Henry Lee Smith

Was born July 29, 1928 in Munday, Texas to parents Belle Smith (Forrester) and Marvin Smith. Henry was one of six children. His siblings include one brother: CB Smith (wife Anna) and four sisters: Nita Hudson (Roland) both deceased, Margie Kearns (Thomas), Peggy Moore (Raymond) and Berta Olson (Raymond). In addition to his siblings and spouses, Henry also leaves behind his daughter Sharon Zamora (Joe), son Larry Smith (Norma), grandchildren: Joe, Jeff, Christopher, Justyn, Kimberlye, Philip, Mychael and Bailey. He also leaves behind 5 great-grandchildren: Joseph, Matthew, Thalia, Jordan and Mackenzie. He now joins his great- grandson Jeffrey Zamora in heaven. Henry spent his early childhood growing up in the country on a farm. He recalled picking cotton in the heat of the day and eating fresh sweet watermelon straight from the fields. At the age of 14 he decided to hitchhike to California to see his brother CB who at the time was stationed with the Navy in San Diego. After he returned to Texas his parents decided to move the family to California and they settled in Santa Barbara in the 1940's. Henry attended Santa Barbara High School where he met his future bride, Jackie Barger. They were married in July 1946. They enjoyed fifty years together until Jackie passed away in October 1996. Henry worked for Interstate Bakery for 35 years. He started out in the Weber's Bread Bakery which was located on Mason Street working nights baking bread and he worked his way up ending his career as the Manager Supervisor for the local Weber's Bread which was located on Cota Street. During his retirement years he helped out in the office at the Noel Christmas Tree Farm. During his spare time Henry enjoyed bowling at all the old local bowling alleys: Barbara Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, San Marcos Bowl and Orchid Bowl. He was in a bowling league for years. During his younger years he played baseball and even had a tryout with the Dodgers. He didn't make it and he always said it was because he "couldn't hit a curve ball". Henry believed in the value of hard work and always being on time. In fact, he felt it was even better to arrive early! He had a kind heart and was very friendly with everyone. Even at the end of his life he was always asking about the family: Who won the basketball game? How did everyone play? How was the school play? What grades did you get? He was very proud of each and every family member. In 2005 Henry met Lois Blackwell. Lois invited Henry to the Seventh Day Adventist Church and he was baptized and joined the church that year. Together they enjoyed life and spent very happy years together. Henry's health had declined over the last 2 years and he fought bravely to overcome his illnesses. We rejoice that he is no longer suffering but is enjoying the joys of heaven with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, 2:00 pm at Santa Barbara Community Church, 1002 Cieneguitas Road.

Henry Lee Smith

July 29, 1928 - January 28, 2016