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Homer Smith Obituary
Mr. Smith is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Kathryn Haskell Smith; daughter Kimberly Smith Hall and son-in-law, Leamon Hall of Johns Creek, Ga.; daughter, Carolyn Smith Carpenter and son-in-law, Dr. Wayne Carpenter of Wilbraham, Mass.; grandchildren, Taylor Hall of West Point, N.Y., Shelby Hall of Johns Creek, Ga., and Madalyn and Thomas Carpenter of Wilbraham, Mass.
Honored by the American Football Coaches Association in 2007 with the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award "for contributions to the football coaching profession mentorship of his fellow coaches, and outstanding teaching of student-athletes", Coach Smith's football experience spanned over five decades. Smith served as Head Coach at Davidson College, University of Pacific, and the U.S. Military Academy, and as offensive coordinator at UCLA (three times), for the Kansas City Chiefs, Alabama (twice), and Arizona, and as backfield coach at the U.S. Air Force Academy and Stanford. In 1990, The Sporting News named him Offensive Coach of the Year, and in 1977 he was a finalist for the Broyles Award, which goes to the nation's top assistant coach. Smith coached in four Rose Bowls and also in the Citrus, Fiesta, Sugar, Tangerine, Freedom, Bluebonnet, Sun, Gator, and Insight.com Bowls.
Smith was enshrined in the Davidson Hall of Fame in 2000 and was also honored with a lifetime membership in the Army Football Club in 2008. He earned a Bachelors degree from Princeton where he was the captain of the football team, an MBA degree from Stanford, and a Masters of Theological Studies degree from Harvard. He served as Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, Field Artillery.
Most important to him, however, was his family, and he treasured time with his four grandchildren. His pride and joy was his home library filled with books on anything from religion to words. He was an avid wordsmith, wrote several acclaimed books on football, and published a novel. We can use his own oft-used words to describe his life- "So fine".
Honorary pallbearers are all players he coached and men with whom he coached.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church, 800 Greensboro Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, or to Big Oak Ranch, P.O. Box 507, Springville, AL 35146.
Condolences may be offered at www.heritagechapeltuscaloosa.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Homer Smith
Dale Welch
April 2, 2015
Georgie Collins - your husband Don was my senior cabin counselor. Small world, many happy memories.
Dale Welch
November 18, 2014
Not likely to see the likes of such a man again. Homor was truly unique.
First met him at a small boy's camp in Minnesota. Watched him running speed and power drills on the field before breakfast - thought then that he was marked for greatness. I was right. Wish I had kept in touch with him as he took a personal interest in me back then.
I did follow his career/life. Only just found of his passing. Rest well Homor.
Jane Cotton
February 18, 2014
Kathy,
I'm so sorry to read about Homers death. I have thought about how much fun we had in Ft. Smith a million times. I found you on Google and decided I don't have your number but I would love for you to call me. Larry died in 1999 so I have been a widow for almost 15 years. I would love to hear from you!!
Love Janie Cotton
1-405-751-3336
Georgie Collins
April 19, 2012
Dear Kathy and family,
I was so saddened to read of Homer's death. I will never forget my first meeting with him, in Terry Donahue's office, at UCLA. My husband, Don Collins, had told me all of the Camp Vermillion stories, so meeting him was such a thrill for me. A year or so later you, Homer, Don and I all had lunch together in Santa Monica. It was a dream come true for Don to be with Homer again, swapping stories and laughing.
It is one year, almost to the day, that Homer died and I hope, for you, that the healing process is softening your loss.
Georgie Collins- Atienza (Guadalajara) Spain
Don Rumsfeld
May 12, 2011
Dear Kathy,
I heard from our friend Eric Jones that Homer passed away. I was so sorry to learn the sad news. I had only recently learned of his illness.
What a special person Homer was and what a fine life he lived. You will not be surprised to learn that the phone lines are busy with Homer’s many friends calling each other to talk of our respect and affection for him.
Joyce and I are thinking about you and your family during what has to be a terribly tough time.
May 11, 2011
Absolutely the best! Fond memories of Coach Smith's time at Air Force. A true genius...and gentleman.
Colonel Dave Nuss, USAFA '63
Ethel Woelfel
April 30, 2011
My deepest sumpathy to Coach Smith's loved ones. I met him after an Army-Penn State football game in '76. I admired his writing skills, and have given several copies of his novel, "A Game to Play" to friends. May your faith bring you solace.
