ALVIN JUNIE SMITH

Alvin Junie Smith, 79, of Gainesville, MO passed away on Friday, May 20, 2011 after a long illness. He was born on November 24, 1931 in Zanoni, MO, the youngest son of Jack and Leila (Pilant) Smith of Zanoni, who together had 18 children.

Junie owned and operated Alvin Junie Smith & Sons Backhoe Service until he retired in 1996. His passion was always playing bluegrass music. He played throughout his life, with family and friends, until his health began to fail. He played for Hootin-n-Hollarin for many years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and the outdoors, but he always came back to music. He loved kids and adored his grandsons. He loved his family and friends, and he will be greatly missed.

Junie is survived by his wife of 58 years, Gavaughna; his two sons Jeff Smith and wife Becky of Rogersville, MO, and Darin Smith of Gainesville, MO; three grandsons Colby and Dustin of Rogersville and Logan of Gainesville; one brother Afton Smith of Louisburg, MO; two sisters, Goldie Newton of Zanoni, MO and Violet Newton of Sugar Creek, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five half sisters; five half brothers; three brothers; and one sister.

A Visitation service will be held from 2-4 pm on Monday, May 23, 2011 in the Clinkingbeard Chapel, Gainesville, MO. Burial will be in the Smith Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Smith Chapel Cemetery or to the American Cancer Society, and can be left at the funeral home. Arrangements are by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.