Former co-founder of "Midwest Gospel Music Association" and Master of Ceremonies of the "Ozark Trails Monthly Singing Convention" for Green and surrounding counties 1960s - 1980s passes.

Leon Smith passed away peacefully on April 27th, 2023, in Conroe, Texas. He was born in Lawrence County, Missouri, on November 24th, 1941, to Jesse and Hazel Smith. Leon was a graduate of Central High School in Springfield, Missouri. He took an interest in cars, sports, fishing, and gospel music in his early years. On June 4th, 1965, Leon married Shirley Jane Murphy in Springfield, MO. In this Union, they welcomed two daughters, Angie and Amy. In 1982, the family moved to Texas when Leon transitioned from his career in insurance sales to pursue his passion in heavy-duty truck part sales. Leon always had a gift for sale. He could sell ice to an Eskimo. Leon was involved in many touring singing groups, including The Ozarkians and The Singing Hosannas, performing yearly at the Miller, Missouri, and Everton, Missouri County Fairs. He traveled and bowled in many National tournaments receiving a 25-year participation award in 2019. He also loved to play golf. Leon accepted Christ at the age of seven. He loved spreading God's word through gospel music and prayer. Leon leaves behind many loved family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jesse Smith; mother, Hazel Smith; sisters, Louamma Smith and Helen Wilson. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Smith; twin brother, Leroy Smith; daughter, Crystal and Randy Newman and her children Miranda and Mariah; daughter, Cara and James Johnson and her children Tara, Taylor, and Tessa; daughter, Angie Smith and her children Brittany and Amber; daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Mark Wampler and their children Kayla and Jeremy, and eight great-grandchildren.

The Celebration of Life was held at Mims Baptist Church, 1609 Porter RD, Conroe, TX 77301 at 2 PM on Friday, May 12th, 2023. The family would like to thank Chaplin Charles Loving, Home Care Select Nurses, and First Choice Hospice for their wonderful care of Leon in his last days.