Wayne Albert Smith was born on January 7, 1931, in Tuttle, Oklahoma, to Carl Edgar Smith and Lena Mae (Pearce) Smith. Wayne passed away on April 28, 2026 in Sulphur, Oklahoma at 95 years.
Wayne was raised in Hennepin, Oklahoma, where he developed a lifelong love of gardening beginning at the age of five. As a young boy, he often worked for local farmers to earn a little spending money, which he happily used to buy soda pop with his brother Raymond. Each year, Wayne and his siblings traveled to Illinois Bend to visit their grandmother, Lena, creating cherished family memories. He attended Fox High School, where he played football, and graduated in 1949.
On March 12, 1949, Wayne married Lola Faye Graham, whom he met through a blind date arranged by his brother Raymond at the carhop where she worked. Their loving marriage lasted until her passing on April 24, 2004.
Wayne began his working life at Acme Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Company in Lawton, Oklahoma, before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy for nearly four years. During his military service as a front gunner and loader, he earned several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal with seven stars, China Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal.
Following his military service, Wayne briefly worked as a milk delivery man before beginning a long and dedicated career with the United States Postal Service. He served as postmaster in Lawton, Oklahoma, and later retired as postmaster of Burneyville, Oklahoma.
In retirement, Wayne found joy in the simple things he loved most—gardening, walking, shopping, and caring for family graves. He and his family traveled throughout Arkansas, tending to cemeteries, placing flowers, and honoring loved ones. He valued community deeply, always keeping up with his neighbors and taking an interest in their lives.
Wayne was a devoted son and brother, taking on the responsibility of caring for his mother and siblings after the passing of his father. Shortly before his passing, he reminded his daughter, Lisa, to continue looking after the family—a reflection of his lifelong commitment to those he loved.
He was a man of strong values, known for his honesty, punctuality, and exceptional frugality. Wayne had a remarkable ability to manage his finances and taught others the importance of careful stewardship. He was also known for his cooking, especially his beloved "traditional Thanksgiving meal," which he prepared year-round, complete with ham, sweet potatoes, sage dressing, and peach cobbler.
Wayne contributed faithfully to Illinois Bend Cemetery and First Baptist Church in Davis, Oklahoma, reflecting his dedication to his faith and community.
Wayne is survived by his daughters, Carla Stone of Archer City, Texas, and Lisa Whitlock and husband Clayton B. Whitlock Jr. of Wewoka, Oklahoma; Grandchildren, Christy Beauchamp, Antonio Flores Jr., Genevieve Merriman, Wayne Flores, Samuel Flores, Graham Smith, Harley Derrett; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of other friends and family.
Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Lola Faye Smith; Parents, Carl and Lena Smith; Son, Allen Smith; Brother, Raymond Smith; Sisters, Evelyn England, Ernestine Cleary, and Kathleen Jordan.
Graveside services for Wayne will be on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Elmore City Cemetery with Pastor Steve Wilson officiating. If you would like to send your condolences to the family you may do so at www.woosterfuneralhomes.com