Hugh Ben Smith

1934 - 2016

Hugh Ben Smith

81, of Indianapolis, passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2016. He was born in Henryetta, OK on August 27, 1934 to Scott M. and Hettie Easter Henry Smith. Hugh was a graduate of the University of Kansas where he played football.

After graduation he served in the US Army in the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment. Hugh played professional football in the NFL with the Washington Redskins and also played for teams in the CFL for several years.

He was very proud of his family and his "Creek" American Indian Heritage. After his football career, Hugh worked as an ironworker with Ironworkers Local 22. He also worked as a deputy with the Marion County Sheriff's Department, probation officer, and  as a bailiff in the Marion County Courts, just to name a few of his many jobs. He was passionate about fishing, games of chance and watching over his neighborhood from his perch on the front porch.

Hugh was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Pauline Cook; brothers, Buck "Chief Lone Eagle" Burgess, Scott Smith, and William Smith. He is survived by his wife, Catherine (Dinn) Smith; sons, Joseph Smith, David Smith (Heather); daughter, Ramona Cline; sister, Betty Ann Breeding; grandchildren, Caroline Smith, Charley Smith, Layla Hurat, Jeramy Cline; nieces and nephews, Caroline, Amy, Katie, Bobby and Kenneth.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 16, 2016 from 12 noon until 4 p.m. with a funeral service at 1 p.m. in Daniel F. O'Riley Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be shared with the family at orileyfuneralhome.com.