Pat & Patricia walker
April 24, 2011
Dear Mrs. Smith,
I was so saddened when my son Rob
informed me of Homer's death. Rob thought so much of Coach Smith. He not only taught him more football than he could ever remember but he taught him how to be a better person. Rob would come back to San Antonio on holidays telling Patricia and me "Homer Smith stories". Patricia and I will always remember the Rose Bowl in 1994 against Wisconson. The team trip to Disneyland with you and Coach Smith was a wonderful opportunity to get to know you. We loved Homer because he always made us feel confortable when we talked to him. He gave our son the opportunity to attend UCLA on scholarship where he made life-long friends and played under Homer's brilliant tutledge. We will always remember him as a great friend, an humble and honorable man, and a player's coach.
Neil Gilman
April 24, 2011
Dear Kathy & Family:
Homer Smith was one of a kind. To me he was the professor. Not only did he teach the game, but he studied it with such passion and creativity. He is arguably the finest teacher of QB's who has ever graced the game of football. Homer was also a very humble individual who never boasted or took credit for his innovative offense or for his calling a touchdown play, he always lauded his players for any success. First and foremost, Homer was a gentlemen. One time, he invited me to Tuscaloosa to see my first Alabama game and to attend a reunion of one his Alabama teams afterwards at his home. Little did I know he gave me his tickets to the game and I sat in his seats. Homer would give the shirt off his back to a friend. He cared more for others than for himself. He will never be forgotten.
Edward Orcutt
April 24, 2011
Dear Mrs. Smith, My deepest sympathy for the passing of a great man that I had an opportunity to meet a couple of times. He played sports for my father at Benson High and my father admired him. I had the opportunity to spend some time with my father and Homer at Air Force. He will be dearly missed. He was a great mentor. Ed Orcutt (Omaha)
April 24, 2011
Dear Mrs. Smith, My deepest sympathy for the passing of a great man that I had an opportunity to meet a couple of times. He played sports for my father at Benson High and my father admired him. I had the opportunity to spend some time with my father and Homer at Air Force. He will be dearly missed. He was a great mentor. Ed Orcutt (Omaha)
Kim Hall
April 23, 2011
Homer Smith will be memorialized in Omaha, Nebraska on Saturday May 14th. His ashes will be interred that morning at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery next to his parents, brothers, and sister. At 2:00 pm we will hold a service at Countryside Community Church with a reception at the church following. Countryside is at 87th and Pacific. Two of his high school friends and a cousin will be speaking, as well as Dr. Elnes, the pastor of the church. For those of you who plan to be there, we look forward to seeing you.
Kathy, Kim, & Cari
Kathy Worthington
April 21, 2011
Dear Mrs. Smith,
I was also in your fourth grade class at Miss Fine's, and remember so well what a wonderful teacher you were. We knew that Homer was the star of the Princeton football team, and he was a big hero to us. Our paths have all gone different ways, but you and Homer will always be in our hearts.
Kathy Elsasser Worthington
Gail Cotton
April 21, 2011
Dear Mrs. Smith,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You were my fourth grade teacher at Miss Fine's School in Princeton, N.J. You were awesome and I still have my fourth grade graduation picture taken of you and our class.
I will keep you in my prayers,
Gail Cotton
Joyce Mikolayunas Foley
April 18, 2011
Mrs. Smith and family,
Thank you for sharing your extraordinary husband and father with so many, he gave so generously of his time and talent and love, our family will be forever grateful.
It will always remain for us the best of times,from when Coach Smith gave my late brother Mike the opportunity to play for him at Davidson and then later extended a coaching job at Westpoint. How fortunate he was to have been guided by such a dedicated leader.
Our prayers are with you at this time and always.
Jim Kordakis
April 18, 2011
Mrs. Smith,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I learned more about life from your husband than from any class or any professor. I have thought of him often over the years and know I will continue to do so. He will be missed but he will bever be forgotten. He coached football, but his lessons lasted lifetimes.
Matt Stevens
April 18, 2011
Homer Smith taught you to strive for unimaginable perfection and at the end of the day he defined a clear path and made it attainable.
He used logic and reason in shaping choices by young men.
He cared for his pupils with unyielding passion that he felt your pain and smiled in your triumph.
Upon reaching great achievements and success he stressed humility and love.
His foresight made your future less unpredictable and served as a beacon as bright as the sun.
He was a man of principle and discipline not only on the football field but off.
His humor was clever and always a surprise that his stories will always live in our lives.
His dedication to you was so immense you worked harder and longer no wanting to let him down.
He challenged your intellect and untapped your mind to grow and prosper.
He demanded unity and order and as his pupils we gave him unyielding loyalty.
He was a leader that stood behind you and pushed forward.
