It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of 1SG (Retired) Julius Smith Sr., who departed this life peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on August 5, 1943, in Louisville, Kentucky, Julius lived a life filled with love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community.

Julius was the beloved husband of Oe Yon Smith, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years of marriage, beginning on August 4, 1967, in Seoul, Korea. He was a devoted father to three children: Julius Smith Jr., Kim Sue Bryant, and Jerome Lee Smith. A cherished grandfather, Julius found immense joy in the laughter and accomplishments of his five granddaughters: Harmony Sun Smith, Elizibeth Cho Smith, Ki Makenzi Smith, Kennedy Cho Bryant, and Sydney Jacquelyne Bryant.

Julius was the eldest of seven children, born to Vernon Smith and Mary Lawrence Dye. He joined the Army straight out of high school, dedicating his life to serving his country. Julius retired as a 1st Sergeant, E-8, and earned numerous medals during his distinguished military career, including: the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Four Service Stars, Two Overseas Service Bars, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, Overseas Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Commendation Medal, and Expert (rifle M-16).

After retiring from the military, Julius became a business owner, operating S & T Laundromat and Dry Cleaning to provide for his family. After selling his successful business, he found fulfillment working for the Lawton Public School system as a bus driver, where he loved transporting children to and from school.

Julius touched the lives of many with his warmth, wisdom, and dedication to his family and community. Those who knew him will forever remember his infectious smile, boundless generosity, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people.

He is survived by his loving wife, Oe Yon Smith; his three children and his five granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Smith and Mary Lawrence Dye.

A celebration of Julius's life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Becker-Rabon Funeral Home Chapel. Family and friends are invited to gather, honoring the remarkable life Julius lived.

Burial with full military honors will follow at Fort Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, Oklahoma.

The family will greet friends from 6:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Julius's spirit will continue to live on in the lives of all he touched. Rest in peace, Julius. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.