Dalton “Jay” Smith passed away in Midland, Texas on August 13, 2021 at the age of 86. He was born November 14, 1934 in Stamford, Texas to Charles and Gladys Smith.
Jay grew up in Ft. Worth, Texas and attended Carter-Riverside High School where he ran track, breaking a state record for the 40-yard dash. Jay developed a love for drag racing and helped organize the Ft. Worth Drag Racing Association. Jay met Courtney Ann Shelley, a student from the University of Texas at Arlington at a racing event and the two were married in March of 1959. Jay worked in the oil and gas industry most of his life before retiring in 2013. He enjoyed home improvement projects, landscaping and painting.
He was preceded in death by his wife Courtney Ann and son Clayton Jay Smith. He is survived by his children Steven Eric, Joel David and wife Kim, Shelley Lynne and husband Eddy Hollums; and Jay’s daughter-in-law Susan Smith; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; Jay’s sister Joanne and husband Alvin Russell, niece Terri Harston and nephew Rodney Russell and first cousins Gaye Jameson and Gene Williams.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at Resthaven Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Foundation would be appreciated.
Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.
