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SMITH -- Russell Lloyd Smith, 60, of Albuquerque, died at 4:35 a.m., Monday morning, September 4, 2006, at home after a lengthy battle with lung cancer. Russ was born on May 15, 1946, in Independence, MO. He was the first born son of Bobbie Russell Smith and Marian Ruth (Beal) Smith. He has one brother, Frank Floyd Smith, and two sisters, Lita (Smith Lyons) Chandler and Laura (Smith Jesse) Llamas. He was first married to Judy Hentel. They had one child, Kenneth Alan Smith. He then married Linda LaVerne McCallister (twice). Russ and Linda were bound together in life by a profound love, an unwavering friendship, and their three children: Stephen Victor (he was a big boy who carried his Daddy's keys), Eric Alexander (they never forgot or agreed on the 1982 quarters), and Rebecca Lynn Smith (she knew her Daddy would catch her if she jumped). Another child who calls Russ "Dad" is Sean Crosby, of Las Vegas, NV. Russ was briefly married to Sean's mother, Cathy. Russes' companion for the last eight years, has been Dorthea Jackson. Additionally, he has enjoyed special friendships with Daniel McCallister, his brother-in-law, and Lennie Veit, his future daughter-in-law. Russ was blessed with six beautiful grandchildren: Aleksandrea, Anna Rae, Corrina, Trystan, Lillian and Skylar. Throughout their lives, whenever they find a penny, they will know that it is their Grandpa Russ reminding them that he lives in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his mother in 1995; and a brother-in-law, John McCallister in 2002. Russ helped raise John. He was John's inspiration to return to school and get this degree. Russ was nomadic in nature but his heart was always with his family. He was a man who was not known by many, but much loved by those who did know him. In his younger years, he served in both the Air Force and the Navy. After being honorably discharged from both services, he worked towards being self-employed. His specialty was making repairs on homes or appliances as honestly and inexpensively as possible. His life's work didn't make him rich, but it made him happy. His family and friends broke the rules and walked by his side as he walked through the Lonesome Valley. With a deep regret, they learned they could not carry him out of the valley and were forced to deliver him into the waiting arms of the Heavenly Father. They will find peace and strength as they gather to say their earthly good-byes and celebrate his memory at the little country cemetery just outside of Corona, NM, in Lincoln County, on September 9, 2006. In the light of this peace and strength, they will grow. Hey Rusty, uh ... Russ, Russell, Dad, Grandpa Russ, Old Man, (anything but late for dinner), we miss you .
        Published on: Sat September 09, 2006