Sonny Smith Memorial

Born the eighth of nine children during the Great Depression, Sonny Smith grew up on a farm in Oklahoma without electricity or running water. He loved basketball and music, both of which gave him comfort and direction as a young person. After serving in the U.S. Army following high school, Sonny worked to become a master carpenter and electrician. He taught his children to enjoy the simple things and instilled a love for knowledge beyond their rural setting. Through his commitment and encouragement, all four of his children attained college degrees. While unable to attend university himself, Sonny lauded the value of a college degree and intellectual pursuits, delighting in his children’s achievements as if they were his own.