Joe Taylor Smith

Joe Taylor Smith, 87, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021 in Midland.

Joe was born on a family farm in the small community of McCaulley, Texas. His parents, Alice and Adlie Stevenson Smith, and siblings welcomed his arrival on November 23, 1933. He started first grade in this community school; and in the third grade, he, accompanied by his loving dog, moved with his family to Sweetwater, Texas. Joe was a star athlete at Newman High School, Sweetwater, excelling in football, basketball, track and tennis. After high school graduation in 1952, he attended Arlington State Junior College on a basketball and tennis scholarship. While in college, he received a call from the Army and there he served during the Korean War. Upon completion of his military duties, he returned to North Texas State College to complete his undergraduate work. He received a B.S. degree in Health and Physical Education. Education was a priority and he later pursued a M.A. degree in School Administration from Sul Ross State College followed by a PhD in Accountability Auditing from Western Colorado University. His love for education was his basis for a professional career. He moved to Midland in 1959. Joe was a classroom teacher, athletic coach, department chairman, assistant high school principal and Robert E. Lee high school principal. While at LHS he raised the academic and athletic programs to a higher standard. He was also a superintendent at Fort Hancock, Texas. Most of his career was in the Permian Basin. Throughout his teaching career, he made many friends for life.

He is survived by his children David Absher Smith Corbett (Pam) and Bradley Joe Smith (Trisha). He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Joe always loved dogs and he had numerous four legged friends that were a part of his family until his health failed and he moved to Manor Park. Many a fun time was had with his friends hunting, fishing and playing golf.

His wife of fifty years, Patricia Ann Smith, preceded him in death July, 2019. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his two brothers, A.S. (Bud) Smith, Bill and wife, Nita Smith and his two sisters, Helen Smith Allen and husband, Claude and LaRue Smith Giesler and husband, Doug. Joe is survived by one sister-in-law, Edna Smith. He is survived by two stepsons, William Raul (Trey) Brown, Chris Brown and wife, Brenda and granddaughters, April Brown Gavin (Brian) and Kristen Brown. The arrival of great granddaughter, Caroline Gavin, daughter of April and Brian, has brought many smiles. Surviving him also are numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved greatly. He was lovingly cared for by his niece, Beverly Allen Armstrong and husband Rick. Joe is also survived by his dear and best friend, David Adams, with whom he shared many years of friendship.

A visitation will be on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory from 5:00pm until 6:30pm. A graveside service will be Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 11:00am at Resthaven Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to MARC Empowering Lives, 2701 North A Street, Midland, Texas 79705 or West Texas Boys Ranch, 10223 Boys Ranch Road, San Angelo, Texas 76904 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.