Richard Thomas Smith

Richard Thomas “Dick” Smith, age 84, of Roswell, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, in Ruidoso, New Mexico, while enjoying one of his favorite pastimes—camping with his beloved wife.

Born on January 15, 1941, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Richard was the son of William C. Smith and Vivian (Pickel) Smith. He spent his formative years in Tucson, Arizona, where he graduated from Sunnyside High School. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Arizona.

Richard served his country honorably in the Army National Guard in Socorro, New Mexico during the Vietnam War. His lifelong commitment to hard work and public service led him to a long and accomplished career with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)/Soil Conservation, where he worked for 30 years. His dedication to New Mexico’s land and water resources continued with over two decades of service to the Chaves County Flood Control as Flood Superintendent, as well as to the New Mexico Watershed and Dam Owner Coalition and the Pecos Valley Conservancy District (PVCD), each for more than 20 years.

A proud and active member of his community, Richard was involved in several organizations, including the Masonic Lodge, the Shriners, and the Elks Lodge. He was widely respected for his integrity, generosity, and tireless advocacy for the land and people he served.

Richard was a true cowboy at heart. He found joy in riding horses, roping, farming, and spending quality time with those he loved. Family was the center of his world, and he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marcia Barajas; his children from his first marriage, Calvin Smith and wife Evelyn of Maxwell, Nebraska, and Amy Thompson and husband Trace of Dexter, New Mexico; his cherished grandchildren Amber James of Cary, North Carolina, Celese Smith and Matthew Mandonado of Roswell, New Mexico; and his adored great-grandchildren Camryn, Nora, and Sylas Mandonado. He is also survived by his brother, David Smith and his family of Prescott, Arizona, and his faithful horse, Henry.

Richard was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Smith, and his parents, William and Vivian Smith.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Richard’s memory will be treasured by his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched throughout his lifetime. He will be remembered always as a hardworking man, a cowboy with a kind heart, and a pillar of strength and love in his family.

A memorial service will be held on June 28, 2025, at the Roswell Elks Lodge from 2-5pm.

Family would like all donations to go to the Roswell Humane Society in lieu of flowers.