Michael Wayne Smith

Michael Smith, 71, of Abilene, passed away on the morning of June 28th in Tuscola, Texas. Visitation will be from 5-7pm on Thursday, June 29th at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. A celebration of life will be held at 10am on Friday, June 30th and will also be taking place at The Hamil Family Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Iberis Cemetery. Michael was known for his mischievous smile, quick wit, and compassionate heart. He was born in Quanah, Texas to Wayne and Avis Smith on July 30th, 1945. He graduated from Hardin-Simmons University in 1976 with a degree in Criminal Justice. He married the love of his life, Ginger Moos on May 23rd, 1980; their daughter, Kayla, was born on March 2nd, 1992. He was a Captain with the Taylor County Sheriff's Department for 20 years. Following his time at the Sheriff's Department, Michael worked as a Case Manager at the Betty Hardwick Center and retired in 2011. He owned Big Country Implement and found great satisfaction in working with his hands. Michael strongly believed in being of service to his community. He was a member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church and was one of the founding members of the Still Waters Bass Club. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Smith, of Dumas, Texas. Michael is survived by his wife, Ginger, his daughter, Kayla, his brother, David Smith, and his mother, Avis Smith. His close friends and fishing buddies, Mark Fenter, Gayland Seaton, Eric Seaton, Scotty McCorkle, Richard Rhodes, Don Crowder, and Ricky Elliott will be serving as pallbearers. Memorials honoring his memory may be given to Hospice of the Big Country and the Multiple System Atrophy Coalition (multiplesystematrophy.org). Michael's family would like to thank their many friends and family members for their love and support; they would also like to extend their thanks to Hospice of the Big Country for their excellent care.