Derald G. Smith Sr.

Derald G. Smith, Sr., 80, of Topeka, passed away December 3, 2011 at a Topeka nursing home. He was born August 2, 1931 at Melvern the son of Stanton and Maggie (Adolph) Smith. Derald served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. Derald was a fuel crew foreman for Westar Energy before he retired. He previously was employed by KDOT. He loved to pitch horse shoes, fish and work around his home. Derald was married to Grace M. Lacey in 1957 at Holton. She preceded him in death on July 4, 1997. He also was preceded in death by a twin brother Gerald, sisters Leona Allen and Mary Triplett. Another brother and sister also preceded him in death. Survivors include, one son Derald G. Smith, Jr. of Topeka, one brother Leroy Smith of Lyndon and one sister Genevieve Tedrow of Lawrence. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. Derald will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Monday. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Melvern Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer?s and Related Disorders Association and sent in care of the Brennan-Mathena Funral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka 66603. Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com.