Major Smith

Major "Oopie" Allen Smith of Cowen, WV,  completed his journey and entered the cosmos on April 13, 2015 after a long battle with COPD. He fought hard to stay but the stars needed to shine brighter. He was surrounded by his daughter and family.

His extraordinary life began on May 5, 1947. Mary (Gillis) Smith Davis gave birth to this amazing man in Cabin Creek, WV. He was her youngest child and self proclaimed, "Mommy's favorite". He claimed this title until his final day. He often followed up by stating, "Mom liked me best. I can't help it. I'm the baby".

Oopie worked at many jobs during his 67 years on Earth. He often said his most rewarding and challenging was being the original Mr. Mom to his 2 daughters, Elizabeth and Kathrine. He raised them on his own with great pride. True to his teddy bear nature, he did this job lovingly which resulted in two awesome adults who were devoted to him. Both adult children often argued over who was "Daddy's favorite".  His ended the feud when they discovered he told them both that they were his favorite.

Aside from being the greatest daddy, he enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren and teaching them ornery tricks. He said being a grandparent is the best reward for surviving raising two daughters. He loved working on old cars, yelling at politicians on CNN, playing guitar and harmonica, cooking, and taking his grandbabies for ice cream dates.

He lived an adventurous life. He once hitch hiked from Webster Springs, WV to New York to meet up with his brothers and get a job. He had a "Can Do" attitude regardless of his situation. He said he had a thumb and an able body so there was never a reason to be lazy.  Oopie had a way of making things work out for the best. Anyone who met him just adored him because his big blue eyes could melt anyone. Of course his big heart was his best feature.

Waiting for him on the other side is his loving mother, Mary (Gillis) Smith Davis, his brother and partner in crime, Charles Smith, and his sweet first born daughter, Elizabeth Smith. He leaves behind so many to cherish his memory. Included are: brothers Garnet (Brenda) Smith of Craigsville, WV;  Harold "Junior"(Linda) Smith of Cowen, WV; and his absolute favorite sister, Faye (Bennie) Cogar of Mt. Lookout, WV. He also said see you later to his best friend and brother from another mother, Danny McCourt of Florida.

He leaves youngest daughter, Kathrine (Dennis) Gregory of Craigsville, WV, behind to ensure everyone remembers his legendary life with a smile.

His 4 grandchildren: Michelle "Little George" Taylor-Cowger, Cody "Binky Buddy" Taylor, Sadie "Sweetie Pie" Gregory and Chelsea "Cutie Pie" Gregory. Also 2 great grandchildren, Elizabeth "Little E" Case and Mackynzie "Pip Squeak" Case.

Oopie leaves behind only his favorite nieces and nephews to share their memories of him. You know who you are.

Most importantly he leaves us with a legacy of love and the values of taking care of your family. At his stubborn request, there is no service and Dodd & Reed Funeral Home assisted with his cremation. At this time, the family requests that in lieu of tears and sadness, donations be made to your local domestic violence outreach programs in honor of his daughter Elizabeth Smith.

Go to Tudors and order a Mary B, a cherry pie and a black coffee. Then remember him fondly and know that he loved everyone a bushel, a peck, and a hug around the neck.