He was a man of faith not only spiritually, but of everyone he encountered.
His passion for you was so pure there was no one you could trust more.
When things went wrong and there was only a glimmer of hope, he was the calm voice restoring confidence and strength.
Whenever you reached pinnacles and goals he was the first one you gave credit.
As lofty your pedestal for him, so common and easy it was to approach him.
His teachings and lessons will carry on through many generations of men.
Never such a gigantic man is forgotten, because the Myth of Homer Smith will only grow!
Norm Chow
April 17, 2011
I am certain that I share with countless other coaches the high esteem that we had for Coach Smith. The lessons that he taught us about football and life will last forever. I send my condolences and prayers to the Smith family. He meant so much to so many! Norm Chow
Cathy Bagnell
April 16, 2011
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
April 16, 2011
To the family, I'm sorry for the passing of a very special person. Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us to cope. My thoughs and prayers are with you.
Cherise
April 16, 2011
I'm a huge football fan. To see and hear about Smith's contribution to the game deepens my respect for him. My condolences goes out to the Smith family. May you find comfort and solace in knowing that there is a God who cares about us and is near to those who are broken at heart.
Steve Amedio
April 15, 2011
Dear Smith family,
I had the pleasure of covering Homer's West Point teams, and reported on the injustice and emotionless timing of his firing. Over 35 years of sportswriting, I never encountered a finer man. He was an individual whose life and philosophies were exemplary and ones others wanted to emulate. Those of us who knew him, even for a few short years, are thankful for that connection. My sincerest condolences to the family of an individual who was indeed special not only around the sport of football but away from it, as well.
Dan Peterson
April 15, 2011
Homer saw potential, enabled opportunity, and refined ability into perfection. He was a great coach, but a better man. Those years at U.C.L.A. were special times, and we are all grateful and appreciative that Homer was a big part of that success. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Smith family at this time.
David Lew
April 15, 2011
Coach Smith was one of my mentors at UCLA. He befriended me and provided guidance during the early part of my athletic training and undergraduate career, and did me the great favor of writing my first post-bacculaureate letter of recommendation that led to my acceptance (and ultimate graduation) from the master's program in Kinesiology at California State University, Long Beach. Like many others before and since, I found him to be extraordinary for his intellect, insights and vision. But, he was a much more extraordinary human being always demonstrating and providing Godly qualities, kindnesses and virtues that he passed along to undeserving folks like me. I had opportunity to re-engage our friendship a few years ago, and to thank him for all of his support. He wrote back to say his "memory was clear", and that he really appreciated hearing back from me. He also saluted my success, and said that I "obviously married over my head" given the picture I provided of my wife and two daughters. Lastly he wrote that I was "a credit to UCLA and to football". It's been a very long time since I last patrolled Spaulding Field and the Rose Bowl with him. The memories are good, and so was the man. God bless him. My deepest sympathies and condolensces to the Smith family, and thanks from a grateful student.
Karl Morgan
April 15, 2011
Homer Smith was a good man who made a difference at UCLA. He was a blessing to many and he lived an exceptional life. I am very thankful that I knew him. God bless his family.
William Thompson, Sr.
April 14, 2011
In 1954, and in the United States NAVY, I was stationed in Newport, R.I. As a nobody, on our football team, I was thrilled to hear that Dick Kazmier (excuse spelling) was coming to Newport, and may play for our base team! WELL, Kazmier became our "FIELD ANNOUNCER", and never played one down for the base team! The word around the base: we should have gotten Princeton's FULLBACK!! GOD BLESS COACH HOMER SMITH!!!!
Rory Cullen
April 14, 2011
Thanks for coaching and improving the football teams at West Point in the late 70s !I have fond memories of the games at Michie Stadium ! I can hear the roar of the crowd and "Onward to Victory"Thanks for the memories Coach Smith!
Chuck Baker
April 14, 2011
Kathy, Kim and Leamon,
My condolences on the passing of a great man. I thank God for the opportunity to have played under his leadership in 1974.
One of the greatest things he did was to write a letter to my parents after the '74 season thanking them and wishing that I could have played another year under him at USMA. What a very thoughtful coach to think of my parents in appreciation of me playing under him.
Lord, thank you for the opportunity to have met this man and be honored to be a member of his team.
Chuck Baker, USMA 1975. Courage and Drive.
Eugene (Gene) Marsh
April 14, 2011
Kathy,
I consider it an honor to have been able to spend some time with you and Coach Smith over the last few years. I always knew him by reputation, but he is one of those rare individuals who exceeds your expectations. My life was blessed by the brief time I spent with the two of you. Kim and I will not go in Panara at Midtown without thinking of you. We are so sorry for your loss.
