Ford Wooley Smith

TSgt Ford W. Smith, USAF, Ret., age 88, passed away June, 16, 2016,
He was born in Brent, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldridge and Lillian Wooley Smith and six of his ten brothers and sisters.
Ford is survived by his wife, Giovanna Bonifazio Smith, and their six children, Sylvia Skrmetta (Jimmy), Ford Smith, Jr. (Cristi), David Smith(Marsha), Benjamin Smith (Sherri), Victor Smith (Claire), and Bruce Smith (Jamie); and son, Ralph (Heidi) Michaelis, of Germany, many grandchildren and great grandchildren; his sister, Shirley Watkins (Carl); and two brothers, Billy Smith (Katherine), and Jimmy Smith.
Ford joined the Air Force at seventeen and served for 22 years. He was stationed in North Africa, Italy, Japan, Vietnam and many bases within the United States. His last assignment was at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. After his retirement from the military, Ford worked for Lil General Stores as manager and later promoted to district manager. He also worked for Dole Fresh Fruit in Gulfport, Mississippi.
He was passionately in love with his wife of 67 years and spent his last days with her in a shared room at Lakeview Nursing Center. The family would like to thank the staff for their care.
Ford enjoyed traveling and especially seeing the world by car with his family. He was an avid gardener, and the fruit of that labor he share with family and friends. He was also a very accomplished bowler for many years winning his share of trophies and prizes.
Visitation will be on Monday, June 20, 2016, from 10 - 11 am at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. A funeral service will be at 11 am in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Biloxi National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society, 417 Security Square, Gulfport, MS 39507.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com