09/28/2025
Vernon Lee Smith went to be with the Lord Jesus Friday, September 26, 2025. He was born to the late Bryan and Josie (Whitley) Smith April 18, 1939, in Winters, Texas.
Vernon married Georgianna (G’anna) Antilley April 15, 1976, in Midland. They loved each other dearly, were passionate about the Lord and were addicted to their family. Together they loved their five children and enjoyed their many grandchildren, great grands and great-great grands. One of his greatest desires was to know that every member of his family would ask Jesus into their heart.
Employed by TU Electric 31 years, Vernon retired as Gainesville manager, and then worked another 20 years for the Housing Authority. He and G’anna have had a deep relationship with Family Life Church of Gainesville, where Vernon served on the board and taught Sunday School for decades. He loved and greatly appreciated his pastors.
Vernon truly respected people. He also loved and was beloved by many, with his family and his church as his top priorities. His 5 children and their families were his delight, and he was a loving and devoted dad, Daddy V, Papa, Vernice, Veeness, Veester, Vernie Lee and V. He was a true friend to folks of all ages, kids and adults. He laughed often, was a great teaser, and made others laugh.
Vernon treasured the outdoors, and his favorite pastimes were hunting and fishing, then cooking and eating his fish and game. Because he had a great rapport with God’s creatures - (he had a special gift with both domesticated and wild animals and birds), many of these ate from his hand. He and G’anna raised a variety of animals who loved him. One of his grown miniature donkeys nuzzled him until he could curl up in Vernon’s arms, and his favorite longhorn bull tried to sit in his lap!.
Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Family Life Church of Gainesville, 905 E. Cloud Street, with Larry Eberhart, Pastor, officiating. Interment to follow at Spring Creek Cemetery under the direction of Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home.
Survivors include his wife G’anna; his children (in order of age) and their spouses: Kara Jennings & Don, Decatur; Leslie Booth, Bonham; Hunter Hayes, Graham; Dru Smith & Kara, Purcell, OK; Devin Smith & Jennifer, Wichita Falls; Grandchildren and their spouses: Donna & Larry Johnson; Josh & Noel Stacey; Teresa & Aaron Rhodes; Robin Jennings; Chelsye Booth; Carlye Booth; Callye & Jesse Glidewell; Hunter Montana & Megan Hayes; Cheyanne Hayes; Ashley Garza; Creed Smith; Jake & Terri Williamson; Gray Williamson; Landin Smith; 21 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, 2 nieces and a nephew.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Whitley (Son) Smith & W.H. (Bud) Smith; his grandson, Blaine Smith; and his great-grandson, Jackson Warnick.
His grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to Family Life Church of Gainesville, TX or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
