Roland F. Smith passed peacefully from this life into the arms of Jesus on March 13, 2018. He was born in East Texas in 1921. While attending school in nearby Nacogdoches, he worked on the family farm until the age of 17 when he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps. He later answered Uncle Sam’s call and enlisted in the US Army. He bravely fought for his country during WWII serving in five major campaigns. While stationed at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin he met his one true love, Bernice. Prior to leaving for duty overseas they were married in 1943.
Following his honorable discharge from the Army, they moved to New Braunfels where he worked as a machine operator at Comal Hosiery Mill. After the mill closed he obtained his contractors’ license and built homes in the area until his retirement. He lived in Trinity and Angleton, Texas before returning to New Braunfels in April 2017.
Roland is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernice and five siblings. He is survived by daughter Karen Hale and husband Rickey of New Braunfels; two granddaughters Stacy Lewis and husband Robert of Brazoria, Texas, and Christa Seekatz and husband Josh Rosenfeld of Christiansburg, Virginia; two great-granddaughters Alexandria and Alyssa Lewis; one brother Elmer E. Smith, Jr. of New Braunfels; one sister Bobbie Datray of Houston and numerous nephews and nieces.
In April 2014, Roland was chosen to be among other WWII veterans for the inaugural Honor Flight from Houston to Washington, DC. He felt very privileged and honored to receive this gift in recognition of his military service.
Family was most important to Roland. As the eldest son he took that position very seriously to provide for his parents and younger brothers and sisters. He was a loving and devoted husband and caring father. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Roland’s name to your favorite charitable organization or church of your choice.
Public Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 17, 2018, at Zoeller Funeral Home. A Reception will be held at Zoeller Funeral Home from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. following the visitation. A Graveside Service will take place at 2:30 p.m. at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park with military honors.
