Thomas Edward Smith

Tom was born in Grundy, Virginia on November 12th, 1939. Tom moved with his parents and four siblings to Missouri in 1945 and lived in Missouri and Iowa prior to moving to Long Beach, California in 1998. He graduated from Milan High School in 1958 and later served in the Air Force from 1962-63 and the Air Force Reserves from 1963-68. Tom dedicated his life to serving as a Master Carpenter, building homes and crafting beautiful spaces both in the Midwest and in California. He was know for his excellent craftsmanship and strong work ethic.

In the recent year, Tom served as a Trustee at the First Methodist Church of Lakewood, contributing his talent to fixing the Church building. He loved to take long drives and explore with his wife, Sharon and to spend time with his cat, Tigger and his dog, Missy. He loved to spend time going to Seal Beach and Big Bear all year round and in Oak Glen in the fall. He also loved to return to Milan for the Old Timer's Reunion.

Tom is survived by his wife, Sharon L. (Clifford) Smith from Nora Springs, IA; his daughter, Janna (Chris) Perlinger, Littleton, CO; his son, Justin (Stacy) Smith, Kingston, MO; his daughter, Catharine (Lisa Connor) Smith, Philadelphia, PA; and his stepson, Scott (Brenda) Wendt, Indianola, IA. Tom's grandchildren are Audrey Wendt of Kansas City, MO, Elizabeth and Matthew Perlinger of Littleton, CO, Emily Smith of Kingston, MO, and Eoin Conner-Smith and Emily Conner of Philadelphia, PA. Thomas was preceded in death by his sister Bonnie Casto and his brother James Smith. His surviving siblings are Carroll (Gail) Smith, Greenfield, MO, Mary Beth (Joe) Eastes, Payson, AZ, Daniel (Keedy) Smith, Branson, MO, Joseph (Thomas Bergman) Smith, Long Beach, CA, Nancy (John) Lutjen, Kansas City, MO and Deborah (Fred) Wassenmiller, Vancouver, WA, and many nieces and nephews.

Honoring Tom's wishes he was will be cremated. Memorial services will be held at the First Methodist Church of Lakewood at a date and time to be announced. In early summer a memorial service will held in Kingston, MO.

Please sign the guest book at www.luybenfamilyd-m.com

Luyben Family Dilday-Mottell Mortuary (562) 425-6401