I owe my start of my gas career to Doug Smith!  He was and will always be my favorite boss.  He was no nonsense, hated whining and was always a strong advocate for his team.  It is a model for how I lead my team to this day.  There was never a dull moment (some fun and some not so fun) but we always knew he had our backs-no matter what.  

We worked hard but we also kicked back and enjoyed margs at Don Patrons in the Allen center.  At month end close, he would bring in dinner so we could all keep working while enjoying delicious tacos.  If you happened to “leave early” he’d always holler “next new pipe” saying very clearly that you didn’t have enough work to do if you were leaving early!  (I tried not to leave early:) 

I will always always remember my Dougie Doug Doug!  Best boss ever.  I loved him and I know he loved me and my family, as he always asked about them by name.

Rest well Doug and tell Andie and Margie I said ”heyyyyy”.

Katie—I want you to know that your dad always always talked about you and was always so proud of his “Katie Rose”.  Thinking of you and praying for you and Matthew always! 

We've been thinking so much about your dad and the times we were lucky enough to spend together.  He was one of the kindest, most generous people we’ve known — always thoughtful, always giving, and always bringing people together in the warmest way.

One memory that stands out so clearly is our trip to Cabo. He went out fishing and came back beaming with pride and he was so excited to share it with all of us.  He had that fish prepared for all 19 of us, making sure everyone a good meal to enjoy. 

When he stayed at our home, it never felt like hosting.  It felt like having family.  He was always quick to lend a hand, to make people laugh, and to make every moment just a little more special.   He would sit at the kitchen table, coffee(or Bud Light) in hand, sharing stories or helping with whatever needed to be done, always with that generous, kind presence of his.  We feel truly grateful to have known him, and even more grateful that he and your mom became such a special part of our extended family. He’ll be missed more than words can say, but the memories he gave us will always stay with us.

Katie, your dad loved you deeply and his pride and his love showed whenever he was around you, or when he would talk about you-- Loved hearing the stories of when you were young.  He was so, so proud of you and the wonderful woman you have become.  

There are no words that can ease the pain of losing not only 1 parent, but now both parents, especially those who hold such a special place in your heart. 

Katie and Matt, please know that you are not alone and we are here for you, holding you both close in our thoughts and sending love and strength for the days ahead. 

With our deepest sympathies and love- Jeff and Niki Smith