A Tribute to Lisa Smith, a Port O’Connor Woman…….
Last Wednesday, March 25, 2020 we had to say farewell to another amazing Port O’Connor woman……..
Lisa Leigh Smith was born January 12, 1962 in Big Spring Texas, and she grew up in San Antonio and Cotulla, Texas. She later married Russell Smith and they had two children, Dakota Smith who is a deputy with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department and Cheyenne Smith, who is employed in Cuero, Texas. Lisa died suddenly but peacefully after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke in her home.
In 1994, three months before Dakota was born, Lisa’s husband Russell had a tragic accident in the oil field. He was severely injured and totally incapacitated for an entire year. As young mother to be, Lisa then pregnant and later giving birth, dedicated her life to taking care of her husband’s needs. She was his guardian angel 24/7 for that entire year. She went way above and beyond the call of duty making sure Russell’s needs were met, while taking care of a newborn.
The Smith family moved to Port O’Connor in late 1998. They loved the small town atmosphere and the POC residents were welcoming and friendly. While her children were attending Port O’Connor Elementary School, Lisa was very much involved in school activities. She was a member of the Port O’Connor Elementary PTA, which later became the Port O’Connor Elementary PTO. Whenever a need came up, Lisa was there to help out. She was an excellent “room-mother” and loved surprising all the kiddos. Lisa was extremely crafty and an excellent seamstress. Her results were fine garments you would find in a designer warehouse. She loved sewing and making clothes for her children and later, her grandchildren. The Halloween costumes she made for Dakota and Cheyenne won first prize many years. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy and she loved them with all her heart. Lisa was a true example of a Port O’Connor Woman! She would give you the shirt off her back if you needed it and never ask any questions. Everyone who knew her said she was one of the sweetest and kindest women they had ever known. She was one of those women that if you had a problem, you could go to her and you knew the conversation would never be repeated. One of the first things she would always ask was “Are you Okay?”
In later years, Lisa worked for CL Thomas at Speedy Stop 84 in Port O’Connor. She loved her job and was definitely a people person. Many customers would stand in line just so she would be their cashier. She was not afraid of hard work. She loved cleaning and taking care of homes. She worked as a housekeeper for a while and did an extraordinary job. Her employers would always give her excellent references.
One of the many things I remember about Lisa Smith was her beautiful smile. Just like so many of us, she had her burdens to bear, but you could never tell it by that gorgeous smile. Regardless of what may be going on in her personal life, she always had that brilliant smile on her face.
My deepest condolences to the Smith family. Prayers for peace and comfort at this sad time and in the days ahead. May your sweet memories of Lisa somehow bring you comfort and peace.
We will miss you, Lisa. Fly high beautiful lady, until we meet again on the other side!
Nancy Taylor Pomykal
