Roll Call Tribute

Fred Alderson Smitham 
June 9, 1921 - September 17, 2023 

Fred Alderson Smitham, 102, of Dallas, TX, died peacefully at home on September 17, 2023. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. Fred's ever-present warm smiles and friendly greetings were fueled by the love of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. An only child, he seldom failed to mention that his large and loving family was a tremendous blessing and joy to him.

After having lived in ten Texas towns in his youth, Fred graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas. He earned a Chemical Engineering Degree from Texas A&M University (Class of '42), and after WWII a Business Degree from SMU where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta. He proudly served as a pilot in the US Air Force, which birthed a lifetime love of aviation.

Following his military service Fred began his 30-year career as a commercial realtor at Majors & Majors, an enterprise he later owned for decades with his business partner, Henry Maher. He was a member of the Society of Industrial Realtors and the Dallas Board of Realtors, where he served as President. In 1972, Fred was awarded the Easterwood Cup Award for Realtor of the Year. Having been mentored well in the real estate business, throughout his career he enthusiastically mentored others.

He treasured any time outdoors when he could shoot, sail, fish, hunt, and watch stars, birds, wildlife, aircraft, or watercraft. He also loved all things Colorado and was a good steward of his body with a healthy diet and regular exercise. He enthusiastically shared and taught about all his interests and appreciated the fellowship they generated.

He was an involved and faithful member of Believer’s Chapel for over 50 years. Fred’s faith was the foundation for all areas of his life. He shared this passion with his wife of 63 years, Louise Hemphill Smitham, until she died in 2010 after receiving Fred’s generous and compassionate care during the many years of her final illness. Together they left a legacy of abiding faith in Jesus Christ, commitment to family, and selfless love for others. Louise and Fred were active members of Christian Concern Foundation and involved in that ministry’s founding of Kaleo Lodge Retreat Center near Mineola, TX.

Fred is survived by his three children: Susan Smitham Jarrett and husband Ed, Fred Alderson Smitham, Jr. and wife Susan, and Craig Hemphill Smitham and wife Robin. He also leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Verner Smitham, his mother, Frances Alderson Smitham, his wife, his granddaughter, Sally Ann Smitham, and his great-granddaughter, Lucy Jarrett.

Fred and his family have been blessed for the last 5 years by the devoted, tireless, and kind care of Caroline Lusengo and Sherrie J. Williamson. The family is grateful for their professionalism combined with the special friendships that gave peace to the family and undoubtedly contributed to Fred’s longevity.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 23, at 10 AM at Believers Chapel, 6420 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX.

In the care of Restland Funeral Home.