Okemah, Oklahoma – Larry Wendell "Flash" Smith, a beloved lifelong resident of Okemah, Oklahoma, passed away on September 10, 2024, at the age of 74. A celebration of life in his honor will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the Parks Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Okemah.
Born on November 13, 1949, to Clarence "C.E." Smith and Eva (Cornell) Smith, Larry, affectionately known as "Flash," was well known throughout the Okemah community. He spent many years working in the oilfields and as a farmhand for Walter Joe Klutts. A man of many talents, Larry was famous for his humor, his love for coon hunting, noodling, and especially gardening. Even while residing at the Okemah Care Center, Larry maintained his love for tending to plants and became a familiar face, spreading joy to all who knew him.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Shirley Fairres, and two brothers, Clarence “Buzz” Smith and Robert Smith. He leaves behind a loving family, including his two sons, Travis Lawrence Smith and Joshua Edward Doyle Smith, and his daughter, Zaundra Gabriellia Smith, all of Okemah. Larry is also survived by his four brothers, Dewayne, Donnie, Leon, and Gary Smith, and his four sisters, Edna “Wee” Carmen, Sue Johnson, Beverly Sands, and Saundra Underwood. He was especially adored by his granddaughter, Rowen Lyra, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family expressed their deepest gratitude to the staff at Okemah Care Center and Centric Hospice for their compassionate care during Larry’s time with them. Services will be conducted by Bro. Mark Rich under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Home.
Dana Miller shared on Facebook, "I’m going to miss you, buddy. You’re with Jar Head now."
Larry will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious humor, and love for life.