Sam Smith, Jr, 78, of Theodosia, MO passed away peacefully at his home in the Ozarks on July 15, 2021. Sammy leaves behind a devoted wife of 57 years, Kathryn McIntyre Smith, his four children Melissa Pansano (Michael), Clay Smith (Pamela), and Priscilla Smith, and his grandchildren, Braedon Smith, Elizabeth Pansano, Lara Kathryn Smith, and Bryce Smith. He will also be sorely missed by his very close brother who was born on his first birthday, Tommy "Shorty" Smith, and his wife Elizabeth. He is preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Dorothy Smith, two children, Mark Thomas Smith and Tracy Ann Smith, and his in laws Guyma and William McIntyre.

Sammy was born July 27, 1942, to Sam and Dorothy (Hebert) Smith. He was the oldest of three boys. He was raised in a suburb of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, graduating from Glen Oaks High School in 1960. He married the love of his life, Kathie and they lived many happy years together in Baton Rouge. Sammy worked at and retired from Exxon Mobil Refinery in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, establishing many lifelong friendships with his "brothers" who worked there. He moved to the Ozarks after his retirement.

Sammy was passionate about his love for God, working as a lay minister and pastor at many churches during his life. He and his wife Kathie spent 4 years working as missionaries in Russia and they made many trips back to Russia after his retirement to visit churches they had helped found. He is remembered fondly by many of the members of the church he pastored, Rzhev Christian Center in Rzhev, Russia, and by other pastors for whom he worked as a mentor. He will always be remembered for his calm leadership and quiet wisdom.

There will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Church Asia, PO Box 82080, Baton Rouge, LA 70884 or online at www.churchasia.com/give . Please mention Sammy Smith in the memo line.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.