Wilma Smith - Wise County Messenger

Smith

Funeral services for Wilma Smith, 94, of Decatur, is at 11 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Hudson & Torres Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, with burial at Eastside Cemetery. Visitation is from 6-8 p.m., Friday, August 22, 2025, at the funeral home. Pastor Phillip Fortenberry will officiate.

Pallbearers include Landon Smith, Chance Smith, Zach Smith, Luke Smith, Cooper Smith, Cole Smith and Ed Selz.

Wilma Wayne (Whitten) Smith was born on Dec. 5, 1930, in Stephenville, to David and Adele (Earp) Whitten. She passed away peacefully on Aug. 19, 2025, in Decatur, at the age of 94.

Growing up on a ranch, Wilma was the oldest of five siblings and served as her father’s ranch helper. In her teenage years, she met the love of her life, E.L. Smith, Jr., at Cisco High School, where she proudly twirled as a majorette. The two were married on June 5, 1948, and shared a happy and fulfilling marriage for an incredible 72 years.

Wilma was known for being a wonderful homemaker, dedicated to her family. She loved sewing clothes for her children and was a fantastic cook, with her cinnamon rolls being a beloved favorite during holiday gatherings. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her home. While living in Bridgeport, she taught Sunday school and actively participated in the local garden club.

As life unfolded, Wilma and E.L. moved to the Dallas area for his work. During this time, she continued her passion for gardening. She attended flower shows and grew award-winning daylilies that charmed many. Wilma served her communities well by holding local, regional, and state offices in various flower and garden clubs. Her dedication to gardening even led her to become an accredited flower show judge at both the state and national level.

Throughout her life, Wilma cultivated deep friendships imbued with warmth and kindness. She was a devoted caregiver to her family, especially to her husband, E.L., showcasing her love and commitment over the decades they shared together.

Her family and friends will remember Wilma for her caring nature, her remarkable talents, and the beautiful legacy of love she has left behind.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, E.L. Smith, Jr.; daughter, Laura Selz; parents, David and Adele Whitten; sister, Mary Nell Dicus; grandson, Dr. Heath Smith; great-grandchildren, Emma Smith, Wyatt Smith, and Noah Smith; sister-in-law, Janie Whitten; and nephew, Zach Whitten.

Those left to cherish Wilma’s memory are her sons, Johnny and wife, Linda; Rick and wife, Joyce; Sean and wife, Michelle; son-in-law, Milton and wife, Karen; brothers, David Whitten, Jack Whitten and wife, Judie; sister, Jean Edwards and husband, Neal; grandchildren, Cooper Smith, Kaycee Maxwell and husband, Clint; Ed Selz and wife, Jenn; Landon Smith and wife, Ashley; Cole Smith, Andrea Smith, Chessi Curtner and husband, David; Chance Smith, Zach Smith, Luke Smith and fiancé, Ashlyn; great-grandchildren, Paxton, Colin, Landry, Harper, Beckham, Paisley, Molly, Sam, Charlotte, David Paul, Carver and Jack; and a host of friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dr. Heath Smith Memorial Foundation at First Financial Bank in Bridgeport.