Roger Smith

In God's perfect timing, Roger Smith passed away doing what he enjoyed, serving the needs of his church and others.  He went to be with the Lord on the same day he was born, after enjoying a full life with family and friends, always willing to lend a helping hand as often as he could. 

Roger was born November 18, 1936, in St Joseph Missouri to J Jack and Thelma Smith.  He attended elementary and high school there where he met his sweetheart Barbara Parker.  He attended the University of Missouri and received a B.S. Degree in Business.  He also attended Cornell University Graduate School where he completed a course in Executive Development.  He worked for 38 years in management in the Electrical Supply business, originally at American Electric and then at All Phase Electric Supply.  He retired in 1999 and since has operated a General Contracting business in Diamondhead. 

Roger was raised in a Christian Church in Missouri, married in a Baptist Church, and became a Presbyterian in Salina Kansas where he was an elder.  Upon moving to Diamondhead, he became a member of Diamondhead Community Church.  He served his community on the planning and zoning commission and dedicated his life to helping his neighbors, his church, and his family.  He always 'showed up' to serve as needed.

Roger spent 14 years in the Missouri National Guard and received his commission in 1964.  He also was a 32nd Degree Mason, belonged to the Shrine and was a Jester. 

Seventy-two years ago, he met his high school sweetheart, Barbara, whom he married in 1960 and they became the parents of Bruce Smith of Denver, CO; Shelly Troester of Biloxi, MS, and Sherri Blahnik (Mark) of Birmingham, AL along with grandchildren Kelsi Gibson (Michael), Austin White, Travis St. George and Gavin St. George (Tiffany).  He has a 1 year old great-grandchild Harper St. George.   Roger is preceded in death by his loving wife Barbara and his sister Beverly.  He enjoyed the last 5 years with his dear companion Rosie Kiene.  He is survived by cousins, nieces and nephews and will be missed by his family, his relatives, and many friends who were blessed to know him.

Roger enjoyed most, spending time with his family and friends.  He loved his trips to Colorado, where he was an avid skier until he was 83 years old!  In addition, he enjoyed golfing, traveling, cruising, and Rving.  God blessed Roger with gifted hands that could fix just about anything!  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023 at 1:00 pm at the Diamondhead Community Church (5301 Diamondhead Circle, Diamondhead, MS) with a Reception to follow.  Graveside Services will be held at a later date in St. Joseph’s Memorial Cemetery in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Riemann Family Funeral Home- Pass Christian is serving the family.