Howard Taft Smithson (6-3-11) services 6-6-11

Howard Taft Smithson, 93, of Paducah, Ky., died Friday, June 3 at his home.

He was born in Saltillo, son of the late William T. and Mary Campbell Harrison Smithson. He married Mary Oleta Powers, who preceded him in death.

Mr. Smithson worked for Taylor Wilson Chevrolet Company from 1938-1948, when he went into business for himself with Smithson’s Body Shop. He later entered the rental business and was the owner of Howard Smithson Rentals with housing and office space.

Mr. Smithson was a member of Masonic Lodge 127 more than 60 years and a 32nd degree Mason; Rizpah Shrine Temple of Madisonville, Ky.; Rizpah Oriental Band—President 1966-1967; Paducah Shrine Club—Director 1973-1974; Scottish Rite Club, a Life Member and serving on the degree team for many years; White Shrine of Jerusalem; Eastern Star. Clara Henrich Chapter; Sword of Bunker Hill; Kiwanis Club of South Paducah where is was a member for more than 50 years and past President, and a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles of Paducah. He was a member of Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church.

Services were held Monday, June 6, at Lone Oak Chapel Milner and Orr Funeral Home with Rev. Greg Waldrop officiating. Burial followed at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Masonic rites were held on June 5.

Survivors include two daughters; Peggy Cole, Dianne Roberts, one son, William Smithson, all of Paducah; five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, several nieces and nephews.

Preceding in death also included one son, Howard Terry Smithson; four brothers: Bob, Hubert, Lawton and Tommy Smithson; three sisters: Cora Mae Anglin, Virginia Mayhall, Ruth Lowder.

Expression of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 1900 Richmond Road, Lexington, Ky. 40502, Lourdes Hospice, P.O. Box 7100, Paducah, Ky. or charity of your choice.

You may leave a message of sympathy or light a candle at www.milnerandorr.com.