09/06/2025
Tribute to Henry Milton Smoot
We would like to take this time to say our fond farewells to Henry Milton Smoot Jr. the oldest surviving male of the second generation of descendants of the Matt and Rosa Smoot family. He will be missed by us all, but especially by his children, grand children, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. He was to many of us a physical connection to a generation of family members that were gone on, before we had the privilege of knowing them.
Family was an important part of who Milton Smoot Jr. was, wether you were a close family member or a more distant in law, niece, nephew, or cousin, he always showed a fondness that warmed you and made you feel like you belonged and were a part of something bigger than yourself. If given opportunity he would extend a listening ear and also share with you some of the vast wisdom that his experiences, in life had taught him.
Although definitely possessing certain Smoot male tendencies that surfaced in certain situations, his general demeanor was one of calm composure. A trait that bade him in good stead with the many challenges associated with being a man of color paving the way in a hostile world, in a word, he successfully overcame, in spite of lifes obstacles.
Milton was a real, world class, flesh and blood hero to be emulated, for holding up a standard that most of us would benefit from tremendously if we incorporated some part of them into our own lives.
On that note, I leave you to the task of grieving the passing of one of the great men of our times, that the Lord has placed upon the earth for an example, there is still good in the world. Please, in the midst of your grieving process, take time to share your memories, and tell the stories about Henry Milton Smoot Jr. that connect us. Share the warmth that makes us feel like we are a part of something bigger than ourselves.
May the Lord of grace and mercy richly bless you, comfort and keep you, and cause his face to shine upon you, through the presence of the Holy Spirit, in this your hour of need.
Respectfully submitted, Reverend Kevin E. Witcher, Eldest surviving male descendant of Ruby Smoot Woodson.
