Marvin Douglas “Smitty” Smith, Sr., 79, of Lake Charles, passed away at 9:28 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021, in a local hospital.

Mr. Smith was born on Nov. 19, 1941, in Leesville, La., where he was raised and graduated from Leesville High School.  He moved to Lake Charles and resided here for the rest of  his life.  In earlier years, he co-owned the Bamboo Night Club.  In 1995 he began his career as a table game dealer for local casinos until retiring last year.

He could often be found at the casino working and sometimes having fun gambling.  He also enjoyed horse races, playing computer games, and crabbing.  Mr. Smith looked forward to his yearly trip with his family to Biloxi, Miss., to visit the Beau Rivage.  His most cherished and precious time was spent spoiling his grandchildren as well as his furry companions.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 58 years, Mary Alice Smith; daughter, Shonna Smith LeDoux (Chad); grandchildren, Karli Smith (Mason Boudreaux), and Carter and Cooper LeDoux; and great grandchildren, Hollyn Smith and Owen Boudreaux all of Lake Charles.  He also leaves behind his canine sidekick, Sadie.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Douglas Smith; stepfather, Dempsey Malone; son, Marvin Douglas Smith, Jr. “Tee”, an infant brother, Little Billy; and two pet dogs, Max and Benji.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, at University Baptist Church.  Burial will be in Prien Memorial Park under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home.  Visitation will begin on Sunday at the church from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and will resume on Monday from 9 a.m. until the start of the service.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.