William Britton Smith

William Britton Smith, 79, of Farmington, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2009, following a brief illness. He was born Feb. 10, 1930, in San Angelo, Texas, to William Verell Smith and Tennessee Britton Smith. Britton was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Laurine Meador. He is survived by his wife, Leta Jo Smith; sisters, Margaret Amodio of Columbia, S.C., and Katherine Dickens of Hitchock, Texas. He also is survived by daughters, Kathleen Runnels and husband, Jim, of Farmington, Cynthia Provine and husband, Bill, of Austin, Texas, Judy Moore of Odessa, Texas; by eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Mr. Smith grew up in San Angelo. In 1948, he graduated from San Angelo High School, where he was captain of the football team. After serving in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany, Britton married his high school sweetheart, Leta Jo York, in 1952. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 1954 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, and later became a Certified Public Accountant. He was a partner in the firm of Elms, Farris, Smith and Green in Odessa, before moving to Farmington in 1975 to open the firm's second office. Later, he formed a new partnership in Farmington that is known as Smith, Oldfield & Associates. Many of his clients became lifelong friends. Mr. Smith loved his family, good books, good Scotch and his travels worldwide. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, but especially football, track and boxing. His family and friends valued his intelligence, character, integrity and humor. He was a loving and faithful husband, a wonderful father as well as a valued friend and advisor to many in San Juan County and around the state. He was an extraordinary man, a true gentleman and a fine example of how a man should live his life. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Northwest New Mexico Hospice, San Juan Regional Medical Center or another charity of your choice. The family would like to express gratitude to the staff involved in Britton's care, specifically Dr. Allen McCulloch, Dr. Paul Curley, Dr. Dwayne Gibbs and Nita Endsley in the ICU. Arrangements are with: Alternative Choice Cremation and Funeral Services 804 N. Dustin Ave. Farmington, NM (505) 326-3671.