Published: September 17, 2008 09:35 am      

Former postmaster dies at 86

Ada — Ada’s former postmaster, Hicks Smith Jr., 86, died Monday at his home. His services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at First United Methodist Church in Ada, where he was a member for 75 years.

Mr. Smith began his 26-year career as postmaster with the Ada Post Office in 1961 and retired in 1987. Mr. Smith formerly served as Civil Defense Planning and Operations Officer for Pontotoc County and the city of Ada.

During his career in the U.S. Marine Corps, Mr. Smith served as a pilot during World War II, Korean War and Vietnam. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with Gold Star and Air Medal with five Gold Stars for his service.

He served in various local civic organization offices, including president of East Central Alumni Association, president of Ada Rotary Club, president of Ada Kiwanis Club of Greater Ada, member of Ada Area Chamber of Commerce, a 32nd degree Mason, a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and AMVETS, Camp Fire Girls Board, and was a volunteer for Valley View Regional Hospital Auxiliary. Mr. Smith was a member of the National Association of U.S. Postmasters and president of the Oklahoma Chapter in 1966.

He is survived by three daughters, Nancy Sue Moore, Allen, Texas, Catherine Lynn Snow, Ada, and Melissa Ann Massie, Duncan; a son, Hicks A. Smith III, Ada; and other relatives.

Complete obituary is on page 2.