L. Leroy “Pud” Smethers, 97

L. Leroy “Pud” Smethers, 97, formerly of Sedalia, died Saturday, September 5, 2015, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg.

He was born May 14, 1918, in Clifton City, a son of the late Walter A. and Grace (Gosnell) Smethers. On June 29, 1941, he married Dovey E. Carleton, who preceded him in death on March 29, 2003.

Mr. Smethers was a long-time member of First Baptist Church in Sedalia. He served his country honorably in the US Army during World War II. He worked for Missouri Pacific Railroad and later for Sedalia Public Schools until his retirement. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball and was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He also enjoyed going to church and playing checkers.

He is survived by a sister, Edna Sanders, of Sedalia; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by five brothers, James, Clark, Charles, George and John Smethers; and an infant sister, Hazel Marie Smethers.

Funeral service will be 2 pm, Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at McLaughlin Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Marlin Brown officiating. Visitation will be 1 pm until service time at the funeral chapel. Pallbearers will be Clayton Alcorn, Jim Sanders, Bob Sanders, Mike Smethers, Dennis Smethers and Larry Coulson. Burial will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery with full military honors conducted by VFW Post 2591 and the US Army.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church or The West Central Missouri Veterans Assistance League – Missouri Veterans Home in care of McLaughlin Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be offered online at www.mclaughlinfuneralchapel.com.