Howard Stephens Smith, born on March 25, 1947, in Cushing, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026. A man whose life was marked by devotion to family, faith, community, and the pursuit of his passions, Howard leaves behind a legacy rich with memories and meaningful contributions.

Howard’s early years were colored by an extraordinary experience that would shape much of his life. When he was just 11 years old, his father accepted a position with Creole in Venezuela, a subsidiary of Exxon, leading Howard to live in Cabimas. It was there that he first met Kathy, an enduring presence in his life. Kathy, born in Caracas and raised across various locations, fondly recalled rides on Howard’s famous Cushman scooter during their childhood in La Salina, Cabimas. Their friendship, born in those distant lands, blossomed over the years, and about forty years later, they would reunite at an Exxon reunion in 2002. Four years afterward, Howard and Kathy were married, beginning a shared journey in Edmond, later settling in Owasso, and finally finding a home in Sperry on Lake Skiatook, where they lived for the past seven years.

Howard's deep spirituality was a cornerstone of his life. Though not formally affiliated with any church, he nurtured a strong bond with God through his love of the Bible. His commitment to faith and community extended to his role on the Board of Directors at the Oklahoma Museum of Art (OMA), where he was instrumental in the restoration efforts of the museum. His connection to OMA was a source of pride, culminating in his recognition as a Distinguished Alumnus several years ago.

Education played a significant role in Howard’s life. He attended school initially in Cushing before moving to the Creole school in Las Cupulas, Venezuela. After completing the seventh grade there, he transferred to Oklahoma Military Academy in Claremore, a place that was more than just a school—it was a lifelong community. Despite the distance, traveling back and forth between Oklahoma and Venezuela was a family routine. After graduating from OMA, Howard went on to study engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Professionally, Howard's career was marked by dedication and versatility. He worked with Oklahoma Municipal Power in Edmond and later with American Electric Power in Tulsa as a power dispatcher. Additionally, he served with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, contributing to public safety and community well-being.

Among Howard’s many passions was his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, which brought him immense joy through the years. It was a profound sorrow when rheumatoid arthritis eventually prevented him from riding. He also enjoyed spending time at the Red Castle Gun Club, where he loved target shooting. His firearm collection was a source of pride, and he generously shared his skills, teaching Kathy how to shoot and enjoying time together at the Xink Ranch.

Howard and Kathy’s shared compassion extended to animals. They were both avid animal lovers and were actively engaged in advocating against deer hunting, other sport hunting, and trapping—a cause close to Kathy’s heart which Howard fully supported. Their generous donations to various animal rescues and shelters underscored their commitment to this mission. Politically active, they volunteered at the Republican booth during Skiatook's Pioneer Days celebration, demonstrating their dedication to civic participation.

Beyond his achievements and interests, Howard was a devoted husband and a man cherished by the friends and family who knew him. His fondness for history, Western films—particularly those starring John Wayne and Clint Eastwood—and the History Channel reflected his appreciation for stories of resilience, courage, and heritage.

Howard Stephens Smith is remembered as a man of warmth, conviction, and a life well lived. His story is woven with threads of adventure, dedication, and heartfelt connections that spanned continents and decades. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by those privileged to know him.