Melvin Wayne Smith

Melvin Wayne “Buddy” Smith was born on June 7, 1951, in Terrell, Texas to Melvin A. & Mary Ruth Smith. After a long battle with his health, he entered the arms of Jesus on July 9, 2026.

For the past 25 years, he has shared his life with his beloved Kathy “Kat” Smith. They were married on April 30, 2016.

Buddy was a dedicated firefighter for 28 years, serving the Department of University Park, as well as acting as unofficial firefighter, stopping to put out grass fires before the firemen could arrive. Beyond saving the lives of others, he also was an auctioneer, fence builder, rancher, and jack-of-all-trades, always working hard to provide for his family.

He loved team roping, as well as being an accomplished pit master; known for some of the most mouthwatering BBQ around. He and Kat would spend countless hours by the water, catching fish, laughing and living life together. Whenever he wasn’t working, Buddy took every chance he could to venture into nature to hunt.

Buddy was a doting father, grandfather and great-grandfather who loved nothing more than spending time with his precious family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents on both his mother and father’s side, his sister, Ellen and his mother-in-law, MommaBill West.

He is survived by his loving wife Kat and her family, in addition to his son Rodney. He also leaves behind so many nieces, a nephew, cousins - along with many friends who were as close as blood – all of whom he loved.