Thomas T. Smith

Thomas T. Smith of Austin, Texas, passed away Friday, May 22nd, 2026. He was 89 years old. Tom was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, who used his abilities and talents to serve his family, clients and friends.

He was born to parents Thomas T. Smith and Georgia Smith on December 13, 1936 in the old St. Davis's Hospital on West 17th St. in Austin. He graduated from ( the "new") Travis High School and entered The University of Texas earning a Bachelor of Business Administration. He then enrolled in U. T. Law School, earning his law degree in 1963, specializing in banking and real estate law.

His background in aquatics began in his early years when he swam for the Stacy Park swim team and then at the age of 15 began swimming competitively for the Austin Aquatic Club from 1952 to 1954. He continued his love for aquatics by giving private swimming lessons and becoming a lifeguard at both Govalle and Reed city parks. During this same time he became an Assistant Coach at the the Austin Aquatic Club alongside Coaches Wally Pryor and Mark Yancy from 1956 to 1963. He then received a full scholarship to the University of Texas and became a four year letterman, and was elected captain of the team in 1958.

After graduating from law school, and because he wanted to stay in Austin, he accepted a partnership with Morgan Pearce. The firm later accepted two additional attorneys, R. Harry Akin and John Akin. The four Partners practiced law together for more than 25 years. During his years of practice, he focused on banking and real estate, and he served as a Director on two central Texas banks - Home State Bank in Marble Falls, Texas, and Schertz Bank and Trust in Schertz, Texas. He made many lasting friends at both banks.

Tom loved to hunt, play games and travel. He and his wife, Bonnie, spent many weekends at their ranch in Crystal City hunting and entertaining family and friends. He was a Life Master in duplicate bridge and continued to play until his death. Many hours were spent playing Mexican Train with his family and friends, as well as Jokers and Marbles, and all other card and domino games. As his family and friends will attest, he was a competitive participant in all games.

Travels took him abroad many times. One of his favorite places was the Caribbean Sea, visiting most of the islands, enjoying snorkeling in the crystal clear waters and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. But equally special were the many trips (along with friends) on the Windstar Sailing Vessel on the Mediterranean Sea with ports of call in the Greek Islands, Spain, Turkey and Italy. Over the years, he and Bonnie served as “tour guides” for their friends on fall excursions throughout New England, enjoying the beautiful displays of color and discovering quaint bed-and-breakfast inns.

Tom was heavily involved in his church. At Central Christian Church he taught Sunday School as well as served as Deacon, Elder, and Chairman of the Board. He was instrumental in securing land in the northwest area of Austin to build a new Disciples of Christ Christian church. As a charter member of Shepherd of the Hills Christian Church, he served as Chairman of the Congregation. His greatest joy there was leading the Building Committee and seeing the completion of The Gathering Place.

Tom is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of 64 years; daughters Regina Smith of Austin and Lisa Warren and her husband, George Warren III, of Dallas; four grandchildren, Bonnie Lee Stecher and her husband, Austin, of Waco, Georgia Ann Berthelot and her husband, Trey, of Houston, Amanda Grace Warren of Dallas, and George Warren IV of Dallas; and three great-grandchildren, Ila Grace Stecher and Ada Beth Stecher of Waco, and IJ Berthelot of Houston.

There will be a memorial service at Shepherd of the Hills Christian Church, 6909 W. Courtyard Drive, Austin, on July 11 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception in The Gathering Place.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Shepherd of the Hills Christian Church, 6909 W. Courtyard Dr., Austin, TX 78730, or to a charity of your choice.

Tom lived a life of dignity and generosity and will be missed by all that loved him.