Travis Smith

 Travis Smith a native of Arkansas, and a long-time resident of Ocean Springs, MS., passed away at The Ocean Springs Hospital on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at the age of 76.

 He is preceded in death by his parents, Willie Lafayette Smith “Pa” and his mother, Muriel Joyce Smith “Ma.” 

  Travis is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 41 precious years, Connie

(Dunford) Smith; his five children, Sean T. Smith (Janice), Dena Smith Gambler (Chris), Philip Williams (Jennifer), Lisa Gillispie, and David Williams, (Alicia); his three siblings, Thomas M. Smith (Jacqui) Cyndy Thomason (Tom), and Sheila Foto (Mike);  his five grandchildren, Christopher Gillispie, Abigale Pepper (Michael), Nathan Williams (Morgan), Austin Williams, Christy Schmoll (Chris); four great-grandchildren, Mikayla Nijoka, Aiden Schmoll, Makenzie Schmoll, and Skylar Pepper, and a host of relatives and dear friends.

  Travis is a High School graduate of Ringold, LA High School.  He is a Veteran of the Vietnam War where he served his country as an ammunition’s specialist. He was awarded the National Defense Service Metal, The Vietnam Service Metal, and the Air Force Good Conduct Metal.  Later he settled in Ocean Springs, and worked for Ferson’s Optics/Bausch and Lomb, where one of his innovations changed the way optics were designed.

 Travis loved classic cars, fishing, and sports of all types.  He played high school baseball, and in a men’s softball league, as well as coaching for multiple sports for the Ocean Springs. Little League. Travis also loved nature and had a special love for trees.  He enjoyed working in his yard, and grilling outdoors, watching old movies and spending time with his family.

  We would like to thank everyone for the thoughts and prayers.  In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) or American Lung Association (www.lung.org).

 A visitation for friends will be held on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd., Biloxi, 39532, in West Jackson County from 11:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service.  Interment with military honors being presented at the Biloxi National Cemetery will follow at 1:30 p.m. 

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, West Jackson County location is proudly serving the Smith family.  Memories, condolences, and photos can be shared at www.riemannfamily.com