Ellis Smith 1915-1998
Ellis Lee Smith, 83, of Washington, died Monday, June 15, 1998 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Specialty Care Hospital in Boonville.
He was born near Spurgeon, May 10, 1915, the son of Harley E. and Nettie Parker Smith. His grandparents were John and Teresa Craig Smith, William Sherman and Della Collins Parker. He grew up at Otwell, where he was graduated from Otwell High School in 1933. He earned a bachelor of science degree from Oakland City University and a master's degree from Indiana University.
He married the former Eloise Stockinger January 4, 1944, at Camp Barkley's Army Chapel in Abilene, Texas and she survives.
Smith was a retired teacher who taught for 36 years, having taught 11 years in Pike County, including Burr Oak, Otwell, Algiers, and Petersburg schools. The last 24 years of his teaching career were at Washington High School.
He was a life member of the Petersburg VFW and Washington American Legion. He was also a member of the Daviess County Retired Teachers' Association and Indiana State Retired Teachers' Association. He attended Otterbein United Methodist Church.
He was a World War II veteran, having served four years and seven months. He was in the Chemical Warfare Section of the 12th Armored Division, European Theatre of Operations. He was also part of the Mystery Division with General George Patton during the Battle of the Bulge.
Surviving besides his wife, Eloise, are a daughter, WHS Class of 1971 classmate Venita Ellyn Cunningham of North Judson and two grandsons, Owen and Ian Cunningham.
Funeral services were at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 18 at Gill Chapel in Washington with Rev. Dr. P.T. Wilson officiating. Burial was in Walnut Hills Cemetery, Petersburg. Petersburg Veterans of Foreign Wars conducted full military honor graveside rites.
Pallbearers were Randy Burks, Steve Craney, Ron Frette, Herbert Potts, Gordon Wade and Bryan Walden.
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From the 1970 & 1971 Yearbooks: Ellis Smith; Algebra, Sponsor of Student Council.
Oakland City College B.S. Indiana University M.S.