Georgia Oretha Smith, 86, of Beaumont, died Monday, February 7, 2005 in Beaumont.
Georgia was born on January 5, 1919 in Nacogdoches, Texas to Gilbert and Loni Curl. She graduated from E. J. Campbell High School in 1935 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from Prairie View State College in 1940 and Master of Science from Texas Southern University in 1961. In 1942, she began teaching at Central Heights in Nacogdoches County and from 1946-1957 taught home making at Wallace High School in Orange, Texas. In 1957, Georgia began teaching in the Beaumont Independent School District where she taught and supervised the home making programs until her retirement in 1981.
On July 18, 1940 she married Willie Ray Smith. Their first-born child was a baby girl named Oretha Ray Smith, who only lived a few days. Up until the last few months of her life, Mrs. Smith spoke of her baby girl often.
Her husband, Willie Ray Smith and her son, Lawrence Edward “Tody” Smith preceded her in death.
Survivors include her sons, Charles Aaron “Bubba” Smith, former Baltimore Colt, who played in two Superbowl games and Willie Ray, Jr.; four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
A faithful member of St. James United Methodist Church until her health declined, she was also involved in numerous civic groups and service leagues.
Mrs. Smith was the most avid supporter and loyal fan of her husband, whom she affectionately called “Coach.” In the home making department of the schools, she many times prepared meals for his players-to be sure they were well fed. Many are the times she cooked pinto beans, mustard greens and hot water cornbread as players and coaches such as O. J. Simpson, Jim Brown, Johnny Unitas, Bum Phillips and Dick Butkas gathered around her table. Feeding and entertaining was her delight.
A memorial service will be 6:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont.
Memorial contributions may be made to Beaumont Association for Senior Citizens Center, 780 South 4th Street, Beaumont, Texas 77701.
