Claude Smith, Jr.

Herrin- CLAUDE SMITH, JR. age 84, of Herrin, passed away at 8:45am on Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at his home in Herrin. Claude was born in Pittsburg, IL on November 10, 1924, the son of Claude and Aliene (Walker) Smith. He married Alice Frick at the Energy Methodist Church on June 23, 1945. They shared sixty-three years of marriage. She survives in Herrin. Mr. Smith was a business entrepreneur, starting Herrins South Side Lumber. He was a fifty year member of the Herrin Masonic Lodge, and also a member of the Herrin Elks and the Illinois Lumber Dealers. Claude was a true gentleman and a hard worker. He was a great father, husband, and grandfather. He enjoyed playing golf, loved a clean house and working in his yard. Claude cherished his trips to Florida. Most of all, he was known for the success of South Side Lumber. Survivors include one son- Kent and Terri Smith of Herrin, IL Two Grandchildren- Cecily K. Smith and Elliott J. Smith of Herrin, IL Godson- Brandon Switzer of Herrin, IL Niece- Cindy Schreck of Colorado Nephew- Keith Shaddox of Colorado Several nieces, nephews, and cousins He was preceded in death by his parents, sister- Naomi Shaddox, infant sister- Thelma Smith, and cousin- F.L. Walker. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Kevin Oestmann, Dr. Cuartas, Lois Guy, Frankie Miller, Brenda Lence, and Jeri Riley. Your wonderful care is deeply appreciated. The family would like to announce that South Side Lumber will be closed all day on Friday, May 8, 2009 in loving remembrance of Claude. Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Friday, May 8, 2009 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. Louis Frick, Rev. Donnie Colson, and Rev. Brent Fitzgerald officiating. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Thursday, May 7, 2009 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home with Masonic Rites being conducted at 5pm on Thursday at the funeral home. For those who prefer memorial donations may be made to the Herrin Education Foundation or the American Parkinson Disease Association-Southern Chapter. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; 201 S. 13th St; Herrin, IL 62948. Watch the Video Tribute