Robert E. "Sheepdog" Smith

Robert "Sheepdog"

E. Smith, 70, passed away on December 21, 2025, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born on July 5, 1955, in Center, Texas, Robert was known for his caring and loving nature, a man who cherished simple pleasures and fun times.

Robert graduated from Shelbyville High School and dedicated 30 years of his career to the U.S. Forest Service before his retirement. His work reflected his deep appreciation for nature, a theme that was evident in his personal life as well. Robert married the love of his life, LaDonna Dollar, on May 18, 1979, and the two shared over 46 years together raising two beautiful girls.

Robert was an avid outdoorsman. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and camping, activities that allowed him to spend time in the environment he worked so hard to preserve. He also found joy in walking through the woods and sitting on his front porch, where he would observe the highway traffic. His love for war movies offered him a glimpse into the heroic tales of history, which he watched with keen interest.

He is survived by his loving wife,

LaDonna (Dollar) Smith

Daughters,

Rhiana Smith Rice and husband Matthew

Lacey Cartwright

Brothers,

Billie George Smith

Gordon Everitt Smith and wife Jeanette

Carl Davis Smith and wife Jan

Sister,

Carolyn Smith Landry and husband Tommy

Grandchildren,

Kalynda Smith

Gavin Cartwright

Trevon Cartwright

Devon Cartwright

And a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Nina Smith; his brother, Fred Spencer "Scooter" Smith; and his sisters, Lisa Gail Smith and Marjorie Jeanette Smith Windham. His family and friends will remember him as a gentle soul who lived a life filled with love and laughter, deeply rooted in the values of caring and simplicity.

Pallbearers serving will be Matthew Rice, Bryan Broadway, Chris Smith, Jonathan Smith, Trevin Cartwright, Devin Cartwright.

Honorary pallbearer serving will be Gavin Cartwright.