Nonnie Gafford Smith was born April 13, 1931, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. N.A. Smith. He passed comfortably on Monday, Oct. 21, 2013, at the age of 82. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing. He was a long time resident of Coleman County.
Nonnie was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years Pasty Smith. The two of them lived the majority of their years together in Odessa, Texas, where they started and grew their business, Smith Diesel Service. His time in Odessa provided him with many accomplishments. He started his life after graduating from Novice High School attending a diesel school in Chicago. He then joined the Navy and served his country proudly during the Korean War aboard the USS Casa Grande (LSD-13). Dad and Mom then relocated to the Permian Basin to begin their family. After many years of hard work and dedication, he then started what was a pleasure project for him. He began collecting military surplus and equipment for which he then turned into The West Texas Military Museum. Many successes for a small town country boy.
Nonnie is survived by two sons, and two daughters, Regina Smith of Coleman County, and Linda McGuire and husband Brandon McGuire of Abilene, Texas; a grandson, Jason Smith of Coleman, Texas; and four granddaughters, Brittany Grove of Brownwood, Texas, Amanda Grove of Houston, Texas, Kylie McGuire of Abilene, Texas and Kaitlyn McGuire of Abilene; as well a grandson, Kaedon McGuire of Abilene, Texas. Nonnie is also survived by a brother, Lester Smith of Florida as well as many close friends who cared deeply for him.
A memorial service will be held in Nonnie’s honor at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2013, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brownwood, Texas. There will be a private graveside service for the family at a later time.
In lieu of flowers please donate money to any charitable military veterans fund in Daddy’s name.
Daddy was a simple, hard-working, well accomplished man who loved his family, friends and let’s not forget his dog’s. We cannot forget his Dog’s. Daddy we will always love you.
Heartland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
