was born on Sunday August 10, 1941, to Hubern (Hubie) LouAllen Smith and Opal Ann Harris Smith. 

 

He was number four in what was to be a total of five children. Larry was the first boy with three older sisters Margaret, Martha and Sue.  According to Larry, he was glad when Steve, his younger brother, was born, as his sisters had someone else to direct their attention to. 

 

Growing up in Center Larry was an excellent student, he was valedictorian in his high school class and senior class vice president.  In addition, he was a state recognized saxophone player in the school band. Additionally, he played on the tennis team, and loved working on fast cars. It was during this time he met and dated Pollyanne Barron, whom he would ultimately marry.  

 

After high school, Larry attended Stephen F. Austin State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. Soon afterwards, Larry began his long career as a chemist in the oil industry, respected by everyone who knew him, both for his friendship, professionalism and technical knowledge  He was awarded a number of patents related to chemistry used in the oilfields.

 

Larry married Reta Gibbs in 1969 and raised her two children, Kimberly and Christopher Woodworth, as his own. 

 

They had their first child in 1972, Joseph Smith (baby Joey), who sadly lived only 2 days. In 1975, Hubern Larry Smith Jr., known as Skipper, was born.

 

The entire family travelled around the world ultimately living in Brazil, Venezuela, Scotland, and Norway. He often talked about one of his favorite vacations where he and his family sailed around the Greek islands for several weeks.  Larry simply loved to travel and to learn about new cultures, languages and food.

 

Larry and Reta decided to end their marriage in 1999.

 

After reconnecting with each other in Center in 2002, Larry married his high school sweetheart Pollyanne Baron. He continued his love of traveling with Polly.  Moreover, they enjoyed working in their garden, reading books, and having coffee with friends. They stayed together in sickness and in health until they both passed in the spring of 2021.

 

Larry is survived by his son Skipper and his two bonus children, Chris and Kim, as well as his  5 grandchildren.

 

Arrangements for services are planned for July 17th at 2 pm at Watson Funeral Home.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com