Gordon Smith

Gordon Robert Smith was born on October 16, 1940, in Shattuck, Oklahoma, to Paul and Maggie Francis (Donley) Smith. From an early age, Gordon was shaped by strong values of hard work, service, and community—values he carried with him throughout his life.

He attended school in Fargo, Oklahoma, and after graduating high school went on to Wichita Technical College in Wichita, Kansas. Following his education, Gordon worked for Music Service of Wichita until he was drafted into the United States Air Force in 1966. During his four years of service, Gordon and his beloved wife, Deanna, were stationed in Rantoul, Illinois; Edwards Air Force Base, California; and Eglin Air Force Base in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. After his honorable discharge in 1970, the couple returned to Wichita, Kansas.

Gordon married Deanna Slusher on December 27, 1959, in Wichita. Their marriage was a true partnership. Gordon was an avid and unwavering supporter of Deanna and all her ambitions, always encouraging her pursuits with pride and devotion. Their life together was filled with shared adventures, love, and travel.

Professionally, Gordon worked for RCA Avionics in Wichita, where he served as a technician, shop manager, and avionics salesman. Later, he retired to Madison, Kansas to operate an oil lease and work as a pumper, retiring after the lease was successfully plugged. In every role he held, Gordon was known as a caring, kind, generous, and giving man—someone who could always be counted on to lend a hand or share his knowledge.

Gordon was deeply engaged in his community. He served on various boards and councils, giving his time and talents as an active and committed member of the communities he lived in. His generosity was perhaps most evident through his passion for photography. Gordon photographed sporting events at Madison High School, carefully editing the footage and gifting every team member a DVD of their game—never asking for anything in return. He also took senior pictures for students, again never charging, simply finding joy in giving to others.

A man of many interests, Gordon was a licensed pilot holding a commercial-instrument rating. He and Deanna loved traveling together and spent many happy hours riding their ATV on trails throughout Utah and Colorado, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Gordon is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Deanna Smith of Council Grove, Kansas; his sister, Delores Pittman of Shattuck, Oklahoma; and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Smith of Fargo, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Nolan Smith; his brother, Harold Smith; and his sister, Dorothy Smith.

Gordon Robert Smith lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, quiet service, and deep love for his family, wife, and community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of giving and compassion will long be remembered.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.