Dr. Harold L. Smith

Harold Leslie Smith, 100, of Tyler, Texas died peacefully on Friday, October 13, 2023. He was born in Pleasureville, Kentucky on February 13, 1923 to Lloyd Smith and Hazel Hudson Smith. He grew up in Middlesboro, Kentucky and had two sisters, Lois and June. Harold attended the University of Florida his freshman year before enlisting in The United States Army and serving in the 77th infantry division in the Pacific Theater. While being stationed at Camp Fannin, Harold met Margaret Melrose Murphey of Tyler and the two were married November 3, 1944, at Marvin Methodist Church. While serving in WW2, he decided to pursue a career in dentistry and upon completion of his service, enrolled at SMU to finish his prerequisite classes. He was admitted and graduated 4 years later from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1951. Upon graduation, he and his family moved to Tyler and he practiced dentistry for over 50 years. Harold was very involved in organized dentistry and served many roles over the years in the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and East Texas Dental Society. In 1986, the Texas Academy of General Dentistry awarded him “Texas Dentist of the Year” for his outstanding service to the dental profession. After Melrose passing, Harold married Joanne Henry. Harold was very involved in his church, Marvin Methodist Church, where he served in different roles. He was also an active member in the Tyler Corvette Club and drove a red corvette most of his life. Harold loved spending time with his family and traveling the world. Harold is preceded in death by Melrose Smith, Joanne Henry, and his sons Mark and Stephen Smith. He is survived by his daughter Stephanie Smith of Tyler, step-daughter Allyson Sullivan and husband Mark of Tyler, daughters-in-law Pam Smith of Palestine and Karen Smith of Mabank. Grandchildren: Shannen Smith of Tyler, Dr. Zachary and Kelsey Smith of San Antonio, Hunter and Anna Sullivan of Frisco, Victoria and Thomas Johnson of Conroe, Margaux and Hunter Sanders of Tyler, and Layla Sullivan of Austin. He is also survived by 7 great grandchildren. There will be a viewing and visitation Tuesday, October 17th, 2023 from 6-8 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home, 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy in Tyler. There will be a memorial service at Marvin Methodist Church on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at 10:30 AM.

Dr. Harold L. Smith

February 13, 1923 - October 13, 2023