Claude "Cowboy" Wayne Smith, 83, of Dodge, Texas was called to Heaven on Monday, November 21st, surrounded by his family.

Cowboy was born on July 18, 1939 to Pony and Ila Beatrice Smith in Spur, Texas. He came to Huntsville in 1974, and met his wife Linda (Anderson) Smith. Very shortly after he arrived, they met and were married on September 12, 1974 and stayed together 48 years.

He worked in numerous places but retired from Precinct 3 - Walker County after serving twenty years at the age of 62. Three years later, at the age of 65, he returned to Walker County to work another ten years and then retired a second time at the age of 75. His extra time was spent working around the place, messing around with the horses, and trail riding. He was a wonderful Dad and Husband and a great friend.

Cowboy was preceded in death by his parents, by his brother Denver Smith, sister Jessie Minter and husband Lucky Minter, brother-in-law Jimmie Anderson and niece Amy Westbury. He is survived by his wife Linda Smith, son Arthur Smith, daughter-in-law Stephanie Smith of Huntsville, daughter Connie Brown of Dodge, daughter Melissa Smith of Live Oak, foster daughter Penny Fry of Montgomery. Six grandchildren Heather Roark, Tristan Smith, Tanner Smith, Kamdyn Smith, Parker Fry, and Jeffery Fry. Sister-in-law Judy Anderson of Huntsville, brother-n-law Melvin Anderson and wife Dee Dee of Dodge, brother-in-law Ricky Anderson and wife Cindy of Dodge, and brother-in-law Tim Anderson and wife Lisa of Bryan. Numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and great great nieces and great great nephews.

Cowboy and Linda are both blessed with very large families, in addition to many beloved friends he considered part of their family. He dearly loved each and every one of them.

We will have a Celebration of Life and Visitation on Sunday, November 27 th from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm at the Heritage Oak Funeral Home located at 1080 Interstate-45 South in Huntsville, Texas.

There will be graveside services on Monday, November 28 th at 11:00 am at the Dodge Cemetery. We will meet at the Dodge Baptist Church parking lot at 10:30 am where he will be loaded in the wagon for his last ride. For those who don't wish to be in the procession following the wagon, please be at the cemetery by 11:00 am for the service.

After the graveside service, we will gather at Linda and Cowboy's home for food and fellowship. Everyone is invited.

The family wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Amedisys Hospice nurses and staff.