Maurice Smith's Obituary
COMMANDER MAURICE EDWARD “Eddie” SMITH, JR., (U.S. Navy, Retired), 57, of Memphis, died December 14, 2010, after a brief illness. Eddie was born in Chincoteague, Virginia. Because of his father’s service in the Navy, he spent his childhood in many different locations, including California and Puerto Rico. He was a graduate of the University of Louisville. Eddie served as a fighter pilot in the Navy and was awarded the Bronze Star for service in Operation Desert Storm. He was awarded numerous other medals including the Navy Commendation Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. After retiring from active duty, Eddie worked for 18 years in Memphis for Crew Training International, most recently as Executive Vice-President. Everything Eddie did in life was done with enthusiasm, generosity, and a positive attitude. He loved traveling, fishing, hunting, cooking, and above all, spending time with his beloved family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Elissa “Lisa” Smith. He is survived by his fiancee’, Jan Cain; four children, Michelle Erica Deal (Ryan Deal), Melissa Erin Mann (John Mann), Michael Evan Smith (Kristy Smith), and Emily Rae Smith; four grandchildren, Etta Louise and Clara Michelle Mann, George Edward Deal, and Murphy Evan Smith. He is also survived by his parents, Captain Maurice Edward Smith (U.S.N. Ret.) and Billie Rae Smith; one brother, Steve Smith, and sisters, Deena Babb and Geri Simpson. The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m., Thursday, December 16, and Funeral services will be held Friday, December 17 at 4 p.m., all at Memorial Park Funeral Home. The family requests that memorial donations be made to The Vasculitis Foundation. www.vasculitisfoundation.org. Memorial Park Funeral Home, “Behind the stone wall”, 901-767-8930. Condolences may be offered at www.MemorialParkOnline.com
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