Philip Wayne Smith, 72, of Safford, entered into rest at MGRMC on Sunday, July 31, 2016 surrounded by his loving family.
Phil was born September 26, 1943, to Jess and Harriet Bell Smith in Bisbee, the second of four sons. He grew up there, with baseball being an important part of his life. Following his 1961 graduation from Bisbee High School, Phil began his career for Phelps Dodge at the lumber mill in Bisbee. After extensive ICS training and an apprenticeship, he worked as a skilled machinist for PD. When ill health forced him to retire in 1996, Phil had worked for PD a total of 34 years.
Phil is survived by his wife of 30 years, Karoll, daughters Kirsten Showers and fiancé, Albert Signore, Katrina Smith, his brother Dan and wife Connie of Tucson, grandson Mathieu Marquez of the US Navy, and wife, Heather, brother-in-law Jack and wife Diane Guza of Potterville, Michigan, sister-in-law Gretchen Bruce of Tucson and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Carolyn Lorraine, his parents, Jess and Harriet Smith, and brothers, Gary and Paul Smith.
Phil loved baseball, fishing, and gardening. He also enjoyed feeding the hummingbirds and the view of the mountains behind his house. He was a loving husband, dedicated father and loyal friend. He will be sorely missed.
Services will be Saturday, August 6th at 1:00 p.m. at the Caldwell Funeral Chapel. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery.
Services are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
