Clifford Herald Smith, 94, passed to his heavenly home on April 12, 2023, in Conroe, Texas, surrounded by his family. His memorial service will be Monday, April 17, at 11:00 AM at Polk Street Methodist Church Chapel, 1401 S. Polk, Amarillo, TX.
He was born September 8, 1928, in Haskell County, Texas, the son of Lon Judson Smith and Edith Elvira (Sargent) Smith. Cliff graduated from Bovina High School in 1945, where he was the president of his graduating class of 28 students. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he served until 1948. He graduated from Eastern New Mexico College (now University) in Portales, New Mexico, in 1951. In 1950, Cliff married Margaret Gwin. They lived a loving, happy life together for 51 years. Cliff lost his beloved Margaret to cancer in 2002. Cliff later met and married Ruby Dowdy. They were married for almost 20 years, living most of that time in the Houston area. Cliff often stated that Ruby added years to his life and life to his years. Ruby passed away in December 2022.
For most of Cliff’s career, he worked as Director of Data Processing at the American Quarter Horse Association in Amarillo, Texas. He remained connected with the organization after retirement as an Honorary Vice President. He helped develop what started as a small organization into a thriving association where data regarding Quarter Horses worldwide is stored. He spent many long hours working to transition computer systems to newer and more efficient systems every few years as they were developed. During those long hours, he developed lifetime friendships with some wonderful people.
Cliff was a Polk Street Methodist Church member in Amarillo for over 60 years. His faith was at the center of his life. He was an inspiration to many people and influenced countless lives. His prayers always included the request that he could be of help to others.
Cliff played golf into his 90s, and he loved watching the Astros. He was known for his wit and was known to make up his own silly jokes at times. His days were filled with time with the Lord, helping others, enjoying family and friends, and bringing smiles to everyone who knew him.
He loved all his family dearly and was loved dearly by his family.
In addition to his parents, Cliff was preceded in death by his brothers, Lendon Smith and Leroy Smith, his wife, Margaret Smith, and his second wife, Ruby Smith. He is survived by his daughters, Linda Stroud and Joe, Susan Smith, Karen Kuykendall and Steve; grandchildren Miles Stroud, Joseph Stroud, Bentley Stroud and Nicki, Bradley Stroud and Kendra, Michael Stroud and Andrea, Melody Boyd and Brandon, Lauren Uryasz, Chris Kuykendall and Lori, Courtney Burns, and Jim; honorary granddaughter Becky Nys; great-grandchildren Alyssa Stroud, Payton Stroud, Kenslea Stroud, Noah Stroud, Andrew Stroud, Kailyn Stroud, Sky Franklin, Bryson Stroud, Alyssa Baeza, Kayleeh Stroud, Braydon Stroud, Colt Boyd, and Berkley Boyd, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse or Polk Street Methodist Church in Amarillo.
