Richard Thurba Smith

Richard Thurba Smith, a life-long resident of Bastrop, Texas, passed away on July 21, 2021, at the age of 80.

Richard was born in Lockhart, Texas on December 21, 1940 to his cherished parents Thurba and Jewell Smith.  He grew up and lived his entire life in Bastrop, Texas.  He graduated from Bastrop High School where he enjoyed and excelled in sports including baseball, football and track.  He also enjoyed socializing with his classmates and made it a point to go to every class reunion held during Bastrop Homecoming.   It was not uncommon to see him in the Main Street homecoming parade on a horse or a float.

Richard married Shirley Marie Barton in Rockne, Texas on February 15, 1964, and had three children: Tammy Marie,  Mart Andrew and Angela Cathleen.

Richard served in the Air Force Reserves. He worked for the Lower Colorado River Authority Sim Gideon Power Plant for most of his career and retired from the LCRA.

Richard was known for his blue eyes and big smile and he loved to talk and tell stories.  He lived his life simply and loved his family.  He was a devoted son, father, grandfather and great grandfather.  He visited his parents every day and took care of them in their later years.

He loved all his children and grandchildren, who he often described as his “pride and joy”.  He was known to his grandchildren as Papa.  He enjoyed being part of their lives.  His white Ford truck had many miles on it from going to school events, football games, basketball games, FFA livestock shows, birthday parties, dance recitals, graduations, etc.  He was always there early and often with flowers of congratulation.

He was with us long enough to meet and spend some time with his new great granddaughter, beautiful Addy Jo, for which we are very thankful.

He is survived by: Daughter and spouse Tammy and Charlie Callaway of Georgetown, Texas

Son Mart Smith of Bastrop, Texas

Daughter and spouse Angie and Clint Chism of Jerusalem, Arkansas

Brother Wayne Douglas Smith of Austin, Texas

7 grandchildren:  Derrick Joseph Smith, Seann Lucas Riocard Mulligan, Brodie Calhoun Mulligan, Megan Rene Smith, Hanna Jo Smith Miller and spouse Kenneth Miller, Shelby Layne Callaway and Camryn Paige Callaway

3 great grandchildren:  Wyatt Matthew Miller, Kylie Marie Miller and Addalyn Jo Miller

Richard is preceded in death by his parents Thurba and Jewell Smith.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and those who knew him.  We love you Papa!

Visitation will be at Bastrop Providence on July 28, 2021 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on July 29, 2021 at Bastrop Providence.

Burial will be at Oakhill Cemetery followed by fellowship at the American Legion Post 533 in Bastrop.