Phillip E. SMITH, D.V.M.

SMITH, OSWALT, RANALLI, GODWIN

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 7/12/2008 at 09:26:09

Morning News of Northwest Arkansas
Springdale, AR
July 9, 2008

FAYETTEVILLE. AR - Dr. Phillip E. Smith of Fayetteville departed this life at home on July 6, 2008. He was born Oct. 24, 1919, in Clarion, Iowa, the son of Granville W. and E. Mildred Smith. Dr. Smith was a retired field research and development specialist with Dow Chemical Co. In 1943, he received his doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Iowa State University. During World War II, Dr. Smith achieved the rank of major in the U.S. Army and volunteered to serve with Merrill's Marauders in Burma, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service. His infantry unit operated behind enemy lines and was presented the Presidential Unit Citation. He was a member of the Masonic Order, Kiwanis, American Veterinary Medical Association, Iowa State University Veterinary Medical Alumni Association, Iowa State Alumni Association and Central United Methodist Church, where he served as chairman of the Older Adult council, president of the Mr. and Mrs. Sunday school class and was a member of the Asbury Sunday school class. Following his retirement, Dr. Smith was able to enjoy a number of his life long interests: raising and training Tennessee Walking Horses, reading and serving the community by delivering Meals on Wheels.

Dr. Smith is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara; his four children, Lora Oswalt and husband David, Debbie Ranalli and husband Paul, Philip "Flip" E. Smith Jr. and wife Kathy, and Barbi Godwin and husband David; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating Dr. Smith's life will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Central United Methodist Church in Fayetteville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church, 6 E. Dickson St., Fayetteville, 72701, or Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, 72762. Arrangements are by Nelson-Berna Funeral Home in Fayetteville.