George Robert Smith, aka Dad, aka Grandpa, aka Grandude was born on March 18, 1943, in Winnsboro, Texas, to Elizabeth and Henry Smith. He worked full-time and went to school to support himself through HS. His fondest memories of that time involved his work at the local movie theater where he was the projectionist. Following HS graduation, George attended Texas College until he voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army, to serve during the Vietnam Conflict. He was the perfect fit for his job, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, ensuring service members were mission ready.
While stationed at Fort Lenard Wood, MO, he met his wife, Shelia Catherine Claar, Cathy. They married in IL then moved to Hawaii, as he was stationed at Schofield Barracks. While in the Army, George was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged in April 1968.
Following his service, he returned to Texas College to complete his BA in Marketing. Upon completion, he reunited with his wife in Golden, CO. George put his Marketing degree to use at Texaco Oil Co, ran his own business for a while, then went to work for the State of Colorado as the Chief of Public Safety, first at the Capitol Complex, then for Front Range Community Colleges. While in Golden, George raised award winning roses which were featured in Better Homes and Gardens. His yard was an oasis, complete with a koi pond. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Golden, where he and Cathy were leaders for the Youth Group.
Following his retirement, he and Cathy moved to Greeley, CO to be close to the grandchildren. George provided security at University Schools, where his grandchildren attended. The walls in his home are decorated with personal notes and pictures from students who thanked him for keeping them safe, for making them feel special, and for offering warmth, nurturing, and encouragement. George was “Grandpa” to ALL the children at school.
George spent his days, nights, weekends…at the ball field with his grandchildren. He loved traveling with the teams to out-of-state tournaments. He provided snacks, drinks, and boiled eggs for everybody associated with the team (No exaggeration, EVERYBODY!).
George was a man of integrity, loyalty to service, strong work ethic, and commitment to family. George Smith died peacefully, surrounded by his family, at home in Greeley, CO, on April 1, 2023. He was preceded in death by Cathy, his wife of 54 years. He is survived by his daughter, Alesha; son, Roy; granddaughters Claire and Brooklyn; grandson, Cooper; his brothers, John, and Albert; loving family, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and THE most amazing neighbors whom he loved, who loved him, and who brought so much joy to his life.