T. W
April 14, 2011
So sorry for your loss, pls be comforted by the words in Revelation 21 : 4 "Ressurection hope"
April 14, 2011
Kathy,Kim and Cari: Homer was one of the finest men I have ever had the opportunity to know. Always gracious in victory and defeat, he taught all of us, what it ment to be a gentleman. We will never forget our time at Army, and we will certainly never forget Homer.--Bob and Kathy Thornton Lincoln, NE
TERRY ISBELL
April 14, 2011
A GREAT FOOTBALL COACH AND MAN !!!!
Cindy & Tom Hayes
April 14, 2011
Kathy and Family,
We are so saddened to hear the news of Homer's death. We have such great memories of Homer when we were at UCLA together. He was a great man and a great coach---he will be missed by all! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
April 14, 2011
Dear Kathy and family: Above and beyond his achievements in athletics, Homer was one of the finest individuals I have been privileged to know. I am saddened by his passing. Please accept my sincere condolences in your and the world's loss.
-- Stu Erickson, BHS '48
Turnley Todd
April 14, 2011
To Kathy, Kim & Cari - Our thoughts and prayers are with your family over the passing of Homer. He was a wonderful husband, father, coach, and teacher. He had a great impact on our lives and we remember fondly our days together at Davidson. -Betty & Turnley Todd
Archie Grubb
April 14, 2011
In 1989 I was a high school student and Crimson Tide fan. I was captivated by Coach Smith's offense, which led the Tide to a 10-2 record and SEC Championship. I wrote a letter to Coach Smith, and he sent me a kind return note and Xeroxed copy of one of his books. I'll always be a Crimson Tide fan ... and a Homer Smith fan too!
James Bevis
April 14, 2011
Thanks Coach, you were the best.
April 14, 2011
May the father of tender mercies, and the God of all comfort, comfort you in your time of sorrow.
NC, John
A Robinson
April 14, 2011
Please accept my sympathy for your loss. During this time, may family and friends be comforted by the wonderful hope: "And he will wipe out every from their eyes and death will be no more. Neither mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."
Clarence Shelmon
April 13, 2011
Kathy and Family: Homer gave me my first colloege coaching job. More importantly, he opened up his home for me to live in when I moved to Weat Point before I got married. He served as a model for the type of coach and man I tried to be. I feel sad to know he is no longer with us. Our prayers are with you. Love, Clarence and Nancy Shelmon
R Golay
April 13, 2011
To the the family of Homer Smith - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Homer will be missed by many.
Deon Washington
April 13, 2011
From The Double Fake To The 6 Step Out Route The Cold Days In The Winter And The Hot Days In The Summer This Man Single Handedly Changed The Course Of My Life And Many Like Me Forever And I Know He Will Be Looking Down And Smiling At All Of The Lives He Impacted And Young Man That He Has Coached Coach You Were Without A Doubt My Second Father And If Anybody Asked I Would Be Proud To Say That I Was Your Son. I Will Miss U And I Will Make Sure That Everything U Taught Me Not Only About Football But About Life Will Be Passed On To The Players And People I Will Come In Contact With. R.I.P. Homer Austin "Home-Box" Smith
Love Always Deon Deshawn Washington
Kevin Wos
April 12, 2011
Mr. Smith, I only became a fan of the Wildcats when I started attending the UA back in 2007, but I have heard great things about your tenure with our football program. Thank you for everything you did and may you Bear Down for all eternity. God bless.
Kirk Sibley
April 12, 2011
I will always remember Coach Smith for his leadership and crazy sense of humor. He took the ordinary and made it extraordinary at the University of Arizona and kept us in the game. Most of all he had a love for the game and the players he coached. He will be missed - Kirk Sibley (former mascot at University of Arizona 1996-1999)
Raymond Petty
April 12, 2011
A great person loved by all , we at UCLA ENJOYED every moment he work/coached here
God Bless him.
Jim and Linda Florreich
April 12, 2011
Kathy, Kim, Leamon, Taylor,and Shelby,
We are so sad to learn of Homer's death. Our thoughts are with you. We pray our Lord will comfort you and give you His grace and strength for the days ahead.
Dave & Kay Peterson
April 12, 2011
We want to extend our deepest condolences. Homer's love for football pales in comparison to the love he frequently expressed for his family. He was such a kind, intelligent, generous and giving person. All of his friends in Tuscaloosa and across the nation will miss the wit and expert opinions offered in his unique, humble manner. We were fortunate and blessed to have called him our friend.
