Ervie J. Smith

Our beloved father and companion to our mother, Ervie J. Smith, was born on March 28, 1946. He was born to Jake and Anna Smith in the windy western town of Enid, Oklahoma. Jesus called Dad’s name on February 7, 2022 and we feel Dad was ready and waiting as he had no desire to live without his health. Dad was to be 76 in March.

Dad grew up farming with his dad, on the old home place in Fairview, Oklahoma. He often spoke about milking cows by hand, going fishing with his dogs, and making memories with his dear sisters, Valeeta and Joann. Dad gave his heart to Jesus on February 22, 1959. At an early age, Dad began his outreach ministry, sharing about Jesus and His love. From establishing gospel tract routes in countless cities, to the mission church that we went to in Enid on Sunday mornings, to passing out thousands of tracts at many a bus station, Dad’s compassion was beyond all measure. He knew no stranger!

He married out mother, Patricia Ann Nightengale on December 27, 1974. To his three daughters, Dad was our confidant, our gentle advisor, our “sounding-board”, our wholehearted supporter. We hold these memories of our precious dad in our hearts. Our lives will never be the same.

Left with sweet memories are his wife, Patricia and their three daughters: Amber and Brian Schroeder, Hardinsburg, IN.; Mary and Blake Giesbrecht, Pinecrest, GA.; and Anna and Glendon Unruh, Scotia, NE.; and eight granddaughters: Taylor, Natalie, Kristi, Jackie, Tina, Paige, Chloe, and Becca. Their grandpa was first rate, like none other. We grieve his absence in their lives.

Surviving also are Dad’s precious sisters: Valeeta Ratzloff, Clarkside, MS.; and Joann Mitchell, Enid OK. Of honorary mention are: Dad’s lifelong friend Steven Calhoune, his quartet from youth years, and his friend Carlos Marti.

Preceding Dad in death are his parents, Jake and Anna, and two brothers-in-law.

We as his family would like to say a heartfelt thank you. There are no adequate words for the love and generosity shown to us.

Visitation for Ervie J. Smith will be Thursday, February 10, from 6-8 pm at the Southern Hills Mennonite Church in Campbellsburg. Funeral will be Friday, February 11, at 10:30 am at the church. Bro. Sam Shirk will officiate. Burial will be at the church cemetery. McAdams Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. For condolences visit mcadamsmortuary.com