Roland F. Smith

Roland F. Smith, also known as the "Singing Cowboy," went to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 6th, 2012 at the age of 88 while surrounded by his family. He was born on March 2, 1924 in Lometa, TX to Alfred and Cora Smith. His wife of 38 years, Mary E. Smith, preceded him in death in 1992. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Joe Smith and Lee Smith; and three sisters, Stella Moore, Lois Smith and Myrtle Isaacks. Roland is survived by his two daughters Mary Brooks of Abilene and her husband James, and Nancy Rhodes of Baird and her husband Benny; 9 grandchildren, 18 Great Grandchildren and 4 Great, Great Grandchildren. Roland served his country in the U.S. Army from 1944-1946 as a cryptographer technician in the Signal Corp of the 41st Infantry Division. After the army, he was an air-traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration. He was known as "Smitty" during that time. He retired after a 40-year career. Roland's true passion was country music. He was first a member of the band called "The Hired Hands." He was 26 years old when he took the stage for the first time, singing "The Lovesick Blues" at the Hillbilly Circus. That led to appearances with Slim Willet, his mentor, on the Big State Jamboree. He cut a record in 1960 on which he sang "Nobody Here to Talk To" and "I Hate to See You Go." Later, he adopted "China Doll" as his signature song. A few of his favorite songs included "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" and "Cattle Call." Roland later started a band, and they became "The Roadrunners" in 1968. They played all over the Big Country performing in many venues and also entertained at a variety of occasions. Some of the highlights of his career consisted of playing at the "Annual Charles Stenholm's Picnic" and the "Grand Ole Oplin." Roland loved to sing and dance and really had a special way of entertaining a crowd. In addition to playing with "The Roadrunners", he donated his God-given talent, time and passion to numerous local and surrounding area nursing centers. He started singing for residents at nursing homes in 1968 creating a personal musical ministry. Roland provided a unique service to many nursing facilities for many years. He truly enjoyed bringing smiles, fun memories, and, most of all, joy to the hearts of people! A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 9th followed by a visitation and time of celebration until 3:00 p.m. at Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. A private family graveside service will be held on Monday, December 10th in Elmwood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to be sent to the West Texas Rehab Center, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, TX 79605, or your charity of choice.