(February 12, 1911 – May 30, 2007)

Brigadier H. Wilbur Smith was promoted to Glory from Safety Harbor, Fla.

Wilbur was one of six children born to Majors Herbert and Eveline Smith in Saginaw, Mich. He grew up in The Salvation Army, participating in many youth activities at the corps. He gave his heart to the Lord at 8 years old on Dedication Sunday, choosing to live a Christlike life.

At the age of 20, Wilbur answered the call to serve the Lord as an officer in The Salvation Army. He entered the New York Training College from Pittsburgh #1 Corps in 1931 as part of the Fight It Through session. Commissioned in 1932, he served his first appointment in Bethlehem, Pa.

In 1939, Wilbur Smith was joined in marriage to then–Lieutenant Luella Henderson. The Smiths served in several states throughout the Eastern Territory. Wilbur also served by playing brass in the New York Staff Band.

Brigadier Smith retired from active service in 1976 to Asbury Park, N.J. He served as financial consultant for the residents at the Retired Officers Residence until moving to Clearwater, Fla., in 1988. There he served as an usher and frequently ministered to those he lived with at Becket Lake Lodge, earning the nickname “Pillar.”

Wilbur was a very willing and hard worker with special gifts in finance, administration, and music. He was a “servant of people. Not one unkind word was spoken of him.” He will be sorely missed by many.

Brigadier H. Wilbur Smith is survived by three daughters, Carol Burke and Connee Messanger, both of Palm Harbor, Fla., and Christine Snyder of Wadsworth, Ohio; a sister, Catherine Appleby of Apollo, Pa.; four grandchildren; and five great–grandchildren. His beloved wife, Luella, was promoted to Glory in 2000. Messages of support may be sent to Mrs. Carol Burke, 3869 Siena Lane, Palm Harbor, FL 34685.