Richard Lee Smith

Richard Lee Smith passed away peacefully on Thursday, the 18th day of December 2025, at his home in Tyler, Texas. He was 85 years of age when the Lord called him home. Richard was born in Houston, Texas on the 2nd day of February 1940 to the late James Edward Smith and Opal Warren Smith. A skilled electrician by trade, Richard's work ethic and mechanical inclination were only surpassed by his generosity and love for others. Born into a family that valued hard work, Richard quickly became known as a jack of all trades. His hands, always ready to build or fix, were matched by a heart eager to support and uplift.

Richard's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. His steadfast belief guided him in every action, and he lived his life as a testament to his values. He loved to bake, cook, BBQ, and make homemade candy, sharing his creations with joy.

Above all, Richard was devoted to those he held dear. His role as a father, grandfather, friend and leader instilled values of kindness, hard work, and faith in those he cherished. His sense of humor was a source of whimsy and laughter to those who knew him.

Richard will be remembered as a kind and thoughtful man. He was a man who helped people whenever he could, never seeking recognition, but always ensuring that those around him felt seen and supported.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents James and Opal Smith; wife, Kathryn Sue Smith; sister, Brenda Joyce Richardson; and his brother, Michael Warren Smith.

He leaves behind his sons, Steve Smith and wife Jamie, and David Smith and wife Gayle; and his beloved grandchildren, Taylor Smith, Alexa Smith-Jones, Nathan Smith, and Mars Smith.

Funeral services to honor the life of Richard Lee Smith are to be conducted at ten o'clock in the morning on Monday, the 22nd day of December 2025 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1617 Shiloh Road, in Tyler, Texas. Interment will follow in Rose Lawn Cemetery, 2003 Blue Mountain Blvd, in Tyler, Texas.

Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Taylor Smith, Nathan Smith, Mars Smith, Chris Jones, Steve Smith, and Luke Gunter.

Funeral services for Richard Lee Smith are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.