet powerful way to continue her legacy of generosity.