Royce Artman Smith, age 72, son of Wilbert and Ruby Smith, was born on Jan. 12, 1942, in Success, Mo. He passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 8, 2014, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, Mo.
Royce was preceded in death by his first infant child; his parents; two older brothers, Charles and Gary; and nephew, Mark.
He is survived by his wife, Janice of Springfield; daughters Lynne, Melissa and Heather of Springfield; sons, Shaun and Dan of Springfield, two brothers, Bruce of Springfield and Rubert of Houston; two sisters, Mary of Springfield and Rita of Bucyrus; and numerous beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Royce grew up in Success, Mo., and graduated from Houston High School in 1960.
He married his high school sweetheart on Dec. 27, 1960, and to this union three daughters and two sons were born.
Royce accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was 12 years old, and his faith became the central focus of his life. He loved sharing his faith with those around him, and lived an example of honoring Jesus that had a profound impact on his family. His generous spirit uplifted the lives of those with whom he came into contact. Royce loved to help people and never passed up an opportunity to help people improve their lives.
Royce had a deep love for his family, which never wavered regardless of the circumstances. He modeled the unconditional love of his Savior. Royce had a unique ability to see beyond the flaws that each of us has and see the tremendous potential that God has created in each one of us. He continually provided encouragement to reach that potential.
Royce entered the sawmill business in 1971 after working for his father for many years. He made many friends over the years and often recounted stories of the wonderful people he was able to work with. For him, it was like an extension of his family.
Royce’s passing is a reminder that this world is not our home and that like Abraham we should be looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Royce would point to Jesus Christ as the source of eternal life and the mediator between God and man. As it says in Romans 10:9-13 “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “ Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “ everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-13 ESVST)
Royce will be dearly missed, but the legacy of his life will carry on for generations. At the end of our lives, may we all hear the words from our Lord that Royce just heard: “Well done good and faithful servant.”
Services were 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, at Houston First Baptist Church with Dr. Howell Burkhead officiating. Pallbearers were Paul Daniels, Tim Cluny, Jon Cook, Jedediah Smith, Nat Cook, Frank McLin, Jr. Ramsey and Billy Smith. Honorary pallbearers were Bud Garrett and Kendall Ford. Burial was in East Lawn Cemetery, Springfield, MO under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201. Online condolences may be made at www.evansfh.com.
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