Walter Lee Smith

He was born on June 22, 1937, to the late Clyde and Ruby Smith. A graduate of Sherman High School, Walter went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Technical Sergeant. His notable military career was marked by a commendable 16 years of service, including 3 years in Foreign and Sea Service during the Vietnam War, where he earned the Air Force Commendation Medal among other honors. He was very proud to be an American and an Air Force Vet.

Following his esteemed military career, Walter continued to serve his community as a tractor trailer operator for the United States Postal Service. Known for his work ethic and dedication, he provided unwaveringly for his family.

Walter was a man of deep affection and loyalty, traits that were evident in his marriage to Iolanda Smith on February 9, 1970. Their union was founded on shared cultural appreciation with Walter singing to Iolanda in Italian and was strengthened by the joys of travel and exploration during Walter's Air Force postings. His love for the outdoors was manifested in his passion for fishing, where he consistently aspired to make the largest catch, and in his enjoyment of clamming and mushroom and agate hunting. Walter's love of country music, his daily walks at the mall, excursions to the beach, and camping trips were among the simple pleasures he treasured. A family man at heart, he found great joy in photography and gathering his loved ones for family dinners.

Walter is survived by a family that deeply revered him: his son, Roberto Bessich; granddaughter, Julianna Dutton; great-grandchildren, Brooklynn and William Dutton; daughter, Rhonda Siple; grandsons, Justin and Logan Nash; and great-grandchildren, Jack and Evie Nash. Each of them carries forward his spirit of generosity, love, and resilience.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Iolanda; and daughters, Nora and Taunya.

In tribute to a life well-lived, Walter's family honors his memory and invites those who knew him to reflect on the moments of joy he brought into their lives. His legacy will continue to live on through the values he instilled in his family and the community he so faithfully served.