Melvin Ray Smith was born Oct. 9, 1934, in Flora, Louisiana, to Mr. Percy Smith and Ms. Clementine Smith. He went to be with The Lord peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. He was surrounded by a loving family.
Melvin is preceded in death by his parents.
Those left to love and cherish the memory of him are his high school sweetheart and wife of 69 years, Evalene Smith, son Stephen Smith and daughter Debbie Hayes; sister Nelda McCain; grandchildren Dustin Hayes (Brittany), Heather Pendarvis (Brock); great grandchildren Haley Worthington (Johnathan), Hannah Stricklin (Tacoma), and Jolee Hayes; and great great grandchildren Jaxon Worthington and anxiously awaiting the birth of Reid Weston Hayes in February of 2024; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends.
He was a 1952 graduate of Flora High School. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and was awarded medals for good conduct during his 20 years of enlistment.
He did tours in numerous states and overseas including Japan, Vietnam and the Island of Guam. He served in the communications squadron. He was honorably discharged after serving his great country for 20 years.
Immediately following his retirement from the United States Air Force in 1974, he continued using his knowledge of communications and began a 33year career with a local telephone company.
Melvin loved all sports and was very involved as an athlete, coach and spectator. In his later years, he was also known to coach and referee from the recliner if the game got too intense.
During his 32,520 days on Earth, he was a son, devoted father, loving husband, a decorated veteran, an avid fisherman and hunter, and will be greatly missed by those who love him.
Melvin’s family received friends from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home. A service to honor his life was at 1 p.m. with Brother Danny Kilcrease officiating. Interment, with military honors, followed at Weaver Cemetery in Flora.
Those honored to serve the family as pallbearers were Dustin Hayes, Kenny Turnley, Travis Smith, David Fredieu, Tommy McCain and Darrell McCain.
Serving as honorary pallbearers for the family were Benny Dobson, Wayne Smith, Peyton Gilcrease, David Dobson and Jaxon Worthington.
The family of Melvin Smith wishes to express its immense gratitude to the ICU staff of NRMC, Dr. Matta, Dr. Ingram, Hospice of Natchitoches, and his friend and caretaker, Nora Craig.