Tommy Clifford Smith, 55, of Poteau, Oklahoma, passed away on May 10, 2026. He was born on September 7, 1970, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Tommy and Merry Smith.
Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Kristie Smith; his sons, Chase Smith and wife, Reagan, of Moore, and Cale Smith of Moore; and his two special “granddogs,” Finn and Milly. He is also survived by his parents, Tommy and Merry Smith of Spiro; his sister and brother-in-law, Tiffany and Keith Smith of Spiro; his brother, Chris Smith of Pennsylvania; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kelli and Chris Browning of Muskogee; and his mother-in-law, Linda Holt of Stigler.
He leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, including Rainy Long and husband, Jerrod, of Spiro; Noah Smith and wife, Sydney, of Poteau; Chandler Browning of Stigler; and Grant Browning and wife, Gabi, of Bartlesville. He is also survived by his great-nieces, Madi Long and Ally Browning; and great-nephew, Clay Long, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, coworkers, and dear friends.
Tommy was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Elmer and Pearl Hill, and his paternal grandparents, Glen and Reola Smith.
He was a proud graduate of Stigler High School, Class of 1989. He continued his education at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, earning an Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology; then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Northeastern State University; and a Master’s Degree in Education from East Central University.
Tommy devoted his life to education, inspiring and mentoring countless students throughout his career. He began teaching in public schools before dedicating the past 29 years to Carl Albert State College, where he served as Department Chairman of the Business and Technology Division and taught computer science courses. During his time there, he also founded the CASC MakerSpace and served as sponsor of Chi Alpha Christian Ministries.
A man of many passions, Tommy loved building and creating. He spent countless hours designing and constructing projects for special events at the college and for children’s ministry at his church. He had a unique gift for transforming ordinary spaces into vibrant, imaginative environments that brought joy and wonder to children. Each summer, he poured his heart into Vacation Bible School, turning his church into an unforgettable experience for young attendees.
Above all, Tommy cherished his family. He found his greatest joy simply being together with those he loved, and he considered his sons his greatest accomplishment.
Most importantly, Tommy had a deep faith in Jesus Christ. He was a member of HarvestTime Church in Fort Smith, where he had served in children’s ministry, and also attended Covenant Church in Poteau for many years. There, he faithfully served as a deacon, Vacation Bible School director, college and career leader, and Sunday school teacher for many years. His greatest blessing in life was his relationship with his Lord and Savior.
The Family of Tommy Smith would like to say a very special Thank You to Heart of Hospice for their heartfelt care and compassion.
In Lieu of Flowers, Tommy asked that contributions be made to HarvestTime Church 3100 Briar Cliff Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72908 or Covenant Church Kids Ministry 2101 S. Broadway Street. Poteau, OK 74953 or PO Box 571 Poteau, Oklahoma 74953.
The Celebration of Life Services for Tommy will be held 10am – Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Covenant Church 2101 S. Broadway St Poteau, Oklahoma with Pastor Deron Freeman and Pastor Grant Browning officiating. The Family of Tommy Smith will greet friends from 6pm – 8pm on Friday, May 15, 2026, at The Cedars on Dewey 520 Dewey Ave Poteau, Oklahoma.
Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com
Through Love, Serve One Another
The Family of Tommy Smith has entrusted his arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave Poteau, OK 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau’s Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home – Our Family, Loving Your Family Through
Get Local News!
