William Doyle Smith

William Doyle Smith died peacefully at home among his loving family on October 5, 2017. He was 71. Doyle was born in Ft. Stockton, Texas on November 29, 1945 to Lena and Willie C. Smith. He is survived by his wife Sara Miller Smith, son Kelly Smith, daughter Rachel Smith, grandsons Jeramy Smith and Stone Smith, and brother David C. Smith (Pauline). Doyle was a 1964 graduate of Ysleta High School. After completing his undergraduate degree, he served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971 as a Special Agent with Military Intelligence and was stationed in Berlin, Germany. He received the Army Commendation medal. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Economics from UT El Paso and his doctorate in Economics from Texas Tech University. He was Associate Professor Emeritus at UT El Paso, where he taught economics and finance for 33 years. He was a gifted and beloved teacher who valued getting to know his students. He received many awards and honors, and was named a Piper Professor for the state of Texas in 1995 for his outstanding teaching. His faith and spirituality were the foundation of his life. He was an active member of Western Hills United Methodist Church for the last 35 years. He was devoted to the church and enjoyed serving and teaching. Doyle was most proud of being a dedicated father and grandfather. He was dependable, caring, and always willing to provide support. Doyle’s fondest memories were the trips he took with his family and friends. He enjoyed playing cards and games, and retained an impressive array of knowledge about movies and sports. He was an avid bodybuilder and health enthusiast. Most of all, he loved to laugh and make people laugh. He will be missed dearly. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) or the American Cancer Society in memory of Doyle Smith (doylesmithmemorial@gmail.com). Funeral Service will begin at 11:30am on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at Western Hills United Methodist Church. Committal Service to follow at 1:30pm at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West. Please visit our online registry book at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net.