Sue Tendy
April 12, 2011
I came to West Point in 1977, to teach in the Physical Education Department and coach the Women’s Swim Team. I met Coach Smith through his daughter Kim, who was involved with the Diving clinic during the summer. It was a tough time for women in those days, probably as tough as it was for football coaches. The Smiths were kind enough to invite me to their home, and 34 years later I still remember his kindness and calm demeanor; it was so rare in those days. My thoughts and prayers are with Kim, Mrs. Smith and family. I know he’s touched many hearts and minds over the years.
Gary May USMA Class of 1976
April 12, 2011
Kathy and Family,
I am deeply saddened by the news of Coach Smith's passing. I extend my heart-felt condolences and deepest sympathies to all in your family. I consider myself to be exceptionally privileged to have been on the Army Team during his time at West Point, and I cherish the memories I have of him - a true gentleman, a passionate coach, and a wonderful human being. I pray God grant you an added measure of his infinite grace and that His Holy Spirit comfort you in your sorrow, console you in your grief, bring peace to your longing hearts, and give you hope in the Resurrection to eternal life. May God Bless you all.
"Those who walk uprightly enter into peace;" Isaiah 57:2
April 12, 2011
A wonderful friend and an inspirational leader who had a phenominal work ethic and never lost his balance, in sports and in life.
Dick and Nalda Stevens
Robby / Melanie Rogers
April 12, 2011
Kim and family
Our thoughts and prayer are with your families.
Robby and Melanie Rogers
April 12, 2011
Mrs. Smith, I was saddended to hear of the passing of your husband and my friend and coach. I'll never forget my time together with Coach while he recruited me at Lake Travis HS and then later playing for him at UCLA. He was a great coach, but a better man and treated each of us with dignity and respect. We loved learning and playing for him as he always kept us on our toes. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. God Bless.
Rob Walker
Houston, Texas
Johnny Cole
April 12, 2011
Mrs. Smith, I'm so sorry to here this news. You and Mr. Smith were a pleasure to work for all the years I took care of your yard. He was truly a inspiration to everyone who new him. I'll never forget him and his kind words each time I spoke with him. If there is anything I can do please let me know. Yours truly, Johnny Cole
Steve Butler
April 12, 2011
Thanks for the memories Coach!! Rest in Peace. Playing football for you at Davidson (66'-69') could be some of the best years of my life--Go Wildcats!!
April 11, 2011
One of the true coaching giants in the profession. Coach, you were the best and will truly be missed. God Bless you. Bill Laveroni
David Willingham
April 11, 2011
In the summer of 1980, I had the privilege to meet and work with one of the kindest and most intelligent men to ever walk the face of this earth. Now he's gone and the earth is a better place for him having been here. The people he touched at Davidson and Pacific and West Point and UCLA and Arizona and Alabama and Princeton and Stanford and ... will always remember this man. God bless you Coach. God's team just got one heck of an Offensive Coordinator. Heaven's quarterbacks better get ready for a great season in 2011.
pete
April 11, 2011
May God Bless Homer Smith! UCLA fight, fight, fight!
Donald Burns
April 11, 2011
RIP Coach I always held you in high regard as coach but most as a person being a long time season ticket holder I looked forward to conversations with you at fan day and scrimmages.
During your years with UCLA we were at our best.
Donnie Horner
April 11, 2011
One of the very smartest -- very smartest -- and most genteel men I have ever met. An expert teacher and dignified human being.
Donnie Horner, West Point / Army FB '81
Jacksonville, FL
April 11, 2011
Dear Kakie .... Homer will not be forgotten. That is apparent from the entries in this guest book. His memory will live on, through his many friends as well as his loving family. God bless you all. Love, Joanie and Frank (Austin, TX)
April 11, 2011
RIP Coach you will be missed. Our Prayers are with your family.
Your friends at UCLA
Stacie Traube
April 11, 2011
Kathy - My sincerest condolences. Homer was a very special man. Kind, soft spoken, very thoughtful and what a gifted footbal mind. He will be missed by all.
chuck jones
April 11, 2011
A very special man, a friend to all. Never to busy to speak. May God Bless him and his faimly.
April 11, 2011
Cathy, You are in our prayers & hearts. We both admired & were crazy about Homer - what a GREAT GREAT man! He will be so missed, just as we have missed all of you since we moved from Tuscaloosa to Birmingham 5 years ago! We will be in touch.
Much Love - Carole & Butch Byrd
Brandon Washington
April 11, 2011
Thanks for sharing your expertise with me and seeing something in me. Great football mind. You will be missed.
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